LOL was simply, amazing last night. Micole Wallace came in and led worship with 5 or so amazing songs and Angela Pierce spoke and gave an incredible testimony. Her life and how Christ has walked with her during the tough years and how He never gave up on her - not many dry eyes in the place. The students were lined up to speak to her afterwards.. which is awesome! I got a call/text/email from some parents saying that their daughter came home and climbed into bed and told the story of last night and how it affected them. It for sure opened a line of communication (parent - child) that is so needed today. I am just blessed to be part of all that God is doing. Facebook lit up last night with comments. If you missed this, I feel for you because you really did miss something special last night.
Be in prayer for Angela today as she is at Duke hospital today and is asking for prayers.
Yesterday had me in a odd place with the music and media that our kids are listing and watching. Today I want to focus on a song from Jeremy Camp. I have tickets to see him up close and personal in concert on October 21st and I am so flippin excited. To see Jeremy in concert has been on my bucketlist for a few years now before I croak and leave this earthly home. I am pumped its finally going to happen!
Last night while dropping some students off after LOL - Morgan asked to listen to this song. I smiled .... absolutely! This is what we should be filling the minds of our young people and not the crap they are listening to today.
We Cry Out ~Jeremy Camp
Anthems fill the skies with praise
all your mighty works displayed
Your glory, they tell of your glory
We who've been called upon your name
Cannot be silent, we will praise
We'll sing it out, oh we will sing it out
For we have seen the greatness of your glory be revealed
And we have seen all that you've done and we cannot be still
We cry out to you
Your loving kindness and your truth
It has delievered us, you have delivered us
Great is your glory lord, when nations learn of your ways
they will boy down to you, we will bow down to you
Verse 2
INto all the word we take the mystery of your saving grace
To shine the light into the darkness
For we have seen the greatness of your glory revealed
And we have seen all that you've done and we cannot be still
We will cry out to you
Your loving kindess and your truth
It has delivered us, you have delivered us
Great is your glory Lord, when nations learn of your ways
They will bow down to you, we will bow down to you
We will cry out
I hope you take a moment and download this song or buy it at a local retailer. It really is an amazing album.
Colossians 3:1-4
Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God. When Christ, who is your life, appears, then you also will appear with him in glory.
Rise up loved ones and shine the way Christ has made you to shine. Anything less is falling short and not glorifying Christ.
Lonnie~
Thursday, September 30, 2010
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
Just a little bit....
I am thankful I didn't write on here this morning. It took a few hours of thought, prayer and making myself focus instead of just being upset and upset is not the word I want to use here.
This morning I checked the last file I needed to download for the new Kenny Chesney album that was released yesterday and I noticed in Itunes that Lil'Wayne has a new song/album out as well. Now he is popular with the youth as is many that sing like him ... reasons unknown to me, but the song title Gonerrhea caught my attention. Thinking that so many young people, kids and children as well see this on there, can easily click on it and listen to a sample as well as just go right ahead and download it. There it is, full version and sync to the ipod. Off to school on the bus and listening to this trash our childrens ears.
I am pretty upset with it all and I go to this place from time to time to ask parents to be involved in what their children are listening to, who their friends are, who they talk to online - texting included, what they are watching on TV - PUT some safe guards in the family home and into the lives of your family!!!!
Dang this upsets me. I wont even go there to post the lyrics on that song. You want another example? Kate Perry - We drove to Cali. She is very popular among the teen girls and check out those song lyrics. You wonder why our teen girls have image and acceptance problems at 12 years old. Why they are going out with boys and hitting second base?
I recently was at the movies with some of my students and during the previews - Easy A - came on. This is a pg-13 movie and has so much material in that movie that is not age appropriate for our 15 and under children - except that the fact you are ok with them being like everyone else and just hoping for the best as your daughter or son grows up with the values of society and not yours.
Our families are worth fighting for! I am just beyond words sometimes being on facebook and seeing the posts there. During Thirst Camp last summer - I promised God I would use Facebook as a tool to post encouragements, the things of Him and sharing Christ in a positive way. So far, I think I have stuck pretty close to that. I am just amazed at times - disheartened would be a better word to describe it.
But Lonnie - its just a little bit of cussing, its just a little bit of horror blood, a little bit of sex, a little bit of drugs..... I like the beat and dont listen to the words. I don't look at the pictures but read the articles. Give me a break.
Its sad when I get a note/call/email from a parent who has a son or daughter who is in a tough place. A place where this student is really hurting and they want to know what to do. My heart breaks for that family and for that student. I lived that every single day for a year with my neice living with me. There was not much I could do, my influence was not enough, my leadership was not enough, I couldn't change her direction - to have her see the hurt and pain it caused others in her foolish decisions. It was a tiring year, a year that MANY times I wanted to throw it all in, jump ship, bail out but couldn't. Most of these issues, problems, way of thinking, values - all started with "Just a little bit".
As you venture further and further away from God and you find yourself WAYYY over here and far from God in a hurting place and with nobody around you..... we wonder how did this happen?
That walk away often times starts with the "Just a little bits". We take small steps away, we make a not so good decision and keep making them because (you didnt get caught, your will is stronger than your parents, you want to do things your way etc.)
Its sad at times thinking the next generation will be leading when so many we are losing. Nothing is going to change if we just sit back and let things happen.
Just a little bit...... changes everything. The greatest influences to the next generation are: friends, music and the tv/movies/internet/texting that they are engaging in.
As a parent, you must have a say in those things that are allowed. Your faith and value systems are at stake. Your children are at stake and for many - their eternity is at stake.
If you are not Glorifying God in all that you do ... then you are glorifying something or someone else.
It all happens, Just a little bit.... at a time. Which direction are you going?
This morning I checked the last file I needed to download for the new Kenny Chesney album that was released yesterday and I noticed in Itunes that Lil'Wayne has a new song/album out as well. Now he is popular with the youth as is many that sing like him ... reasons unknown to me, but the song title Gonerrhea caught my attention. Thinking that so many young people, kids and children as well see this on there, can easily click on it and listen to a sample as well as just go right ahead and download it. There it is, full version and sync to the ipod. Off to school on the bus and listening to this trash our childrens ears.
I am pretty upset with it all and I go to this place from time to time to ask parents to be involved in what their children are listening to, who their friends are, who they talk to online - texting included, what they are watching on TV - PUT some safe guards in the family home and into the lives of your family!!!!
Dang this upsets me. I wont even go there to post the lyrics on that song. You want another example? Kate Perry - We drove to Cali. She is very popular among the teen girls and check out those song lyrics. You wonder why our teen girls have image and acceptance problems at 12 years old. Why they are going out with boys and hitting second base?
I recently was at the movies with some of my students and during the previews - Easy A - came on. This is a pg-13 movie and has so much material in that movie that is not age appropriate for our 15 and under children - except that the fact you are ok with them being like everyone else and just hoping for the best as your daughter or son grows up with the values of society and not yours.
Our families are worth fighting for! I am just beyond words sometimes being on facebook and seeing the posts there. During Thirst Camp last summer - I promised God I would use Facebook as a tool to post encouragements, the things of Him and sharing Christ in a positive way. So far, I think I have stuck pretty close to that. I am just amazed at times - disheartened would be a better word to describe it.
But Lonnie - its just a little bit of cussing, its just a little bit of horror blood, a little bit of sex, a little bit of drugs..... I like the beat and dont listen to the words. I don't look at the pictures but read the articles. Give me a break.
Its sad when I get a note/call/email from a parent who has a son or daughter who is in a tough place. A place where this student is really hurting and they want to know what to do. My heart breaks for that family and for that student. I lived that every single day for a year with my neice living with me. There was not much I could do, my influence was not enough, my leadership was not enough, I couldn't change her direction - to have her see the hurt and pain it caused others in her foolish decisions. It was a tiring year, a year that MANY times I wanted to throw it all in, jump ship, bail out but couldn't. Most of these issues, problems, way of thinking, values - all started with "Just a little bit".
As you venture further and further away from God and you find yourself WAYYY over here and far from God in a hurting place and with nobody around you..... we wonder how did this happen?
That walk away often times starts with the "Just a little bits". We take small steps away, we make a not so good decision and keep making them because (you didnt get caught, your will is stronger than your parents, you want to do things your way etc.)
Its sad at times thinking the next generation will be leading when so many we are losing. Nothing is going to change if we just sit back and let things happen.
Just a little bit...... changes everything. The greatest influences to the next generation are: friends, music and the tv/movies/internet/texting that they are engaging in.
As a parent, you must have a say in those things that are allowed. Your faith and value systems are at stake. Your children are at stake and for many - their eternity is at stake.
If you are not Glorifying God in all that you do ... then you are glorifying something or someone else.
It all happens, Just a little bit.... at a time. Which direction are you going?
Monday, September 27, 2010
Go and See
WOW, what a jammed packed weekend the past few days have been. Friday night sharing time over dinner with Madison and then Carowinds Saturday with Kyle and Morgan. The concert was good, with Fireflight, Kutless, Skit Guys and Casting Crowns. Place was too crouded for me though as it took almost an hour to get out of the parking lot. Yesterday I was up early to hit setup for church, leading in "The Flood", pumpkins in the rain, then Center of Hope last night to serve a meal with my Rock Group family. Finally got to sit last night and have 2 hours of weekend freetime.
I am dragging today but trying to make the most of it. As this rainy and thankful Monday ticks away it has me thinking a little extra today. Maybe not a good thing since I am a mover but the Center of Hope yesterday really has taken some extra thought to process everything that happened.
The adults got to work in the kitchen and serve chicken, ham, sweet taters, bread and a desert. Carol M helped with the drinks and 8 of us worked the counter as hundreds of folks came to get a plate. I have not seen it this crowded before and we even ran out of food and had to make a garden salad to give to some of the folks who came in later. The kids setup a table and prepared bead necklaces to give out to the children there. Their smiles were priceless and seeing our kids talking about Jesus with them was just amazing. The children there were like magnets and talked with our kids, made their own bead necklaces with crosses on them and the smiles and open hearts - it was such a wonderful experience. Morgan, Kyle, Zach, Taylor, Hannah, Danielle, David, Madison, Marissa - Carol all out there sharing with these children really made an impact and brought such joy and a brief pause in their struggling day. Maybe a few moments to forget they live in a homeless shelter and just had a chance to smile. Many of the parents came and enjoyed this with their children, the thank you's were plentiful and full of smiles. In a few weeks I will get the chance to come back and serve lunch - I wonder how many little cross necklaces I will see? I bet there will be a few.
This has me in Mark 6 today. I want to pay special attention to 38 but will start in 30.
Mark 6:30-38
The apostles gathered around Jesus and reported to him all they had done and taught. Then, because so many people were coming and going that they did not even have a chance to eat, he said to them, "Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest." So they went away by themselves in a boat to a solitary place. But many who saw them leaving recognized them and ran on foot from all the towns and got there ahead of them. When Jesus landed and saw a huge crowd, he had compassion on them, becaause they were like sheep without a shepherd, So he began teaching them many things. By this time it was late in the day, so his disciples came to him. "This is a remot place," they said, "and its already very late. Send the people away so they can go to the surrounding countryside and villages and buy themselves something to eat." But he answered, "You give them something to eat." They said to him, "That would take 8 months of a mans wages! Are we to go and spend that much on bread and give it to them to eat?" "How many loaves do you have?" he asked. "Go and See".
The story goes on to say that after Jesus blessed the food and gave thanks, they fed 5000 men. Which in those times, women and children were not counted so the real count would probably be double that amount. They fed all these folks until they were full and had left overs on 5 loaves of bread and 2 fish. See they would have never been a part of this miracle if they did not "Go and See". So many folks talk about doing things but never get off the couch. How many of us are inviting people in our daily life to church? How many of us are spending time serving others? How many of us are investing our time and energy into others? Without "Go and See" - we are just idle. Our prayers and hearts full of faith have to have motion behind them. Having a chance to go yesterday to serve a meal to many folks who were just 1 or 2 decisions away from not being there...they dont deserve to be there like its punishement or something. Those children do not want to be there if given the choice, they didnt ask to be put there. But for a brief hour, just maybe hearing about Jesus, making a necklace with our students who are there with the love of Christ in them might just be enough to know - hey, not everyone is against me. Not everything in this world is sour. Not every time I turn around there is a hardache and tough corner. Someone does love me and these families are taking time out of their day to sit with my child, do a craft with them, get a meal and talk about Jesus ... maybe today is the day that it all turns around. I believe with all my heart that there are moments in our lives that these things happen. God whispered in my ear last week this idea and I asked Morgan to lead this craft and she ran with it - along with the help of Carol. My kids walk away with this with an experience that puts things, their things, their life, their hearts into the right frame. Be thankful for what you have because most of us are only a few choices away from being where they are. Without judging them but loving them is what Christ called us to do. Go and see - this experience would be one that we didnt get if we didnt get up off the couch and put of faith in motion.
GO and See - what are you waiting to do? What is keeping you on the couch? There is something in your heart that is telling you to - Go and See - I challenge you this week.... to do just that loved ones.
GO AND SEE. God will have something for you in it. For those with Jesus, they got to hear Jesus teach and then feed them until they were full and satisfied. I am over satisfied by what my Rock Group family did last night... even more so actually -- you can tell by the smiles on the faces.
Blessed today. Lord we don't take enough time in our prayer life Lord to really say Thank You. Thank you for all you have given us and for a life with you. Thank you for that whisper last week Lord that allowed us to share some smiles, a necklace, a heart with Your name on it. Lord thank you for an opening door in making a few moments of these folks there at the center just a little bit easier. Lord we praise you and pray that all is for your glory. Thank you for yesterday as not only did the folks at the center share in something so much bigger than they are - we got to share in something so much bigger than we are.
Amen
Thursday, September 23, 2010
A note....
I was going through some of the things that I carry around each and every day in my computer bag and I came across my notebook that I received at NewSpring last week. I have notes all through it since it was such a great leadership conference and as I opened it to glance through to read something full of wisdom, a note fell out. A note that I had not noticed before but glad it fell out - who knows how long it would of been in there if it didn't just fall out.
On the front is a worship picture of a stage with a band playing and all in front as if I was sitting behind the camera taking the picture, are arms raised in worship and a bright stage light with different colors. In my mind I can hear the music playing, feel the thump in my chest of the base and the drums, I can hear the words being sang all in tune in perfect harmony.
The other side is a handwritten note with these words:
We have been so blessed to have you as our guest here at NewSpring church. It has been an honor to serve you today. May you leave here today mere confident in your calling, more challenged to love in obedience, and more in love with Jesus and his plan for your life. Usher, Michael.
I left his last name off but I think about all the people there that day that took time off from work, got babysitters, changed plans, to be there that day to serve me and the other 1000's of people there. It sure touches my heart knowing that this person took the time out of their life, shared the serving vision that God has given him and served who ever was in his reach.
I am in Luke 17 and this story reminds me of the Ten men that Jesus healed with Leprosy.
11 Now on his way to Jerusalem, Jesus traveled along the border between Samaria and Galilee. As he was going into a village, ten men who had leprosy met him. They stood at a distance and called out in a loud voice, Jesus, Master, have pity on us. When he saw them, he said, Go and show yourselves to the priests. And as they went, they were cleansed. One of them, when he saw he was healed, came back, praising God in a loud voice. He threw himself at Jesus' feet and thanked him and he was a Samaritan. Jesus asked, Were not all ten cleansed? Where are the other nine? Was no one found to return and give praise to God except this foreigner? Then he said to him, Rise and go, your faith has made you well.
Thank you Michael for your obedient serving of others last Thursday. Your hand written note means a lot to me. I wonder how many folks have actually taken a moment to tell Jesus thank you. Thank you for Michael serving the kingdom like he and so many others did last week. Serving someone doesn't have to be in some big bash, taking folks out to dinner, throwing them a party - it may be just a phone call to ask if they want to have a coffee, it may be a text message with encouragment all in it, it may be a stop by the office and sit and talk. The little things do matter and sometimes the little things make the difference. Michael may have just held open a door all day for the folks to come and go but he was part of a team that together had a lasting impact.
Last night I got the chance to go to one of our towns big churches. Morgan and I got a tour of that church, its buildings, its programs, classrooms and worship center. It has me excited for the building on our own ministry campus. But during the tour - there were times where I just felt as though this house of worship was just a series of buildings. I didn't connect with anyone, a few hello's and even the lead Pastor smiled and said visiting with us today? He didnt take a moment to shake my hand and say anything more. I know he is busy and all but how outwardly focused was he? He was talking and shaking hands with what appeared to be friends, probably long time members of the church - but here... I got through his grasp unfaised by much of anything. What once was a striving and growing church in a center of many thousands of people has turned into a building with folks holding on to what they have. WHat was ... is not what is now - they are 2 very different places. I am sad for walking away last night and I pray that even as our own ministry campus takes shape - that we remain outwardly focused on the lost and with hand written notes, words of encouragement, sips of coffee, serving a meal, meeting people that are hurting, relationships that are real, prayers being lifted together that we have the courage to stop, take a moment and listen when God whispers to us.
Be one of the ten that thank Jesus and for those handwritten notes.
Lonnie~
On the front is a worship picture of a stage with a band playing and all in front as if I was sitting behind the camera taking the picture, are arms raised in worship and a bright stage light with different colors. In my mind I can hear the music playing, feel the thump in my chest of the base and the drums, I can hear the words being sang all in tune in perfect harmony.
The other side is a handwritten note with these words:
We have been so blessed to have you as our guest here at NewSpring church. It has been an honor to serve you today. May you leave here today mere confident in your calling, more challenged to love in obedience, and more in love with Jesus and his plan for your life. Usher, Michael.
I left his last name off but I think about all the people there that day that took time off from work, got babysitters, changed plans, to be there that day to serve me and the other 1000's of people there. It sure touches my heart knowing that this person took the time out of their life, shared the serving vision that God has given him and served who ever was in his reach.
I am in Luke 17 and this story reminds me of the Ten men that Jesus healed with Leprosy.
11 Now on his way to Jerusalem, Jesus traveled along the border between Samaria and Galilee. As he was going into a village, ten men who had leprosy met him. They stood at a distance and called out in a loud voice, Jesus, Master, have pity on us. When he saw them, he said, Go and show yourselves to the priests. And as they went, they were cleansed. One of them, when he saw he was healed, came back, praising God in a loud voice. He threw himself at Jesus' feet and thanked him and he was a Samaritan. Jesus asked, Were not all ten cleansed? Where are the other nine? Was no one found to return and give praise to God except this foreigner? Then he said to him, Rise and go, your faith has made you well.
Thank you Michael for your obedient serving of others last Thursday. Your hand written note means a lot to me. I wonder how many folks have actually taken a moment to tell Jesus thank you. Thank you for Michael serving the kingdom like he and so many others did last week. Serving someone doesn't have to be in some big bash, taking folks out to dinner, throwing them a party - it may be just a phone call to ask if they want to have a coffee, it may be a text message with encouragment all in it, it may be a stop by the office and sit and talk. The little things do matter and sometimes the little things make the difference. Michael may have just held open a door all day for the folks to come and go but he was part of a team that together had a lasting impact.
Last night I got the chance to go to one of our towns big churches. Morgan and I got a tour of that church, its buildings, its programs, classrooms and worship center. It has me excited for the building on our own ministry campus. But during the tour - there were times where I just felt as though this house of worship was just a series of buildings. I didn't connect with anyone, a few hello's and even the lead Pastor smiled and said visiting with us today? He didnt take a moment to shake my hand and say anything more. I know he is busy and all but how outwardly focused was he? He was talking and shaking hands with what appeared to be friends, probably long time members of the church - but here... I got through his grasp unfaised by much of anything. What once was a striving and growing church in a center of many thousands of people has turned into a building with folks holding on to what they have. WHat was ... is not what is now - they are 2 very different places. I am sad for walking away last night and I pray that even as our own ministry campus takes shape - that we remain outwardly focused on the lost and with hand written notes, words of encouragement, sips of coffee, serving a meal, meeting people that are hurting, relationships that are real, prayers being lifted together that we have the courage to stop, take a moment and listen when God whispers to us.
Be one of the ten that thank Jesus and for those handwritten notes.
Lonnie~
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
What a refreshing day it was yesterday. No not weather related, its still hot here in NC and with tomorrow being the first day of fall ... I am so looking forward to cooler weather. We are hitting a record 90 days this summer above 90. Thats warm... but tolerable thanks to air conditioning.
Yesterday was refreshing because I got to share my heart with some close peeps yesterday and send them an email, to encourage them, to share my heart with them, to reveal Gods glory to them, to pray with them as well as to lift them in prayer. Its been a long time since I have done that and I loved getting the emails back and the love that I read in them really just makes it complete. How humbling to know we have a God who in Romans 8:28 says:
And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.
Praise God he is for us and for making all things work for our good. Last night I got to take a good handful of close students to the university volleyball game. I have never been before so it was knew to me and I didnt even know the rules really and had to figure them out as we watched the match from the 1st row. It was all smiles and laughs, stopping by the office last night and then over to starbucks and a tour of the student union where all the college kids hang out. For a few, it was a fresh look at what college looks like. For others, a familiar place where they know, they know, that this is in their future. So they get to look at what the that future has in store while a few others view it as what could be in store. It was such a fun evening investing not in the here and now but also the long term. As I dropped the first student at home, I stopped and shared that I felt God prompting me to pray. I parked in the driveway and prayed for our friendships and for a great day today and for everyone to seek Christ in all they do today.
Each of us are struggling with things. School has it pressures and friends send mixed signals and the attraction of boys and girls and all that mess. The pressure to please and somehow get along with parents at this "know it all" stage. Life really is dramatically hanging on and sometimes we lose focus of the long term because we are living in the meantime. The here and now is all that matters. I have to ask the question that Romans 8:28 begins with.
And we know...... do they really know? Do you really know? I mean with all your heart, all your mind, and in all your soul - do you REALLY know?
I think about why we don't really know. I wonder if only some really know but its not really for me. Is that your thinking? ... there is a rule in that verse and its not, I have to have it all together. I have to be praying and doing more. Its none of that loved ones. Its - do you love God? Do you love him enough to know him? See in John it is written that He loved you first. Praise God he loved us first so that we can love him back. He sent his son, Jesus, for us because he loved us first. So without any hesitation and with an open heart - We have to know!!
When we love God with all we have - we know. WHEN we know, we go to our schools and places of work knowing. Other will, who don't know now, will know. We just have to know that God works for us because he loves us because those who love him have been called according to his purpose and thank you Jesus for loving us first.
The season you are in now might be years in the process, the inbetween. You can't go back and you have lost your way moving forward. This season of pain and hardship is for your greater purpose because, you know.
I can remember back when my mom was sick and the doctor only gave her months to live. I was in that season of not knowing. I couldnt go back - I couldnt move forward. Mom rewrote the book on battling cancer and lived 5 months with her condition. For her it was a season she couldnt go back and she couldnt move forward but she knew. She knew that through her cancer that God works for the good of those who love him. My faith in part is due to that season in both our lives. We knew. My Aunt Sharon and Uncle Buster knew. My cousin Patty knew. Carol and Kyle knew. My rock group family knew. Our church family knew.
So at the end of the day, when you put your head on your pillow, do you really know? God often speaks in whispers, are you listening for his voice? Are you seeking him in all you do? At work, in school, in class, in that conversation or in that relationship? Do you know?
Romans 8:31 - What, then, shall we say in response to this? If God is for us, who can be against us?
I pray you take the time today and ask yourself the question, "Do you really know?"
Lonnie~
Yesterday was refreshing because I got to share my heart with some close peeps yesterday and send them an email, to encourage them, to share my heart with them, to reveal Gods glory to them, to pray with them as well as to lift them in prayer. Its been a long time since I have done that and I loved getting the emails back and the love that I read in them really just makes it complete. How humbling to know we have a God who in Romans 8:28 says:
And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.
Praise God he is for us and for making all things work for our good. Last night I got to take a good handful of close students to the university volleyball game. I have never been before so it was knew to me and I didnt even know the rules really and had to figure them out as we watched the match from the 1st row. It was all smiles and laughs, stopping by the office last night and then over to starbucks and a tour of the student union where all the college kids hang out. For a few, it was a fresh look at what college looks like. For others, a familiar place where they know, they know, that this is in their future. So they get to look at what the that future has in store while a few others view it as what could be in store. It was such a fun evening investing not in the here and now but also the long term. As I dropped the first student at home, I stopped and shared that I felt God prompting me to pray. I parked in the driveway and prayed for our friendships and for a great day today and for everyone to seek Christ in all they do today.
Each of us are struggling with things. School has it pressures and friends send mixed signals and the attraction of boys and girls and all that mess. The pressure to please and somehow get along with parents at this "know it all" stage. Life really is dramatically hanging on and sometimes we lose focus of the long term because we are living in the meantime. The here and now is all that matters. I have to ask the question that Romans 8:28 begins with.
And we know...... do they really know? Do you really know? I mean with all your heart, all your mind, and in all your soul - do you REALLY know?
I think about why we don't really know. I wonder if only some really know but its not really for me. Is that your thinking? ... there is a rule in that verse and its not, I have to have it all together. I have to be praying and doing more. Its none of that loved ones. Its - do you love God? Do you love him enough to know him? See in John it is written that He loved you first. Praise God he loved us first so that we can love him back. He sent his son, Jesus, for us because he loved us first. So without any hesitation and with an open heart - We have to know!!
When we love God with all we have - we know. WHEN we know, we go to our schools and places of work knowing. Other will, who don't know now, will know. We just have to know that God works for us because he loves us because those who love him have been called according to his purpose and thank you Jesus for loving us first.
The season you are in now might be years in the process, the inbetween. You can't go back and you have lost your way moving forward. This season of pain and hardship is for your greater purpose because, you know.
I can remember back when my mom was sick and the doctor only gave her months to live. I was in that season of not knowing. I couldnt go back - I couldnt move forward. Mom rewrote the book on battling cancer and lived 5 months with her condition. For her it was a season she couldnt go back and she couldnt move forward but she knew. She knew that through her cancer that God works for the good of those who love him. My faith in part is due to that season in both our lives. We knew. My Aunt Sharon and Uncle Buster knew. My cousin Patty knew. Carol and Kyle knew. My rock group family knew. Our church family knew.
So at the end of the day, when you put your head on your pillow, do you really know? God often speaks in whispers, are you listening for his voice? Are you seeking him in all you do? At work, in school, in class, in that conversation or in that relationship? Do you know?
Romans 8:31 - What, then, shall we say in response to this? If God is for us, who can be against us?
I pray you take the time today and ask yourself the question, "Do you really know?"
Lonnie~
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
Tuesday
Hey everyone, just letting you know that I have emailed "thewalk" post out to some special people in my life. God placed it on my heart to share some things in greater detail than I normally do. I appreciate you stopping by and walking with me on this faith journey. I can honestly say that God has never prompted me to do this before but I stepped forward in faith. Look for another post tomorrow but until then, keep your eyes on Christ Jesus and may He show himself in all the places you are seeking him today. For by His grace you have been saved. Praise be to God.
Love you all,
Lonnie~
Love you all,
Lonnie~
Monday, September 20, 2010
It has been a busy last 4-5 days. It has also been a bunch of days since my last thought post on "thewalk". I am sorry about that but I am forging ahead and hope that all is well. Last week I took my family and a bunch of student ministry students and their families to the county fair. $120 in about 30 minutes had me spent for the night. Atleast it was over quick but we all had a great time, laughing, people watching, riding, and seeing all the animals. Its such a great time together and the weather was great. I especially enjoy the smiles while the kids ride the rides and the excitment on their faces when petting the animals - some of which we have no idea what they are. Some kind of 4 legged creature with horns that wrap all around its head... I don't have a clue to these extreme animals... part city slicker you know.
Last Thursday I spent a 20 hour day with 2 of my Pastors from church attending a leadership conference. It was a well spent day and a day that left my head in mush. Meaning I just couldn't take one more thing in and at the end after Andy Stanley came on - I found myself wanting the band to come back out and rock out one more praise song and bring the house down for God. It was an amazing day for sure. Friday left me only on a few hours of sleep and I left early to have lunch with my wife and then the chair for a 5 hour nap. One of which I dreamed, which is really good sleep and that alone is amazing since I was in my chair in the LR. That means I was tired and give out. Saturday Kyle and I spent the day working on the pond and in the yard. Sunday church setup, leading in the Flood, leadership meeting, a visit to Kyles old school and seeing the teachers there with Morgan, Taylor and Zach, then Rock Group Sunday night. I am busy but its all good. There has to be some time in there for laughing, enjoying and just sitting back sometimes. I think those moments are few and far between but the last season of my life I think I am enjoying that time more even though I have less opportunity. I think in many ways Carol and I are moving forward on the same page - something that hasn't been since Kate came over a year ago. She is doing good in Utah and forging ahead of schedule in her therapy and plugging into life there. I am very proud of her and hope that she writes me back soon.
This is not just another Monday of Mondays in life. I am learning so many things that God is teaching me and leading me to understand. Even though I am not that smart and it takes me time to fully get it, I know that God does not give up on us and will continue to persue until that time comes where we step aside with our own agenda and excuses and get on with His ways and His plans. As I look around me today and see a host of folks who are struggling with something - I am seeing Christ more clearly in those things than I have in a very long time. My heart shows when talking with a student or a friend who is really having a hard time with something and through those tears, my heart breaks and I feel good knowing that the reason my heart breaks is because it is breaking Christ' heart. I am in tune and stepping forward in faith in that walk. During this painful season for some - it gives me a chance to be bolder for Christ. To pray big giant prayers and why not? I mean God is the master behind it all and no prayer is too big just as no prayer is too small. Why not pray for that dress, for that parking spot, for that talk with a friend, for that conversation with a student, - show Christs' heart through yours and be bold in your faith. There was something said last week by Pastor Furtick from Elevation church that has rocked my world and it was probably the most profound sentance of anything spoken at the conference. All of which was awesome and I couldnt take notes fast enough - "Sometimes we need someone elses faith until we can stand on our own." I have shared that a few times since last week. I am grateful for those words of wisdom and it makes me eager for God to fill my cup with the things of Him so that I can pour out and into others. I am eager for whatever God has me do this week. Skate night tonight and I am sure there will be a conversation that will take place this evening because I have placed it in Gods hands - "Use me Lord if You should call on someone." "I am here."
If you are struggling with something today friends, look past the problem and see Jesus in it. Don't use those things as an excuse that keeps you from stepping forward in faith and trust in Christ.
Acts 3:6 - Then Peter said, "Silver and gold I do not have, but what I do have I give to you. In the name of Jesus, get up and walk."
Peace,
Lonnie~
Last Thursday I spent a 20 hour day with 2 of my Pastors from church attending a leadership conference. It was a well spent day and a day that left my head in mush. Meaning I just couldn't take one more thing in and at the end after Andy Stanley came on - I found myself wanting the band to come back out and rock out one more praise song and bring the house down for God. It was an amazing day for sure. Friday left me only on a few hours of sleep and I left early to have lunch with my wife and then the chair for a 5 hour nap. One of which I dreamed, which is really good sleep and that alone is amazing since I was in my chair in the LR. That means I was tired and give out. Saturday Kyle and I spent the day working on the pond and in the yard. Sunday church setup, leading in the Flood, leadership meeting, a visit to Kyles old school and seeing the teachers there with Morgan, Taylor and Zach, then Rock Group Sunday night. I am busy but its all good. There has to be some time in there for laughing, enjoying and just sitting back sometimes. I think those moments are few and far between but the last season of my life I think I am enjoying that time more even though I have less opportunity. I think in many ways Carol and I are moving forward on the same page - something that hasn't been since Kate came over a year ago. She is doing good in Utah and forging ahead of schedule in her therapy and plugging into life there. I am very proud of her and hope that she writes me back soon.
This is not just another Monday of Mondays in life. I am learning so many things that God is teaching me and leading me to understand. Even though I am not that smart and it takes me time to fully get it, I know that God does not give up on us and will continue to persue until that time comes where we step aside with our own agenda and excuses and get on with His ways and His plans. As I look around me today and see a host of folks who are struggling with something - I am seeing Christ more clearly in those things than I have in a very long time. My heart shows when talking with a student or a friend who is really having a hard time with something and through those tears, my heart breaks and I feel good knowing that the reason my heart breaks is because it is breaking Christ' heart. I am in tune and stepping forward in faith in that walk. During this painful season for some - it gives me a chance to be bolder for Christ. To pray big giant prayers and why not? I mean God is the master behind it all and no prayer is too big just as no prayer is too small. Why not pray for that dress, for that parking spot, for that talk with a friend, for that conversation with a student, - show Christs' heart through yours and be bold in your faith. There was something said last week by Pastor Furtick from Elevation church that has rocked my world and it was probably the most profound sentance of anything spoken at the conference. All of which was awesome and I couldnt take notes fast enough - "Sometimes we need someone elses faith until we can stand on our own." I have shared that a few times since last week. I am grateful for those words of wisdom and it makes me eager for God to fill my cup with the things of Him so that I can pour out and into others. I am eager for whatever God has me do this week. Skate night tonight and I am sure there will be a conversation that will take place this evening because I have placed it in Gods hands - "Use me Lord if You should call on someone." "I am here."
If you are struggling with something today friends, look past the problem and see Jesus in it. Don't use those things as an excuse that keeps you from stepping forward in faith and trust in Christ.
Acts 3:6 - Then Peter said, "Silver and gold I do not have, but what I do have I give to you. In the name of Jesus, get up and walk."
Peace,
Lonnie~
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