Last Posting of 2008 - Happy New Year 2009

As the clock approaches midnight here in North Carolina I realize that 2008 is coming to a close and 2009 begins in a few hours. WOW - What a great year!

You can look over the post from 2008 and see the blessing of the Lord upon my life and my family. We have so much to be thankful! I love my wife and daughters. My son in law is a man of God that I love and appreciate. My grand daughter brings joy and renewed purpose to my life. We have been blessed with many friends as this year ushered in the renewal of friendships from the past and enhanced new friendships here in Raleigh. A simple experiment to join Facebook has connected me with over 200 friends!

A door of opportunity has cracked open to renew relationship with my younger brothers. This is a longing of my heart. This year has been a year of refocus as the church renewal process has taken place at NRN. In the days ahead the new mission statement, logo, core values and spiritual development process will be launched! God has great plans for NRN in 2009. This coming Sunday I will speak about this in my message as I begin a new series about living a high definition life.

Have you thought about your new year resolutions? Here is a simple song I discovered that will bring a smile to your face. Here are the words:

Lyrics and some chords:
F
working out, losing weight
Bb
maybe using tanning spray
F
Bb
becoming more attractive in general reading more, watching less learning all the rules for chess becoming somewhat smarter in general eating fish, not fingernails volunteer to save the whales becoming a better guy in general saving more, spending less yes I will wax my chest dating more girls in general

Bridge C Bb F But not this year. No this year is different!As different as a gazelle. Yes, a gazelle from a deer. (They're actually not that different.)After all these failed resolutions.

Bb C Bb CMy future is clear, the future is near!

Chorus:
F A Bb C
Just forget those resolutions you know that you are never gonna do and adopt a more realistical view by committing to things that come easily to you like eat at least one value meal a week or put the correct shoes on the correct feet

Bb C F
just "Raise the bar to walk effortlessly underneath!"

Chorus2:
Just face the fact you've always thought those resolutions don't mean squat
Settle in to a comfortable spot, embrace all the things you know you are not.
Hit the snooze, roll over, then repeat
Make large purchases, then lose the receipts
just "Raise the bar to walk effortlessly underneath!"

Now - the clip:

If you do give serious thought to changes for a new you in a new year, here are some
trustworthy statements:

Take time to think--it is the source of power
Take time to read--it is the fountain of wisdom
Take time to worship--it is the highway to reverence
Take time to be friendly--it is the road to happiness
Take time to laugh--it helps to lift life's load
Take time for God's Word--it brings Christ near and washes the
dust of earth from your eyes.
Take time for God--it is life's only truly lasting investment.

Any resolutions you would like to make public through a comment?

To one and all - HAPPY NEW YEAR!

The Christmas Surprise

Christmas morning was filled with surprises. Under the Christmas tree in the family room at our daughter Stephanie's home were many gifts for each member of our family. Sharron and I once again experienced that the promise of it is more blessed to give than to recieve as we watched the expressions of Stephanie and Josh as they opened our main gift to them.

YES the gift in the box was exactly what we thought they would like.

Then they communicated the message that even though the gift was given to Josh and he opened the gift - Stephanie would enjoy it. Just go to her blog to read more. Sharron, Danielle and I also enjoyed receiving our gifts. I think Alyse may have been a little overwhelmed by it all.

Even before Christmas morning Sharron and I experienced some first surprises. My favorite was when we met Josh and Steph earlier in the week to pick up Alyse, who had been staying with us over the weekend. We met at a restaurant in Greensboro, NC and as we we concluding our meal, Alyse asked for something to drink and Josh instinctively gave Alyse something to drink - but it was her first taste of diet coke!

Stephanie seemed to be amazed until the realization hit her that her daughter had just had a taste of a soft drink! I think Alyse will now go back to her favorite apple juice (mixed with water) and a daily dose of milk.

We enjoyed our time with family on Christmas Day. We took time to visit a few stores late in the afternoon on Friday. Sharron reminded us from her Canadian roots that this was Boxing Day in Canada. Sharron and I returned from Indian Trail today. I have been sitting at my desk praying and preparing for Sunday at NRN. I am excited about our worship experience tomorrow.

A Christmas Wish for you ...

A Blessed Christmas to you...

For unto us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Isaiah 9:6

Today was a wonderful day as we began this Christmas morning by gathering as a family and reading the Christmas Story from the gospel of Luke Chapter 2.

I hope you have experienced a very merry and Christ filled Christmas!

The NIght Before Christmas

Today in America, we celebrate Christmas as a religious holiday. But for two hundred years, Christmas was a cultural battleground. While Christians tried to honor the birth of Christ, others kept the time as a drinking holiday. Early on, the battle seemed lost when, in colonial Massachusetts, the seasonal drinking became so rampant, the Puritans outlawed Christmas.


Then, a Christian seminary professor wrote a Christmas poem. And, as its phenomenal popularity swept the country, it proved to be the pivotal victory for the Christian side. For within its words was coded a Christian message of reconciliation. The seminary professor was Clement Clarke Moore—and the poem was The Night Before Christmas.

Legend says Clement Clarke Moore wrote the poem The Night Before Christmas on Christmas Eve in 1822 during a sleigh ride home from Greenwich Village after buying a turkey for his family. Moore read the poem to his wife and six children the night he wrote it, and supposedly thought no more about it but a family friend heard about it and submitted the poem to the Sentinel, a newspaper in upstate New York, which published it anonymously the following Christmas on December 23, 1823 and people have been telling this imaginary tale ever since.

On this Christmas Eve 2008 - I wish to everyone

a very merry and Christ filled Christmas.

The LIttle Drummer Boy

With Christmas now only hours away - we are preparing for Christmas Eve. I look forward to the service at North Raleigh Church of the Nazarene.

The Worship Experience begins at 5:00pm.

When I think of the memories I have about Christmas I remember the story and the song of the little drummer boy. I wonder how he would "fit" in our church services of today? Here is a clip to give us some insight ( and possibly a bit of laughter).

Just a simple reminder about how important you are God. You have been made on purpose - for a purpose. God cares so much for you He sent His Son Jesus on the first Christmas morning.

My devotional thought for today

Here is a portion of the reading from my daily devotional during this Advent season:

"'Now I, in turn, give him to the LORD;as long as he lives, he shall be dedicated to the LORD.' She left Samuel there. "--1 Sam 1:28

Hannah presented her son Samuel to the Lord in the temple. Mary presented her son Jesus to the Lord as well. By so doing, these two women were dedicating the lives of their sons to the work of the Lord. Further, this ritual gesture meant that both Hannah and Mary understood that all life came from God and belonged to God. These presentations expressed their belief in that fact.

The conventional wisdom of our culture maintains that our children, our property, our life itself, basically belong to us. We are, as it were, absolute owners. Thus we can do with our relationships and possessions what we deem fit.

Hannah and Mary had a different take on life. Everything is a gift. All is grace. We are stewards of our time, of our children, and of ourselves. One day we will have to give an accounting of what we have done with the years, people, and things the Lord has entrusted to us. Thus we see the wisdom of Hannah and Mary: immediately they professed that all belongs to the Lord and because of that they dedicated their sons to God's will.

The Lord indeed did great things for Hannah and Mary. The Lord does great things for us. We are given life, a variety of talents, different opportunities and challenges that can enrich our lives. Our initial response should be one of generosity. What has been given is to be shared.

Advent is drawing to a close. We have but a few days to complete our preparations for the feast of the Nativity. What better way might we do this than by kneeling before God and turning over to God everything that we have and are. Besides, it all belongs to God. But by our presentation, we acknowledge our creaturehood and come to a deeper understanding of our responsibility to be good stewards.


Prayer:
God, source of all life, help us to understand that all is gift. Every breath we take, every day and year, all our friends and family---all come from you and to you must return. May we be good stewards of all that has been given to us and may we be generous in sharing all your gifts with others.

Source:
Waiting in Joyful Hope: Daily Reflections for Advent and Christmas 2008-2009
By: Robert F. Morneau

Jingle Jam Breakfast

This morning Sharron and I took Alyse to the first Jingle Jam Pancake Breakfast at the church. The event was sponsored by our student ministry and was complete with comedy, stories, music, games, drama, and a pancake breakfast.

There were lots of laughter and surprises.

Everyone seemed to have a very enjoyable time.

Tomorrow - Sunday December 21st - is the fourth Sunday in Advent. I am really looking forward to preaching tomorrow. I am trusting the Lord for a great day of worship and celebration. I think the Sunday before Christmas should be filled with praise to our God! Here is a sneak preview of a small portion of my message for tomorrow:

A.W. Tozer said that "most Christians are theological Christians." He said they are attempting the impossible. "They're trying to be happy without a sense of the presence." How sad! The greatest gift God gives us is the present of presence.

This my friend, is a trustworthy saying.

My first video blog

Last evening I asked my daughter Stephanie - " What are you doing?" I was surprised by her response that she was posting on her Facebook page. I asked if she would post for me. With that - she took her new blackberry and posted this remark on my Facebook page: Rick sitting with Josh and Steph at the Dean Dome in Chapel Hill ready to watch the UNC game! Go Heels!

I was able to secure tickets earlier in the week for Josh, Steph and I to attend this historic game. If you are not a "Tarheel" fan you may wonder what was so historic about a basketball game. Here's the reason:

CHAPEL HILL, N.C. -- Phil Ford stood at midcourt, waiting for Tyler Hansbrough to take the microphone and address the home crowd. As the reigning national player of the year walked up, Ford playfully bowed in reverence before giving him a hug.
Now even the famed point guard who flawlessly ran Dean Smith's "Four Corners" offense is looking up at Hansbrough as the storied program's all-time leading scorer.

Hansbrough scored 20 points Thursday night to break Ford's 30-year-old mark and help top-ranked North Carolina beat Evansville 91-73, a game that was completely overshadowed by the 6-foot-9-inch senior's record pursuit.

He needed just nine points coming in, making the record an almost certainty considering that he's failed to reach double figures just six times in his career. But that didn't mean Hansbrough was oblivious to all the attention about a record that had stood through the careers of names like Michael Jordan, James Worthy and Antawn Jamison.

To read the rest of this article click HERE

Here is the video account - if you missed it:

We had a great time at the game. We took a number of pictures and then Stephanie asked if I was ready to make my first video blog. Here is my first attempt at this. The quality is low - but my excitement level was pretty high as I celebrated following the game.

Special Appreciation goes to my daughter Stephanie as the Producer, Director, Creative Director and camera person for this video!

As I reflected on our time at the game last evening and awoke this morning to hold my grand daughter Alyse in my arms, then heard my wife Sharron talking to our daughter Danielle on the phone I could not help to think of how blessed I am and what it means to me and my family for us to live back in North Carolina.

Re-concilosec

Today I am sitting in my office at the church and preparing for Sunday. I am really looking forward to preaching this Sunday especially since it is the Sunday before Christmas. What I desire to do is to make the Christmas message special this year.
I am seeking God's face for clarity about my message because I believe this Sunday will be life changing for someone.

I just decided not to use a clip from last year though I feel it is a favorite for many people at NRN. It has to do with the stress and pressure we feel from family at Christmas.

So, from the vaults of Christmas past - here is the clip for you to enjoy again - and again - and again!

What is the message for Sunday?

Why not come and hear it for yourself ....

Christmas Story Quiz

Christmas Story Quiz

Here is a little quiz to test your knowledge about the Christmas Story. Take a few minutes and test your memory. Answer the following questions without opening your Bible.

1. Jesus was born
a. at night
b. in the morning
c. at an unknown time

2. Jesus was born
a. in a stable
b. in a manger
c. at an unknown place

3. The shepherds found Jesus
a. in a stable
b. in a feed bin
c. in a house

4. The Magi found Jesus
a. in a stable
b. in a feed bin
c. in a house

5. Angels
a. sang a beautiful song
b. terrified farm workers
c. told the wise men to go home another way

6. A star
a. appeared on the night of Jesus' birth
b. guided shepherds to the manger
c. led the Magi westward

7. The animals mentioned at the manger included
a. oxen, donkey, sheep, cows, doves
b. pigs, lobsters, shrimp
c. none of the above

8. The weather at the birth of Jesus was
a. not mentioned
b. moderate to warm
c. snowy

9. When the shepherds arrived, Jesus was
a. asleep on the hay
b. wrapped like a mummy
c. not crying

10. The posture of the shepherds when the angel appeared was
a. seated on the ground
b. lying in the fields
c. not mentioned

Click here for the answers to the quiz.

How did you score?

Bringing Christmas Home - A story of Hope

The Seasonal Choir at North Raleigh Church of the Nazarene had an important rehearsal on Wednesday as they sang through the musical to be presented this Sunday along with the drama presentation. Dr. Tom Alsbury has worked hard with the choir to prepare for this special event. Sue Baker and Bob Floyd were "running around" on Wednesday night working out the staging and drama cues. Jordan Whiteside worked to get the sound cues set and Sean Baker "nailed" the lighting cues! The drama team is doing really well!

This musical really hits home with me. It presents a clear message of salvation and the true meaning of Christmas. I believe I will be holding back the tears on Sunday when I get my cue to share during the few moments I have in the musical.

Before I walked out of the worship center I paused to speak to a friend who was a faithful attender prior to my coming to NRCN as pastor. He was at the church for a meeting later in the evening. I could not help myself as I invited him and his family to join us Sunday at 10:45am for the musical. We engaged in a great conversation as I shared how God is at work in our church! He relayed to me that he had spent many hours in our worship center in the past. I was sure that this evening, he sensed the presence of the Lord!

I really look forward to this coming Sunday at church. I have great anticipation that God will meet with us and lives will be changed! - By the way - That is a trustworthy saying!

Every gift says something about the giver

The Christmas Parties continue ..... On Tuesday evening we enjoyed a time with the church board members and spouses along with Pastor Brittany and Brian for an evening of food, fun and laughter. Once again we gathered around the dining room table ...

... and the kitchen table ...

and all around the house ...

On Wednesday night I was at the church and encouraged as I saw the gifts and toys placed on the table in partnership with North Raleigh Ministries.

We are providing items to help create a meaningful Christmas morning for families in our area. You can participate by bringing a new toy that is age-appropriate for children and teens. In addition, we are assisting men and women by providing items for a Christmas stocking. Please bring these new toys and items (unwrapped) to the church no later than December 12, 2008. Your generosity will give these children a joyful Christmas.

What type of giver are you at Christmas? Watch this 90 second clip and be sure to wait for the end. It communicates a clear message. Every gift says something about the giver....

You're invited to a Christmas Party!

Sunday was a GREAT day! Here is a simple recap of the day:

In the morning we enjoyed the ministry of our children as they presented a musical during the morning worship experience at NRCN. In the evening Sharron and I hosted our final Birthday Fellowship of the year. This year over 250 people came to our home for dessert fellowships. Sunday night was a combined fellowship for those with birthdays in November and December and we had 32 in attendance.

Everyone seemed to have a good time. People gathered around our dining room table ...

and around our kitchen table ...

and in our family room - where the Christmas music was muted and cheers for the Steelers comeback win over Dallas was heard!

This week will feature the annual Christmas Party at Hudgens' Haven for the members of the church board and pastoral staff. This will take place on Tuesday.

Have you been invited to the most important party of this year? If you have not received your invitation yet simply click HERE. Don't miss our on this special event!

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas

This has been a hectic week as Sharron and I have both been fighting with the flu - but thankfully we are both feeling better. Thanks for your notes of encouragement and prayers. It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas around Hudgens' Haven!

We really enjoyed the short visit from Alyse during this week. Her mom - Stephanie - arrived on Tuesday and off to Triangle Town Mall to see Santa. This year there were no tears - just amazement during the short conversation between Alyse and Santa.

Earlier that day we had been to Target to pick up a few things. As we purchased our items I pushed the cart filled with bags towards the exit. Sharron lingered for a moment and I heard laughter. When I turned to see what was going on - Sharron related to me the brief conversation that I missed. The cashier asked Alyse if Santa Clause was coming to her house. She replied: No - PAPA!

Today we concluded the third Focused Ministry Summit at the church. I am so thankful for all those who participated in this effort. We have worked hard to develop our church time line - establish our foundational values and ministry values and today write the first draft of our mission statement for the church. The church board will review our recommendations in January 2009 and we will begin the next chapter of ministry at NRCN.

I stopped by the worship center to see the children's choir in rehearsal for the worship experience tomorrow at NRCN. I appreciate the hard work of Rhonda Powers and all those who assisted to prepare for tomorrow. I look forward to once again seeing Christmas through the eyes of our children.

Here is a way to have a direct impact for Christ in our local community. With our partnership with North Raleigh Ministries, we are providing items to help create a meaningful Christmas morning for families in our area. You can participate by bringing a new toy that is age-appropriate for children and teens. In addition, we are assisting men and women by providing items for a Christmas stocking. Please bring these new toys and items (unwrapped) to the church no later than December 10, 2008. Your generosity will give these children a joyful Christmas.

'TIS THE SEASON

‘Tis the Season…

For giving, sharing and doing for others.

It’s easy to be consumed by the spending frenzy happening everywhere you turn this time of year. Over the next few weeks I will be sharing some insights about the true meaning of Christmas.

This past Sunday (November 30th) was the first Sunday of Advent. What does Advent have do do with this simple countdown to Christmas? Think about it....

God invaded our presence

Yesterday at North Raleigh we prayed for the Lord to invade our presence. I was amazed as I gave an opportunity for people to share a testimony of thanksgiving how the Holy Spirit moved upon us! I believe God was pleased as we offered praise to Him in our worship.

As I reflect on such a wonderful worship experience and prepare my heart for Thanksgiving I wanted to share a simple video that is well worth watching. The time length is only 1:43. I promise - It will bless you. It brought tears to my eyes and moved my heart to give thanks to the Lord!

As I asked on Sunday - Can I get a witness?

Big Man stories

I took my cell phone and scrolled down the list of recent calls. Then I pressed the send button and heard the phone ringing. My younger brother Vic answered the call on the second ring. I said hello and asked "Where are you?" He replied "In my room." He quickly came downstairs from his room at a local hotel and the reunion took place.

It was great to see my younger brother. Vic has recently accepted a position with Haverty's Furniture Store and was here in Raleigh for training. He wanted a quick tour of the church, so we made our way to North Raleigh and I took him around the building. He paused a long time in looking over the "ego wall" in my office. Then we made our way home. Sharron had prepared a delicious meal. We reclined in the family room in discussion as Vic shared several of his "Big Man" stories. We laughed quite a bit. It was an answer to prayer to have such a great connection with my brother.

As Vic entertained us with his stories, he would stop in mid sentence and ask me "Rick, don't you feel like you're looking in a mirror?" It was evident to me that we have more in common than even appearance. This was Vic's first visit to our home. I hope it is the first of many too come. He deeply loves his wife and two sons. He has a great family!

It is my desire to connect with Vic and if the door opens to re-connect with my other brother Chuck in the days ahead. It has been a sorrow in my life that my brothers and I have been so disengaged over the years. I do believe that one reason God may have drawn us back to North Carolina is to possibly reunite me and my brothers and their families. Sometimes doing "family" is difficult - but I think it may be worth it.

Later this evening I plan to conduct a Concert of Prayer at the church. The time begins at 6:30pm and last about an hour. I invited a person to join me this evening and they asked about - what is a concert of prayer? Here is a portion of a short teaching I plan to share this evening:

Concerts of Prayer have historical precedent in the great prayer movements that have preceded other spiritual awakenings. In some ways, the movement can be expressed on four key levels:

Closet - Personal praying for spiritual awakening and world evangelization.

Cluster - Small groups praying within the church. Like "See you at the Pole" a few months ago

Congregation - Times when the whole congregation unites to pray for intersession and revival. Like our prayer vigil in March 2008.

Concert - Christians gathering from various back-grounds to pray for revival, and church revitalization, whatever size the group. We will lift our voices in praise and prayer to the Lord.

Wednesday thoughts

This has been a great week so far. On Monday morning I went to Rex Hospital to be with Karen Joslin as her husband Dave was in surgery. There sat 6 people from their small group with Karen. It encouraged me to see how small groups mean to people. In my view, this is the finest form of congregational care - people caring for people. Dave came out of surgery well and is now home recovering! Tuesday was a full day which included the second town hall meeting as we reported on Summit #1 in the ReFocus process. Earlier today I sent an email to over 150 people of North Raleigh asking that they participate in an online survey to evaluate our church health and core values. This evening I am in the office at the church. I recently made a number of phone calls to new guest to the church. These calls always encourage me as I hear how God is drawing people to our church.

From a distance I can hear the choir rehearsal taking place. I appreciate all those who are preparing for the Christmas musical this year. The drama team, stage crew, sound and media teams are working hard. Soon the worship team begins rehearsal. We are introducing a new song to North Raleigh. It is not really a new song - but new for us. I believe it is a great song to express our thanks to God. What do you think?




Friday night we plan to gather at 6:30 for a Concert of Prayer. This is an important part of our ReFocus process. Later that evening the Community Room will be filled with laughter as our monthly Friendship Cafe take place. On Saturday morning we hold Summit #2 of the ReFocus process.

Hey - Have I said recently that I love serving as lead pastor of North Raleigh Church of the Nazarene? Well, I do - and I am enjoying life! So much for my Wednesday thoughts.

Helping Others during this Thanksgiving Season

Helping Others during this Thanksgiving Season

We invite you and your family to participate in a special effort to help others during this Thanksgiving Season. With our partnership with North Raleigh Ministries it is our desire to provide a Thanksgiving Day meal for those in need in our local community. Here is how you can participate:

1. Bring food items to the church beginning Sunday November 16th through November 23rd. We need traditional Thanksgiving food items and also other items such as peanut butter, crackers, jelly, canned meats, breakfast items (cereals, grits, oatmeal, breakfast bars, etc.),dessert items (cake mix, pudding, Jello, etc.)and canned vegetables to help stock the depleting food shelves.

2. Make a cash donation of only $20 for the purchase of a turkey and food items for a family. Your cash donation will enable North Raleigh Ministries to purchase a turkey at a reduced price and insure the freshness and temperature of the meat.

3. Volunteers are needed to help prepare the food baskets during this Thanksgiving Season. There is a great need for people to volunteer their time to help at North Raleigh Ministries.

Stop by the display in the foyer of North Raleigh Church of the Nazarene this Sunday and next Sunday to assist us in helping others. Tom Gunter is our liaison to North Raleigh Ministries and will be available to answer any questions. Thanksgiving is a season of giving true thanks to God. One way to express thanksgiving in by giving to those in need.

Already - Christmas Controversy

It is hard to believe that it's beginning to look a lot like Christmas - everywhere you go! Have you heard about the recent announcement of this year's Christmas Controversy?

Eric Gorskiap - Religion Writer for the AP writes: You better watch out. There is a new combatant in the Christmas wars.

Ads proclaiming, "Why believe in a god? Just be good for goodness' sake," will appear on Washington, D.C., buses starting next week and running through December. The American Humanist Association unveiled the provocative $40,000 holiday ad campaign Tuesday.

In lifting lyrics from "Santa Claus is Coming to Town," the Washington-based group is wading into what has become a perennial debate over commercialism, religion in the public square and the meaning of Christmas.

"We are trying to reach our audience, and sometimes in order to reach an audience, everybody has to hear you," said Fred Edwords, spokesman for the humanist group. "Our reason for doing it during the holidays is there are an awful lot of agnostics, atheists and other types of non-theists who feel a little alone during the holidays because of its association with traditional religion."

To that end, the ads and posters will include a link to a Web site that will seek to connect and organize like-minded thinkers in the D.C. area, Edwords said.

Edwords said the purpose isn't to argue that God doesn't exist or change minds about a deity, although "we are trying to plant a seed of rational thought and critical thinking and questioning in people's minds." To read more.... SOURCE

I'm not sure what to do with such a campaign. Obviously, the philosophical bent behind the ad campaign is 180 degrees from truth. Since their campaign is built on the concept of "there is no god," I have to ask the following:

1. What is goodness? Who defines it?

2. Where did the concept of goodness come from?


3. Do the person or persons who define "goodness" then become "god" by virtue of the fact that they are setting the standard?

4. If there is no god...who determines any standard? And...if it's humanity...then which standard of the multiple individuals defining "goodness" do we choose?

5. And...regardless of how goodness is defined...why should anyone be good?

Certainly we have to ask...why be good for goodness' sake? That seems to make no sense with or without a defined standard of good. If there is no god...there is no "higher" authority other than the opinions of people.

6. Why on earth would anyone want to live an ethical life outside of God?

What would an ethical life look like outside of God?

7. If we are told that we need to lead a good life...to do what is right...who defines "right?"

I can't help but ask...how can this campaign or the line of reasoning taken by the American Humanist Association be considered "rational" or "progressive?"

Anytime our opinion seeks to trump God's directives...we lose. We lose sight of life; we lose a grasp on reality; we lose perspective on the essence of character. This group claims that they feel alone during Christmas because of its association with traditional religion. I genuinely grieve that they feel alone. But it's not because of Christmas, a time when the birthday of the Incarnate God is celebrated. They feel alone because they have distanced themselves from the very One who brings peace, hope and the presence of God.


How about you? What do you think of this campaign? Where do you line up? Don't let Christmas be a time when you distance yourself from the very One who came to be near you...to indwell you...to fill you...to give you peace. Jesus...the light of the world has come. Thanks to my friend Tom Kinnan for his insights

The Bridge

Once again - On this Veterans Day I am moved by the story of sacrifice. Here is a simple yet powerful clip I highly recommend:

This clip features scenes from the short film "Most", the story of a bridge operator who is forced to choose between the life of the son he loves dearly and a train filled with people. "Most" received an Academy Award Nomination for Best Live-Action Short Film. For more information on the film, or to order a copy for your church, visit MostTheMovie.com. This is a fan-made video, and not affiliated with the producers, director, or actors in any way. The author simply loved the message of this film and wanted to share it with as many people as possible to give it the recognition it deserves. God bless!

If you have a habit of passing over the clips on my blog - I strongly encourage you - take a moment to watch this clip and then comment. I promise - you will be glad that you did!





Source

God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God. (2 Corinthians 5:21)

God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. (Romans 5:8)

What Scriptures (Trustworthy Sayings) come to mind to you?

Armistice Day

November 11. Veterans Day 2008.

Millions nationwide and around the world participated in ceremonies commemorating the service of military veterans and the signing of the armistice that ended World War I on November 11, 1918. President Bush led the rededication ceremonies for the U.S.S. Intrepid in New York City.

The "Fighting I" has been renovated and will serve as a museum, the Intrepid Sea, Air, And Space Museum, a part of the National Parks system.President Bush addressed the gathering: "Veterans have inspired me. I was raised by a veteran. I appreciate the commitment to our country that the veterans have made."

Vice President Dick Cheney earlier laid a wreath before the Tomb of the Unknowns at Arlington National Cemetery.

President-Elect Barack Obama participated in placing a wreath in front of the bronze soldier’s war memorial in Chicago with Tammy Duckworth, a war veteran who lost both her legs in combat in Iraq. Duckworth currently serves as the Illinois governor's veteran’s affairs director. Source

Did you pause - to remember? Did you stop and give God thanks for our freedom? Take a moment now to breathe a prayer for those men and women who serve our country now. It is a day of rememberance.

Jesus is a friend of mine

By special request - This clip speaks for itself. Consider listening to it at least twice - then see if you can get it out of your head:

What do you think?

My response to the Presidential Election

Today I am facing a number of issues that lay heavy on my heart. I feel it is imperative to answer one of these issues. It is the issue of how Christians should respond to recent election of Barack Obama as President of the United States.

First - I have heard from several people that they are disappointed about the results of the elections. My friends, we need to face reality about the election.


John McCain conceded the race at 11pm EST on November 4, 2008... but he knew long before then that victory was not to be his. I applaud John McCain for his gracious, heartfelt remarks:

I urge all Americans who supported me to join me in not just congratulating him, but offering our next president our good will and earnest effort to find ways to come together, to find the necessary compromises, to bridge our differences, and help restore our prosperity, defend our security in a dangerous world, and leave our children and grandchildren a stronger, better country than we inherited.

Whatever our differences, we are fellow Americans. And please believe me when I say no association has ever meant more to me than that. It is natural tonight to feel some disappointment, but tomorrow we must move beyond it and work together to get our country moving again. SOURCE

Secondly, my email inbox was flooded with political information prior to the election. Do you ever get those emails that are making overtly political statements from other Christians, and then realized that those around you responded to the email positively or negatively based on the political position that was being made?

I remember one that went around the emails several years ago about 'In God We Trust' (which is a valid debate) being taken off of a US coin. I am sure that many pastors and churches around America were able to get a sermon illustration about how liberal America is becoming because of this fact. Problem was...it wasn't a fact. It was false.

One that I received recently was on the number of US Military deaths by year and under which president they came under. Because the numbers showed that the Iraq deaths were numbers were small compared to the number of deaths under previous Democratic presidents, well...once again, fact was not important because the numbers made the Republicans look good. This one isn't true either.

I remember during the presidential race that an email came to me stating that Barack Obama is a "radical Muslim" and will not "recite the Pledge of Allegiance". WOW! What a characterization. And you guessed it. THIS IS NOT TRUE

I have even heard someone ask if our newly elected President is a "christian". Hear it in his own words:



I prefer to be a Christian than political.

How about you?

Preparing for Sunday

As I prayerfully prepare for the worship experience this Sunday at NRN I am planning to continue in the current series entitled:

On Sunday we will study the account of Samson as recorded in the book of Judges - Chapters 13-16. The story of Samson is well known. In 1949 a major motion picture was released telling the story of Samson. Here is the trailer:

You can prepare for this service by reading Judges - chapters 13-16 prior to Sunday.

Why not bring a friend with you to church this Sunday!

Presidential Election Results

I voted

As I prayed about the responsibility to vote it reminded me of the privilege to live in a country where we not only discuss the privilege of free elections but practice that freedom. My travels around the world has reminded me often that we are privileged to live in such a free land. But this freedom did not come easy.

This Sunday at NRN we will honor all the veterans present in our service and remember the sacrifice paid for our freedom.

Also - I am sooo glad the political ads are finished for this season! (Can I get a witness about this!)


Here is a copy of an email I received earlier this week that encouraged me - hope it encourages you:


Top 10 Predictions No Matter Who Wins the Election

1. The Bible will still have all the answers.
2. Prayer will still work.
3. The Holy Spirit will still move.
4. God will still inhabit the praises of His people.
5. There will still be God-anointed preaching.
6. There will still be singing of praise to God.
7. God will still pour out blessings upon His people.
8. There will still be room at the Cross.
9. Jesus will still love you.
10. Jesus will still save the lost when they come to Him. and God approves this message!

ISN'T IT GREAT TO KNOW WHO IS REALLY IN CHARGE

Amen!!

The Redskin Rule

In case you are not a fan of the Washington Redskins - or a NFL fan - you may not be aware of the importance of tonight's game: THE REDSKIN RULE

According to Steve Hirdt of the Elias Sports Bureau, for the past 17 president elections: If the Redskins win their last home game prior to Election Day, the party that won the popular vote in the previous election wins the White House; if the Redskins lose, the party that lost the popular vote in the previous election wins.

Steelers win: Obama victory.

Redskins win: McCain victory.

THE RESULTS:

The Steelers defeated the Redskins 23 - 6

(To the Rhoads and Betancourts and friends..... Kurt Stevens ....
congrats to the Steelers....They finally beat a NFC - East team...)

PLEASE BE SURE AND VOTE TOMORROW

Sharron's first day in the office

Today was special for Sharron as she began her first day as the interim Office Manager at North Raleigh Church of the Nazarene

We are thankful to Donna Philemon who served the church faithfully for six years. We miss her and wish her the very best!

Sharron has consented to work for the next two weeks to see if she can master the computer, the phone system and the task load. The plan is that after the two weeks are over we will decide if it is a good "fit" for Sharron to be in the office. I must admit - I think it was GREAT to have Sharron working in the office today!

This past weekend we celebrated with Danielle and Stephanie on their 28th birthday. You can read more about it on Stephanie's blog.

Sharron and Danielle took time for some last minute shopping. We are glad that Danielle is feeling better and slowly recovering from her recently surgery. It was fun to see Alyse helping her mom unwrap the gifts.

This past Sunday at NRN was very special as I was surprised by a guest visitor - Ernie Gibson - from Northern Va. It was truly a blessing from the Lord that Ernie was with us.

Spiritual Emphasis Week

On Sunday morning October 26th I preached my first message at McAdenville Wesleyan Church for the spiritual emphasis week. As I stood to preach I felt the anointing of God. The service was well attended and several decisions were made at the first service as I preached one of my favorite messages - How much you matter to God.

The week went quickly as each night spiritual decisions were made. I appreciate the warm welcome and hospitality of people from the church. I enjoyed the time of fellowship with Pastor Brian Matherlee. A special surprise came on Tuesday evening when Mary (Foster) Ford and her family traveled from Spartanburg, SC to attend the service.

She and her sister Robin surprised Sharron and I as they and their family arrived at the service. Mary had a strong memory of the last time we saw each other. She was just old enough to come into the youth group. Her mother was watching our daughters as we loaded the U-haul moving truck to relocated from Charlotte to Herndon, Va. to begin our ministry at Christian Fellowship Church. We departed Charlotte on March 30, 1981 - the day President Ronald Reagan was shot and wounded by a lone gunman. It was a moving experience to see Mary and Robin. (No - not like moving with a U Haul - but a moving - touching moment in my heart...) They have matured into lovely women with beautiful children and loving husbands. I am glad they are still in the church and have such fond memories from their childhood of Sharron and I.

It was a great closing service for the church as Pastor Brian had people gather around him in prayer. It was touching to see people praying as we dedicated this church to the Lord! I believe a revival spirit has been stirred at the church.

Sharrron and I have enjoyed staying at the home of Josh and Stephanie in Indian Trail as we traveled the 42 miles to McAdenville each evening. I am thankful for this opportunity of ministry and hope that I have been faithful in preaching the Word of God and encouraging the church!

Sing along - really, really loud!

This coming Sunday - October 26th - is going to be a GREAT DAY at North Raleigh Church of the Nazarene (NRN)! We continue in the series of messages learning Contemporary Lessons from Ancient Lives. This week we will look at the account of Zacchaeus found in Luke 19:1-10.

We will sing once again the new song introduced to NRN last week. This song has been in my mind and on my lips all week. I have been in my car and sitting at my desk - singing this song really, really loud. I thought you would like to see the group that wrote the words and music, then first preformed it. The song is You Reign - by Mercy Me. Enjoy! (And you can sing along -really loud if you want too!)

Champion the Squirrel

Today I had lunch with an individual who early in the conversation said, “Pastor, how are you?” I paused, but responded, “Doing well!” To which my friend asked “Now Pastor, tell me the truth – how are you really?” I could honesty answer – though heavy hearted about some issues, I am really doing well and encouraged by seeing God moments in my life and the lives of others. I will admit, I was tempted to give a "pastoral response" when I felt checked to just tell my friend how I really felt.

Afterwards, i t reminded me of an old joke:

What is grey, has a furry tail, and collects nuts for the winter?”
“I know it sounds like a squirrel, but since this is Sunday School, the answer must be Jesus,” answers the eager student.

Yeah, I think you may know this old joke. The story is so familiar, most of us can jump over the punch line and joke about Jesus vs. the squirrel answers that dominate our religious-speak. But the thing is, sometimes the answer is a squirrel-plain and simple.

There is this habit of talking in spiritually coated words when we are in church or around other Christians. Whether in leadership meetings or in the pulpit, we struggle to talk plainly about the issues staring us in the face. We gloss over ugliness with candy-coated optimism. We speak of tragic dilemmas with platitudes. We attempt to be cheerleaders for God’s reputation. We rarely call a squirrel a squirrel. Sometimes our spiritual lens coatings are so thick; we don’t even see the obvious in front of us.

Behind it all is a deep-seated dualism, a man-made divide carved between the secular and the spiritual. We operate as if church-related activities, (Bible studies, church services, small groups, mission teams, etc.,) are spiritual and therefore good. Then we treat everything else in life, (doing laundry, going to work on Monday morning, paying bills, family vacation,) as secular and therefore second-class, only a necessary evil, not necessarily bad, but not truly good.

However, there is one Lord of ALL heaven and earth. He is not only the sovereign of so-called spiritual life; He is the beginning and end of all life. As a result, all of life is deeply spiritual. There is no secular-sacred divide. All work is spiritual. All creatures are holy. ALL of life is a sacred created thing. Every vocation is a holy calling-a chance to live on mission in a broken world.

Following Christ is a journey into reality not away from it. Jesus was never interested in disconnecting from the tangible issues of life that surrounded him nor did he urge his followers to do anything less. He talked about and engaged the real stuff. It is part of what made him so attractive. He was truly one of us.

It’s no wonder that people who live outside the bubble of Christianized vocabulary don’t see our faith as a relevant answer to a complex world. We would connect with that broken world and the people trying to navigate through it far better if we learned to speak directly about the things right in front of us. Let’s call conflict - conflict.

Let’s be honest and straightforward about our emotions. Let’s voice our confusion or hurt or fear without conditions attached. And, let’s celebrate without apology when life calls for it.

I think it’s time to champion the squirrel!

Are you ready for Digital Conversion?

Recently an email went out from our church asked for volunteers to help us with media shout, PowerPoint and technical assistance for the Sunday morning worship experience at NRN. I thought about this and wondered - who can assist us?

As I considered this I realize it is not that easy. Here is an example I believe you will enjoy.

Are you ready for Digital Conversion?




What do you think?

Please accept my THANKS - Gary, Bob, John and Andy for all your hard work and labor of love for the Lord on Sundays! Also - Randy, Jordon and James - I appreciate you!

Trustworthy in the small matters?

Albert Einstein once said that “whoever is careless with the truth in small matters cannot be trusted with the important matters”.

Are you trustworthy in the small matters?

For example, are you completely trustworthy and honest in your email correspondence?

According to a new study by Lehigh University, people are significantly more likely to lie in e-mail messages than in traditional pen-and-paper communications.

Luiba Belkin, who was in charge of the study said “There is a growing concern in the workplace over e-mail communications, and it comes down to trust…You’re not afforded the luxury of seeing non-verbal and behavioral cues over e-mail. And in an organizational context, that leaves a lot of room for misinterpretation and, as we saw in our study, intentional deception.” “Intentional Deception”?

Wow, that’s another word for… well… lie!

Like when someone asks your opinion of how a certain ministry or program is doing?
Or if you like their idea about starting a new puppet ministry.

If you’re a pastor or church leader, don’t fool yourself! You’ll have a tendency to embellish or shade the truth each and every day you’re in ministry. And email is a safe place to test that boundary.

Remember Einstein’s words? Whoever is careless with truth in small matters (like email) cannot be trusted with the important matters.

Take a pledge this week as you utilize your email account. Be trustworthy and honest. Don’t shade the truth. And don’t lie to someone. Email makes the temptation much more profound in each of our workdays.


Have a great, truth-filled, week!

Source: Todd A. Rhoades -- Editor / Publisher -- Monday Morning Insights!

A description of genuine faith

On Sunday we begin a new series of messages at NRN. Here is the text for the front panel of the worship folder:

Today we begin a new series of messages entitled Character Tour as Pastor Rick shares the life lessons we can learn from Noah. In Genesis 6:9 it says, "Noah was a righteous man, blameless among the people of his time." Now the word "blameless" doesn't meant perfection. It literally means "uncontaminated." As we shall see, Noah was not "contaminated" by the wickedness of his day. He was Gods' man through and through.

Noah lived in a culture that was unimaginably degraded...horribly corrupt and yet he was different. You may remember that Henry David Thoreau once said, "If I seem to walk out of step with others, it is because I am listening to another drum beat." And this is a good description of genuine faith. Christians who embrace a deep faith in God walk through life as though listening to another drum beat. They are out of step with the world. You see, there is no such thing as a Christian life that is not counterculture. If you are a follower of the Lord, it means you are going to have to make decisions that distinguish you from the sinful world in which we all live.

Here is a simple overview of the account of Noah:

Uploaded on author STREAM by Wen12

If you want to study more about Noah

and the factual account recorded from

Genesis 6-9 simply click HERE

We're gonna party!

Tonight I am praying for special needs that I am aware of. I am also reading over once again the account of Noah and the flood.( Genesis 6-9 I am really excited about what I believe God has prepared for us this coming Sunday at NRN! I am beginning a new series of messages:




In the first worship set - we will stand and put our hands together in worship and praise of our great God. Here is a preview - get ready to worship:

At the close of the message - we we celebrate the saving power of God at work today as we baptize believers!

Get ready to put your hand together in worship and celebration!

We're gonna party this Sunday.

Don't miss it ....