I dont have any idea how long its been since my last blog post. Its just been nuts but I am making some time to write today and I know I will feel better afterwards. That sounds ODD doesnt it but for me, I get things built up on me and in my heart and this is a way for me to avenue my energy into a focused point - maybe this helps someone maybe not. I pray it does bring some clarity or some encouragement to someone out there.
This past few weeks have been extremely busy. Working on messages for the Flood student ministry at church as well as planning for Sunday service, Wed night LOL service, Friday mornings at YCI - it has been busy and keeping fresh and in tune with what God is wanting to say through these avenues to these students but also staying fresh and learning in my own spirit - there doesnt seem to be enough energy to go around. I know a few times last week, after the gym in the evening God gave me some things in the book of Psalms to calm me and focus me and encourage me. I have been training for a 5K which is through the YMCA that a few students have challenged me on and I plan on running it under 35 minutes - at least that is my goal. So I have been up at 5:17 and hitting the treadmill at the gym. There is a different kind of gym rats that early in the morning and even though its hard to get up, my legs HURT - I am enjoying it and finding myself with a little more energy during the day. I do have to go to my Happy Place at Starbucks in the afternoon with Holly, Lori, Matthew or miss Abby - they are such great kids and I fully enjoy their stories and talk through their struggles in life.
The past couple of Mondays, I have really missed my down time. After a full Sunday being around people, pouring myself into the students in the Flood and teaching, then leading in Rock Group Sunday night - I am pretty spent on Mondays. I have done a good job up until now to take Monday off from appointments and ministry type service with students or meeting with parents - I need that down time. I need my family time and its not fair sometimes to be at a place where I am that tired that I cannot give totally to them either. Lots of Monday evenings, I catch up on my reading, study a little for something I need to know more of that is coming up, put the TV on and laugh at a show that is on.... Its also a time during work if I have time to really think about the day before. Did I do ok? Did the students get my message? What could we/I have done better or differently, Did I forget to say hi to the new students, did I make a good impact by saying what I said, did I encourage anyone? Was I available to talk through a tough place with that student who seemed off and out of norm.... thousands of questions run through my mind - all the while trying to be in a place where I too am being fed through the early service. What is God wanting me to learn, to know and to do...... At times its easy to just stand in place and feel overwhelmed. Especially when your close students dont appear to be engaged, dont come, sit in the service, make rude comments, distract everyone around them and who knows what else..... but the focus I have to remain on is that Jesus is in their heart and He is doing something in them even when it appears nothing is happening on the outside. I know they love Christ, they respect and maybe love me as well and there are seasons of time where they will seem to be distant and not plugged in - Lord help me focus on the new people trying to get plugged in who need and are eager and want to walk a few steps with me. Get to know me a little better so that they can feel at home and comfortable and able to really open up their hearts to you. I have to keep the big picture in place even when one or two really are weighing me down.
This coming Thursday evening Carol and I are headed to south Charlotte for date night. We will get something to eat and then head over to a movie preview that will premier in Sept - it should be a great movie and I even plan on taking some notes during the movie. I am really excited to be hanging out with Carol and enjoying some time together.
I am reading 2 books right now- "Your first two years in youth ministry" and "Sun Stand Still" for the second time as my small group is reading it together and I am just busting at the seems with stuff. Stuff that honestly, I am having trouble just putting sentences together LOL :)
So for today - as I put my ipod back in my ears and rejoice in the focus that God is great and God is Good - that is reason enough to celebrate and push through. Praying I can push through in my 5k training. Im hurting here and I know that its in me ... Just as God is in me to do what He has called me to do. Just got to push through that barrier ... showing the love of Christ to those around me, willing to stick with me, - Lord help me be more open, help me give more and expect less.
Sorry this is not that deep today and not that impressing but its heart level and sometimes thats good too.
Peace,
Lonnie~
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
Its been a busy day here at the office. Not much sleep last night with turning and tossing as I sometimes do when I have a lot on my mind but hitting the gym this morning at 5:30 and seeing some friends who were once close to me and walking faith with me - well kinda left me empty to be honest. I mean I was there for the right reasons and all as I am getting ready to run a 5k in mid April and I dont want a few of my students to really leave me watching their backs in the distance. So I am training and getting motivated. I think with my business and schedule these past few weeks, I have to do a better job of not only training and strengthening my heart through Gods word, but I have to be training physically as well. I know I will feel better once my mind tells my body to get over it and push through.
I can say though that when I need an encouraging word, God provides it for me as I seek him when I am troubled. Once came last night as I walked out the door of Y and in these little folded pieces of paper with scripture written on them, almost like a fortune cookie without the fat, calories and lottery #'s - was this: Psalm 61:1 - My soul finds rest in God alone.
This morning before it was even light out, I got to the office and checked my facebook account and my friend that I saw this morning had already posted on my wall. It was good seeing you this morning and its exciting to see what God is putting in front of you. He is using you in amazing ways! Keep it up, you might be the only way for those kids to see the light of their real daddy.
Its good to have a person to encourage you at times. Though I think I am overboard at times with some folks - I just have a hard time with constant negativity and looking as though its all going to crash and burn at any minute. It may, but atleast you did trying - now learn from it and clean the dust off your feet and get moving again. So hey - you spend any amount of time with me - I am going to encourage your face off so just deal with it. Its up to you what you do with it.
This brings me to the place I am at today.
I am not some brilliant guy in leading people. I just love God and give those around me the excess of what God is pouring into me. I wish I knew how to do that better but I am learning as its always a next step. First my faith and then pour out into the person next to you. If that happens to be 50 students or whatever - then so be it. God through his love and my expreriences in life have brought me to this place. I am thankful for this ministry because ministry is a gift from God. That hurt in your heart for the students and families in your life and in your small group and youth group and church are there because God put that gift in you. Accept it, deal with it, embrace it and though it may be challenging at times, down right fearful at times, and painful at times - there is joy in there if you dont let it slip through your fingers.
I want more than anything for the grace and love that Christ has given me to show the students and the folks in my life around me that love - that love and deep care that Christ has for them. I want to help them enable their faith, to trust in their faith and build their lives around that faith that comes only from Christ. Imagine a student right now building that foundation in their life when they are 13. Imagine what Christ could do by using that student... nothing would be impossible. They would be contagious in so many ways.
I want to share a few things about that - as I have had some students in my life who have walked pretty close with me over the years. Some have this vision already because it is showing up in their lives in every aspect but some have yet to get there.
I do my best to speak vision and possibility into their lives. Give them a chance to own their faith and lead others around them. Help them see that God is there if they are looking for him. You cannot find what you are not looking for. I share that all the time with them. Build them up and encourage them to be the person and leaders that God has created them to be!
1. They show themselves that they are trustworthy. Students who want leadership are the ones that show they can handle the small things and ask for the bigger things. They are the ones who are serving, work hard in school and take ministry personal. You can depend on them. Ask them to pray for you and they do it. They ask why you didnt call me before school and pray for my day when you miss a day. They are eager and focused and ask for next steps.
2. I get to spend quality time with these students because of their eagerness to lead and step up. Student ministry or any ministry really is all about relationships. Without it, you cannot grow, be challenged, be held accountable and continue moving forward without good solid foundational people around you. You have to share the same vision and be going in the right direction. While spending time together, I get to hear their heart, their focus, dedication, determination, their hurts and difficult places in life, their families as well as what God is doing in them and what He is placing on their hearts. Does a student serve a meal to the homeless shelter see the lady behind the tray with compassion, a broken heart or do they see that person as ordering their food being short with them, snotty maybe with an attitude and not saying thank you?
3. Pray together and let God do what he does. He will open the doors and leadership ministry will take shape because of the vision placed on the hearts of all those involved.
How will they learn if not given the opportunity? How will they learn if they dont fail from time to time? We learn more in failing than we do in winning - so its important to keep the compassion and grace card open and ready to use so that when we do fail...I said we because thats me also, when we do fail we can get back up and get right on moving again. I can remember a few years back teaching Kyle to ride his bike. I ran all over the place up and down the road holding on to him and he not wanting me to let go - as he was afraid of falling. I was tired and worn out. I couldnt take another step. I showed him how to kick off and get going and then peddling the bike - focused on me ahead of him .... he knew I was there to catch him even though I didnt have a hold of him. Sometimes we got to let go of the grip, keep a little distance, give some freedom and while keeping them focused. Kyle road that day and smiled because dad was there and he did it by himself.
Its such a joy seeing a student share their love for Christ with others. When they take their hearts into their schools and classrooms and into their friends. We all need more of these types of leaders in our lives. They refreshen me and encourage me more than I encourage them sometimes.
Peace out,
Lonnie~
I can say though that when I need an encouraging word, God provides it for me as I seek him when I am troubled. Once came last night as I walked out the door of Y and in these little folded pieces of paper with scripture written on them, almost like a fortune cookie without the fat, calories and lottery #'s - was this: Psalm 61:1 - My soul finds rest in God alone.
This morning before it was even light out, I got to the office and checked my facebook account and my friend that I saw this morning had already posted on my wall. It was good seeing you this morning and its exciting to see what God is putting in front of you. He is using you in amazing ways! Keep it up, you might be the only way for those kids to see the light of their real daddy.
Its good to have a person to encourage you at times. Though I think I am overboard at times with some folks - I just have a hard time with constant negativity and looking as though its all going to crash and burn at any minute. It may, but atleast you did trying - now learn from it and clean the dust off your feet and get moving again. So hey - you spend any amount of time with me - I am going to encourage your face off so just deal with it. Its up to you what you do with it.
This brings me to the place I am at today.
I am not some brilliant guy in leading people. I just love God and give those around me the excess of what God is pouring into me. I wish I knew how to do that better but I am learning as its always a next step. First my faith and then pour out into the person next to you. If that happens to be 50 students or whatever - then so be it. God through his love and my expreriences in life have brought me to this place. I am thankful for this ministry because ministry is a gift from God. That hurt in your heart for the students and families in your life and in your small group and youth group and church are there because God put that gift in you. Accept it, deal with it, embrace it and though it may be challenging at times, down right fearful at times, and painful at times - there is joy in there if you dont let it slip through your fingers.
I want more than anything for the grace and love that Christ has given me to show the students and the folks in my life around me that love - that love and deep care that Christ has for them. I want to help them enable their faith, to trust in their faith and build their lives around that faith that comes only from Christ. Imagine a student right now building that foundation in their life when they are 13. Imagine what Christ could do by using that student... nothing would be impossible. They would be contagious in so many ways.
I want to share a few things about that - as I have had some students in my life who have walked pretty close with me over the years. Some have this vision already because it is showing up in their lives in every aspect but some have yet to get there.
I do my best to speak vision and possibility into their lives. Give them a chance to own their faith and lead others around them. Help them see that God is there if they are looking for him. You cannot find what you are not looking for. I share that all the time with them. Build them up and encourage them to be the person and leaders that God has created them to be!
1. They show themselves that they are trustworthy. Students who want leadership are the ones that show they can handle the small things and ask for the bigger things. They are the ones who are serving, work hard in school and take ministry personal. You can depend on them. Ask them to pray for you and they do it. They ask why you didnt call me before school and pray for my day when you miss a day. They are eager and focused and ask for next steps.
2. I get to spend quality time with these students because of their eagerness to lead and step up. Student ministry or any ministry really is all about relationships. Without it, you cannot grow, be challenged, be held accountable and continue moving forward without good solid foundational people around you. You have to share the same vision and be going in the right direction. While spending time together, I get to hear their heart, their focus, dedication, determination, their hurts and difficult places in life, their families as well as what God is doing in them and what He is placing on their hearts. Does a student serve a meal to the homeless shelter see the lady behind the tray with compassion, a broken heart or do they see that person as ordering their food being short with them, snotty maybe with an attitude and not saying thank you?
3. Pray together and let God do what he does. He will open the doors and leadership ministry will take shape because of the vision placed on the hearts of all those involved.
How will they learn if not given the opportunity? How will they learn if they dont fail from time to time? We learn more in failing than we do in winning - so its important to keep the compassion and grace card open and ready to use so that when we do fail...I said we because thats me also, when we do fail we can get back up and get right on moving again. I can remember a few years back teaching Kyle to ride his bike. I ran all over the place up and down the road holding on to him and he not wanting me to let go - as he was afraid of falling. I was tired and worn out. I couldnt take another step. I showed him how to kick off and get going and then peddling the bike - focused on me ahead of him .... he knew I was there to catch him even though I didnt have a hold of him. Sometimes we got to let go of the grip, keep a little distance, give some freedom and while keeping them focused. Kyle road that day and smiled because dad was there and he did it by himself.
Its such a joy seeing a student share their love for Christ with others. When they take their hearts into their schools and classrooms and into their friends. We all need more of these types of leaders in our lives. They refreshen me and encourage me more than I encourage them sometimes.
Peace out,
Lonnie~
Monday, March 14, 2011
Its been awhile since my last post. The days have been flying by and to be honest here, I really dont like this spring ahead thing with the clocks. Its bad enough we moved a second in time with the earthquake in Japan but an hour? I guess I am getting older and dont recover as well anymore. There is just a ton of stuff going on right now. I have been out in front of the students a lot lately and even though I am loving it... it does wear on a person. Last week teaching at LOL I came home mostly rejected because of the time and energy spent on the message that God placed on me and with the weather bad and not many there - I guess in the small picture it was a failure. In the big picture - it was what God put in place for me. Maybe a test to see if I am faithful with the little crowd, maybe a smaller crowd where something in what I said affected the heart of a student there that needed a smaller setting to really tune into what was said.
I can honestly say that an encouraging word from your spouse can do a heart, soul and mind wonders in just a few seconds. While standing in the shower Wed night, trying to unwind and relax a little as my mind was running a billion miles an hour - Carol came in and spoke to me words that only a loving, caring wife could. It really pulled me into perspective, energizes me and gained me focus right then and there. If her words didnt come at the perfect time - who knows how long I would have been there in that place. I mean its hard to encourage yourself, right? Thats coming from someone who has the gift of encouragement but being human myself, I too get discouraged.
LOL on Friday was amazing - I had a good quick message nugget to speak on and 120 or so students filled the room. There is such an amazing thing that happens when you have the crowd gripped on your every word and action. I have never experienced it before until recently - its addicting in a good way - and one I never would have experienced if God had not been shaping me along the way.
I was always the behind the scene kind of guy serving in the shadows of others - doing the stuff that just seemed to be there when folks showed up. It was in those seasons that God was faithful and kept my eyes on the big picture because he knew what was to come. Faith and life is all about the next steps. I can honestly say, that life is busy. There is not a dull moment anywhere in my day where there is not some kind of ministry taking place. Either reading and learning, talking with someone, praying over something, my alone quiet time with Christ as well as fitting in my marriage and being a dad and having time for my close kids. It even takes time and effort to get some down time - I miss the cabin and my family. I know that preachers and high impact volunteers dont serve week in and week out. We all need down time and fun time and just plain ol hang out time where you build life together in the details.
Mark 12:41-44 is my message today that really speaks to me. I hope it speaks to you as well as you evaluate your place today. If you are thinking something is impossible and that there is no way you could have this thing come to pass. I would say you are not praying big enough. There is more to do IN you before you can go THROUGH it. You may feel you are at the ceiling of this next level you want to get to but you are at a loss and not sure how to proceed. God has those answers and your next steps. What is in your life from keeping you to be ALL IN?
Jesus sat down opposite the place where the offerings were put and watched the crowd putting their money into the temple treasury. Many rich people threw in large amounts. But a poor widow came and put her two very small copper coins, worth only a few cents. Calling his disciples to him, Jesus said, "Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put more into the treasury than all the others. they all gave out of their wealth; but she, out of her poverty, put in everything - all she had to live on."
The last few Sundays, Carol and I have been watching the new show secret millionaire. I love the show because the secret is that the person is a millionaire and even though this person acts like everyone else, they get to know them, they get to know the motives as to why these folks do what they do. They may be serving the homeless or delivering a meal or changing a neighborhood in a city lost in drugs and crime. They pour their hearts into what they believe in often times dont quit and retire or go quietly because they have been doing this for so long - it is WHO THEY ARE. You couldnt make them quit because there would be nothing worth living for. God is the same way and he is working on you through the experiences in your life. He has you by the hand and is not letting you go even though many walk away from Him. The show then takes a turn, a good turn, when the announcement is made that this new person is wealthy and is wanting to give away a check for the cause and purpose that these folks are living for. It really does have an impact on folks. It reminds me of the ladies who serve at the Center of Hope who give up an entire Sunday making food, serving food, talking with other volunteers and speaking encouragement into the hearts of those living there. SO often, that is all these folks need to lift their spirits is an encouraging word.
Jesus knew this widow, who I can can say by looking at a lady yesterday at the shelter, it very well could be her story in life and how she got there - she was quiet, came and spoke softly, ate alone and dragged everything she had in a bag/cart behind her that squeaked. I will think of her from now on when I read this story of the widow who gave everything even when she had very little. She gave it all because her faith and hope needed to be at its highest even when life was at its lowest. I had a handful of students who went with me yesterday and I got a message from their moms last night and one was in tears listening to the stories that her daughter got to experience. She said it was like her being there too and just was so thankful for such a great experience. I love those moments in ministry where the light bulb goes off and a real connection is made. Sometimes it takes a little refocus, maybe it takes a friend to call you out on something and sometimes it might take a step back to get a new perspective.
Its easy to give out of your surplus and when it doesnt hurt much but it takes a LOT to give when you dont have - to give. Thats the part that Christ wants to get across to you. It changes the order of priorities in your life and you being at the top is not the best place to be.
Thats all I have for today......
Lonnie~
I can honestly say that an encouraging word from your spouse can do a heart, soul and mind wonders in just a few seconds. While standing in the shower Wed night, trying to unwind and relax a little as my mind was running a billion miles an hour - Carol came in and spoke to me words that only a loving, caring wife could. It really pulled me into perspective, energizes me and gained me focus right then and there. If her words didnt come at the perfect time - who knows how long I would have been there in that place. I mean its hard to encourage yourself, right? Thats coming from someone who has the gift of encouragement but being human myself, I too get discouraged.
LOL on Friday was amazing - I had a good quick message nugget to speak on and 120 or so students filled the room. There is such an amazing thing that happens when you have the crowd gripped on your every word and action. I have never experienced it before until recently - its addicting in a good way - and one I never would have experienced if God had not been shaping me along the way.
I was always the behind the scene kind of guy serving in the shadows of others - doing the stuff that just seemed to be there when folks showed up. It was in those seasons that God was faithful and kept my eyes on the big picture because he knew what was to come. Faith and life is all about the next steps. I can honestly say, that life is busy. There is not a dull moment anywhere in my day where there is not some kind of ministry taking place. Either reading and learning, talking with someone, praying over something, my alone quiet time with Christ as well as fitting in my marriage and being a dad and having time for my close kids. It even takes time and effort to get some down time - I miss the cabin and my family. I know that preachers and high impact volunteers dont serve week in and week out. We all need down time and fun time and just plain ol hang out time where you build life together in the details.
Mark 12:41-44 is my message today that really speaks to me. I hope it speaks to you as well as you evaluate your place today. If you are thinking something is impossible and that there is no way you could have this thing come to pass. I would say you are not praying big enough. There is more to do IN you before you can go THROUGH it. You may feel you are at the ceiling of this next level you want to get to but you are at a loss and not sure how to proceed. God has those answers and your next steps. What is in your life from keeping you to be ALL IN?
Jesus sat down opposite the place where the offerings were put and watched the crowd putting their money into the temple treasury. Many rich people threw in large amounts. But a poor widow came and put her two very small copper coins, worth only a few cents. Calling his disciples to him, Jesus said, "Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put more into the treasury than all the others. they all gave out of their wealth; but she, out of her poverty, put in everything - all she had to live on."
The last few Sundays, Carol and I have been watching the new show secret millionaire. I love the show because the secret is that the person is a millionaire and even though this person acts like everyone else, they get to know them, they get to know the motives as to why these folks do what they do. They may be serving the homeless or delivering a meal or changing a neighborhood in a city lost in drugs and crime. They pour their hearts into what they believe in often times dont quit and retire or go quietly because they have been doing this for so long - it is WHO THEY ARE. You couldnt make them quit because there would be nothing worth living for. God is the same way and he is working on you through the experiences in your life. He has you by the hand and is not letting you go even though many walk away from Him. The show then takes a turn, a good turn, when the announcement is made that this new person is wealthy and is wanting to give away a check for the cause and purpose that these folks are living for. It really does have an impact on folks. It reminds me of the ladies who serve at the Center of Hope who give up an entire Sunday making food, serving food, talking with other volunteers and speaking encouragement into the hearts of those living there. SO often, that is all these folks need to lift their spirits is an encouraging word.
Jesus knew this widow, who I can can say by looking at a lady yesterday at the shelter, it very well could be her story in life and how she got there - she was quiet, came and spoke softly, ate alone and dragged everything she had in a bag/cart behind her that squeaked. I will think of her from now on when I read this story of the widow who gave everything even when she had very little. She gave it all because her faith and hope needed to be at its highest even when life was at its lowest. I had a handful of students who went with me yesterday and I got a message from their moms last night and one was in tears listening to the stories that her daughter got to experience. She said it was like her being there too and just was so thankful for such a great experience. I love those moments in ministry where the light bulb goes off and a real connection is made. Sometimes it takes a little refocus, maybe it takes a friend to call you out on something and sometimes it might take a step back to get a new perspective.
Its easy to give out of your surplus and when it doesnt hurt much but it takes a LOT to give when you dont have - to give. Thats the part that Christ wants to get across to you. It changes the order of priorities in your life and you being at the top is not the best place to be.
Thats all I have for today......
Lonnie~
Wednesday, March 9, 2011
I want to reflect back on this day going back about 30 years shall we? Ash Wednesday, I am like 14 years old and in the north, you got to come in late for school. Everyone was at the Catholic church for a quick service and the application of you ash on your forehead. If I am being honest here, I can say that I only went because I was not in school and their were girls there. I have never really understood this Ash Wed and its importance until a few years ago. This being the beginning of Lent, which is 40 days leading into the Easter weekend.
The principles of Lent have historical roots from necessity. Way back in the day around this time of year the food stored for the would begin to diminish or spoil basically causing a forced fast or rationing of food. Compassionate landlords and land owners would share their abundance with their tenants and the people in the communities as a sacrificial offering. So in doing so, the entire community would be saved from starvation and God would get the glory.
Today fasting does not only include food like in the good ol days. Today, fasting is done as a break from those things that have your attention or addiction in some cases. Fasting could include food, Facebook, Sweets, Deserts, snacking between meals, watching tv, internet - whatever that connection you have - its a way to break those chains. Today during those times of fasting, a prayer time thanking God for this break and refocus as well as time to refresh your mind, soul, and spirit. I have fasted many times before with going 24 hours without food, no coffee in the afternoons as well as soda for a month.
So in this season of Lent - there is much over the next 40 days to be praying about. Trip to the Bahamas and our mission trip to Jamaica. We are starting a new book in my Life Group - Sun Stand Still - where we will learn together about prayer and not just everyday thank you Lord for the sunshine prayers but I am talking HUGE prayers. Like God, this can't happen without you prayers. Fasting has a way to increase that spiritual part in connecting your heart with Gods.
Everyone wants to be closer to God if you are a follower of Christ. So, today - I am asking that you journey with me in your fast. Fast of whatever it may be that is holding you today for the next 40 days. Use that time when you would normally get that sofa or cup of coffee or cigarette or watching TV or sitting on Facebook - use that time to pray. Thank God for that time together and seek His heart instead of yours.
I hope you take this challenge with me. Jesus taught us to fast and he promises rewards as a result.
Matthew 6:18-21 - So that it will not be obvious to others that you are fasting, but only to your Father, who is unseen; and your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you. "Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where you treasure is, there your heart will be also.
Gods promise - where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
Asking God to have my heart today. Hope you will too.
Peace,
Lonnie~
The principles of Lent have historical roots from necessity. Way back in the day around this time of year the food stored for the would begin to diminish or spoil basically causing a forced fast or rationing of food. Compassionate landlords and land owners would share their abundance with their tenants and the people in the communities as a sacrificial offering. So in doing so, the entire community would be saved from starvation and God would get the glory.
Today fasting does not only include food like in the good ol days. Today, fasting is done as a break from those things that have your attention or addiction in some cases. Fasting could include food, Facebook, Sweets, Deserts, snacking between meals, watching tv, internet - whatever that connection you have - its a way to break those chains. Today during those times of fasting, a prayer time thanking God for this break and refocus as well as time to refresh your mind, soul, and spirit. I have fasted many times before with going 24 hours without food, no coffee in the afternoons as well as soda for a month.
So in this season of Lent - there is much over the next 40 days to be praying about. Trip to the Bahamas and our mission trip to Jamaica. We are starting a new book in my Life Group - Sun Stand Still - where we will learn together about prayer and not just everyday thank you Lord for the sunshine prayers but I am talking HUGE prayers. Like God, this can't happen without you prayers. Fasting has a way to increase that spiritual part in connecting your heart with Gods.
Everyone wants to be closer to God if you are a follower of Christ. So, today - I am asking that you journey with me in your fast. Fast of whatever it may be that is holding you today for the next 40 days. Use that time when you would normally get that sofa or cup of coffee or cigarette or watching TV or sitting on Facebook - use that time to pray. Thank God for that time together and seek His heart instead of yours.
I hope you take this challenge with me. Jesus taught us to fast and he promises rewards as a result.
Matthew 6:18-21 - So that it will not be obvious to others that you are fasting, but only to your Father, who is unseen; and your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you. "Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where you treasure is, there your heart will be also.
Gods promise - where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
Asking God to have my heart today. Hope you will too.
Peace,
Lonnie~
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
This day has been all over the place today. Its okay though because some good things are coming into place. Finished up first and hopefully last draft of my message for tomorrow. I will speaking to the student ministry on one of today's forgotten virtues - Loyalty. I have had a hard time putting together not only what I wanted to say from my heart but also what God has to say about it. I am praying that it is taken and soaked in like a sponge tomorrow evening. I think no matter where we are with Christ, I think if our hearts are in the right place and in tune with Christ, we will be like a sponge and soak whatever up that He is giving to us.
Thursday I will be online this year for NewSpring Church Unleash conference. We didnt make the trip down this year due to the conference selling out - which is amazing since thousands of people will be there. Its a great leadership conference for church pastors, leaders and volunteers. Its a day to refresh and be encouraged. Who could use more of that today? I think that the person who doesnt accept encouragement puts them into a sucky place. The only thing that sucks about that is that they have to walk around with themselves. Everyone can use more encouragement spoken into their life.
Upcoming trip to the Bahamas and in June on our mission trip in June is moving forward. I spoke with the folks today and got contact info for our partner mission team from Minnesota. I am so looking forward to speaking with them and getting to know them before our trip. I am really excited about this even though price of gas has went through the roof, it hurts for that price on the plane ticket. I am praying huge prayers that our outreach team will stretch wide into the community and families to help with the costs. God is big and God is faithful and I fully believe he will make a way for us to go and share the Message of Christ with the people of Jamaica. As our missionary family reaches out into the community and their families in help to support this trip, I really want to celebrate this partnership, the prayers for us, the money donated in partnership in going, as well as safe travels and for the message of Christ to penetrate those we come in contact with. It puts tears in my eyes knowing the impact that this mission work could have on the hearts of us who are going. Changed lives not only there but also in all of us. I cant imagine the direction that a trip like this could have on one of my kids lives and God doing something in their hearts. I am praying big for God to rock some hearts here.
As I think about Jamaica and the people we will touch, I also think about the normal every day people right here all around us in our little worlds. If you think about those folks and who you come in contact with each day - you have no idea of their stories or where they are in life. The struggles and challenges they face or even the victories they have climbed over. I am reminded of the little older couple who came into the ER yesterday. They couldnt speak English and their son translated for them. The mom was really sick and was having issues breathing. Maybe they have been married for 50 years and is this the walk into the hospital yesterday morning that was their last? In a few days will one of them be having to leave and how sad for the one left behind. I dont know their story or what will happen to them. All I know is that is was an honor to pray for them as I sat in the waiting room. I thank God for their marriage of so many years. You can tell by they way they spoke to each other, how they looked at each other - they were in love, respected each other, afraid and their worlds might soon be changing.
I thanked God for them yesterday morning not because of what was happening to them but just how they touched my heart.
It reminded me of a piece of scripture from the Old Testament in Habakkuk 3: - Though the fig tree does not bud and there are no grapes on the vines, though the olive crop fails and the fields produce no food, though there are no sheep in the pen and no cattle in the stalls, yet I will rejoice in the Lord, I will be joyful in God my Savior. The Sovereign Lord is my strength; he makes my feet like the feet of a deer, he enables me to go on the heights.
No matter what you are facing today. No matter what troubles life has its grip on you today. There is joy because of Christ. The people of Jamaica do not have much but what they do have they are thankful for. They have joy regardless of what they have and joy in regardless of what they dont have. This mission trip will not be about the white folks coming to give us stuff. It will be about showing them how to do for themselves. Showing them the love of Christ through the local church there. Glorifying God through that church and putting the church back into the center of the community as it gives HOPE and LOVE through it. If we go and give a man a fish, all we have done is given him a fish. If we teach him how to fish and to sell a fish - we have given him far more than anything else...we have given him his dignity.
Even in the hardest and driest of times... Christ is the strength and he is the joy in life.
That's taking and pouring out what Christ has filled us up to do.
Never thought missionary is a term that I would use...but aren't we all? Missionaries ... to take the Good News to all people? - even the people in YOUR world today.
Peace,
Lonnie~
Thursday I will be online this year for NewSpring Church Unleash conference. We didnt make the trip down this year due to the conference selling out - which is amazing since thousands of people will be there. Its a great leadership conference for church pastors, leaders and volunteers. Its a day to refresh and be encouraged. Who could use more of that today? I think that the person who doesnt accept encouragement puts them into a sucky place. The only thing that sucks about that is that they have to walk around with themselves. Everyone can use more encouragement spoken into their life.
Upcoming trip to the Bahamas and in June on our mission trip in June is moving forward. I spoke with the folks today and got contact info for our partner mission team from Minnesota. I am so looking forward to speaking with them and getting to know them before our trip. I am really excited about this even though price of gas has went through the roof, it hurts for that price on the plane ticket. I am praying huge prayers that our outreach team will stretch wide into the community and families to help with the costs. God is big and God is faithful and I fully believe he will make a way for us to go and share the Message of Christ with the people of Jamaica. As our missionary family reaches out into the community and their families in help to support this trip, I really want to celebrate this partnership, the prayers for us, the money donated in partnership in going, as well as safe travels and for the message of Christ to penetrate those we come in contact with. It puts tears in my eyes knowing the impact that this mission work could have on the hearts of us who are going. Changed lives not only there but also in all of us. I cant imagine the direction that a trip like this could have on one of my kids lives and God doing something in their hearts. I am praying big for God to rock some hearts here.
As I think about Jamaica and the people we will touch, I also think about the normal every day people right here all around us in our little worlds. If you think about those folks and who you come in contact with each day - you have no idea of their stories or where they are in life. The struggles and challenges they face or even the victories they have climbed over. I am reminded of the little older couple who came into the ER yesterday. They couldnt speak English and their son translated for them. The mom was really sick and was having issues breathing. Maybe they have been married for 50 years and is this the walk into the hospital yesterday morning that was their last? In a few days will one of them be having to leave and how sad for the one left behind. I dont know their story or what will happen to them. All I know is that is was an honor to pray for them as I sat in the waiting room. I thank God for their marriage of so many years. You can tell by they way they spoke to each other, how they looked at each other - they were in love, respected each other, afraid and their worlds might soon be changing.
I thanked God for them yesterday morning not because of what was happening to them but just how they touched my heart.
It reminded me of a piece of scripture from the Old Testament in Habakkuk 3: - Though the fig tree does not bud and there are no grapes on the vines, though the olive crop fails and the fields produce no food, though there are no sheep in the pen and no cattle in the stalls, yet I will rejoice in the Lord, I will be joyful in God my Savior. The Sovereign Lord is my strength; he makes my feet like the feet of a deer, he enables me to go on the heights.
No matter what you are facing today. No matter what troubles life has its grip on you today. There is joy because of Christ. The people of Jamaica do not have much but what they do have they are thankful for. They have joy regardless of what they have and joy in regardless of what they dont have. This mission trip will not be about the white folks coming to give us stuff. It will be about showing them how to do for themselves. Showing them the love of Christ through the local church there. Glorifying God through that church and putting the church back into the center of the community as it gives HOPE and LOVE through it. If we go and give a man a fish, all we have done is given him a fish. If we teach him how to fish and to sell a fish - we have given him far more than anything else...we have given him his dignity.
Even in the hardest and driest of times... Christ is the strength and he is the joy in life.
That's taking and pouring out what Christ has filled us up to do.
Never thought missionary is a term that I would use...but aren't we all? Missionaries ... to take the Good News to all people? - even the people in YOUR world today.
Peace,
Lonnie~
Monday, March 7, 2011
Carol and I had a very odd weekend this past weekend. Kyle was away with a buddy of his for the weekend. 13 years that has never happened. It was quiet in the house, Carol and I got to hang out and we talked, planned our student ministry party together and went to church Saturday night and enjoyed a homemade pizza. It was something totally we are not used to but thankful for it. Our home is almost always full of students, kyles friends, our rock group families and its hustle and bustle and this change of pace was refreshing.
Yesterday we had a great Student ministry time together with more students than we have had in a month or so. I was speaking on Grace as a followup to the move "The Grace Card" which most of us went to see last Wed evening. We had a good game which everyone didnt want to stop playing and ice cream which went over big ...especially the whipped cream which somehow ended up blasting everywhere! There was tons of energy and lots of smiles and I really think the students walked away with something and that does my heart good.
Last night with our rock group, we shared many different things concerning our prayer life and what prayer really is. I love my rock group families ... there isnt anything I would not do for them. This morning I had to stop at the ER because one of "mydaughters" who has the flu passed out from a nose bleed. A few hours of watching folks come in and out, an elderly couple who the wife was not breathing good, a family who's son needed stitches and another fella who looked like military at some point in his life but really down on his life, while on crutches, passed out and hit the floor and lastly another lady came in and took 3 steps into the ER and puked - so they got that cleaned up, wheel chair and a puke bucket for her. Oh, and another family came in and the mom didnt speak english - her son who was about 7 shared with the nurse what his mom was having issues with. I was still there when they were leaving and I couldn't help it - God prompted me to tell this young man he did a great job leading his family. I got a chance to pray and see people hurting this morning in those few hours. Folks who were scared and finally coming to the ER. You know I am sick if I am going through the ER so these people were at that place. Thankfully my girl is okay and will have some further tests down the road. She looked rough but the smile when she walked out was worth it for me being there. I am thankful that I got to go and be there for her when she came out.
I am preparing some thoughts for Wed nights student ministry and having a tough go of it as of now. I am praying that the Lord gives me something to share. I am sure he will.
Gym tonight and a little down time after a busy few days. Ministry is a gift and I am thankful for the gift that God has given me.
Lonnie~
Yesterday we had a great Student ministry time together with more students than we have had in a month or so. I was speaking on Grace as a followup to the move "The Grace Card" which most of us went to see last Wed evening. We had a good game which everyone didnt want to stop playing and ice cream which went over big ...especially the whipped cream which somehow ended up blasting everywhere! There was tons of energy and lots of smiles and I really think the students walked away with something and that does my heart good.
Last night with our rock group, we shared many different things concerning our prayer life and what prayer really is. I love my rock group families ... there isnt anything I would not do for them. This morning I had to stop at the ER because one of "mydaughters" who has the flu passed out from a nose bleed. A few hours of watching folks come in and out, an elderly couple who the wife was not breathing good, a family who's son needed stitches and another fella who looked like military at some point in his life but really down on his life, while on crutches, passed out and hit the floor and lastly another lady came in and took 3 steps into the ER and puked - so they got that cleaned up, wheel chair and a puke bucket for her. Oh, and another family came in and the mom didnt speak english - her son who was about 7 shared with the nurse what his mom was having issues with. I was still there when they were leaving and I couldn't help it - God prompted me to tell this young man he did a great job leading his family. I got a chance to pray and see people hurting this morning in those few hours. Folks who were scared and finally coming to the ER. You know I am sick if I am going through the ER so these people were at that place. Thankfully my girl is okay and will have some further tests down the road. She looked rough but the smile when she walked out was worth it for me being there. I am thankful that I got to go and be there for her when she came out.
I am preparing some thoughts for Wed nights student ministry and having a tough go of it as of now. I am praying that the Lord gives me something to share. I am sure he will.
Gym tonight and a little down time after a busy few days. Ministry is a gift and I am thankful for the gift that God has given me.
Lonnie~
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
A little late for my post time but got my coffee in hand and its a great time during my day. Soon some of mykids will check in with me and see how my day was as I will get to hear about their day. One of my college kids had her wisdom teeth out this morning and is doing fine after her surgery. I am thankful for that. I remember those few tough days and hoping her next few days wont be nearly as tough.
Today marks February 29th. ? what, Its March 1st. Yeah I know but 3 years ago today, Walt Hagglund, Carols dad, stepped out of this world and into the next. Heaven accepted one more person on that early morning 3 years ago not because of anything that anyone had done but because of the faith of one small child. Carol and I spoke for years to Walt about heaven. About Christ, answered question after question, invited to church each and every Sunday - long conversations after a meal or even during his cocktail time but there was not much anyone could do. Its hard to make that conversion when life is good and you feel there is no need for a god in your life. Even during his darkest hours, we often spoke of his next step and many times just not wanting to think about it he would brush me off. I am here to say that even with people who loved Walt and prayed for him for years - there was not much any of us could do. In his last breathes - standing in front of him was my son Kyle, 10 years old then asking his grandpa to receive Jesus. With tears in his eyes and telling grandpa he wanted to see him again - Kyle led his grandpa in a prayer through John 3:16 and Walt accepted Jesus. In the next few moments, Walt went back to sleep and with those words being his last words spoke on this earth. I wasn't even in the room to see it. I was on the phone but the news came out of the room quickly and tears and joy overtook our home. I remember calling Pastor Jimmy and crying with him on the phone over what had happened.
It took the faith of a child to bring someone important enough to Christ as a grandpa. Though Walt lived a good life, was a loving dad and husband and provided for his family - the eternal aspects of his life were still hanging on those words. Kyle was the man and had the faith to not leave his grandpa behind.
His funeral services were sweet. Music played and Brandon singing the last song, Amazing Grace had few in tears but they were not tears of sadness. This funeral was a celebration. Though pain and grief is still present today, those pains and grief times are often overshadowed with joy because Walt is in a better place. He is will his wife MaryLou and my mom along with so many others.
Jesus seldom ever showed up to a funeral and when he did, it was to arrest death and stop the ceremony. Death is not in the process of a follower of Christ. Though we hurt and mourn over losing our loved one, we have hope in the fact we will see them again.
John - 16: 17 - Joy like a river overflowing - That stirred up a hornets nest of questions among the disciples:" Whats he talking about: ' in a day or so you're not going to see me, but then in another day or so you will see me'? And, 'because I'm on my way to the father'? What is this dar or so? We dont know what he's talking about." Jesus knew they are dying to ask him what he meant, so he said, "Are you trying to figure out among yourselves what I meant when I said, 'In a day or so you're not going to see me, but then in another day or so you will see me'? Then fix this firmly in your minds: You're going to be in deep mourning while the godless world throws a party. You will be sad, very sad, but your sadness will develop into gladness. When a woman gives birth, she has a hard time, there no getting around it. But when the baby is born, there is joy in the birth. This new life in the world wipes out memory of the pain. The sadness you have right now is similar to that pain, but the coming joy no one can rob from you. You will no longer be so full of questions. This is what I want you to do: Ask the father for wheavber is in keeping with the things I've revealed to you. Ask in my name, according to my will, and he'll most certainly give it to you. Your joy will be a river overflowing its banks!"
Today is not a sad day but a day to rejoice because of the things that have taken place. If you are young or old, think that God cannot use you because of the things you have done or have been done to you - remove those thoughts from your mind. God can and will use you no matter what. If you still have a heartbeat and alive - then surely God can still use you. God is still using Walt to shape lives and change hearts because of his story. We all have a story - a young boy 10 years old leading his grandpa to Jesus. What else is in this young mans heart? What things has he been through in his young life to shape and mold him, all the while God setting him up for something great! No matter the size of your faith loved ones, God can grow it into a huge oak tree full of acorns and shade, strong agains the winds of this troubled and broken world and where roots run deep into the soil. Your tough times will be refocused to joyous times and in your faith, you will experience the grace of leaning back on Gods word as he holds you upright and secure.
Walt, I miss you this day bro but its a day I know is a sweet day because of what took place. Amazing Grace, that song changed from being just a song 3 years ago today but into a song that brings hope, peace and love. It was a celebration in life in your passing, though we hurt and miss you, though Carol and Bob lost their dad and Kate, Kyle and Jenn, lost a grandpa - so many lost a friend. You were a dear friend to me. Even if you were a Yankee fan.
Love and miss you bro -
Lonnie~
Amazing Grace
How sweet the sound
That saved a wretch like me
I once was lost, but now I'm found
Was blind, but now I see
Twas grace that taught my heart to fear
and grace my fears relieved
How precious did that grace appear
The hour I first believed
My chains are gone
I've been set free
My God, my Savior has ransomed me
And like a flood his mercy rains
Unending love, Amazing Grace
The Lord has promised good to me
His word my hope secures
He will my shield and portion be
As long as life endures
The earth shall soon dissolve like snow
The sun forbear to shine
But God, Who called me here below
Will be forever mine
Today marks February 29th. ? what, Its March 1st. Yeah I know but 3 years ago today, Walt Hagglund, Carols dad, stepped out of this world and into the next. Heaven accepted one more person on that early morning 3 years ago not because of anything that anyone had done but because of the faith of one small child. Carol and I spoke for years to Walt about heaven. About Christ, answered question after question, invited to church each and every Sunday - long conversations after a meal or even during his cocktail time but there was not much anyone could do. Its hard to make that conversion when life is good and you feel there is no need for a god in your life. Even during his darkest hours, we often spoke of his next step and many times just not wanting to think about it he would brush me off. I am here to say that even with people who loved Walt and prayed for him for years - there was not much any of us could do. In his last breathes - standing in front of him was my son Kyle, 10 years old then asking his grandpa to receive Jesus. With tears in his eyes and telling grandpa he wanted to see him again - Kyle led his grandpa in a prayer through John 3:16 and Walt accepted Jesus. In the next few moments, Walt went back to sleep and with those words being his last words spoke on this earth. I wasn't even in the room to see it. I was on the phone but the news came out of the room quickly and tears and joy overtook our home. I remember calling Pastor Jimmy and crying with him on the phone over what had happened.
It took the faith of a child to bring someone important enough to Christ as a grandpa. Though Walt lived a good life, was a loving dad and husband and provided for his family - the eternal aspects of his life were still hanging on those words. Kyle was the man and had the faith to not leave his grandpa behind.
His funeral services were sweet. Music played and Brandon singing the last song, Amazing Grace had few in tears but they were not tears of sadness. This funeral was a celebration. Though pain and grief is still present today, those pains and grief times are often overshadowed with joy because Walt is in a better place. He is will his wife MaryLou and my mom along with so many others.
Jesus seldom ever showed up to a funeral and when he did, it was to arrest death and stop the ceremony. Death is not in the process of a follower of Christ. Though we hurt and mourn over losing our loved one, we have hope in the fact we will see them again.
John - 16: 17 - Joy like a river overflowing - That stirred up a hornets nest of questions among the disciples:" Whats he talking about: ' in a day or so you're not going to see me, but then in another day or so you will see me'? And, 'because I'm on my way to the father'? What is this dar or so? We dont know what he's talking about." Jesus knew they are dying to ask him what he meant, so he said, "Are you trying to figure out among yourselves what I meant when I said, 'In a day or so you're not going to see me, but then in another day or so you will see me'? Then fix this firmly in your minds: You're going to be in deep mourning while the godless world throws a party. You will be sad, very sad, but your sadness will develop into gladness. When a woman gives birth, she has a hard time, there no getting around it. But when the baby is born, there is joy in the birth. This new life in the world wipes out memory of the pain. The sadness you have right now is similar to that pain, but the coming joy no one can rob from you. You will no longer be so full of questions. This is what I want you to do: Ask the father for wheavber is in keeping with the things I've revealed to you. Ask in my name, according to my will, and he'll most certainly give it to you. Your joy will be a river overflowing its banks!"
Today is not a sad day but a day to rejoice because of the things that have taken place. If you are young or old, think that God cannot use you because of the things you have done or have been done to you - remove those thoughts from your mind. God can and will use you no matter what. If you still have a heartbeat and alive - then surely God can still use you. God is still using Walt to shape lives and change hearts because of his story. We all have a story - a young boy 10 years old leading his grandpa to Jesus. What else is in this young mans heart? What things has he been through in his young life to shape and mold him, all the while God setting him up for something great! No matter the size of your faith loved ones, God can grow it into a huge oak tree full of acorns and shade, strong agains the winds of this troubled and broken world and where roots run deep into the soil. Your tough times will be refocused to joyous times and in your faith, you will experience the grace of leaning back on Gods word as he holds you upright and secure.
Walt, I miss you this day bro but its a day I know is a sweet day because of what took place. Amazing Grace, that song changed from being just a song 3 years ago today but into a song that brings hope, peace and love. It was a celebration in life in your passing, though we hurt and miss you, though Carol and Bob lost their dad and Kate, Kyle and Jenn, lost a grandpa - so many lost a friend. You were a dear friend to me. Even if you were a Yankee fan.
Love and miss you bro -
Lonnie~
Amazing Grace
How sweet the sound
That saved a wretch like me
I once was lost, but now I'm found
Was blind, but now I see
Twas grace that taught my heart to fear
and grace my fears relieved
How precious did that grace appear
The hour I first believed
My chains are gone
I've been set free
My God, my Savior has ransomed me
And like a flood his mercy rains
Unending love, Amazing Grace
The Lord has promised good to me
His word my hope secures
He will my shield and portion be
As long as life endures
The earth shall soon dissolve like snow
The sun forbear to shine
But God, Who called me here below
Will be forever mine
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