Taking Our Vows Seriously

"To have and to hold, from this day forward, for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness or in health, to love and to cherish 'till death do us part." Traditional marriage vow

Confirmation is a special occasion for many Christians. The United Methodist Church celebrates confirmation as a whole-church community event. Parents, grandparents, guardians and godparents may stand as silent witnesses to the Christian faith as their confirmand affirms his or her vow of membership to the church. These special people made a commitment to 'do all in their power' to teach, guide and nurture the child's spiritual life previously during their baptism ritual. This sacred investment is not an individual choice but a relational choice made by family and friends. Foundational relationship bonds can be made as we are baptized and confirmed into a community. Confirmation is sometimes as significant for the adults as it is for the students.

Confirmation is also for the church. We remember our baptism as a community. The earthly church community is to be a witness and reflection of the holy eternal community. Some theologians believe we may even get a glimmer of the divine mystery of the relationships within the holy Trinity - the perfect community - during these intersections of holiness and grace. Through baptism, we are given a new birth through the water and the Spirit and incorporated into God's mighty acts of salvation. All this is a gift, offered to us without price. We renew our commitment through confirmation to remain faithful to Christ's holy church.

Faithful. It implies holy action. We contribute. We can choose to act faithfully. The only other sacred relationship that shares this level of committed faithfulness is marriage. Imagine if we took our confirmation vow as seriously as our marriage vow. Imagine if we, the church, dressed beautifully as a bride for her husband decided to live into the covenant faithfulness we profess as one man, one woman for life. Maybe this is what the Apostle Paul meant by imploring the church in Ephesus to live holy lives. Do you suppose we can too?

"Husbands, go all out in your love for your wives, exactly as Christ did for the church—a love marked by giving, not getting. Christ’s love makes the church whole. His words evoke her beauty. Everything he does and says is designed to bring the best out of her, dressing her in dazzling white silk, radiant with holiness. And that is how husbands ought to love their wives. They’re really doing themselves a favor—since they’re already “one” in marriage." Ephesians 5:25-28 (The Message)

-Pastor Jen

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Next: Worship & Mission

"I want the whole Christ for my Savior, the whole Bible for my book, the whole Church for my fellowship, and the whole world for my mission field." - John Wesley (Founder of Methodism)

Rick Warren did something most pastors would never do during a sermon celebrating Saddleback's 30th anniversary. He said, "Let me just be honest with you as somebody who loves you. If you passively just want to sit around in the next 10 years and just waste your life on things that won't last, you probably want to find another church because you're not going to really feel comfortable here. Because if you're in this church, I'm coming after you to be mobilized." Saddleback Church in Southern California initiated a strategy to reach twelve international cities with the story of Jesus Christ and how following him can change the world. You can read about it here.

Passive Christianity is dying out for good reason. Many local churches are vigorously mobilizing for a global expansion. People everywhere are beginning to crave an active Christianity that ignites our passion to whole-heartedly serve Jesus Christ and help others know him in a transformational way. How Christians live after they say "yes" to Jesus matters. Worship is our response to his love, acceptance and forgiveness. We then set out to share the good news in mission to the lost and broken world. We are to reflect Jesus Christ. We are not only consumers of Christ's work. We are to be doers of Christ's mission. The consumer mentality many Christians suffer dissolves when Jesus Christ puts his arm around our shoulders, turns us toward the lost and broken world and says, "Go into the world and preach the good news to all creation." (Mark 16:15 NIV) There is plenty of work to do.

Our current preaching series is called Forged (what happens after we say "yes" to Jesus). Our biblical text is the Apostle Paul's response letter to issues raised by the church in Corinth, Greece. You may want to read it for yourself and discover the topics the early church struggled with over 2,000 years ago aren't much different than the issues we face today. This week we will be challenged to think about our Christian behavior within the church when it comes to lawsuits. (I Corinthians 6) How shall we act toward one another within the church? What does our conduct say to those outside the church? Christian character must certainly be forged within us. Our whole decision making process must be altered if we are to be formed into the image and likeness of Christ. The Apostle Paul believed the people of the church could be righteous leaders in the church. So do we. Join us this weekend and find out why being forged into the image of Christ matters not only to us but to the entire world.

"Or do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and you are not your own?  For you were bought at a price; therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God’s." I Corinthians 6: 19-20 NKJV

-Pastor Jen

Jesus Is Available To All

"You ascended from before our eyes and we turned back grieving, only to find you in our hearts." -Augustine, The Confessions: Book Four

This is a profound mystery. The journey to this place engraved onto a mountain of what seemed like infinitesimal but significant decisions. Each decision defining, redefining, transforming and leading upward toward a destination of unimaginable grace. A confident message declared a belief to the world that we could become part of something greater. Life and death had been hopelessly intertwined in a tumbling embrace through history. Hopelessness had decisively ended as a man reached across the divide with a proposal to love and be loved forever. A bride could consent to become a wife, the two could become one and they could ascend to an ultimate place of beginning. 

Nothing would ever separate them again.

Jesus told Mary Magdalene to let go. She would have to trust him and his promise that he could deliver something far greater. It is likely Mary thought she lost someone and a relationship she cherished for a second time. In truth, Mary did lose something. Her loss became her gain. By letting go of the risen Jesus, she could have a relationship with the ascended Jesus.  Their relationship newly defined by an intimacy lasting throughout eternity-never to be separated ever again. The bridegroom came not only to her but for the church forever. Jesus fully alive ascended to a plane previously hidden and now revealed for all. The ascended Jesus is deeply personal and supremely powerful. He is actively engaged in the continuation of his work and waits in eager anticipation for the consummation of the whole universe. The ascended Jesus is available to all. Infinite. Majestic. Incomparable. He is risen! He is risen, indeed!

"Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself for her, that He might sanctify and cleanse her with the washing of water by the word, that He might present her to Himself a glorious church, not having spot or wrinkle or any such thing, but that she should be holy and without blemish." Ephesians 5:25-27 (NKJV)

Man Of Sorrows

"Laugh, and the world laughs with you; Weep, and you weep alone." The Way of the World by Ella Wheeler

Church tradition depicts Jesus' initiation to the events of holy week as the king who rides triumphantly into Jerusalem on a donkey. He does this to fulfill what the prophet Zechariah wrote in the Old Testament: Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion! Shout, O daughter of Jerusalem! Behold, your King is coming to you; He is just and having salvation, lowly and riding on a donkey, a colt, the foal of a donkey. (Zechariah 9:9) Holy week starts and ends on a high note.  But, there is more to the story.

Another prophet, Isaiah, declared there was more to this King's coming. Who would believe the report? To whom would the Lord reveal his plan? This king would be the suffering servant who would be despised and rejected. He would be a Man of Sorrows and acquainted with grief. This Suffering Servant is the Righteous Servant who would justify many. He would be divided and poured out. He would bear the sins of all. He would be wounded by our injustice and bruised for our crime. The punishment for our peace was laid upon him and by his stripes we would be healed. (Isaiah 53)

Jesus would be the king of a cross and not of an earthly throne. He is the Messiah - a promised king - who would put things right. But, only when he was broken and bruised. After, he was tempted and tried. He suffered and died. This King of the Cross was never more of a Savior than when he was all alone and conclusively cried out, "It is finished." Because, therein, we find the power of the One whose work was the cross. His utter trust in his father reminds us that just when everything appears to be finished, God is truly at the beginning.

"For sin shall not have dominion over you, for you are not under the law but under grace." Romans 6:14 (NKJV)

-Pastor Jen

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Jesus Overcomes Evil

The month of April triggers some scary memories for me. I remember sitting in my car listening to the radio reports that a gas line had broken in Oklahoma City causing an explosion at the Murrah Building. I was living in Tulsa, Oklahoma at the time. Not in a million years could I have imagined what Timothy McVeigh and Terry Nichols did on American soil April 19, 1995. Only four short years after that event, on April 20, 1999 Eric Harris and Dylan Klebold perpetrated a crime that continues to affect us to this day. You may want to listen to an important talk by best-selling author Frank Perretti here. He speaks from his personal experience and shares his insight into the dark world of bullying and how it can transform a wounded spirit into a dangerous tool for evil.

No one is exempt from trials and temptations in this life - not even Jesus. As a matter of fact, right after Jesus is initiated into public ministry by John the Baptist, he hears his father's voice of approval and distinction and is lead into the wilderness to face the devil. Jesus clearly defeated the devil and his evil ways. According to scripture, Jesus has and takes authority over evil and released people from evil's captivity during his ministry. So, then, why does evil continue to wreak havoc in our world?

The biblical view of evil is that it's complex and comprehensive. Have you noticed that battle language is used when evil is mentioned in the Bible? Do you know your enemy and how to fight against him? Scripture is very clear. But, people in the Western world often disregard evil as primitive and a result of bad choices. However, one of evil's greatest ploys is to convince us it doesn't exist. The Great Enemy is mentioned throughout the Bible and is the title of the chapter we read for this week from Tim Keller's book Encounters with Jesus: Unexpected Answers of Life's Biggest Questions.

Be certain. Our hope rests in a Savior who knows what it's like to face the devil and win. Not only can God overcome evil but he will triumph over it.

A wise man suspects danger and cautiously avoids evil, but the fool bears himself insolently and is [presumptuously] confident. Proverbs 14:16 The Amplified Bible

-Pastor Jen

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Has Grief Blinded You To A Greater Reality?

Sometimes good news can arrive as a welcome sign like the first signs of Spring. Good news can be delivered in the most unusual, unexpected ways. It can sometimes be delivered after bad news has shut every possible door, slammed every open window and shattered every longing heart. I've experienced enough bad news in my life to respect the complex emotions that explode within a broken heart. I have wept my share of bitter tears. I've sunk into a place of dark despair. There have been moments when I felt like I just could not go on. As I reflect on those moments in my life now, I become aware of how foundational they were to my spiritual life and how instrumental they were in forming the person God has called me to be.

Imagine standing outside Jesus' tomb with Mary Magdalene. Pray and ask the Holy Spirit to help you experience the moment afresh. Don't rush it. Bring the bad news. Feel the widening, gaping hole of loss in your heart. Allow hot tears to sting your eyes and wet your clothes. Fall to your knees and cry out. And then, just when the moment is right, look into the tomb itself.

Where did the angels come from? They weren't there before. The angels inquire, "Why are you crying?" What has been taken away? Look around you. Grief has blinded you to a greater reality. Often we cannot see something when its standing right before our very eyes. But then we listen for the name. Of course we know him but we don't understand. How can someone who was dead be alive? But then a warning. Don't hold on. Don't cling.

Jesus had previously called his followers 'fishers of men,' 'servants,' and 'friends.' But, now feel the power of the revelation: "Go and say to my brothers, I am going to my father and your father, to my God and your God." A new relationship has sprung from what was once dead. You will be called sons and daughters of God our Father in heaven. You can experience the relationship that had previously been exclusively meant for one. But now, it is meant for all who believe.

Share the good news with someone standing outside the tomb. Tell them: Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures, he was buried, he was raised on the third day and he appeared to Peter and the twelve. He also appeared to many faithful witnesses--even me.

"Mary Magdalene went to the disciples with the news: 'I have seen the Lord!' And she told them that he had said these things to her."  -John 20:18 NIV

Wedding Pressure

Have you ever heard that your wedding day is supposed to be the happiest day of your life? I sometimes wonder who placed such enormous pressure on this one day. I think it has more to do with impressing people than predicting the longevity of a marriage or the happiness factor of the couple. Weddings are big business in America. Have you ever wondered what an average wedding costs these days? I thought you might be interested. You can find the most recent results of the Real Wedding Study here.

We try to present our very best on our wedding day. Perfection can be the rule of the day. Couples will sometimes diet and exercise for months just to appear perfect and fit into perfectly fitted dresses and tuxedoes. Photographers flutter nervously trying to capture the perfect moment. They snap photos at a paparazzi-like pace just to capture the magic of the day. The wedding ceremony is steeped in ritual and tradition. There is often a lavish banquet that follows. Then the couple is to live out their hopeful proclamation of the perfect marriage as a result of their perfect wedding day.

John's gospel includes a story about a wedding at Cana. Jesus attended with some of his disciples and his mother. This is one of two occasions we encounter Jesus' mother. The other being at the foot of the cross. A social disaster took place. Something was not perfect. There was no more wine. The family would have to endure the guilt and shame of not meeting the standards of perfection. However, Jesus responded to their need in an unexpected way.

The wedding banquet is a familiar biblical image which represents the ultimate union of heaven and earth. It's a foreshadowing of what is to come for the consummation of God and his people. The water jars used for Jewish purification were filled with new wine. This transformation was a sign that God was about to do something new through the Jewish system. God would bring purification to Israel in a whole new way. The new wine has special significance for those outside Israel, too. Jesus provided an internal cleansing the Jewish purification ritual could never provide. But, the new wine came at a significant cost. Jesus responded to our need in an unexpected way. He incurred the cost of our disaster. But, his provision would cost him his life. His blood is our new wine. We receive an invitation to the ultimate wedding feast because of what Jesus did instead of bearing the judgment of our imperfection ourselves. God invites us to attend the feast! Drink the new wine! Share in the joyful celebration!

Then he called the bridegroom aside and said, "Everyone brings out the choice wine first and then the cheaper wine after the guests have had too much to drink; but you have saved the best til now." John 2:9b-10 NIV

-Pastor Jen

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Jesus Doesn't Weep Ordinary Tears

I am astonished at how quickly my belief turns into doubt! One minute I can praise God for all the great and amazing things he's done in my life and the next minute I can be devastated by events that cause me to doubt his very existence. I may try to cover my unbelief with a fig leaf by justifying the situation by saying God isn't finished with me or my situation yet. I can even invent a new platitude or cliché about why things don't work out the way I planned. Quite frankly, if I were God, I would be frustrated with me, too.

What if this is exactly what Mary and Martha faced when their brother Lazarus died? Chapter eleven of John's gospel tells us about a mind-blowing story of God's glory and power. But, not in the way anyone had expected. Mary, Martha and Lazarus were like family to Jesus. Scripture tells us Jesus loved them. They shared an intimacy with Jesus few others shared. Imagine your family was the family Jesus chose to hang out with on the weekends or just hours before he was arrested!  

Lazarus gets sick and eventually dies. Death was devastating news to the family and the community. The sisters sent word to Jesus.  But, Jesus did not immediately rush to the situation like a well-trained EMT driving a spiritual ambulance. God was up to something far greater than curing a sick brother. Jesus was about to deal with their unbelief. How could someone who had first-hand knowledge of Jesus was ever doubt him or his power? Clearly, Mary and Martha did. Could it be they represent the rest of us?

Some Christ followers will agree with Martha's belief about the resurrection. She believed in the resurrection as a promise for the last days in some distant miraculous future. She certainly didn't believe that Lazarus could be raised from the dead in this life. Other Christ followers will align with Mary's belief about Jesus' power to prevent death all together.  Neither belief is sufficient in this case. Suddenly the shortest verse in the Bible leaps off the page. "Jesus wept."

Jesus doesn't weep ordinary tears. The Greek translation of this passage says, "Jesus snorted with anger." Could it be that the Son of God was frustrated with the unbelief of those closest to him? God's power and glory were revealed as Lazarus stepped away from the tomb. Revelation is God's primary tool to teach us who he is and what he is capable of in any situation - even death. Why doesn't Jesus just show up and stop it all? Because Jesus didn't come to bring judgment. He came to bear the judgment we deserve. The only way Jesus could have interrupted the course of sin and death was to go the cross, die our death and bear the judgment we deserve. Maybe the only prayer I need to pray today is "Lord, help my unbelief."

"Jesus said to her, 'I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live even though he dies; and whoever lives and believes in me will never die. Do you believe this?'" John 11:25-26 NIV

-Pastor Jen

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Let's Give Up Judgement For Lent

It happens faster than I realize. A split second is all it takes to make one. It can ruin a developing relationship, quench a lifelong desire and drive an isolated and lonely soul further into the abyss. Judgment. We all make judgements. But this Lenten season, I want to do something radical or out-of-the-box. I want to give up judgment for Lent.

Personal history influences my judgment in complicated ways. Certain prejudices were part of my family of origin. I learned to laugh at certain jokes or make dismissive decisions about people who were different than me. It is so tempting to reject someone based on their beliefs, appearance, social status or physical abilities. What's so astonishing is how quickly I disregard someone or something based on my own assumptions. That's why I think God wanted me to do something about it.

For the next forty days, I want to learn how to stop my automatic judgment response and replace it with something God-honoring, like grace. All too often, I find myself sizing someone up far too quickly. The human mind is a very complex system that I know very little about. It connects memories, emotions and physiological responses that very intelligent people devote their entire careers trying to comprehend. What  I do know is the damage I can inflict on myself and others when I make a misguided judgment.

While we're being honest with each other, here's another confession. I can be harder on myself than I need to be. I can be my own worst critic. I tend to judge myself on my performance not who I am in Christ. I need to stop judging myself by some ridiculous perfectionist standard that I have in my mind. Because I can be far more grace-filled with others than I am with myself.

So, I challenge you to join me during the forty days of Lent as I learn how I can give up judgment. Maybe we can all take Jesus' words to heart and further his kingdom not only in our world but within our own heart.

“Do not judge so that you will not be judged. For in the way you judge, you will be judged; and by your standard of measure, it will be measured to you." Matthew 7:1-2 NASB

-Pastor Jen

Giving By Faith

The Bible has a lot to say about faith. It's kind of a big deal. But, maybe you're like me and wonder from time to time what exactly faith means. Is it a noun, verb or adjective? Is faith catchy like the flu and can I spread it to others? I've often wondered if God can give me faith or if it's something I can produce on my own. There have been times during my own faith-journey when I've learned to relinquish my own rebellious attitude and I choose to surrender to faith itself because it feels like faith is a complex combination of it all.

The writer of Hebrews defines faith this way: "Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see." (Hebrews 11:1 NIV) During my lifetime, I have learned to question myself when it comes to my emotions, feelings and previously held convictions because they often get me into trouble and get in the way of making good decisions. I have been 'sure and certain' of a lot of things in my life only to get burned in the end. Maybe faith is not contingent on my past experiences but focuses solely on my future. Could I have faith in God that allows me to be open to future positive outcomes and is not tied to negative events or activities of my past?

This weekend we will hear the final message of our generosity series 24/7/365. We will celebrate our faith as we make commitments to God about our financial giving. Each of us will have an opportunity to fill out a card with an amount on it that represents what we will give in the future to Wheatland and the vast mission and ministries we lead.

I pray you will discover the great faith stories written down for us to explore in Hebrews 11. The people mentioned in this chapter of the Bible are considered biblical heavyweights with good reason. They were commended for their faith. They believed that God would prepare and deliver a better future for them. None of them received what had been promised. You and I can receive what was promised to them through our faith in Jesus Christ. What better future can any of us dream or imagine that God hasn't already placed in the hearts of those who believe? Come and see what The Lord has done and what he will do by faith. Magnificent. Beautiful. Faithful. God.

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By Faith, Who Might We Become

Abraham is one of the most influential men of the bible. His story begins in Genesis 12 but his impact will continue forever. He was originally known as Abram, a man who stepped out from the shadows of obscurity and into the spot light of the world stage. By faith, Abram would become Abraham. He fulfilled many leading rolls such as son, uncle, husband and father. Generations of three major religious faiths of Judaism, Christianity and Islam regard him a leader and religious source forever. His faith and righteousness became the biblical benchmark as indicators for a true relationship with El Elyon, the Most High God.

Many of the Bible's overarching themes are generated from Abram's story. Biblical themes such as God calling humans to follow his way of life, to separate themselves from familiar culture, to live a life of holiness, and to encourage others to live a God-honoring life are lodged in his house of blessing. God says 'do this' and you will be blessed. God promised not only to bless Abram but to create a nation from him that would be a blessing. Abram did become wealthy and blessed. However, his nephew, Lot, separated and moved to the plain of Jordan near Sodom. He settled among the wicked and great sinners. An international war broke out that included allied kingdoms of the east and north, Lot was taken captive and removed as far north as Damascus.

When Abram heard Lot had been taken captive, he mustered up a small force to rescue his nephew. Upon returning from his successful rescue mission, Abram encountered two kings in the Valley of Shaveh: the king of Sodom and king Melchizedek, the king of Salem. Melchizedek brought out bread and wine, he was also a priest of El Elyon, the Most High God. He blessed Abram. Abram responded by giving Melchizedek a tenth of everything. (Genesis 14:17-20) Melchizedek is often interpreted as a prototype to the Davidic monarchs and represents the future King of Israel. Melchizedek, whose name is 'My King of Righteousness,' also represents a superior priesthood to which Jesus Christ belongs. (Hebrews 7:1-19)

All this is pretty heady stuff. Abram's ordinal rescue mission could be interpreted as the blueprint for our ultimate salvation. Humanity separated and moved away from God toward wickedness and great sin. We were taken captive and removed from God. For us and our salvation, Jesus Christ led the ultimate rescue mission. Bread and wine are shared at a table where we remember all that Christ accomplished for us. Jesus fulfills both roles as our High priest who blesses us and our Deliverer from our enemy. Could we be like Abram in response to the blessing of salvation and give God a tenth of everything? By faith, Abram became Abraham-the friend of God. By faith, who might we become?

"Then Melchizedek king of Salem brought out bread and wine. He was priest of God Most High, and he blessed Abram, saying, 'Blessed be Abram by God Most High, Creator of heaven and earth. And praise be to God Most High, who delivered your enemies into your hand.' Then Abram gave him a tenth of everything." Genesis 14:18-20 NIV

-Pastor Jen

Zacchaeus Was A [wee little] Generous Man

Zacchaeus is a popular guy in Christian Children's literature. Songs are written about him. His image appears in coloring books, on flannel boards during Sunday school lessons, and he's been portrayed by bathrobe wearing-dishtowel covered dads. Zacchaeus climbed the Sycamore tree to see Jesus. Many went to great lengths to see Jesus during his ministry. But Zacchaeus was blessed to receive Jesus into his own home and finds something far more valuable than power, authority or possessions at dinner.

Zacchaeus was a chief tax collector. Not only did he make money legitimately by collecting taxes for the Imperial Roman government, but he most likely made money from other tax collectors who worked for him in the region of Jericho. He lived in an extravagant home, ate lavish food and dressed in fine clothing. Everyone knew their tax money went into Zacchaeus' pockets and there was nothing they could do about it. Sometimes we can identify with the people of Jericho. Maybe we're stuck in a situation that seems hopeless. That is until Jesus comes to town.

Jesus had a reputation for hanging around tax-collectors. He even included Levi as one of the 12 disciples. Once again, Jesus relaxes among the wrong people and the crowd outside grumbled about it. Zacchaeus was a public official who had a change of heart. In Judaism, repentance involved restoration and making amends. Zacchaeus was a lavish guy. He was determined to make a public declaration of his inward transformation. Zacchaeus diminished his own cash reserves by half and promise to give back four times the amount he extorted.

Jesus responded to Zacchaeus' extravagant repentance by including him with the true family of Abraham. We can only imagine how this enraged the religious officials who believed they were the rightful descendents of Abraham. Zacchaeus doesn't follow Jesus. He stays in Jericho to live out a new life and re-establish himself as part of the renewed and restored People of God. Zacchaeus did nothing to deserve the lavish gift Jesus offered him. He simply accepted it and decided to live differently from then on.

I found a video from the Skit Guys that may help describe what happened in Zacchaeus' life. My prayer is that you can experience the same thing in your life. Watch here.

 "Jesus said to him, 'Today salvation has come to this house, because this man, too, is a son of Abraham. For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.'"Luke 19:9-10 NIV

-Pastor Jen

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Every Day Generosity

Generosity. Wikipedia defines it as the habit of giving without expecting anything in return. It can involve offering time, assets or talents to aid someone in need. Often equated with charity as a virtue, generosity is widely accepted in society as a desirable trait. Generosity for the Christ-follower is a way of life. It is directly related to our maturity and timing in faith.

Every moment of every day God gives us the privilege of partnering with him to accomplish Kingdom-sized goals. We bring honor and glory to God when we act according to his direction and work toward realizing the kingdom of God here on earth as it is in heaven. Wheatland does amazing work in our communities and across the globe. We believe to our core that by being a connected, devoted, generous follower of Jesus Christ, we can love God, love others and change the world. This commitment to world changing requires our efforts 24/7/365.

"24/7/365" is the title of our next series which focuses on our generous response to what God is doing in our lives. The series will focus on four different types of givers: a widow who captured Jesus' attention by giving from her poverty, Zacchaeus who was so utterly transformed by Jesus he put all his cards on the table and went "all in," Abraham who set up the tithe as a blessing not a duty and the ultimate giver who gives by faith.

Each week we will examine the biblical story and discover which type of giver describes us as individual givers. We will also share personal stories about times when generosity effected us. Celebration Sunday is the final Sunday and our opportunity to make a pledge to God and confirm our participation in the church that is active 24/7/365. The church is eternal. It's is God's big idea to bring hope to a lost and broken world. It will be an awesome time of learning, challenge and commitment.

"The fundamental fact of existence is that this trust in God, this faith, is the firm foundation under everything that makes life worth living. It’s our handle on what we can’t see. The act of faith is what distinguished our ancestors, set them above the crowd." Hebrews 11:1-2 (The Message)

-Pastor Jen

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The Most Excellent Thoughts

Maybe you've read or heard the quote, "An idle brain is the devil's workshop." This quote has been around a long time. It comes from H.G. Bohn's A Handbook of Proverbs, published in 1855. Often, the word "brain" is substituted by the word "mind" and "workshop" is sometimes changed to "playground" in the modern daily use of the expression. Its meaning is, simply put, if a mind is not kept busy with good things, wicked or evil thoughts and ideas are likely to enter.

So what has filled your mind? Consider all the experiences, images, songs, words and phrases, thoughts, memories, prayers, and other stuff that has been absorbed or dumped into your mind. Our quick fix is to ask God to erase all the bad stuff and allow only the good stuff to remain. But, that doesn't work. It seems like the bad stuff comes to mind far too often and quickly. It's so tempting to get weighed down, feel guilty or get mired in past failures and mistakes. The Apostle Paul suggests a different approach.  

Summing it all up, friends, I’d say you’ll do best by filling your minds and meditating on things true, noble, reputable, authentic, compelling, gracious—the best, not the worst; the beautiful, not the ugly; things to praise, not things to curse. Put into practice what you learned from me, what you heard and saw and realized. Do that, and God, who makes everything work together, will work you into his most excellent harmonies. Philippians 4:8-9 The Message

We wrap up our series this weekend with a challenge to put into practice what we've learned. There are times when we need to press on, endure and persevere even when we're not feeling it. We need other Christ followers who really know us and our story to help us through challenging times. Christians serve and suffer with one another. We live life together because we know our faith will be challenged and we are tempted to do all the wrong things daily. There will be times when we're just not feeling it. We believe a Christian small group is crucial for developing spiritual maturity and can be our only defense against the spiritual forces of darkness that own this world. Imagine the infiltration God's Kingdom not by force but through the gradual transformation of individuals working in groups to change the world. Sounds like God's perfect plan to save the world, doesn't it?

Drudgery

Drudgery. It's the touchstone of our Christian character. Drudgery is removed from the mountain top or the isolated valley. It is far removed from the ideal and surreal. It's the grubby things of our daily life that when we come into contact with them we know we are authentic and spiritually real. It takes the inspiration of God to live out the day to day routine. Some people do a certain thing like drive the kids in carpool or walk away from a juicy piece of office gossip in a way that is utterly transformational. They do a common thing with uncommon grace.

The Lord starts in our drudgery. It may be the most common thing we do, but when we do it with a sense of divine initiative we are transfigured. Imagine the Lord of lords and King of kings becoming human. Read the passages of the gospels and find the ordinary things Jesus does with extraordinary grace. We have a tendency to believe the Christian life is supposed to be lived out in the extremes. But in all honesty, the Christian life is lived with integrity in the drudgery of life - when we're just not feeling it.  I found an inspired cartoon that demonstrates this point in a funny way here.

The Apostle Paul doesn't give an inspiring speech to the Philippians like the blue-faced Mel Gibson in Braveheart or a battle-ready Russel Crow in Gladiator. He simply tells it like it is by saying,

"Not that I've already obtained all this, or have already been made perfect, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead. I press on toward the goal to win the prize  for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus." Philippians 3:12-14 NIV

Blessed self-forgetfulness can be a definition of humility and something we are learning about during this sermons series. We will experience something new this weekend at Wheatland. We are celebrating with our congregation at both sites! Five Preacher Weekend is an opportunity to share the incredible talent we have and give new leaders an opportunity to preach at each location. We will consecrate our Congregational Care Team members and welcome new members into our community. I wouldn't miss this if I were you! See you Sunday.

-Pastor Jen

The Most Christ-like Followers Die On A Daily Basis

There's nothing quite like the first days. The first days of a new job or relationship captivate us with anticipation and excitement. We rise with the dawn and cannot wait to get to work! We constantly check our phone for any hint of communication from our new person of interest. Our expectations skyrocket. Creativity seems to ooze from the very fiber of our being! We over look little things that normally drive us crazy. We ride the intense whitewater of our emotional rapids that carries us into a what we may begin to believe is a whole new way of being!

And then it happens. Reality.

The first days reflect a lot about us. The white knuckle ride through the first days reflects a lot about our character and what may be guiding us or missing in our lives. Someone or something fills a void in us. Sometimes we didn't know it was there. The initial burst of emotions from first days can be exhilarating but it can take a huge emotional toll on people we care about unless we develop a Christ-like character and think about the long-term effects of our actions.

I hope you check out the second chapter of Philippians this week. I am sure it sounded as radical to them as it does to us today. Paul challenged the Christians of Philippi to look not to their own interests but to the interests of others. In other words, put your interests aside and think before you act. He reminds them of Jesus who didn't take being God for granted but humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death - even death on a cross!

 And there it is. Reality.

The most incredible Christ-like followers I know die on a daily basis. They reflect the character of Jesus. They are humble and obedient. They make the hearts and minds of others a priority. They recognize their own selfish desires that often parade as needs. It takes incredible self-control to step back, make a personal assessment in any situation and die to personal interests. Philippians chapter two helps us understand why the name of Jesus is above every name and why every knee shall bow. I challenge you to check it out.

-Pastor Jen

"Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others." Philippians 2:4 ESV

It's Normal To Feel Spiritually Disconnected

The holidays are over. Maybe you made a resolution to get into shape, go gluten-free, reduce your debt load or get back to church. All of these are excellent areas of focus for 2014. But, secretly have you wondered why you may be tempted to wander away from church or give up on your relationship with Jesus altogether? Did the good feelings of connection you once had fade with time? Has reading your Bible become dull? Is your prayer life reduced to simply going through the motions?

Almost everyone I know has experienced a disconnect from church, the Bible, prayer and even Jesus at some point of their spiritual journey. If you haven't felt it yet, trust me, be prepared to experience a spiritual separation at some point during your faith walk. I found an interesting post I think may be helpful here.

Maybe you've thought about ending your relationship with Jesus. You are not alone. Throughout our next Sunday morning series we will explore some of the reasons Christ followers may experience a faith disconnect.  You've probably heard the popular phrase, "I'm just not feeling it." This phrase happens to be our series title and one of the most popular break-up lines used when ending a relationship. It's like saying, "it's not you, it's me" or "we're just growing apart" or "we're just different people today than we were back then."

One sure-fire remedy to the spiritual disconnect is being connected to a trusted group of dedicated Christ followers. The New Testament is full of great stories about how regular people develop a long-lasting relationship with Jesus. The Apostle Paul wrote a letter to a small group of Christians in Philippi. The letter, also called an epistle, includes four chapters we will study together. We're even going to challenge you to memorize Philippians 3:12 and add it to your spiritual repertoire! Faith in Jesus lived out in community becomes a powerful catalyst to experiencing God in our everyday lives. Check out what small groups are currently available or connect with other people and create your very own group. You could be a vehicle of eternal hope and reconciliation Jesus works through to change the world!

Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. Philippians 3:12 NIV

-Pastor Jen

Two Kingdoms Collide in Cosmic Wonder

The world waited impatiently for news of his birth as 25,000 well-wishers gathered in the streets in front of St. Mary's hospital in Paddington, England. On July 22, 2013 at 4:24 p.m. social media sites lit up with the news. A royal baby boy was born to the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge. A gold and wooden easel was publicly displayed on the steps of Buckingham Palace announcing news shortly after the future king arrived. You can watch the official birth announcement here.

British news agencies reported some surprising economics around the birth. Great Britain would enjoy an estimated $376 million boost to their economy. The British people would spend more than $134 million celebrating the birth of His Royal Highness, Prince George Alexander Louis. $123 million was spent on souvenirs and commemorative items and $117 million spent on royal baby-related books, newspapers and DVDs. The royal baby's estimated inheritance is $1 billion.

In those days, Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. Everyone traveled to their own town to register. So Joseph went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of King David. He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child. While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them.

Shepherds received the birth announcement from an angel. A great company of heavenly host suddenly appeared, praising God. The shepherds rushed to Bethlehem. They found Mary, Joseph and the baby. The shepherds spread the news and all who heard it were amazed at what they heard. On the eighth day, at his circumcision, the baby was named Jesus. (selections from Luke 2)

Two kingdoms collide in cosmic wonder. Isaiah prophesied God would create a new heaven and new earth. The book of Revelation describes the consummation in which Isaiah's vision is fulfilled. Creation is renewed, death and suffering are eliminated and God dwells with humanity. This new birth initiates a new creation, new community and a new identity. The kingdom of God is come with a new language to explain what God has done to unite humanity into a single people who worship him. A new creation community is brought into existence revealing the Kingdom of God.

For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith-and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God-not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God's handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.  -Ephesians 2:8-10 NIV

-Pastor Jen

Humility Leads To Change

Humility. It's the one characteristic that is essential to living the Christ-honoring life. Opportunities to reveal our Christ-like character are presented daily. How we respond to situations reveals much about us. Sometimes we evaluate ourselves and assume we're further along the spiritual journey toward maturity. We may feel like a mature follower of Christ but our actions can speak louder than words.

We may have a sudden outburst that deeply wounds a trusted friend or loved one or we act on a temptation that has been plaguing us for months. Inconsistency in our behavior makes it difficult for others to trust us. There are crucial moments in all of our lives when we must humble ourselves, apologize for our behavior, ask for forgiveness and change direction. The bible calls this repentance. The Apostle Paul poignantly identifies the difference between the repentant God-honoring life and a life that is full of spiritual ambiguity by saying, "Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret, but worldly sorrow brings death." 2 Corinthians 7:10 NIV

King Josiah was the great grandson of King Hezekiah. It was reported that Josiah's father, Amon, was the most sinful of all the wicked kings of Judah. He was assassinated in his palace by a band of conspirators composed of his own servants two years after inheriting the throne. The people avenged his death by slaying the conspirators and putting the king's son, Josiah, on the throne at age eight. Amon declared publicly he could live the wicked godless life and repent like his father Manasseh on his deathbed. Amon never had the chance to repent. You can read more about the depravity and succession of this family of kings here.

Repentance plays a crucial role in the God-honoring life not only for individuals but for nations as well. God responds to our humbled heart. The birth of Jesus was preceded by the birth of John the Baptist whose message of repentance prepared the way for coming King of Kings to enter our world. Humility comes before repentance like pride before a fall. The familiar figurines of the Nativity are often formed kneeling at the side of the baby in the manger. Like them, may we humble ourselves, repent and kneel at the side of his manger as we find our way to the Christ child this year.

Tell the king of Judah, who sent you to inquire of the Lord, ‘This is what the Lord, the God of Israel, says concerning the words you heard: 19 Because your heart was responsive and you humbled yourself before the Lord when you heard what I have spoken against this place and its people—that they would become a curse[b] and be laid waste—and because you tore your robes and wept in my presence, I also have heard you, declares the Lord. 2 Kings 22:18-19 NIV

-Pastor Jen

Doing Things Right Vs. Doing The Right Thing

Who comes to mind when you think of great leaders? What criteria do you use to measure them? Can you identify the different qualities of a great manager or a great leader? Twentieth century management guru, Peter Drucker, famously stated that "management is doing things right; leadership is doing the right things."

Doing things right has its own reward. Sometimes, immediate feedback tells us whether or not things are going well. If our implementation or delivery systems are broken we can tweak something and make a change here or there. We can ‘fix’ the problem. Many people settle into predictable ‘fix-it’ management patterns rather than try to create something new. Leadership challenges us to ask if we’re doing the right things. Leadership can be awkward and stressful often because it sails us into unchartered waters and we arrive at destinations where we’ve never been.

As the twelfth king of Judah, Hezekiah chose to do the right thing. He was an extraordinary leader and a source of comfort for God’s people during the reign of his godless father Ahaz. The prophets who had condemned Ahaz and his clique of notables pointed to Hezekiah as the savior of the people and of God’s religion, at a time when Judea had sunk to the bottom of political and spiritual depravity. If you want to know more about Hezekiah, check this out (http://www.chabad.org/library/article_cdo/aid/464023/jewish/King-Hezekiah.htm)

Hezekiah did all he could to restore pure worship of God and organize the nation according to God’s law. Hezekiah was a great leader. Leaders ask tough questions. They challenge status quo and try to discern if the right things are being accomplished. Take some time to explore whether you are doing the right things. When we allow God to be the king of our heart, he redeems our life and restores our sense of closeness to him.

Hezekiah trusted in the LORD, the God of Israel. There was no one like him among all the kings of Judah, either before or after him. 2 Kings 18:5 NIV