For the sake of the Call

As I prepare for my morning departure to Israel tomorrow, I have been singing a song throughout this day. God has used this song to minister to my heart. I hope it encourages yours:

For The Sake Of The Call ------Steven Curtis Chapman

Nobody stood and applauded them

So they knew from the start

This road would not lead to fame

All they really knew for sure was Jesus had called to them

He said "Come follow me" and they came

With reckless abandon they came

Empty nets lying there at the waters edge

Told a story that few could believe and none could explain

How some crazy fishermen agreed to go where Jesus lead

With no thought for what they would gain

For Jesus had called them by name and they answered

CHORUS

We will abandon it all for the sake of the call

No other reason at all but the sake of the call

Wholly devoted to live and to die

For the sake of the call

Drawn like the rivers are drawn to the sea

No turning back for the water cannot help but flow

Once we hear the Savior's call we'll follow wherever he leads

Because of the love He has shown

And because he has called us to go we will answer

We will abandon it all for the sake of the call

No other reason at all but the sake of the call

Wholly devoted to live and to die

BRIDGE

Not for the sake of a creed or a cause

Not for a dream or a promise

Simply because it is Jesus who calls

And if we believe we'll obey

CHORUS

We will abandon it all for the sake of the call

No other reason at all but the sake of the call

Wholly devoted to live and to die

For the sake of the call

Trip to Israel begins

Tomorrow ( Saturday February 28, 2009) we depart for a spiritual pilgrimage to Israel. Several people have inquired about our travel plans and schedule. I invite you to follow us on the this tour of a lifetime. It is hard to believe that this will be my 5th trip to Israel. Each time I go it carries it's own memories. If possible I will post during the trip - if not - watch this site for guest postings and possible pictures.

DAY 1, Saturday FEBRUARY 28— Our group gathers at North Raleigh Church of the Nazarene for a NOON departure to the airport.

DAY 2, Sunday MARCH 1—ARRIVE TEL AVIV

DAY 3, Monday MARCH 2—BETH SHEMESH/ VALLEY OF ELAH/ LACHISH/BEERSHEBA/ARAD
On our first full day of travel we will emphasize the Old Testament, beginning with Beth Shemesh where the ark that the Philistines had taken from the battlefield at Ebenezer (1 Sam. 4:11). After 7 months, the Philistines, who has suffered from a plague, returned it to Beth Shemesh where the oxen stopped in the field of Joshua. Because the plague spread to the inhabitants, it was moved to the house of Abinadab. Going farther south we arrive at the city of Azekah on a hill overlooking the Philistine/Israel battlefield where David killed Goliath (1 Sam. 17:51).We continue to Lachish where the Assyrian attack against Hezekiah caused it’s fall (2 Kings 19:8); then on to Beersheba to walk into the restored gate of the city from the time of Hezekiah.

We will view the only horned sacrificial altar ever found and the partially restored city of 700 B.C. Our last site of the day will be Arad whose king confronted Moses’ on the trek to Canaan when he attacked, but lost the battle. We spend the night in the new city of Arad.

DAY 4, Tuesday MARCH 3— MASADA/QUMRAN/DEAD SEA/JERICHO/TIBERIAS
Our first site of the day is to go up to the famous mountain of Masada where David found refuge of King Saul (1 Sam. 25:22), and where later King Herod built his hide-away palace to withdraw from people. After the fall of Jerusalem in 70 A.D., nearly 1,000 men, women and children tried to find protection from Silva, but after a three-year siege, chose to die rather than be captured by the Romans. We then motor north for lunch at Qumran, after which we see the Qumran community where the Dead Sea Scrolls first were found. Then follows a refreshing swim in the Dead Sea. After a visit to Jericho we then travel north along the road of the Jordan Valley to our quarters on the Sea of Galilee for two nights.


DAY 5 , Wednesday MARCH 4— SEA OF GALILEE/MOUNT OF BEATITUDES/ TABHA/PETER OF PRIMACY/CAPERNAUM
Our itinerary begins with a boat ride on the Sea of Galilee to the museum where a “Jesus” type boat was discovered several years ago, after which we make our way to the blessed Mt. of Beatitudes where Jesus is thought to have uttered Matt. 5–7. Afterwards we travel to the place commemorated where Jesus multiplied the loaves and fish to feed the multitude, then nearby to the place Jesus reappeared to His disciples after His resurrection. After lunch we make our way to the Valley of Jezreel to see Gideon’s Spring where his 300 men were selected and the battlefield where he defeated the Midianites. Then we carry on to Jezreel to the place where Naboth lived, Jezebel was thrown out a window, and where two kings of Judah both met their deaths. On our return to Tiberius we visit Nazareth on the way to see the Church of Annunciation and synagogue where Jesus worshiped until He began His ministry. We conclude the day with a baptism/rededication in the Jordan River.

DAY 6, Thursday MARCH 5 MT.CARMEL/MEGIDDO/CAESAREA/JERUSALEM
We depart Galilee and make our way to Mt. Carmel to the site where tradition holds that Elijah had the contest with the Baal prophets (1 Kings 18:19–38).We carry on to Megiddo the city setting atop the valley of Armageddon. We walk up the road where Joshua and the army conquered the city then enter at the level of Ahab and see his stables/storehouses dating to 850 B.C.We end our visit by going through the water source of Ahab’s time, then make our way to the Caesarea where Herod built one of his palaces, where Philip later founded a church, where an early church council was held, and where Paul was imprisoned for 2 years before being tried in Rome where he died. We then make our way to Jerusalem for overnight.

DAY 7, Friday MARCH 6—WESTERN WALL/ TEMPLE MOUNT/VIA DOLOROSA/BETHLEHEM
We will enter Jerusalem through the Dung Gate, and walk to the holiest site in the whole Jewish world, the Western Wall (Wailing Wall) of Herod’s erosion-resistance wall held up the Temple area. On this site where the temple once stood now is found the magnificent Dome of the Rock and the El Aksa Mosque (the third holiest shrine in all Islam). From the temple
area, we make our way to St. Stephen’s Gate, St. Anne’s Crusader Church, Pools of Bethesda, the Sister of Zion Convent. In the afternoon we will make our way to Bethlehem to visit the Church of the Nativity and Shepherd’s Field.

DAY 8, Saturday MARCH 7—MT. OF OLIVE/ GETHSEMANE/GALICANTU/UPPER ROOM/
JEWISH QUARTER/CHURCH OF THE HOLY SEPULCHRE
We begin our explorations with a drive to the beautiful Mt. of Olives to behold the breathtaking panorama of the Holy City. Our pilgrimage will descend to the Tear Drop Chapel and Gethsemane with its ancient olive grove, the Church of Agony, where Jesus prayed, and the cave where Jesus often met with the disciples. After lunch we go to the Upper Room of the
Passover meal, and birthday of the church at Pentecost, then on through the Zion gate to the Jewish Quarter, and the Church of the Holy Sepulcher before returning to the hotel.

DAY 9, Sunday MARCH 8—JERUSALEM
Today is at leisure. This is a time to collect our thoughts, indulge in our whims. Revisit the places of most interest. The Rockefeller and Hebrew Museums display a wealth of archaeological treasure. Return for a last look within the walls of the Old City. In the afternoon we plan a visit to the Garden Tomb and a concluding communion service together. We then will either have dinner at our hotel.

DAY 10, Monday MARCH 9—JERUSALEM/TEL AVIV/USA
Early in the morning we will depart Jerusalem and travel to the Tel Aviv Airport to connect with our overseas flight home. The close of an unforgettable tour, we bring with us lasting memories of the Old and New Testament

We arrive back in Raleigh shortly after midnight on Tuesday MARCH 10.

Pastor Rick plans to be back in the office on Wednesday March 11.

Where will you be this Sunday morning?

This coming Sunday at NRN is going to very special. Our guest speaker is Dr. Mark Barnes - District Superintendent of the North Carolina District of the Church of the Nazarene. He is an excellent communicator. I anticipate hearing news of great happenings from this Sunday.

In addition to the powerful presentation of God Word - there will be outstanding worship.

I invite you to come this Sunday and hear about the picture below.

As people gather in the Worship Center at NRN - I will be arriving with a group of friends at the Tel Aviv Airport in preparation to our ten day tour of Israel. Where will YOU be at 10:45am on Sunday March 1, 2009?

Life is crazy good

This made me laugh out loud. Life is crazy good...

Preparing for a day of worship

Tomorrow at NRN is going to be a another great day. I will be bringing a message to prepare for the Lenten Season. We are also going to "rock out" with a great song of worship that may be new to many people.

Here's a taste:




We plan to continue with these two songs:







This is only the beginning set ..... now I am prparing for a great day of worship at NRN.

Visit Israel - You'll Never be the same again!

On Saturday February 28th I depart with a group of friends for a spiritual pilgrimage to Israel. It has been my privilege to travel to Israel several times and look forward to my next trip.

I often call a trip to Israel a "Trip of a Lifetime" but I also believe that once you have walked the streets of Old City Jerusalem; stood upon the top of Masada; taken a boat across the Sea of Galilee; partake in the Lord's supper in the Garden of Gethsemane; walked the Via Dolorosa and prayed at the Western Wall - you will never be the same again!

Focus on these three things

This week has been quite hectic and I have not had time to post on my blog. Sorry !

Last Sunday at NRN was a day filled with laughter and praise to our Lord Jesus Christ! I shared a Valentine message focusing on communication in relationships.

By special request - here is my opening illustration:

A bride was very nervous. It was right before the service. She wasn’t sure she could even walk down aisle. Her mother gave her some words of calming wisdom. She said to her. “Honey, there’s only three things you need to focus on. If you focus on these three things, you’ll be fine. The first is walking down the aisle. Just focus on walking down the aisle of the church. I know its rather long, but just concentrate on that. Don’t get caught up with those on either side of the aisle. Just focus on getting to the end of the aisle. Next, focus on the altar. It is your destination today. Make your way down the aisle to the altar. There you will stand before God with the man you love and will make vows to God and him. God will also make vows to you. Focus on the altar that represents the love God has for you in Jesus Christ. Last, focus on the hymn that the soloist will sing. In poetry and song, the hymn embodies God’s love for you in Christ, your love for your husband and his love for you. So, to help you not be so nervous, focus on those three things. Walking down the aisle, standing before the altar and listening to the hymn.”

The bride was very thankful to her mom for her words of advice. The family and friends gathered watched as she walked down the aisle and noticed a look of calm determination on her face. But as she passed them, they began to chuckle quietly. For along with the look of calm determination, she was mumbling three words over and over to help calm her nerves. As she passed them, they heard her saying,

“Aisle, Altar, Hymn… Aisle, Altar, Hymn… Aisle, Altar, Hymn.”

Lots of laughter

This has been a great week. I heard a lot of laughter coming form the Community Room last Wednesday night as the Student Ministry featured a "Wizard of OZ" theme. There were students dressed in character - including the example of a "good witch" and a "wicked witch" and even 2 "Dorothy Gales". The lesson was on following the "yellow brick road" of life and making wise choices.

Today was another great day with our grand daughter Alyse!

It was a pleasant surprise to have Danielle travel from Charlotte to spend my birthday and part of today with me! We had a lot of fun enjoying a great meal on Friday evening and watching her play with Alyse! I love my daughter's smile - it warms my heart...

This evening we went over the the church of a Valentine Banquet and Variety Show sponsored by the Student Ministry of NRN. There were lots of laughs and a good time. The big surprise came following the meal as we wondered what would be for dessert.

As we prepare for tomorrow at NRN I have scheduled a BIG SURPRISE during the worship experience! It has something to do with "black lights".......

Also - I am really looking forward to hearing Tom Alsbury present one of my favorite songs during the offering tomorrow. Here is a taste of our worship tomorrow to prepare you for a great day:

On Sunday I am bringing a message for Valentine's about communication in love, marriage and relationships. I am really looking forward to hearing laughter tomorrow at church!

He renews your youth

Recognize the smiling face? This picture was taken in 1957 - the young child was only 2 years old.

He is still smiling today.

My favorite passage of scripture for today is from Psalm 103:5b from the Message:

He renews your youth—you're always young in his presence.

These are trustworthy sayings....

I am honored to share my birthday with the newest addition to our family at North Raleigh Church of the Nazarene:

One of my first emails today read:

James wrote on your Wall:
"Happy Birthday Pastor Rick!!

Rachel Margaret-Moore Cook wanted to share the same day as you. At 1:35 this morning she joined us, 7lbs 7oz and 21.5 inches long.

Happy Birthday!"

Marsha is resting well and doing fine.

Congratulations to James and Marsha Cook and to big sister Bailey

I'm just a grocery store bagger

Please watch the following video clip -- it is a story of Johnny, the grocery store bagger. It is very short, but it will remind you of why and how we make an impact in what we do. You may even want to share it with others, and I hope you will. It's amazing how one young Down's syndrome bagger made such a wonderful impact on those customers lucky enough to have Johnny bag their groceries!

To view this clip simply click HERE. Be sure and comment. Thanks

When you finish watching the clip -

write down what God has said to you.

Who will you call or email this week

and invite them to join you at church

this coming Sunday?

The Stock Boy and the Checkout Girl

I have been battling a cold during this week with medicine and rest. Now I can report that I am feeling really well! I'm ready for another great Sunday at NRN.

Below is a story that encouraged me. Sharron gave it to me after receiving it from a friend in her Ladies Bible Study at the church. I should note that this friend is one of the biggest Steelers fans I have ever met...

KURTIS THE STOCK BOY

AND

BRENDA THE CHECKOUT GIRL

In a supermarket, Kurtis the stock boy, was busily working when a new voice came over the loud speaker asking for a carry out at register 4. Kurtis was almost finished, and wanted to get some fresh air, and decided to answer the call. As he approached the check-out stand a distant smile caught his eye, the new check-out girl was beautiful. She was an older woman (maybe 26, and he was only 22) and he fell in love.

Later that day, after his shift was over, he waited by the punch clock to find out her name. She came into the break room, smiled softly at him, took her card and punched out, then left. He looked at her card, BRENDA. He walked out only to see her start walking up the road. Next day, he waited outside as she left the supermarket, and offered her a ride home. He looked harmless enough, and she accepted. When he dropped her off, he asked if maybe he could see her again, outside of work. She simply said it wasn't possible. He pressed and she explained she had two children and she couldn't afford a baby-sitter, so he offered to pay for the baby-sitter. Reluctantly she accepted his offer for a date for the following Saturday.

That Saturday night he arrived at her door only to have her tell him that she was unable to go with him. The baby-sitter had called and canceled. To which Kurtis simply said, "Well, let's take the kids with us." She tried to explain that taking the children was not an option, but again not taking no for an answer, he pressed. Finally Brenda, brought him inside to meet her children. She had an older daughter who was just as cute as a bug, Kurtis thought, then Brenda brought out her son, in a wheelchair. He was born a paraplegic with Down Syndrome. Kurtis asked Brenda, "I still don't understand why the kids can't come with us?" Brenda was amazed. Most men would run away from a woman with two kids, especially if one had disabilities - just like her first husband and father of her children had done. Kurtis was not ordinary - - - he had a different mindset. That evening Kurtis and Brenda loaded up the kids, went to dinner and the movies. When her son needed anything Kurtis would take care of him. When he needed to use the restroom, he picked him up out of his wheelchair, took him and brought him back. The kids loved Kurtis. At the end of the evening , Brenda knew this was the man she was going to marry and spend the rest of her life with.

A year later, they were married and Kurtis adopted both of her children. Since then they have added two more kids. So what happened to Kurtis the stock boy and Brenda the check-out girl? Well, Mr. & Mrs. Kurt Warner now live in Arizona , where he is currently employed as the quarterback of the National Football League Arizona Cardinals and has his Cardinals in the Super Bowl.

Is this a surprise ending or could you have guessed that he was not an ordinary person.

NOW - Is this account trustworthy?

Click HERE and see for yourself.

Punxsutawney Phil meets Superbowl 43

(AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster) Ben Hughes, handler of the weather-predicting groundhog Punxsutawney Phil, holds Phil in the air after removing him from his stump at Gobbler's Knob on Groundhog Day, Monday, Feb. 2, 2009, in Punxsutawney, Pa.

The Groundhog Club said Phil saw his shadow and predicted six more weeks of winter.

Phil's official forecast as read February 2nd, 2009 at sunrise at Gobbler's Knob:

Hear Ye Hear Ye
On Gobbler's Knob this glorious Groundhog Day, February 2nd, 2009
Punxsutawney Phil, Seer of Seers, Prognosticator of all Prognosticators
Awoke to the call of President Bill Cooper
And greeted his handlers, Ben Hughes and John Griffiths
After casting a joyful eye towards thousands of his faithful followers,
Phil proclaimed that his beloved Pittsburgh Steelers were World Champions one more time
And a bright sky above me
Showed my shadow beside me.
So 6 more weeks of winter it will be.

Since 1887, Phil has seen his shadow 97 times, hasn't seen it 15 times, and there are no records for nine years, according to the Punxsutawney Groundhog Club. In reality, Phil doesn't see much of anything. The result is actually decided in advance by 14 members of the club's Inner Circle, who don tuxedos and top hats for the event.