Summer Lovin' Had Me A Blast
August 7th, 2017
Well, summer is getting close to be over. The kids will be going to their new school a week from tomorrow and then Summer will be officially over a the Holton household. Summer's felt a lot longer when I was a kid.
It has been a great summer as we traveled to Wisconsin and had a great time seeing friends, family and old faces that we hadn't seen in a long time. I really enjoyed the time off. I actually read a book for PURE ENJOYMENT. I haven't done that in a while.
Last week and this week we have the same friends we stayed with in Wisconsin come and visit us in Florida. They stayed with us for a week and now they are living it up at the beach just down the street. Many of us went to see a Tampa Bay Rays verses the Milwaukee Brewers and thanks to the generosity of friends we got some AWESOME seats and many great memories.
On a less interesting note, I am reading Eugene Peterson's new book AS KINGFISHERS CATCH FIRE and it has become one of my favorite devotionals. This book is a collection of over 60 sermon's Peterson has preached over 30 years in ministry. The various topics include prayer, rest and faith. These devotionals have been challenging and encouraging to me and where I am today. Each devotional is approximately 4 to 6 pages long and are jam packed with wisdom, insight and fresh biblical perspective. I would encourage you to pick up a copy if you are looking for a good morning or evening devotional.
With school starting next week our household is going to have a different feel to it. The kids will be attending a local Christian school and we are praying it will be a great fit for our kids and our family. Please pray for us as we seek God's direction for this school year.
Well, summer is getting close to be over. The kids will be going to their new school a week from tomorrow and then Summer will be officially over a the Holton household. Summer's felt a lot longer when I was a kid.
It has been a great summer as we traveled to Wisconsin and had a great time seeing friends, family and old faces that we hadn't seen in a long time. I really enjoyed the time off. I actually read a book for PURE ENJOYMENT. I haven't done that in a while.
Last week and this week we have the same friends we stayed with in Wisconsin come and visit us in Florida. They stayed with us for a week and now they are living it up at the beach just down the street. Many of us went to see a Tampa Bay Rays verses the Milwaukee Brewers and thanks to the generosity of friends we got some AWESOME seats and many great memories.
On a less interesting note, I am reading Eugene Peterson's new book AS KINGFISHERS CATCH FIRE and it has become one of my favorite devotionals. This book is a collection of over 60 sermon's Peterson has preached over 30 years in ministry. The various topics include prayer, rest and faith. These devotionals have been challenging and encouraging to me and where I am today. Each devotional is approximately 4 to 6 pages long and are jam packed with wisdom, insight and fresh biblical perspective. I would encourage you to pick up a copy if you are looking for a good morning or evening devotional.
With school starting next week our household is going to have a different feel to it. The kids will be attending a local Christian school and we are praying it will be a great fit for our kids and our family. Please pray for us as we seek God's direction for this school year.
A Prayer For the Grieving
August 3rd, 2017
This past Sunday morning as my daughter was driving me to church (she has her learner's permit) we saw on the other side of the road a few fire trucks, police officers and rescue vehicles pulled to the side of the road. It was early morning so there wasn't much traffic so we passed the rescue scene pretty quickly. I wondered what was going on and few minutes later forgot what I had just seen. I went on with my life and had a good day.
The next day as I was driving home from work I was nearing the the accident spot and I was reminded of what I saw the previous morning. As I approached the spot I noticed a few cars pulled off the side of the road and I saw about 4 or 5 people standing there. I saw tire tracks leading into the woods with broken tress and branches and then I saw a youngish woman embraced in the arms of another person weeping. It was at that moment I realized someone was either seriously injured or died. I contemplated stopping and offering to pray for the people but I honestly chickened out.
I am not sure what happened but I would like to offer a prayer to these grieving individuals...
Lord, I am not sure what is going on with the people at this accident scene, but I gather it's not good. I pray you peace for these individuals. I pray that in this time of grief you would be an ever present strength in their sorrow. I pray for your Spirit to comfort in this time of discomfort. Amen.
After writing this I found a link to the accident. http://www.bradenton.com/news/local/article164430527.html
This past Sunday morning as my daughter was driving me to church (she has her learner's permit) we saw on the other side of the road a few fire trucks, police officers and rescue vehicles pulled to the side of the road. It was early morning so there wasn't much traffic so we passed the rescue scene pretty quickly. I wondered what was going on and few minutes later forgot what I had just seen. I went on with my life and had a good day.
The next day as I was driving home from work I was nearing the the accident spot and I was reminded of what I saw the previous morning. As I approached the spot I noticed a few cars pulled off the side of the road and I saw about 4 or 5 people standing there. I saw tire tracks leading into the woods with broken tress and branches and then I saw a youngish woman embraced in the arms of another person weeping. It was at that moment I realized someone was either seriously injured or died. I contemplated stopping and offering to pray for the people but I honestly chickened out.
I am not sure what happened but I would like to offer a prayer to these grieving individuals...
Lord, I am not sure what is going on with the people at this accident scene, but I gather it's not good. I pray you peace for these individuals. I pray that in this time of grief you would be an ever present strength in their sorrow. I pray for your Spirit to comfort in this time of discomfort. Amen.
After writing this I found a link to the accident. http://www.bradenton.com/news/local/article164430527.html
Just an Ordinary Update
May 13th, 2017
It has been about a little over a months since I have done anything with my page so I thought I would give a short update. First, I am posting a devotional on the Epistle of Jude in my devotions section, so I would like to invite you to check those out. Second, we are gearing up for Summer. Traditionally in Churches the summer is a down time. Here in FL people go North because it gets so awfully hot down here so at First Pres we see a significant drop in people being active in worship. This is common so we just put our shoulders to the plow and get through the summer months. Personally it is a time for me to step back, evaluate and rest. My family and I will be taking some time off in June and July and I am really looking forward to that. I will also be attending a Stephen Ministry training in Orlando in June. If you are wondering what Stephen Ministry is you can check it out here.
I would also like to ask for prayers. This next year we need some guidance as a family, so I would ask that you pray for us as we seek His will for our family. We are excited for what God has in store for us and I trust that He has good things in store for us. On a similar note I would like prayers for me individually. I have a lot going on and I am starting to pray about some of my "bigger" projects coming up in ministry next Fall and Winter. That's all I really want to share with you now, so please just say a general prayer for focus and direction in the next few months.
Thank you for taking the time to read this and I appreciate the prayers. Until next time...
It has been about a little over a months since I have done anything with my page so I thought I would give a short update. First, I am posting a devotional on the Epistle of Jude in my devotions section, so I would like to invite you to check those out. Second, we are gearing up for Summer. Traditionally in Churches the summer is a down time. Here in FL people go North because it gets so awfully hot down here so at First Pres we see a significant drop in people being active in worship. This is common so we just put our shoulders to the plow and get through the summer months. Personally it is a time for me to step back, evaluate and rest. My family and I will be taking some time off in June and July and I am really looking forward to that. I will also be attending a Stephen Ministry training in Orlando in June. If you are wondering what Stephen Ministry is you can check it out here.
I would also like to ask for prayers. This next year we need some guidance as a family, so I would ask that you pray for us as we seek His will for our family. We are excited for what God has in store for us and I trust that He has good things in store for us. On a similar note I would like prayers for me individually. I have a lot going on and I am starting to pray about some of my "bigger" projects coming up in ministry next Fall and Winter. That's all I really want to share with you now, so please just say a general prayer for focus and direction in the next few months.
Thank you for taking the time to read this and I appreciate the prayers. Until next time...
It's the End of the Year as We Know It... And I Feel Fine
I can hardly believe 2016 is almost over. It is true as they (whoever they are) say, "The older you get the faster the time seems to go by."
I have been reading a lot of Facebook posts in the past few days and it seems like everyone is having a bad 2016. I know many feel this way because we lost so many prominent entertainers this past year (Prince, Carrie Fisher, David Bowie, George Michael, Florence Henderson, Allan Rickman and so many more). These were all talented individuals and the entertainment world will certainly have a void .
For me 2016 wasn't so bad. Many positive things happened in my life as we bought a house, we are getting more established in Florida, visited with friends from afar throughout the year and God continues to bless the ministry I am in. I thank God for these blessings and I do not take them for granted at all. I also thank all of you who have been supporting my family and me through prayer in our transition and I ask you to continue with those prayers. My family and I appreciate you more than you can imagine.
So, what's in store for 2017? God only knows (and for this I am glad). My hope for this year is to continue writing daily devotionals for this site, expand my book reviews for this site (I have made some contacts with some publishers), write and publish a few more ebooks and print books (I am currently preparing to write a Lent devotional. I am also praying about a more personal book that is intended for pastors and church leadership). I hope to expand my readership of this site and continue going in the paths God directs. I will continue to train and lead disciples of Jesus, I pray I can grow in my relationship with Jesus and I ask that God will continue to bless my family.
I look forward to 2017. The future is always uncertain, but I trust God and I trust that He will guide and move and I want to be right with Him when He does.
Happy New Year to you all!
I have been reading a lot of Facebook posts in the past few days and it seems like everyone is having a bad 2016. I know many feel this way because we lost so many prominent entertainers this past year (Prince, Carrie Fisher, David Bowie, George Michael, Florence Henderson, Allan Rickman and so many more). These were all talented individuals and the entertainment world will certainly have a void .
For me 2016 wasn't so bad. Many positive things happened in my life as we bought a house, we are getting more established in Florida, visited with friends from afar throughout the year and God continues to bless the ministry I am in. I thank God for these blessings and I do not take them for granted at all. I also thank all of you who have been supporting my family and me through prayer in our transition and I ask you to continue with those prayers. My family and I appreciate you more than you can imagine.
So, what's in store for 2017? God only knows (and for this I am glad). My hope for this year is to continue writing daily devotionals for this site, expand my book reviews for this site (I have made some contacts with some publishers), write and publish a few more ebooks and print books (I am currently preparing to write a Lent devotional. I am also praying about a more personal book that is intended for pastors and church leadership). I hope to expand my readership of this site and continue going in the paths God directs. I will continue to train and lead disciples of Jesus, I pray I can grow in my relationship with Jesus and I ask that God will continue to bless my family.
I look forward to 2017. The future is always uncertain, but I trust God and I trust that He will guide and move and I want to be right with Him when He does.
Happy New Year to you all!
...And Now A Word From Our Sponsors
November 3rd, 2016
Can I ask you all a favor? If you come to my site regularly (or if this is your first time) would you be willing to support this site? Don't worry I'm not asking you for money, in fact what I am asking of you will not cost you one cent (if your not buying anything).
Every time you click one of the banners above I will receive a small amount of money per click. If you just click the banner, you will be taken to another page. You do not have to purchase anything from the page or give them information, just click and I get a little something.
If you shop at Amazon would you be willing to click on the Amazon link on the sidebar? This banner links to my Amazon Market Place and I will receive a small commission from anything you may purchase. It doesn't cost you anything and the price is the same. I also have a link to my Amazon store on the menu bar that you could check out as well.
As you know I also have some Kindle ebooks released. The links to purchase the digital books are on the sidebar. I have priced them at $1.99 for each book. I think you will enjoy them. Physical paperbacks are available now at Create Space (An Amazon Company) and will be available at Amazon by the end of the week. I will have links to the physical book below.
There, I am done asking for favors. I just want to thank everyone for all the support you have given in the past two years. I do this page because I love it. I certainly don't do it for the money. I will continue to update this page regularly and I hope you enjoy reading it as much as I like creating it.
The Advent of Jesus Christ (Paperback)
James: Where Faith and Life Meet (Paperback)
Can I ask you all a favor? If you come to my site regularly (or if this is your first time) would you be willing to support this site? Don't worry I'm not asking you for money, in fact what I am asking of you will not cost you one cent (if your not buying anything).
Every time you click one of the banners above I will receive a small amount of money per click. If you just click the banner, you will be taken to another page. You do not have to purchase anything from the page or give them information, just click and I get a little something.
If you shop at Amazon would you be willing to click on the Amazon link on the sidebar? This banner links to my Amazon Market Place and I will receive a small commission from anything you may purchase. It doesn't cost you anything and the price is the same. I also have a link to my Amazon store on the menu bar that you could check out as well.
As you know I also have some Kindle ebooks released. The links to purchase the digital books are on the sidebar. I have priced them at $1.99 for each book. I think you will enjoy them. Physical paperbacks are available now at Create Space (An Amazon Company) and will be available at Amazon by the end of the week. I will have links to the physical book below.
There, I am done asking for favors. I just want to thank everyone for all the support you have given in the past two years. I do this page because I love it. I certainly don't do it for the money. I will continue to update this page regularly and I hope you enjoy reading it as much as I like creating it.
The Advent of Jesus Christ (Paperback)
James: Where Faith and Life Meet (Paperback)
Jeffrey Holton Is Two Today!
October 31st, 2016
I can't believe it has been two years since I launched this blog. I admit this is the longest I have ever kept a personal blog going. In the past I used to start one and forget about it. I am sure there are two or three blogs I started and abandoned out in the intersphere somewhere. This blog has been very dear and close to me. The blog was started at one of the most difficult times of my life. In September of 2014 I "resigned" from my senior pastor position a the Congregational Church in Spring Valley. After that I started down a new path of faith that God had for my family and me. I can honestly say I am much happier today than I was two years ago. I will also admit it has been a difficult two years. I have had to learn humility, I had to learn how to FULLY trust God and I learned a lot about ME.
In the past two years I have made many new friends and I am so thankful for them. I also lost some "friends" that I thought were friends. Unfortunately I learned the hard way that those who are closest to you in ministry; those you trusted, and those whom you bared your soul to can also be the ones to stab you in the back hardest. So needless to say I have had to learn forgiveness. This has been difficult because on the surface it is so much easier to be bitter and unforgiving. I struggle with this almost daily. I ask for your prayers in this area of life. I also pray none of you go through the hardships I went through in 2014/15.
I am so thankful for the First Presbyterian Church of Bradenton for listening to God and calling me as the Associate Director of Discipleship and Pastoral Care. God has used this church to show me that He still has a great plan for the church and that churches that are healthy know how to truly love and care for their pastors.
So, what am I up to now? Glad you asked. I have been doing a lot of writing. I recently published my James devotional to Kindle and about an hour ago I took the first steps to getting actual professional print copies made. I'll keep you posted if/when they are available. Currently my newest Advent devotional is out being edited by a former youth group student of mine who is a teacher. I am so thankful for her willingness to help me. I hope to have this book in all digital formats and print editions by the time Advent begins this year. I will definitely keep you updated on the progress.
I have also been spending the much of my time teaching, training and developing disciples of Jesus Christ. I have been taking a group of people through the Disciples Path process. I have seen this nearly one year process literally change and transform those going through the Path for the glory of God. It hasn't been easy, but it has been good. I am looking forward to continuing this process and Lord willing a majority of our church will go through this process and we will see a transformation happen at First Pres Bradenton that will make an impact in the heart of downtown Bradenton.
On a personal note, I will be heading up north for both Thanksgiving and New Years. I am looking forward to re-connecting with friends and family.
Well, since I started this blog my ongoing theme has been the faithfulness of God. He has been faithful and He will remain faithful. I praise Him for the many gifts He has given to my family and me.
Thank you for taking this journey with me.
I can't believe it has been two years since I launched this blog. I admit this is the longest I have ever kept a personal blog going. In the past I used to start one and forget about it. I am sure there are two or three blogs I started and abandoned out in the intersphere somewhere. This blog has been very dear and close to me. The blog was started at one of the most difficult times of my life. In September of 2014 I "resigned" from my senior pastor position a the Congregational Church in Spring Valley. After that I started down a new path of faith that God had for my family and me. I can honestly say I am much happier today than I was two years ago. I will also admit it has been a difficult two years. I have had to learn humility, I had to learn how to FULLY trust God and I learned a lot about ME.
In the past two years I have made many new friends and I am so thankful for them. I also lost some "friends" that I thought were friends. Unfortunately I learned the hard way that those who are closest to you in ministry; those you trusted, and those whom you bared your soul to can also be the ones to stab you in the back hardest. So needless to say I have had to learn forgiveness. This has been difficult because on the surface it is so much easier to be bitter and unforgiving. I struggle with this almost daily. I ask for your prayers in this area of life. I also pray none of you go through the hardships I went through in 2014/15.
I am so thankful for the First Presbyterian Church of Bradenton for listening to God and calling me as the Associate Director of Discipleship and Pastoral Care. God has used this church to show me that He still has a great plan for the church and that churches that are healthy know how to truly love and care for their pastors.
So, what am I up to now? Glad you asked. I have been doing a lot of writing. I recently published my James devotional to Kindle and about an hour ago I took the first steps to getting actual professional print copies made. I'll keep you posted if/when they are available. Currently my newest Advent devotional is out being edited by a former youth group student of mine who is a teacher. I am so thankful for her willingness to help me. I hope to have this book in all digital formats and print editions by the time Advent begins this year. I will definitely keep you updated on the progress.
I have also been spending the much of my time teaching, training and developing disciples of Jesus Christ. I have been taking a group of people through the Disciples Path process. I have seen this nearly one year process literally change and transform those going through the Path for the glory of God. It hasn't been easy, but it has been good. I am looking forward to continuing this process and Lord willing a majority of our church will go through this process and we will see a transformation happen at First Pres Bradenton that will make an impact in the heart of downtown Bradenton.
On a personal note, I will be heading up north for both Thanksgiving and New Years. I am looking forward to re-connecting with friends and family.
Well, since I started this blog my ongoing theme has been the faithfulness of God. He has been faithful and He will remain faithful. I praise Him for the many gifts He has given to my family and me.
Thank you for taking this journey with me.
Four Books That Are Shaping Me Now
I am currently reading four books. Yeah, I know reading four books at once is a bad idea since I can barely focus on one book at a time. However, I am reading them at a pace that fits for me and all four are currently shaping my life today.
Transformational Discipleship - Eric Geiger, Michael Kelley & Philip K. Nation (B & H Books)
Leading From the Second Chair - Mike Bonem & Roger Patterson (Jossey Bass)
Onward - Russell Moore (B & H Books)
Designed to Lead - Eric Geiger & Kevin Peck (B & H Books)
Transformational Discipleship - Eric Geiger, Michael Kelley & Philip K. Nation (B & H Books)
Leading From the Second Chair - Mike Bonem & Roger Patterson (Jossey Bass)
Onward - Russell Moore (B & H Books)
Designed to Lead - Eric Geiger & Kevin Peck (B & H Books)
Five Books That Shaped The Way I Do Ministry
I love books. They have helped transform me personally and my ministry. Below are five books that have shaped the way I do ministry.
- REDISCOVERING DISCIPLESHIP - Robbie Gallaty (Zondervan Books) - This is the best book written about discipleship hands down. The author writes, “Every disciple of Jesus is walking somewhere and following someone. So, who are you following? Where are you headed?”. This book has helped me discover what true discipleship is and shows how Jesus taught developed his disciples.
The author talks about two hindrances many people face in discipleship,
a.Uncertainty
b. Ignorance.
In REDISCOVERING DISCIPLESHIP Gallaty gives practical principles and applications to overcoming these hindrances so you may be able to make and be an effective disciple for the Kingdom of God. - STRENGTHS FINDER 2.0 - Tom Rath (Gallup) - Too often we spend much of our time, energy and resources on trying to improve personal and professional weaknesses. In STRENGTH'S FINDER Tom Rath encourages readers to discover their strengths and develop our lives around our strengths instead of weaknesses.
We are all wired a certain way and we all have different strengths and talents. So we are encouraged to discover our strengths and learn how to live and lead in our strengths. Each book comes with a unique code so you can take the Strength's Finder Assessment to discover your strengths.
- 7 PRACTICES OF EFFECTIVE MINISTRY - Andy Stanley, Reggie Joiner & Lane Jones - This book was pivotal in how I viewed and practiced ministry. The authors describe 7 practices that can help leaders evaluate and implement ministry. The seven practices include,
a. Clarify the Win - Defining what is important as the entry level of the ministry.
b. Think Steps, Not Programs - The importance of knowing where you are going in your ministry.
c. Narrow the Focus - Doing fewer thinks to make a greater impact in your ministry.
d. Teach Less for More - Only say what needs to be said to those who actually need to hear it.
e. Listen to Outsiders - Focus on who you are trying to reach and not on who you are trying to keep.
f. Replace Yourself - Learn to hand off what you do.
g. Work On it - Evaluate what you have done and celebrate your wins. - AUTOPSY OF A DECEASED CHURCH - Thom Rainer (B&H) - Thom Rainer has hit the nerve of some with this book. However this book is insightful as to how churches can thrive and survive by looking at the trends in dying or dead churches. Rainer describes trends that can destroy unhealthy churches. They are,
a. The Past is the Hero
b. The Church Refuses to Look Like the Community
c. The Budget Moves Inwardly
d. The Great Commission Becomes the Great Omission
e. Preference Drives the Church
f. Pastoral Tenure Decreases
g. The Church Rarely Prays Together
h. They Have No Clear Purpose
i. The Church Over The Facilities
Rainer does offer practical solutions and responses for churches who have symptoms of these unhealthy trends. - DANGEROUS CALLING - Paul David Tripp (Crossway) - This is a highly practical and relevant book for anyone in the Pastoral ministry and congregations who love their leaders. Tripp talks about the importance of the Spiritual health of Pastors but he also targets and challenges the institutions who train, call and relate to them. The author writes about the culture of ministry than can be spiritually unhealthy and has the tendency to be an environment that undermines leaders and the church body. DANGEROUS CALLING diagnoses and offers cures for these negative issues that impact the church and its leadership. Some of these issues include familiarity, mediocrity and self glory.
Using Scripture to Promote Your Agenda
October 17th, 2016
I have noticed people like to use Scripture to promote a political agenda. I'm pretty positive Jesus didn't intend for his words to be used to promote any political agenda. His words are intended to promote the King and His Kingdom.
Here are some examples.
"The truth will set you free..." This is not a generalized statement about being honest and knowing the facts. These words are about being disciples of Jesus. He is telling his disciples that if they follow Him and they are obedient to Him they will know the truth (Jesus).
"Let he who is without sin cast the first stone..." This is a reference Jesus made to the religious leaders who were condemning a woman for being caught in adultery. They were trying to condemn the woman but interestingly the man she was caught with was not being brought for condemnation. This passage is not about being sinless, it's about owning up to your own sin. It's not meant to be an excuse or a pass for sin or sinners... It's a call to check YOUR heart, YOUR motives and YOUR actions before you condemn someone else.
I have noticed people like to use Scripture to promote a political agenda. I'm pretty positive Jesus didn't intend for his words to be used to promote any political agenda. His words are intended to promote the King and His Kingdom.
Here are some examples.
"The truth will set you free..." This is not a generalized statement about being honest and knowing the facts. These words are about being disciples of Jesus. He is telling his disciples that if they follow Him and they are obedient to Him they will know the truth (Jesus).
"Let he who is without sin cast the first stone..." This is a reference Jesus made to the religious leaders who were condemning a woman for being caught in adultery. They were trying to condemn the woman but interestingly the man she was caught with was not being brought for condemnation. This passage is not about being sinless, it's about owning up to your own sin. It's not meant to be an excuse or a pass for sin or sinners... It's a call to check YOUR heart, YOUR motives and YOUR actions before you condemn someone else.
Sacred Cows
September 24, 2016
I came across this article I wrote seven years ago and I wanted to share it. Needless to say, I am no longer at the church I was at where this happened. The Pastor of the other church that was involved is no longer at the church and the couple I married, who this whole fiasco is over, have both unfriended me from Facebook and have no communication with me anymore (Not because of this incident, but for some unknown reason). As I read this this article, I was saddened because this happened and because I am sure the candelabra's that were involved are probably still in the place where we left them... untarnished and sacred.
Sept. 24th, 2009
So, I have a wedding coming up and I needed some candelabras. I asked a pastor if I could borrow the ones from his church and he said, "Sure".
I go to the church and get the candelabras and he tells the secretary that we are going to borrow them for a wedding. She gets this look on her face of apprehension and sternly says, "Our church policy is to NOT lend out things from the church. Especially the candelabras because they have a history to them." She then suggested that we call the church board to get permission to borrow them. I promised her to have the candelabras back before church on Sunday but she really frowned on the idea. She then had the nerve to say to both the pastor and I, "You're not even supposed to touch them with your hands because the oils in your hands can tarnish them." I quickly let go of the candelabra that I had been holding and said, "If this is going to be a problem then I don't want them." and we put the candelabra's back in their sacred spots. The pastor was clearly embarrassed and we had a discussion about traditions and sacred cows/relics.
My initial response was to be bitter and angry towards this church but that is not what Jesus' response would have been. If anything I am saddened. I'm sad because the body of Christ has become so divided that we can't even share things. I told the pastor frankly, "If I were a member of this church I would be highly offended but I am a pastor so I am not offended nor am I surprised."
How much are these people missing with what Jesus said? Have churches become so hard that we can't or are unwilling to share (even something simple like a candelabra) that we would rather sacrifice the common love and community between two congregations just so a candelabra can sit "in it's place" (untarnished) over the weekend and not be used because it holds a special place in the heart of the church? I can only imagine how frustrated Jesus got in dealing with traditions of his time. I firmly believe Jesus wasn't an anti-traditions kind of guy, nor am I. I think traditions have a wonderful place in the body of Christ but not when they hinder what God is building.
Am I mad? A little.
Will I get over it? Sure.
Will I let them borrow something of ours if they ever inquire of us? You bet!
I don't say that because I am trying to be self righteous, I say it because this is really what the church is supposed to do. How did we as humans screw up such a simple concept like the Church. Jesus established it and it didn't take long for humanity to twist it around, bend it, re-configure it and turn it into what it is today. I think Jesus did fine when He said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” This is what we are supposed to do and we have failed miserably. I am reminded today that I need to spend more of my time, energy and efforts investing in the Kingdom of God and not in the structure of the Church.
Needless to say I am not mad at the pastor he is a great guy. I feel bad for him because he was embarrassed as would I, had the shoe been on the other foot. Prayerfully we will both get over this awkward event and be able to focus on building the Kingdom of heaven.
I came across this article I wrote seven years ago and I wanted to share it. Needless to say, I am no longer at the church I was at where this happened. The Pastor of the other church that was involved is no longer at the church and the couple I married, who this whole fiasco is over, have both unfriended me from Facebook and have no communication with me anymore (Not because of this incident, but for some unknown reason). As I read this this article, I was saddened because this happened and because I am sure the candelabra's that were involved are probably still in the place where we left them... untarnished and sacred.
Sept. 24th, 2009
So, I have a wedding coming up and I needed some candelabras. I asked a pastor if I could borrow the ones from his church and he said, "Sure".
I go to the church and get the candelabras and he tells the secretary that we are going to borrow them for a wedding. She gets this look on her face of apprehension and sternly says, "Our church policy is to NOT lend out things from the church. Especially the candelabras because they have a history to them." She then suggested that we call the church board to get permission to borrow them. I promised her to have the candelabras back before church on Sunday but she really frowned on the idea. She then had the nerve to say to both the pastor and I, "You're not even supposed to touch them with your hands because the oils in your hands can tarnish them." I quickly let go of the candelabra that I had been holding and said, "If this is going to be a problem then I don't want them." and we put the candelabra's back in their sacred spots. The pastor was clearly embarrassed and we had a discussion about traditions and sacred cows/relics.
My initial response was to be bitter and angry towards this church but that is not what Jesus' response would have been. If anything I am saddened. I'm sad because the body of Christ has become so divided that we can't even share things. I told the pastor frankly, "If I were a member of this church I would be highly offended but I am a pastor so I am not offended nor am I surprised."
How much are these people missing with what Jesus said? Have churches become so hard that we can't or are unwilling to share (even something simple like a candelabra) that we would rather sacrifice the common love and community between two congregations just so a candelabra can sit "in it's place" (untarnished) over the weekend and not be used because it holds a special place in the heart of the church? I can only imagine how frustrated Jesus got in dealing with traditions of his time. I firmly believe Jesus wasn't an anti-traditions kind of guy, nor am I. I think traditions have a wonderful place in the body of Christ but not when they hinder what God is building.
Am I mad? A little.
Will I get over it? Sure.
Will I let them borrow something of ours if they ever inquire of us? You bet!
I don't say that because I am trying to be self righteous, I say it because this is really what the church is supposed to do. How did we as humans screw up such a simple concept like the Church. Jesus established it and it didn't take long for humanity to twist it around, bend it, re-configure it and turn it into what it is today. I think Jesus did fine when He said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” This is what we are supposed to do and we have failed miserably. I am reminded today that I need to spend more of my time, energy and efforts investing in the Kingdom of God and not in the structure of the Church.
Needless to say I am not mad at the pastor he is a great guy. I feel bad for him because he was embarrassed as would I, had the shoe been on the other foot. Prayerfully we will both get over this awkward event and be able to focus on building the Kingdom of heaven.
Advent Is Coming
September 19, 2016
Next week I will be taking a study leave. The purpose of this leave is to write and publish an advent devotional for this season. My hope is to have the devotional available in both print and electronic versions. This devotional will be written specifically for the First Presbyterian Church in Bradenton so individuals will have a devotional that they can read through that will coincide with our Advent sermon series. I have high hopes for it and I plan on making available to everyone. I ask you pray for me since this is the first time I have ever taken a study leave for the purpose of writing a book.
There will be 22 devotions total and the topics will include...
Next week I will be taking a study leave. The purpose of this leave is to write and publish an advent devotional for this season. My hope is to have the devotional available in both print and electronic versions. This devotional will be written specifically for the First Presbyterian Church in Bradenton so individuals will have a devotional that they can read through that will coincide with our Advent sermon series. I have high hopes for it and I plan on making available to everyone. I ask you pray for me since this is the first time I have ever taken a study leave for the purpose of writing a book.
There will be 22 devotions total and the topics will include...
- Week 1 of Advent: Hope - Hope is found in the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
- Week 2 of Advent: Forgiveness - Jesus came to this earth so we can experience and give forgiveness.
- Week 3 of Advent: Faith - The importance of faith in the life of a believer.
- Week 4 of Advent: Preparation - Advent is a time to reflect on Jesus' first coming and in anticipation for his second coming.
- Christmas Eve/Day: The Kingdom - Jesus came to bring the Kingdom of God to this earth.
Confidence in my Calling
May 19, 2016
I remember a few years ago when God was really doing a number on me. I was going through “one of my moments” where I began questioning my calling as a pastor. I began to wonder if God really called me to the ministry. Was he telling me it’s time to hang up the ministry gloves and get a 9 – 5 job? Sometimes you can’t help but wonder. During this time I desperately needed some encouragement from the Lord. Then one day I began preparing for a two day retreat with a few local pastors and the LORD led me to the book of Exodus (more specifically the life of Moses). He impresses on my heart passages, verses, books of the Bible that I NEEDED to read. At this retreat I was able to pinpoint five things I needed to pray for and ask others to pray for and with me.
I remember a few years ago when God was really doing a number on me. I was going through “one of my moments” where I began questioning my calling as a pastor. I began to wonder if God really called me to the ministry. Was he telling me it’s time to hang up the ministry gloves and get a 9 – 5 job? Sometimes you can’t help but wonder. During this time I desperately needed some encouragement from the Lord. Then one day I began preparing for a two day retreat with a few local pastors and the LORD led me to the book of Exodus (more specifically the life of Moses). He impresses on my heart passages, verses, books of the Bible that I NEEDED to read. At this retreat I was able to pinpoint five things I needed to pray for and ask others to pray for and with me.
- Confidence in my holy calling. I am called to be a pastor. I am where I am today because God appointed me not because I was elected by the Congregation. My confidence is in God not people, attendance, giving, or what I think is success. I have this quote hanging on the wall in my office by J. Oswald Sanders, “The sovereign selection of God gives great confidence to Christian workers. We can truly say, ‘I am here neither by selection of an individual nor election of a group, but by the almighty appointment of God.'”
- The need to give up my strength in ministry and depend fully on his power and Spirit to guide me. I cannot do ministry in my strength… I will burnout and I will fail miserably. May my passion, strength, desire and focus come from God. I need to be moving in his direction, not mine.
- To genuinely and selflessly love the people where I live There is nothing more that I want for the community I live in than to see the Spirit of God fall on this place and bring people to the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ and to be transformed by Him.
- To cast a Kingdom vision and communicate it to the congregation so we may all catch the vision and move forward into the future.
- To find men who will serve and walk alongside me in ministry… Like Moses I need an Aaron in my life; this is one who serves and represents God in ministry. I need an aHur; this is a chief assistant to Aaron and Moses. I am looking for a Joshua; one who is a prayer warrior and will fight alongside and lead the charge in engaging in Spiritual Warfare. Lastly, I need a Jethro; one who is a mature Christian man who is willing to mentor me and willing to speak truth and wisdom into my life.
Spring Has Sprung
March 21st, 2016
We are just a little under a week from Easter Sunday. This morning I have spent some time reflecting on my life since the time I left the ministry in WI up until today. I have seen God's hand at work continually. I wish I can say that our move from WI to FL has been easy but we have faced some challenges. We continue to face them, BUT I/we know and trust that God has called us here and He is using these challenges to shape us and mold us into the vessels He has called us to be.
I love my new Church. This church family has been a HUGE blessing to my family and me. I truly feel this congregation "gets it" when it comes to being the family of God. I am really excited to see what God does in this Church. I am launching a new adult discipleship class in a few weeks and I am anxious to see how God moves in the lives of those who participate in this class.
On the personal side we have made some wonderful friends. God clearly answered our prayers for godly friends that we prayed before our move. As some of you know, one of the hardest things about moving is leaving friends behind and then making new friends. Thankfully God has blessed us with preserving our friendships from old and giving us friends anew.
Overall, God has been and will remain faithful in our lives. I continue to covet your prayers and I trust God is going to do beautiful things in the weeks, months and year ahead.
We are just a little under a week from Easter Sunday. This morning I have spent some time reflecting on my life since the time I left the ministry in WI up until today. I have seen God's hand at work continually. I wish I can say that our move from WI to FL has been easy but we have faced some challenges. We continue to face them, BUT I/we know and trust that God has called us here and He is using these challenges to shape us and mold us into the vessels He has called us to be.
I love my new Church. This church family has been a HUGE blessing to my family and me. I truly feel this congregation "gets it" when it comes to being the family of God. I am really excited to see what God does in this Church. I am launching a new adult discipleship class in a few weeks and I am anxious to see how God moves in the lives of those who participate in this class.
On the personal side we have made some wonderful friends. God clearly answered our prayers for godly friends that we prayed before our move. As some of you know, one of the hardest things about moving is leaving friends behind and then making new friends. Thankfully God has blessed us with preserving our friendships from old and giving us friends anew.
Overall, God has been and will remain faithful in our lives. I continue to covet your prayers and I trust God is going to do beautiful things in the weeks, months and year ahead.
Just Under A Year
October 7th, 2015
I read through my posts below this morning and I realized that it has been just under one year since I started this blog. As I read through them I was brought back as I relived this past year and I thank God I am where I am today. Yes, it has been a hard year.
On the downside I have encountered some of the meanest people I have ever met in my life. They verbally attacked and criticized my family and me in some of the most unchristian ways. They inflicted some emotional and spiritual wounds that are still healing today. I choose not to name names or point fingers on this blog because these individuals know who they are and my prayer is that they realize the pain the wounds they inflicted.
On the upside I met some of the most beautiful people who have loved us, prayed for us, cared for us, counselled us, provided for us, shared with us, and supported us in ways that I could never imagine or repay.
The reality is, there are two kinds of people I encountered in the past year....
The first is the "Self Righteous" person; these are supposed Christians who think they are doing God's will and they are blinded to their own sins and short falls. They actually feel as though God has commissioned them to be the "hounds of heaven". Their job is to point out other people's sins, condemn them (because others aren't as "holy" as they are) and they live in false humility. This false humility is actually a disguise for their self righteous pride. They don't care how many enemies they make in the process because they are "speaking the truth" no matter the fall out or trail of destruction they leave behind. They say they are speaking in love but their actions show different.
The second type of people are the GENUINE followers of Jesus. Fortunately they outnumber the self righteous. These individuals have and show compassion, they also know and show grace. They practice a true love that edifies and does not tear down. They understand that humanity (especially Christians) are imperfect and don't condemn them for this. Instead of condemning they know ALL have sinned and have fallen short of the glory of God. They have faith that Jesus died on the cross for the sins of humanity and anyone who repents and believes in faith shall be forgiven, given eternal life and life HERE ON EARTH. They are slow to speak and slow to judge. They are humble. They truly are the hands, feet and mouth of Jesus Christ... They are truly the body of Christ.
If you are reading this and you fit in one of these categories then I say to the genuine follower of Christ, "THANK YOU FOR SERVING GOD THE WAY HE HAS CALLED YOU and truly being Jesus to us." Unfortunately those of you reading this who fit in the "Self Righteous" category will be blinded by your pride and you will continue in your ways. I pray to God that one day your eyes will be opened and that He will lovingly humble you and show you how a true disciple acts, loves and speaks.
I know the song "Our God is An Awesome God" is an old contemporary praise song, but it rings true today. God is an awesome God. He reigns from heaven above with wisdom, power and love... OUR GOD IS AN AWESOME GOD.
I read through my posts below this morning and I realized that it has been just under one year since I started this blog. As I read through them I was brought back as I relived this past year and I thank God I am where I am today. Yes, it has been a hard year.
On the downside I have encountered some of the meanest people I have ever met in my life. They verbally attacked and criticized my family and me in some of the most unchristian ways. They inflicted some emotional and spiritual wounds that are still healing today. I choose not to name names or point fingers on this blog because these individuals know who they are and my prayer is that they realize the pain the wounds they inflicted.
On the upside I met some of the most beautiful people who have loved us, prayed for us, cared for us, counselled us, provided for us, shared with us, and supported us in ways that I could never imagine or repay.
The reality is, there are two kinds of people I encountered in the past year....
The first is the "Self Righteous" person; these are supposed Christians who think they are doing God's will and they are blinded to their own sins and short falls. They actually feel as though God has commissioned them to be the "hounds of heaven". Their job is to point out other people's sins, condemn them (because others aren't as "holy" as they are) and they live in false humility. This false humility is actually a disguise for their self righteous pride. They don't care how many enemies they make in the process because they are "speaking the truth" no matter the fall out or trail of destruction they leave behind. They say they are speaking in love but their actions show different.
The second type of people are the GENUINE followers of Jesus. Fortunately they outnumber the self righteous. These individuals have and show compassion, they also know and show grace. They practice a true love that edifies and does not tear down. They understand that humanity (especially Christians) are imperfect and don't condemn them for this. Instead of condemning they know ALL have sinned and have fallen short of the glory of God. They have faith that Jesus died on the cross for the sins of humanity and anyone who repents and believes in faith shall be forgiven, given eternal life and life HERE ON EARTH. They are slow to speak and slow to judge. They are humble. They truly are the hands, feet and mouth of Jesus Christ... They are truly the body of Christ.
If you are reading this and you fit in one of these categories then I say to the genuine follower of Christ, "THANK YOU FOR SERVING GOD THE WAY HE HAS CALLED YOU and truly being Jesus to us." Unfortunately those of you reading this who fit in the "Self Righteous" category will be blinded by your pride and you will continue in your ways. I pray to God that one day your eyes will be opened and that He will lovingly humble you and show you how a true disciple acts, loves and speaks.
I know the song "Our God is An Awesome God" is an old contemporary praise song, but it rings true today. God is an awesome God. He reigns from heaven above with wisdom, power and love... OUR GOD IS AN AWESOME GOD.
Fun In The Sun
Just a quick update... God is so good and I LOVE my new ministry position. The church is wonderful and the staff is awesome. I have high hopes and anticipate God's blessings in the days, weeks, months and years to come. I ask for continued prayer as I seek to continually follow God's leading in this new adventure.
I also updated the devotions section. I am sorry but in the transition of this phase of my life I neglected to update the blog. I will update more often so please check back regularly.
I also updated the devotions section. I am sorry but in the transition of this phase of my life I neglected to update the blog. I will update more often so please check back regularly.
The Faithfulness of God
It is May 11, 2015 and life is good. I am happy to announce that God has faithfully answered my nearly 9 month prayer! On June 1, 2015 I will be starting my new position at First Presbyterian Church of Bradenton. I will give more details about the position in a later post. My wife and I visited the church last weekend and we fell in love with the people, the area and the church. I am very excited for this new chapter of our lives. In the meantime we are preparing for this huge move and praying for a quick selling of the house. THANK YOU ALL for your prayers. God has proven Himself faithful over and over again.
Could you please join us in praying for the sale of our home in Spring Valley? It is now on the market and we are looking to sell quickly so we can move down to Florida without any concerns.
Could you please join us in praying for the sale of our home in Spring Valley? It is now on the market and we are looking to sell quickly so we can move down to Florida without any concerns.
8 Months
It has been 8 months since I resigned my position as the pastor of the church I served for seven years. These 8 months have been a challenge and a blessing. I look back over the months and I see God's hand at work. In this time I have met some of the most precious people I could possibly meet. Our family has been blessed beyond our wildest imagination and we THANK EVERYONE so much for your prayers, gifts and encouragement. This time has also been a time to refocus God's call on my life. Not only has He affirmed my calling but He has refined and prepared me for the next chapter of my life. I think of the song "Trading My Sorrows" and I agree wholeheartedly with the bridge that goes, "Though the sorrow may last for a night, the joy comes in the morning." Well, morning is here and I am full of joy. God is good and He IS faithful. We are still waiting on him daily and trusting He will guide us on our adventure of life.
I am still working at Walmart Distribution Center in my transitional phase. I am thankful for the work but I am ready to go out and do what God has created me to do. Another blessing in all of this is I have dropped over 50 lbs and 5 inches off of my waist. I feel so much better and I desire to maintain this healthy lifestyle.
Well, that's about it for today (and probably this month). I am excited and the future is looking bright. Please continue to keep us in your prayers. I will write more as I am able and led. God bless you all and thank you for your love and support.
I am still working at Walmart Distribution Center in my transitional phase. I am thankful for the work but I am ready to go out and do what God has created me to do. Another blessing in all of this is I have dropped over 50 lbs and 5 inches off of my waist. I feel so much better and I desire to maintain this healthy lifestyle.
Well, that's about it for today (and probably this month). I am excited and the future is looking bright. Please continue to keep us in your prayers. I will write more as I am able and led. God bless you all and thank you for your love and support.
Hurry Up and Wait
Today is March 12th, 2015 and it has been six months since I resigned from my last church. This has been the longest I have not been in full-time ministry in over 20 years. To say this transition has been easy would be an outright lie. It has been hard and thankfully God has been with my family and me throughout this whole process. As hard as it has been, God has drawn my family and me closer and closer to him day after day.
So many of you reading have been praying for us plus so many of you have supported us in countless ways. I could never thank all of you enough. Please keep praying and supporting because we are still in the midst of transition. I feel like I are in a holding pattern and that any day that "Call" could come. Other times I feel like I am watching a pot come to a boil as I tirelessly pray about direction and then browse the dozens of Pastor placement web pages and it never seems to come to a boil. I am patiently waiting on the Lord and I TRUST Him with all my heart that He will give to me the perfect gift at the perfect time it just that like Tom Petty sings,"The waiting in the hardest part."
So many of you reading have been praying for us plus so many of you have supported us in countless ways. I could never thank all of you enough. Please keep praying and supporting because we are still in the midst of transition. I feel like I are in a holding pattern and that any day that "Call" could come. Other times I feel like I am watching a pot come to a boil as I tirelessly pray about direction and then browse the dozens of Pastor placement web pages and it never seems to come to a boil. I am patiently waiting on the Lord and I TRUST Him with all my heart that He will give to me the perfect gift at the perfect time it just that like Tom Petty sings,"The waiting in the hardest part."
The Loss of a Dear Friend
(L-R) Carrie Holton, Susie Hooper (middle), Greg Hooper and Lindsay Plymel (front). Fluvanna Youth Center: Tiny's Grill 1999.
Some people you meet in life forever impact you. Susie (Hoopette) Hooper was one of those people. Susie went to be with the Lord this weekend. I am sad because she is no longer here on this earth but I am so overjoyed that she is dancing in the presence of her Savior whom she loved so much and devoted her life to.
Susie was a true servant. She and her husband Greg served in the youth ministry with me for many years. I have so many fond memories of her but what I remember most is She loved God's Word, she loved people, she loved her husband, she loved to cook (and she was a great cook), she loved the New England Patriots and most of all she loved Jesus. I am envious of Susie since she is in the presence of Jesus because aren't we all longing for that day?
Susie was a true servant. She and her husband Greg served in the youth ministry with me for many years. I have so many fond memories of her but what I remember most is She loved God's Word, she loved people, she loved her husband, she loved to cook (and she was a great cook), she loved the New England Patriots and most of all she loved Jesus. I am envious of Susie since she is in the presence of Jesus because aren't we all longing for that day?
Here I am... Send me!
I can't believe January is almost over. Wow! Time flies. To update you as to where I am in my life I am currently in the process of seeking out full time ministry positions. I have been praying fervently about what God is calling me to do for his glory. I believe he is calling me to Family Ministry or to Associate/Discipleship Pastor. I have had some people ask, "Why do you want to go into Family Ministry or Associate Pastor after being a Sr. Pastor?" The short answer is because God has given me a heart and passion to minister to families through discipleship. I believe parents should be the primary Spiritual leaders of the family. However I have found very few families are actually doing this though. Why? Mainly because parents either feel intimated by this idea, ill equipped or they think it is the job of the Church. Training and teaching parents and children the simple Gospel message is something I am passionate about. Many people are intimidated by the Bible simply because they have a hard time understanding it. But the great thing about God's Word is that it is applicable to ALL ages. In the twenty years of the ministry God has called me to I have seen his transforming power in children, youth and adults. Seeing the transforming power of God change families excites me and it causes me to give praise to our loving Father for His abundant grace, love and mercy.
On this site I am finishing up my devotional in Genesis this week and I am praying about my next series. I have an idea and I will let you all know what it is in the coming days. I have heard from many of you about how you are enjoying the devotional and that makes me very happy. I praise God that He is using my words to encourage you in Him.
I ask you continue to keep my family and me in your prayers. I am asking for God's wisdom in finding the ministry position He has called me to. I am willing to go wherever He calls, so would you please pray with us? Thank you!
On this site I am finishing up my devotional in Genesis this week and I am praying about my next series. I have an idea and I will let you all know what it is in the coming days. I have heard from many of you about how you are enjoying the devotional and that makes me very happy. I praise God that He is using my words to encourage you in Him.
I ask you continue to keep my family and me in your prayers. I am asking for God's wisdom in finding the ministry position He has called me to. I am willing to go wherever He calls, so would you please pray with us? Thank you!
Looking Back and Thanks
2015 is right around the corner. As I look back at 2014 I do praise God for His faithfulness and provision. However the year didn't go as I had planned. I wouldn't wish some of the experiences I had on my worst enemy. To ad to the difficulty recently I experienced a real disappointment as I did not get a job I really wanted. I felt really good about this potential job but God has other plans for me. There are times when I just want to throw my hands up and say, "I give up!" but that is what Satan wants me to do and I will not give him the satisfaction. God is working on me and I still have a lot of growing and learning (don't we all) and this is a good thing. When we feel as though we have arrived in life is when complacency sets in.
For the past month I have been working three jobs (2 part time and 1 full time) and one of those (UPS) has come to an end since I was hired as seasonal help. As I work at these jobs I am amazed how many opportunities God has given me to share his love and display an authentic faith with people who may be seeking God. It is interesting how many people have questions and/or a foundation of faith in their life but are not really moving forward in it. Sharing the Good News and Discipleship are two passions I have and I love how God is still allowing me to use these passions in places I never thought I would. This has given me some really unique ideas that I have been praying about and it will be interesting to see where all this goes.
As disappointing as 2014 has been I am still blessed. I have a wonderful wife and four amazing children. This whole ordeal has been very hard on them and I pray for them daily and I ask that you would as well. They are precious and I am truly a blessed man. I/We have some of the best friends in the world and so many have reached out to our family in this difficult time by blessing us with words of encouragement, gifts and true friendship. I don't deserve friends like this but grace is truly an amazing thing.
With 2015 on the horizon I am praying about new opportunities that are ahead and I trust God will give me the desires of my heart. I do not know what God has for my family and me but I know it will be good. I pray you have an amazing 2015 and I will keep you all posted on my transitional journey.
Happy holidays!
For the past month I have been working three jobs (2 part time and 1 full time) and one of those (UPS) has come to an end since I was hired as seasonal help. As I work at these jobs I am amazed how many opportunities God has given me to share his love and display an authentic faith with people who may be seeking God. It is interesting how many people have questions and/or a foundation of faith in their life but are not really moving forward in it. Sharing the Good News and Discipleship are two passions I have and I love how God is still allowing me to use these passions in places I never thought I would. This has given me some really unique ideas that I have been praying about and it will be interesting to see where all this goes.
As disappointing as 2014 has been I am still blessed. I have a wonderful wife and four amazing children. This whole ordeal has been very hard on them and I pray for them daily and I ask that you would as well. They are precious and I am truly a blessed man. I/We have some of the best friends in the world and so many have reached out to our family in this difficult time by blessing us with words of encouragement, gifts and true friendship. I don't deserve friends like this but grace is truly an amazing thing.
With 2015 on the horizon I am praying about new opportunities that are ahead and I trust God will give me the desires of my heart. I do not know what God has for my family and me but I know it will be good. I pray you have an amazing 2015 and I will keep you all posted on my transitional journey.
Happy holidays!
All Work and A Play
Life has been crazy busy for me the past month. I am working three secular jobs and putting in about 70 hours a week. I am tired to say the least. On top of that I was in the community play "The Best Christmas Pageant" and it was a blast. We had three sold out performances and everyone I spoke with loved it. I am also performing in THE NUTCRACKER with most of my family this weekend. As you can see life hasn't slowed down one bit.
I would like to ask for continued prayer as I have some opportunities before me and I need God's wisdom and favor. I am fully trusting God and I am excited to see what He has in store for my family and I. Keep praying as I work this crazy schedule and I will keep you posted as to what God is doing in the weeks to come.
I would like to ask for continued prayer as I have some opportunities before me and I need God's wisdom and favor. I am fully trusting God and I am excited to see what He has in store for my family and I. Keep praying as I work this crazy schedule and I will keep you posted as to what God is doing in the weeks to come.
Pray Away
Well, God is up to some amazing things in my life. I can't go into it too much so I ask that you continue to pray for me and my family. I love how God throws in encouragement and blessings when you least expect them. I am confident in the months to come I can share the story of God's faithfulness to us. It is early in the morning as I write this and I think of the old MC Hammer song "Pray". I know it wasn't intended to be a song sung in church but I think the words ring true... "We've got to pray just to make it today."
Up, UPS and Away
I started working as a temporary part time UPS package handler this week. I do enjoy the work, but I don't get many hours. It has been MANY years since I have worked steadily in the labor force. It's a face paced environment and I think it has been really good for me. This is just part of the transition that God has me in at this moment. I know there is something out there that He has specifically for me but until then I will handle packages and be faithful to what God has entrusted me with. I am thankful for the part time work coming my way. God has blessed and I trust him exclusively. Please keep my family and me in your prayers. I pray for wisdom, discernment and God's favor.
The Week Behind Me
November 8, 2014
Here I sit on another Sunday morning. It is 5:30 am. What on earth am I doing up at this hour? Well tomorrow morning I start a temporary seasonal very part time job at UPS. The shift begins at 3:00 am so I am trying to just get my body used to getting up at a time no one should ever be up for. I am thankful for this job for a season. I am praying and asking God continually for wisdom in taking the next steps in my life. I ask you to pray with me as well.
I had a very productive week and the transition is beginning to take SOME shape to it. God opened some doors this week and we'll see where they lead. Wherever they lead it will be good because God delights in giving his children good things for his glory.
I also started listening to the book PLAN B: WHAT TO DO WHEN GOD DOESN'T SHOW UP IN THE WAY YOU THOUGHT HE WOULD by Pete Wilson. I HIGHLY suggest reading this book. I have a link off to the side or on the resource page if you'd like to purchase it. The book is very practical, in your face (in a good way) and encouraging.
Well, today is my youngest's fourth birthday and we are going to party like princesses today. Have a blessed week friends and I'll post again soon. Until then please check out my daily devotions.
Here I sit on another Sunday morning. It is 5:30 am. What on earth am I doing up at this hour? Well tomorrow morning I start a temporary seasonal very part time job at UPS. The shift begins at 3:00 am so I am trying to just get my body used to getting up at a time no one should ever be up for. I am thankful for this job for a season. I am praying and asking God continually for wisdom in taking the next steps in my life. I ask you to pray with me as well.
I had a very productive week and the transition is beginning to take SOME shape to it. God opened some doors this week and we'll see where they lead. Wherever they lead it will be good because God delights in giving his children good things for his glory.
I also started listening to the book PLAN B: WHAT TO DO WHEN GOD DOESN'T SHOW UP IN THE WAY YOU THOUGHT HE WOULD by Pete Wilson. I HIGHLY suggest reading this book. I have a link off to the side or on the resource page if you'd like to purchase it. The book is very practical, in your face (in a good way) and encouraging.
Well, today is my youngest's fourth birthday and we are going to party like princesses today. Have a blessed week friends and I'll post again soon. Until then please check out my daily devotions.
This Sunday in the Pew (or Chair)
November 2nd, 2014
So today was my second week in a row sitting in a pew or chair at church since my resignation. I had a wonderful morning worship at a church where a good friend is a pastor. Afterward we had lunch with a wonderful couple who were a blessing. Sundays on this side of the pulpit feel a little weird. Not in a bad way though. I enjoy sitting with my family in church and soaking in the the presence of God.
Thank you Brian for leading our Sunday morning worship (your message spoke to me) and thank you Cliff and Carol for the great fellowship afterwards.
Tomorrow is Monday. This is the beginning of a new week. I covet your prayers as I continue to seek God's will for my life. Pray for my family as well. We are so blessed and we are anticipating what God has in store for us.
So today was my second week in a row sitting in a pew or chair at church since my resignation. I had a wonderful morning worship at a church where a good friend is a pastor. Afterward we had lunch with a wonderful couple who were a blessing. Sundays on this side of the pulpit feel a little weird. Not in a bad way though. I enjoy sitting with my family in church and soaking in the the presence of God.
Thank you Brian for leading our Sunday morning worship (your message spoke to me) and thank you Cliff and Carol for the great fellowship afterwards.
Tomorrow is Monday. This is the beginning of a new week. I covet your prayers as I continue to seek God's will for my life. Pray for my family as well. We are so blessed and we are anticipating what God has in store for us.
Where I Am Today
October 31st, 2014
Hello, my name is Jeff and I am a former pastor. Well, I am not actually a former pastor. I am not currently a pastor of a local church body. I still consider myself a pastor, but I just do not have a pulpit to preach from currently. I am seeking God's plan for my life (as so many are). It has been two weeks since I resigned from my church. It has been the most painful, scary and blessed places I have ever been. I would like to share with you my journey. If you are or ever have been unemployed you know exactly where I am today.
God has not "revoked" my calling to be a pastor so I want to continue to share God's Word with people, just in a different way. Let's call this page my digital pulpit. I desire to share with you my daily devotions. I love writing and I love the Bible so I am going to use them both as a way to use my God given gifts to be a blessing for you during my transition.
Please continue to pray and I will give an update tomorrow
Hello, my name is Jeff and I am a former pastor. Well, I am not actually a former pastor. I am not currently a pastor of a local church body. I still consider myself a pastor, but I just do not have a pulpit to preach from currently. I am seeking God's plan for my life (as so many are). It has been two weeks since I resigned from my church. It has been the most painful, scary and blessed places I have ever been. I would like to share with you my journey. If you are or ever have been unemployed you know exactly where I am today.
God has not "revoked" my calling to be a pastor so I want to continue to share God's Word with people, just in a different way. Let's call this page my digital pulpit. I desire to share with you my daily devotions. I love writing and I love the Bible so I am going to use them both as a way to use my God given gifts to be a blessing for you during my transition.
Please continue to pray and I will give an update tomorrow