Tom Lowe

BRIDGES

2011-03-07T11:11:00.004-06:00

I have been watching with interest, the construction and preparation to replace the bridge over Interstate 20 at Well Road. I think they must be spending some of that economic stimulus money, (but what do I know!). I've been so interested because bridge building seems so complicated to me. I was surprised to see they had traffic flowing on the Interstate again by day 3! Amazingly smart people!

Bridge building can be a tedious endeavor--especially when that bridge is built to link different groups of people separated by age, gender, race, belief, style -- well, by more things that I can list here!

Enter the arena of worship. The natural tendency is for people to want things according to our personal preference -- you know -- the way they've always been done -- "yes, from my childhood!" "Don't change a thing, please!" And so there is work to be done -- building bridges to link the generations.

It has been a rewarding experience to lead CCWM through many and varied changes over the years and to see people so willingly lay aside personal preference for the common good. It screams "maturity!" when people who have been serving God for years and years are willing to adjust their expectations about the worship experience so their grand-children can relate to what happens in church and actually want to go! I for one, am not willing to watch succeeding generations walk away from the Church simply because I don't have enough foresight to build a bridge to reach them!

I'm not advocating change simply for change sake, and I am completely unwilling to change the message of the Gospel -- but our methods must always be tweaked and morphed to stay relevant to the culture. Jesus was a master at connecting with His culture. He spoke the language of the people -- and was always at ground zero with His audience. He often suffered rebuke and disdain from the established, status-quo, religious leaders of His day. "Friend of sinners" -- "wine bibber" -- even "Blasphemer" were the names hurled at Him because of His unconventional way of doing things. And even while some were offended at His methods -- He was building the Ultimate Bridge linking man to God and aren't you thankful for that!

So what action is mandated by Jesus' example? Bridge Building!

What say? Let construction begin!

Where Is Yours?

2011-02-15T22:05:00.014-06:00

I've been thinking...and one of the things that has really stuck in my mind lately is how many things we try to substitute for God. It's really idol making -- while pledging allegiance to Jesus, we look for all kinds of things that will somehow prop up our faith and placate our flesh. We sometimes turn to feelings, experiences or manifestations that ever so subtly supplant simple faith and trust in God.

Have you thought lately about the level of your faith in Christ? Is is a faith that must be backed up and held in place by some tangible evidence that God is really real? If so, then trust has been replaced by a kind of pseudo faith -- the kind of faith that requires evidence -- which is, frankly, no faith at all.

Abraham, the father of all who believe (Ro. 4) chose to believe God in spite of a lack of evidence. He didn't see any signs or feel any goose bumps while he and his only son, Isaac, made the death march up Mt. Moriah. He made the climb on the strength of faith alone -- believing that even though he couldn't see any way out of his dilemma, God was faithful who promised to make a great nation from his seed. So he trudged ahead.

I'm thinking Isaiah knew something about walking, too. I love the powerful words he penned in Isaiah 40:31, "They will soar on wings like eagles, they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint." The truth is simple...every Christ follower knows there is a lot less soaring on eagles wings and a lot more walking without fainting than we care to admit. Why is that true? Because the life for Christ is a life of faith -- where you don't always get to see it before you're asked to believe it. It's a life that requires us to take up our cross and pull up our stakes long before we ever get a road map to where we're headed!

I love to see the power of God on display -- I desire signs, wonders and miracles, but my faith? I choose to anchor it In Christ Alone! I hope you do too.

Though you have not seen him, you love him; and even though you do not see him now, you believe in him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy. 1 Peter 1:8 (NIV)

Keep believing -- in Jesus, that is!

Tom Lowe

Tattooed?

2011-01-30T23:11:00.009-06:00

Norman Vincent Peale relates this story in his book, Power of the Plus Factor.

Once walking through the twisted little streets of Kowloon in Hong Kong, I came upon a tattoo studio. In the window were displayed samples of the tattoos available. On the chest or the arms you could have tattooed an anchor or a flag - a mermaid or whatever. But what struck me with force were the words that could be tattooed on someone's flesh, "Born to lose."

I entered the shop in astonishment and, pointing to those words, asked the Chinese tattoo artist, "'Does anyone really have that terrible phrase, "Born to lose", tattooed on their body?'" He replied, "Yes, sometimes." But I said, "I just can't believe that anyone in their right mind would do that." The Chinese man simply tapped his forehead and in broken English said, "Before tattoo on body, tattoo on mind."

I thank God for the opportunity to work daily with the people of God, but tragically, and yes, even at CCWM, there are people who have a deflated view of who they are called to become in Christ! Do you realize who you are in Him? Do you see yourself through His eyes - sons and daughters - Kings and Priests before God - the very one for whom Jesus Christ bled and died? Can you comprehend the bodacious, over-the-top love God has for you? Do you realize your eternal significance?

You are of great value in the Kingdom of God. Like a Jeremiah - you were fashioned and shaped for an eternal purpose in the plan of God (Jeremiah 29:11).

God changed Abram's name to Abraham years before he sired a son. He was about 75 years old - Sarah was barren and past the age of bearing children. But in faith, Abram embraced the name Abraham (father of multitudes). He accepted a reality about himself that he couldn't yet see - really, he believed the impossible was possible through God.

What has God called you? What are you saying about yourself today? Embrace what God is saying! You were not "Born to lose!" You were BORN TO WIN! Accept the name!

Go for it!

A STILL SMALL VOICE

2010-06-07T16:59:00.005-05:00

Recently our Pre-K grandson, Gibson, came in from kindergarten and said "I tried to get a girlfriend today." "You did? Well, what happened?" I replied. He said "She didn't hear me, but I'm gonna say it louder tomorrow!" I got a huge belly laugh out of that one. He's a bit timid and I can just about see him saying -- kind of under his breath -- "You wanna be my girlfriend?"

It's frustrating when we try to communicate with people who either don't hear us, aren't listening or simply aren't interested in what we have to say. One out-o-tune husband said, "My wife says I never listen to her -- at least I THINK that's what she said!" That's only funny as a joke.

Ever thought about how God might feel when He is trying to talk to us? In a hundred different ways He's speaking to us, but so often we're simply not listening. Without even being conscious of it, we blow God off. We hear ever other insignificant voice while we let the voice of The Preeminent One go unheard, unnoticed and without any response from our end.

It's a real bummer when you're trying to join a conversation but can't get a word in edge wise. You've been there haven't you -- only the ones who shout the loudest ever get the floor. God rarely shouts, if ever. Do you want to hear His voice? Silence all the other loud mouths. Get quiet--still and alone with Him. I promise He'll say something worth hearing.

We've Got Friends Comin' Over!

2010-05-26T11:47:00.004-05:00

It's getting exciting! June 3, 4 and 5 are the dates for the Destiny Ministries "This Is My Destiny 2010" Conference to be held here at Christ Church West Monroe. It's gonna be a great time spiritually, relationally -- in every way. Billy Hornsby of the ARC (Association of Related Churches) will be speaking to us. Scott Jones, Moderator of Global Christian Ministries will be here -- John Ragsdale leading worship -- can't wait to celebrate with my friends all that God is doing in the earth! Trina and I, along with our church family consider it a huge honor to be able to host this event for 2010. We're making preparations to welcome great friends to West Monroe and to "This Is My Destiny 2010." Hope you'll be here for a wonderful time of refreshing and reconnecting with friends -- old and new. Come on over. We've got room for you!

Take That, Devil!!

2010-05-07T07:13:00.007-05:00

Unity! It's the stuff that brings the blessing of God upon our families, our churches and our communities. I for one, consider it a real privilege to live in an area where such a high level of unity exists among Christian leaders -- unity that crosses denominational lines, political ideologies and cultural boundaries. Each month people from virtually every sector of society gather for early prayer -- regardless of race, age, doctrinal differences -- men and women gather to celebrate the power that is in the Cross of Jesus Christ and to cry out to God for the spiritual, social and economic renewal in the Northeast Louisiana sector of our state. How pleasing to the heart of the Father, "...for there the Lord commanded the blessing of eternal life" (Ps.133:3). I love the unity as we all walk together -- to sense the camaraderie among us.

Over and over the scriptures highlight the human body as evidence that the spiritual body of Christ must work together in synergy if in fact, we are to become all that Christ designed us to be (See 1 Cor. 12:12). The combined efforts of the few will always outpace the lone efforts of the isolated. There is power in unity! I love this quote; Cooperation is the thorough conviction that nobody can get there unless everybody gets there. ~ Virginia Burden The Process of Intuition.

Last evening more than 82 churches from the Monroe/West Monroe/Ouachita Parish region were represented by their pastors and congregants as they gathered in the Monroe Civic Arena for one purpose -- to glorify God! Heaven rejoiced -- hell trembled! All I can say this morning is "Devil got a shiner!!"

Ever So Close

2010-04-03T18:33:00.011-05:00

"The word is near you, in your mouth, and in your heart -- that is, the word of faith which we preach" Romans 10:9.

In the 1800's a prospector went to California in search of his fortune. He spent his entire life scouring the mountains for gold, only to die as a pauper. When they were digging the grave behind his house to bury him ... do I really need to finish this story?

It's kind of a sad story, isn't it? To think that our lives could literally be wasted in search of some illusive something--that one thing we dream would make us happy. We tell ourselves . . . "I must be near it now -- surely I'll find it soon, I know I'm close." So goes life by the shovel full.

Dare we squander all the precious moments God has sprinkled into our lives while we frantically search for an even better moment? Have we become ungrateful for all the present good, because we are still searching for the proverbial pot of gold at the end of the rainbow? And have we so concentrated our hearts on the "Big Find" that we find no reason to be thankful for food, shelter and clothing?

Sometimes the "gold" we're searching for is located in our own backyard. We need only to open our eyes to see. Rather than fret over the relationships we don't have, why not strengthen and concentrate on the relationships we do have. Instead of living a discontented life, why not learn contentment. We don't need to search the world over to find happiness. Stick a spade in the dirt. You're probably rich and don't even know it!

Bambinos or Bamboos?

2009-09-22T05:12:00.007-05:00

Oh, the joys of raising kids -- a "hair-raising" experience, don't you think? It's kind of like riding one of those really bad roller-coasters, like the Texas Cyclone. I've mustered the courage to get on that particular roller-coaster a couple of times in my adult life, and I came off reeling from the experience -- "What was that? What did I just do? That was insane!"

That's pretty much the way it is while you're raising your kids. When you're in the middle of it -- there is simply no end in sight. It seems it will last forever, that you're making no headway and that your instruction and guidance goes completely unheeded. But finally the end does come -- you get your feet back on the ground -- the kids aren't complete imbeciles and you realize that you survived the whole ordeal (some people actually get back in line to do it all again, if you know what I mean)!

The terrible two's and the atrocious teens will nearly suck the life out of a person if you don't understand that all your efforts will one day pay off. Sometime it feels like you're dropping handfuls of quarters into a piggy bank with no bottom. Frustrating, trying, nerve-wracking, dreadful, revolting -- words are simply inadequate to describe the feelings we sometimes experience as parents. But our efforts do pay off!

In the Far East the people plant a tree called the Chinese bamboo. During the first four years they water and fertilize the plant with seemingly little or no results. Then the fifth year they again apply water and fertilizer – and in five weeks’ time the tree grows ninety feet in height! The obvious question is: did the Chinese bamboo tree grow ninety feet in five weeks, or did it grow ninety feet in five years? The answer is: it grew ninety feet in five years. Because if at any time during those five years the people had stopped watering and fertilizing the tree, it would have died!

Keep feeding your bambinos and keep watering your bamboos! Ultimately, all your efforts will pay off!

P.S. Click the link below and take a look at the Texas Cyclone!

http://www.metacafe.com/watch/376719/point_of_view_texas_cyclone_roller_coaster_six_flags_astroworld/

Got a Need for Speed?

2009-07-31T07:49:00.004-05:00

I've got a friend who is a speed-addict! I mean, he's got this need for speed that is off the charts -- at least when compared to anyone else I know! All week long he flies a private jet around the country -- hauling execs where ever they need to go. What's a lear jet do, maybe 600 mph? Then for personal recreation, he rides a crotch rocket! His personal admission proves his addiction. He has taken that flimsy piece of machinery -- up to speeds of 170 mph. Blows my mind. I've never ridden with him in his truck, but I don't believe I want to. You blame me?

In a lot of ways, we've all got a "need for speed." We're in a constant rush -- no time for family, no time for friends and sadly, often we've no time for God. I've asked myself the question so many times -- "What's the big rush?" In the words of the country artist, You gotta stop and smell the roses. In the words of so many instructors -- You've got to prioritize your life! Pinpoint the non-negotiables in your life. Build a fortress around them. Don't allow the screams and the cries of the urgent to rob you of the most important and necessary things in your life.

I think we'd all agree that our communion with Christ must be on a plane above the fray. Neglect in this arena means the undoing of everything else that matters. Our relationship with God is the glue that makes life joyful and worthwhile. Without that, family relationships struggle -- friendships disintegrate. Ultimately we become unraveled!

Here's a question for us all. What are the absolute most important things in life and what are we doing to protect them? Paul instructs us in Romans 12:2 "...don't let the world squeeze you into it's mold!" (Phillips). Put the brakes on and nail down a time and place for daily communion with the Lord!

You've Got to "Keep it!"

2009-07-20T09:54:00.003-05:00

Relationships are tricky, aren't they? I mean, as long as you are "dis-connected" there can never be any assaults against a relationship that simply doesn't' exist. But the moment you begin to make real and valid connections -- the moment a relationship has begun, there are a myriad of attempts to destroy the ties. Many come from outside influences -- some from circumstances beyond our control, still others come from simple misunderstandings that could have easily been avoided. But perhaps the biggest deterrent to strong and lasting relationships is the deadly poison of complacency.

For a relationship to remain strong and viable, we must be intentional. A one-time encounter will never be sufficient to forever secure a lasting, fruitful friendship. No matter how great the original attraction -- whatever might have first initiated the bond, be assured of this; a complacent attitude will be the undoing of any relationship.

Friendships cannot thrive where complacency exists. In a marriage, in a group or fraternity of any kind, a haphazard response to a friend will mean the death of the relationship.

The obvious truth is before us. Our ongoing fruitful relationship with Jesus Christ necessitates -- demands that there be more than a one time encounter -- more than a momentary "feel-good" experience with God. We cannot be "bump and run" Christians if we anticipate a deep and abiding -- in tact connection with the Lord.

Back burner relationships always grow cold and stale. What relationships in your life need attention today? If you want to keep it -- you've got to "Keep" it! You've got to tend it, nourish it, give great attention to it! Now that you've been reminded -- go do it!

What's Number One?

2009-06-25T09:16:00.009-05:00

“But one thing is needed, and Mary has chosen that good part, which will not be taken away from her.”

Dr. Richard Swenson wrote a book entitled Margins, in which he exposed the epidemic of overload in our contemporary lifestyles. The premise was that when you read a book or your bible, there are purposeful margin areas where there is no print whatsoever. Even though the use of margins is not the most economical use of space and paper (if you eliminated them, you could get more words on a page and save printing costs), margin-less pages would be very bothersome to read. Your eyes and brain would scream out for some kind of reprieve—some white spaces without any ink. And yet it is often true in our personal lives, that we eliminate the margins, filling our schedules from top to bottom and side to side. The result is an active but exhausted life—busy, but lacking productivity. Time for fellowship with God and family are routinely squeezed out so that we may crowd in more of the less important.

Poor Martha! She deleted the margins of her life—scurrying about to do something when what was needed was margin time so that she could be something! There is no sin in rest and repose. Even in this frantic, frenzied, full speed ahead world in which we live, the concept of scripture applies . . . “You shall labor six days and rest on the seventh.” How much better life would be if we would make it a practice of our Christian lives to find some time every day to just sit at Jesus’ feet. There are certainly times that call for us to get up and do something, but they never come before our being refreshed and renewed at the feet of Jesus! Our #1 priority must be time with God (TWG). Be a Mary first—a Martha second. Being is always a pre-requisite of doing!

But, I Like It Like That!

2009-06-02T09:54:00.001-05:00

We are such creatures of habit. It seems as if we have a natural bent to settle in to familiar places and just be satisfied. Status-quo is the enemy of forward progress -- in your career, your relationship arena, your financial condition -- your marriage -- you name it. The most dangerous place of all to become happy with "good" is in your spiritual health and maturity.

Your relationship with God can easily become like your favorite chair -- well-worn and comfy! It may not be the most beautiful piece of furniture in the house -- stuffing hanging out from under the bottom -- a huge tear in the seat cushion -- stains on the armrest -- but you like it like that! It's just too comfortable to mess with!

So, is often the case with our walk with Christ. We resist the challenge to increase our spiritual aptitude -- we are good with the scripture reading we get on Sundays -- we hang out with other Christians most of the time -- I mean -- I pray every time I eat -- what more can you ask for? And so goes our mediocre, passion-less spiritual existence. And I do mean, existence. That's about all it is.

Why is this true? One reason and one reason only. You're getting ahead of me -- you already know, don't you? You're right -- Cause I like it like that! At this point we have to ask ourselves the really tough questions. Am I in love with Jesus Christ or do I just enjoy His friendship? Has a nominal Christian life become comfortable to me? Do I bristle at the idea of throwing that old familiar chair out in exchange for a new one? If so, God wants to revitalize your life with a fresh wind of His Spirit. Open your heart to newness -- freshness -- LIFE, and you'll not be disappointed!

Progress! Progress!

2009-04-27T22:00:00.009-05:00

It's happening! I've got some fresh pics for you.

I Love Seven-Eleven!

2009-04-02T07:39:00.006-05:00

I used to love the 7-11 store that was about a half a block from our house on Warren Drive-- it's now swallowed up by Johnny's Pizza. I can't tell you how many Icee's I drank from that store when I was a kid. They had Jolly Ranchers gallore -- in every flavor and I can remember the little brown paper sack that I'd carry my stash home in. I didn't think so much about it when they closed all the 7-11's around here in lieu of the more modern Fil-A-Saks or Jump-'n-Runs -- whatever you wanna call 'em. I always liked 7-11! Sometimes when I'm travelling out of town -- I see a 7-11 and those wonderful memories of childhood come rushing back to me. I just have to stop and get an Icee or something! A bit of nostalgia happening this morning. Thanks for indulging me.

In my early private devotion today, I read a number of Psalms and came to Psalm 90 where the sub-heading in my bible says The Eternity of God, and Man's Frailty. Verse one begins with this -- "LORD, You have been our dwelling place in all generations. Before the mountains were brought forth, or ever You had formed the earth and the world, even from everlasting to everlasting, You are God." Then it continues to enumerate the awesomeness of God and the shallowness of humanity. Finally, the psalm concludes with these words in verse seventeen; "And let the beauty of the Lord our God be upon us, and establish the work of our hands for us; Yes, establish the work of our hands." What an intriguing thought! To have such a relationship with God, our Father that we can call on Him to beautify us with His presence. I was moved by those words and stayed there for a while -- praying over and meditating on that one statement -- "And let the beauty of the Lord our God be upon us!" Then it says, "and establish the work of our hands for us;" What an amazing thought, that our Eternal God, Who by His sheer and unbridled power has formed the universe and all that is in it and to imagine that He has opened the door to such an appeal . . . "Come and establish the work of our hands!" I had to ask myself the question, maybe you need to do the same; "What are you expecting from God today?" Judgment and condemnation -- misery, emptiness, loneliness and frustration? Why not believe God for the good? Construct every day on the seven-eleven principle -- Matthew 7:11, that is! Why not spend every moment looking for the goodness of God in your life. Get your eyes off what you can do and trust God for what He can and will do! "If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him!" Mt. 7:11 NIV. A couple of other scriptures to direct your thoughts: Romans 8:32; Philippians 4:6-9. I just love 7-11's don't you!

100 Times What Was Planted!

2009-03-17T12:52:00.009-05:00

Men's Group this morning was especially probing and thought provoking. We've been doing The Purpose Driven Life by Rick Warren. One of the truths discussed this morning was the fact that Knowing Your Purpose Prepares You for Eternity. We were all confronted with the FACT that we aren't born into the human family to pursue our own interests -- or to be remembered for some great deed done. We were put here to prepare for eternity. One of these days we will stand before our Maker as He audits the books of our life -- as Rick puts it gives us "our final exam!" Paul writes "Remember, each of us will stand personally before the judgment seat of God... Yes, each of us will have to give a personal account to God." Romans 14:10b, 12 (NLT). It's good to remember that God's heart is for us! We are His inheritance and He wants us to come through with flying colors -- so He's given us an "open book" test -- and insight to the questions that He might pose at judgment. From the Word of God we can be sure of perhaps the two most important questions he will ask:

First, "What did you do with Jesus, the Son of God?" We might have anticipated that God would ask about our denominational affiliation or about the preservation of our particularly favorite doctrines. But the Only thing that will matter then is -- "what did you do about Jesus? Did you trust Him and believe in Him for your salvation?"

Second, and this question seems to join effortlessly with the first -- "What did you do with what I gave you?" Since we've begun the "Parables" series, it rings loud and clear in my spiritual ears--"What did you do with what I gave you? What about your marriage, your family, your children? How about your job, your influence, your testimony? What did you do with your time and resources?" There's a couple of biggies! Huh?

Jesus said "Some seed fell on good ground. That is the man or woman who hears the word and understands it. He produces a crop, yielding a hundred, sixty or thirty times what was sown." Mt. 13:23b (NIV). Well, how are we faring? Is the seed scattered in your live taking root and will it produce a harvest for the Kingdom of God? I have to ask myself that question over and over again, allowing the Holy Spirit to re-direct my efforts, my time allotment and most importantly my heart! If I don't miss my guess -- there are a whole bunch of "100 's" out there in cyber-space!

"With Every Passing Day"

2009-03-06T09:33:00.005-06:00

I've posted some pics of the construction progress below. I was making a walk-through this morning and I thought of the change that every day brings. It's wonderful to see something new -- to see the project moving toward completion with every passing day! As I reflected on it all, I thought about our own personal progress in our life for Christ. Thank God, He doesn't leave us alone but always prods us toward a greater degree of Christlikeness. How about you? Are you on an upward path to completion? Are you being built up into a spiritual house of worship to the King? (1 Pet. 2:5).

It's definitely a process that requires faithful obedience to the Word of God. Maturity comes with living out the teachings of God's word and by constantly applying biblical principles to every facet of our lives. As we continue in them (1 Tim. 4:16) we will see wonderful progress in our spiritual house with every passing day.

I love you all!

Water For The Thirsty

2009-02-26T16:38:00.004-06:00

I'm baaack! Hope you missed me -- just a little bit anyway. I was doing some reading and thinking about these troubled times in light of the scriptures. And as I read, I came to a favorite passage in Isaiah 44 where the Lord says "I will pour water on him who is thirsty and floods on the dry ground;" Just reading that verse seemed to inspire me. Faith comes through receiving the Word -- and new faith gripped my spirit! The faithfulness of God never ceases to amaze me, even when your troubles are staring you in the face. I am so thankful that God continues to meet the needs of His people. He's got a great track record of coming through in spite of adverse circumstances; Israel at the brink of the Red Sea -- David facing Goliath -- Gideon's 300. There are tons of other instances that help us to redirect our faith that has been mis-placed in things that can never sustain us. While Pharaoh's Egypt had complete, even tangible darkness during the plagues sent by God -- Israel had perfect light! It reminds me of the old song "I've Got Sunshine on a Cloudy Day!" While everyone on the planet is screaming "recession" there's a voice in my spirit that shouts "progression!"

"I will pour water on the thirsty!" You don't have to think about that for very long to understand that God has promised to supply the needs of His people. Thankfully He doesn't stop there but He continues with this: "I will pour My Spirit on your descendants." In those eight words, God has made the promise of promises. Can there be anything more sustaining -- any presence more calming -- is there anything we need more of than the Spirit of the Living God? Whatever your station in life, open your heart to God's promise -- get ready for the pour as we allow faith to dominate every smacking of fear in our hearts and lives! You can trust Him!

More About the Savior of Christmas

2008-12-16T13:39:00.008-06:00

What an exciting time of year! Christmas is just days away and it's actually cold outside (for the moment anyway -- enjoy!). This is the season of multiplied joy and increased expressions of love, gratitude and a a renewed awareness of all that Christmas really means. It's so easy to get carried away with the sights and sounds of the holidays -- and without realizing it, make Christmas about all that stuff. I love it, but it's pretty insignificant when compared to God's plan for the ages -- the incarnation -- that God would visit earth in the likeness of human flesh.

Bethlehem's story cannot be overstated. To imagine that the King of Glory would subject Himself to the place of servanthood -- to the pains, emotions -- the emptiness and aloneness that so often come with being human. And still He came, knowing what would ultimately be required as the Only Able Sacrifice for the sins of the human race. God in a manger -- imagine that! But we dare not leave him there.

He hasn't come to give us the warm fuzzies of the Christmas season; He didn't come so that we could have all the "extras" scattered at the base of the tree. All those things are fading and temporal. Jesus came that we might have life -- real life. As John puts it so well in his gospel account of Christmas, 'In Him (Jesus) was life, and the life was the light of men" John 1:4.

In this busy season, why not decide to slow down, gather your thoughts -- make it less about "the stuff of Christmas" and more about "The Savior of Christmas!" ". . . and you shall call His name Jesus, for He will save His people from their sins" Mt. 1:21b"

Can You Say "Refreshing?"

2008-11-29T20:22:00.005-06:00

We had a wonderful time this past week on our cruise to Cozumel! The weather was great and the ports of call were a real experience too. The ship was excellent -- the special service will really spoil a person. I haven't really been able to assess the damage in terms of weight gain yet, but I'm sure I'll be able to tell in a few days. It's time to diet -- bread and water through the remainder of the holidays (Thanksgiving holidays). I did the Parasail thing -- 400 feet in the air -- exhilirating to say the least but the water was absolutely beautiful from that view; dark blues fading into lighter and finally to an indescribable aqua blue. What fun! Cindy Wilhite sailed with me, while Trina and Josh held the earth down. Anyway, we're glad to be home.

Thanksgiving Fest "Thank You's"

2008-11-21T23:50:00.005-06:00

A huge "Thank You" is in order to the Christ Church family. The Thanksgiving Fest couldn't have been more successful and everyone who participated -- whether in helping unload the refrigerated truck or packaging the meals for the families or giving so generously in order to provide such a wonderful Thanksgiving meal for the 150 families who came. $28 bucks seems a small price to pay to touch someone so wonderfully with the gospel. For every $28 you provided enough for a family of 6 -- a 4 to 6 lb. ham, 2 lbs. cornbread dressing, 2 lbs. green bean casserole, a pumpkin or pecan pie, 16 oz. cranberry sauce and a bread loaf. There were a lot of happy people leaving Christ Church Wednesday night -- but of all who were so blessed, we were more! To see those people respond to the invitation -- made it worth it all. 16 responded with about half of them making a first time commitment to Christ! Thank You, Lord. All of you who were so open and loving -- you really made an impact. I can't tell you of the reports I've received about people saying how welcome they felt and how much love they received. Thank you, thank you, thank you! I'm so thankful to be your pastor!

Friends In High Places

2008-11-11T20:30:00.003-06:00

Friends are wonderful, aren't they! I mean, it's difficult for me to imagine life without friends -- friends who love me, who pray for me, who listen to me and to whom I hold myself accountable. I'm thankful for those relationships God has so faithfully sprinkled into my life. And while I have friends who don't yet know Christ, I am especially thankful for those who do. Friends in high places -- friends who are seated with Christ in the heavenlies -- these are the ones with whom I have chosen to walk through life. But friendship is a reciprocal engagement. The scriptures teach that in order to have friends, we must extend friendship to others. Have you reached out to a potential friend lately or are you just kind of waiting for someone to reach out to you? Choose to be a friend today -- someone is waiting, maybe even longing for a mutually fulfilling friendship with someone just like you!

Sometimes Small Is Better

2008-11-04T14:05:00.004-06:00

Sunday after second service, I had the privilege of baptizing a young teen-aged girl. It was all sort of impromptu and so I asked the few remaining worshippers who were still lingering in the lobby to join us in this baptismal celebration. There were probably only 20 people there to witness this young lady's step of obedience in baptism, but it was a really sweet moment and the presence of the Lord was incredible.

This morning was another one of those mornings when God just sort of makes Himself known. I attend an early morning men's group and today -- while there were only 6 of us present, God opened an opportunity for real ministry. It's amazing how people will let their guard down in a smaller setting. We often want the Sunday Celebration to be the place where all "Real Ministry" takes place. That's not always where it happens! This morning, a couple of the men in our group really let their guard down and were open about some of the things they are struggling with. One guy, only been saved for about 4 months, was at the point of tears concerning his personal struggles. His final comment -- "I get really down on myself when I mess up -- but then I think about how far I've come, and it really helps. I'm not where I want to be -- but I'm not even close to where I used to be." That's what I'm talkin' about! Thank God for His infinite mercy -- for the gift of repentance and for His wonderful, ongoing, life-changing work in all of our lives. Sometimes small is better -- sometimes, I like it like that!

Here WE Go!

2008-10-24T17:34:00.007-05:00

Thought you might enjoy a few of today's pics. These pics are of the Admin. Bldg. They got quite a bit done today, but there will be a lot more progress next week! I'll keep you Posted!

It's Time To Dance!

2008-10-23T08:57:00.005-05:00

Oh Happy Day! Take the shackles off my feet so I can dance -- I just want to praise Him -- Just want to praise Him! The first truck load of steel arrived this morning at around 7 with 2 more trucks on the way. This is the first of several more shipments of steel that will be delivered -- the next shipment being scheduled the first week of November. Can you say Hallelujah! It's entirely possible that there will be at least some steel standing before the weekend. Won't it be awesome to see a completed project -- to have room to grow -- to imagine the lives that will be touched and the hearts that will be changed in this new worship space. Just imagine!

Oil Change Outreach

2008-10-20T21:23:00.014-05:00

What a phenomenal day! 190 volunteers all supporting one purpose -- to show the love of Christ in a tangible way. Thank you -- all of you -- who gave of your time, expertise and resources to change the oil and filter in 103 single moms' cars. Jesus said in Luke 6:35, " . . . do good expecting nothing in return and your reward will be great in heaven." So, there you have it. When you make your life about serving others in the name of the Lord, you'll be assured to hear Jesus' affirmation of your life "well done good and faithful servant. Enter into the joy of the Lord forever." He continues ". . . Then these righteous ones will reply, 'Lord, when did we ever see you hungry and feed you? Or thirsty and give you something to drink? Or a stranger and show you hospitality? Or naked and give you clothing? When did we ever see you sick or in prison, and visit you?' And the King will tell them, 'I assure you, when you did it to one of the least of these my brothers and sisters, you were doing it to me!" Thank you, Christ Church, for being so willing to serve our community.

Pray Specifically

2008-10-15T08:25:00.006-05:00

I spoke with a young man this week who, with his family, has been attending Christ Church for 8 or 9 weeks. He was telling me how blessed they've been and especially by the series "Prayer Period." He said every Sunday, they've been digesting the message over lunch and last week -- the "Pray Specifically" point really hit home for them. He and his wife have been hoping to buy a home so after church they took out a piece of paper and began to write down the exact specifications that they wanted and needed in a home. They named specific location, bedrooms, bathrooms, style, even -- get this -- no pine trees. I guess they don't like pine straw clogging the gutters or something. Anyway, they began to pray for this specific home. I know, I know -- you're thinking ahead. Jesus did say " You can ask for anything in my name, and I will do it . . ." John 14:13. They found the exact home they had been praying for. Let that encourage you to pray specifically -- and watch God answer specifically! Keep on praying!

check this one out -- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ECX5BVQ2eMw

It's On The Way!

2008-10-10T16:20:00.002-05:00

October 22nd will be a day to celebrate! It's just less than 2 weeks away and the first load of steel will be delivered! Thank You, Jesus! The wait has been long, but we are definitely closer than we were. Soon and very soon -- we are going to see the steel. I, like you, can hardly wait. The faithfulness of God cannot be measured. All through this process, we have seen God's grace upon us. From the property acquisition to the Touching Eternity Campaign -- even in our banking relationships, God is true to His word! I had the opportunity to pray with a Community Trust Bank representative on Thursday. As we talked, I just felt compelled to pray for her. So I asked, "Do you mind if I pray for you and your family?" She welcomed it and the spirit of the Lord came so strongly -- I know God is bringing the answer! Get ready for great stuff -- It's On The Way!

Is It Easy?

2008-10-07T08:55:00.008-05:00

I'm in Dallas today and tonight attending Covenant Church's Elevate Conference (www.covenantchurch.org). It's been good to connect with some wonderful friends and be blessed by great ministry at the same time. A place like Covenant Church really challenges you to live on another level -- to believe that God can bless His work and that He WILL bless His work. This campus is amazing and the excellence that is displayed brings much glory to God. The crazy thing is that they make it all look so easy. The reality is that a work of this magnitude takes great vision, strong leadership, consistent follow-through, love for humanity and a ton of prayer. All of that sounds very taxing -- but when God gives a vision He gives the power and the grace to bring it all to pass. With God all things are possible -- but that doesn't mean it's always easy!

God Is At Work

2008-10-04T21:08:00.004-05:00

God never ceases to amaze me! I got a call this week from a gentleman in our church wanting to tell me about how God was working in his family. His wife had been in a car wreck 9 years ago and sustained a shoulder injury. As time progressed so did the shoulder problem. The pain became so bad that she couldn't raise her arm. The doctors told her that her rotator cuff was torn and that she needed surgery. Being in pain constantly, the surgery was scheduled. She was in the service one recent Sunday Night when we were believing for the miraculous power of God to be demonstrated among us. She came forward for prayer for her shoulder and several people prayed for healing. She also received prayer from a friend in a service at his church. The results? She is healed -- surgery is cancelled -- the Name of Jesus is glorified! Thank God that His word never fails and that people are still willing to spread the word when God works so faithfully and powerfully in their lives!

Give A Bottle Of Water

2008-09-30T20:32:00.006-05:00

Today our staff had the opportunity to sit in on a discussion with Rick Bezet, Pastor of New Life Church, Conway/Little Rock, AR led by Phil Brassfield via webinar. The church is 6 years old and at 6000 in weekend attendance. That happens in 9 services! Rick really challenged our thinking and urged all of us toward greater response to the Great Commission -- as opposed to just getting comfortable with "our church services." I think it's an easy thing to do -- just enjoy our church and forget that we're not called to make ourselves comfortable in church -- but to reach out to the lost in our community and to lead the hungry and the broken to Jesus Christ. It's really not about us! Jesus' death and resurrection is about "lost people" yet we continually make it about what feels good to us; our religious culture, feeding our own needs and forgetting that we're supposed to reach beyond the borders of the physical church. The greatest story ever told must be told continually. We cannot afford to keep quiet about what we know. Who among us would see a helpless woman, dying of thirst, and not give her a bottle of water? Is that not the mandate for every follower of Christ, to give Living Water to those dying of spiritual thirst? Help me pray that God will liberate us from ourselves -- that He will free us to free others with the life-changing power of God's love. Get ready!

Sunday's Second

2008-09-29T21:33:00.007-05:00

Wow! Sunday's Second Service never ceases to amaze me. Have you noticed the growth in that service? And what about all the people receiving the Right Hand of Fellowship! On top of that, five people in that service committed their lives to Christ! Then this morning, I got a call from a family who said that both the husband and wife recommitted their lives to the Lord on Sunday. Thank God! Sunday night wasn't too bad either -- it's never too bad when God shows up. He knows exactly what we need exactly when we need it. Here's a little more News You Can Use: We got a call last Wednesday from Whirlwind -- the steel company saying the first load of steel will be delivered in 3 weeks. That puts us back on track after Hurricane Gustav. The steel company is located in Houston, TX and was without power for 2 weeks. Seems some very large jobs got shuffled to the back of production and our job got moved forward. Anyway the Admin. Bldg. and the Prayer Chapel should be here mid-October with steel arriving every 2 weeks until it's all delivered. Thank God, huh?!

18 Holes of Stink!

2008-09-25T20:38:00.004-05:00

Today, I played a round of golf with a few pastor friends at Pine Hills. I really stunk it up, but I had a great time and shared a lot of laughs! When I got back to the church this afternoon, the staff had finished a new stage design. It really looks great and will be a good set for Mia Fieldes on First Wednesday Worship. Many thanks to our wonderful staff -- very gifted and talented people who do whatever it takes to get the job done! Trina and I enjoyed Taco Bell with Morgan, Scotty, Gibson and Theron after we left the church. Those kids are a hoot! It's great being Papa T.

Don't End Up Somewhere Else!

2008-09-24T08:47:00.003-05:00

I went to my Wednesday small group this morning @ 6:30. We're studying the book The Faith -- What Christians Believe, Why They Believe It and Why It Matters by Chuck Colson. The discussion is great seeing we have many deep thinking men from various denominations participating. I'm always enlivened by their engagement and love the open discussion about what and why we believe what we believe. Someone said -- and I don't know who -- 'Truth is like a nickel. The more you rub it, the more it shines." I do think that Christians ought to know why and what they believe. Why is Truth important? Another quip fits well -- "If you don't know where you're going, you'll probably end up somewhere else!"

Thanks to all who participated in the Campus Prayer Walks yesterday at Boley and Highland schools. I know your praryerful presence on those campuses will be highly effective.

Blessings your way!

Can You "Believe" It?

2008-09-22T20:06:00.007-05:00

The last two Sunday nights I've ministered about faith and the miraculous. We are believing for wonderful reports of God working in the lives of His people. I've not been disappointed. Last Monday I got a call from a faithful young family who had restructured their finances and put themselves on a budget. Things were really tight, though they knew they'd get better if they'd just stick to the plan. On Sunday, they fulfilled their commitment to God in their tithe and honoring their commitment to the Touching Eternity Building Campaign. They had been out the previous weekend, so they gave the amounts for two weeks. It was a real step of faith as they indicated that they were not just running short -- they were broke. The call I got Monday was from an ecstatic and elated BELIEVER giving praise to God. Out of nowhere a check came in the mail -- get this -- for 4 times the amount of their giving on Sunday! God is so faithful!

This afternoon I got a phone call from a dear lady for whom I had prayed on Sunday morning. Here's her testimony. She had cut her finger really badly -- almost off! It had been over a week and the finger was not healing -- she was concerned that she may lose it. So I prayed for her right there in the Common Ground Cafe' and we believed God for complete healing. This morning at around 11 am her daughter looked at the wound and said "Mama, you're gonna have to go get it stitched back up!" At 4 pm, the bandage was coming off, so as she was changing the bandage, she looked at it again -- and there it was as plain as day, new skin -- wound healed -- no scar! That's her testimony! Can you believe it? God can do it! Let me know what God is doing for you. Can't wait to hear.

Just Like Him?

2008-09-19T10:02:00.004-05:00

I was reading this morning about how perfectly man, as the crown of creation was formed -- in the likeness of God! The original sin of Adam and Eve has obviously affected our entire world in a very negative way -- all of us included.
I was reminded of the power of the human mind -- and that most scientist estimate that the most brilliant among us use only 10% of their brain. That may even be an over-exaggeration when you think of the possibilities of the human mind. People who are affected by what has been termed as the Savant-Syndrome are severely limited as to their brain function -- and still they can blow YOUR mind by the almost unbelievable ability of their mental capacity in isolated areas.
Max Anders, in his book 30 Days To Understanding The Bible says there are twins in New York who can calculate the day of the week of any date you mention. If asked in which months and years of this century the twenty-first will fall on a Thursday, the brothers can give you the correct answer instantly. Wow! Still another man is legally blind and so severely retarded he can barely speak Yet he draws pictures with crayons that betray the skill of a master and are sold for exorbitant prices around the world. The minds of savants, he says, are like calculators or tape recorders or cameras -- able to capture the specific details of pictures or songs or mathematical formulas and then use those details with exacting precision.
It makes you wonder what man may have been before the fall --it may even give us some insight into what our glorified bodies will be like. Think about what John writes . . . "Yes, dear friends, we are already God's children, and we can't even imagine what we will be like when Christ returns. But we do know that when he comes we will be like him, for we will see him as he really is" (1 John 3:22 ) NLT. Want to see some real life action -- check out this 3 minute YouTube video at www.youtube.com/watch?v=dhcQG_KItZM

Bug Juice!

2008-09-18T09:20:00.006-05:00

I had a great afternoon at "Grandparents Snack-Day" with Gibson. I went all out, I thought. His favorite snack is an Ice Cream Sandwich but I had to figure out how to keep it frozen while I drove out to his school. So I went to Wal-Mart -- bought one of those flexible/zippered coolers ($3.28), put ice in it and was on my way to Woodlawn Elementary. I stopped at a convenience store on the way and got 2 Ice Cream Sandwiches -- and in case he wanted something to wash it all down with -- a bottle of "BugJuice" -- a fruit drink with a sports top on it. I put it all in the little ice cooler thing and was so proud of myself. I knew he was gonna be excited about the Ice Cream Sandwiches. I got there to a packed house -- 20 kids each with a grandparent -- plus 2 teachers. It was very crowded in there. Gibson was excited to see me -- ran over to me and gave me a big hug. That was worth the Ice Cream. I opened the cooler and exposed the Ice Cream Sandwiches. We each began to eat -- while he continued to rummage through the cooler. I had a Starbucks Mocha for myself and his eyes landed on the BugJuice. Immediately he said -- "I'm not very hungry -- I just ate lunch." This after only a couple of bites of ice cream. I'm thinking -- "What about your favorite snack here?" "I'm thirsty" he said. So the BugJuice was a hit. He sucked the bottom out of that thing -- which by the way , gave him a red tongue that he was pretty proud of. He first looked at himself in the mirror and then went around the room showing his friends his red tongue. It was all a pretty good experience, especially for such a "Young" Papa T!

Thirsty Truck!

2008-09-17T09:35:00.004-05:00

Can you believe it? I was getting my truck washed and someone said that you can't get gas anywhere in town. I left the car wash and noticed that Super 1 had all it's pumps roped off. The next station i came to was Chevron -- Nth 7th at Cypress Streets. All the pumps had yellow bags over the handles. Whoa! I've gotta go find some gas for my thirsty truck!

New Blogger Alert!

2008-09-16T16:14:00.002-05:00

Okay, Morgan has helped me set up this blog spot. So if it looks cheesy -- blame her!