The Outflow of Power

I was in a Subway Sandwich place a couple weeks ago, having lunch with a friend. As we got to the counter to pay for our meal my friend asked the clerk how her day was going. Heather was her name (I always look at a name tag of a person working in a store or a restaurant and then call them by name. People LOVE to hear their name).

Heather gave us an honest response, admitting that she was tired. When we asked what we could do for her, she quickly replied, "You can pray for me." And pray for her we did -- right there in front of our sandwiches and other customers.

As we sat down to eat and reflected briefly on our encounter with Heather, my friend said, "People are looking for blessings." So true.

Think of all the people that cross our paths who are struggling in some way, just waiting for someone to ask how they're doing and then hoping that we will really listen and care.

When meetign me at church, my friend Wes will often say, "How are you REALLY doing?" He shows me that he cares and wants to know what's going on in my life, not just saying the cliche, "How's it going?" I'm just wondering what would happen if we would do that with those around us each day. It will likely take a lot of listening and caring.

This morning I read that wonderful story in the gospels where Jesus felt power flowing out of Him when the women touched the hem of His garment. And I thought of how we as Christians are filled with the resurrection power of the living Christ. So when people are in touch with us, either literally or figuratively, and we are used by Jesus to show them His compassion, does not His power flow out of us?

I pray that Heather felt that power and gave God the glory. And that more Heathers in our lives will be touched by Jesus through His Spirit within us.

Jim

Building Dreams

Don Baber, one of our star volunteers, told me yesterday of a man named James Culler who once loaded up several old dorms at ACC and transported them about a mile to their new home. These dorms were former barracks from Camp Barkeley during World War II. James then supervised a team of men that arranged and connected these buildings on a piece of land on the corner of N. 9th and Mesquite Street. Thus was born the home of the Christian Service Center. This was nearly 40 years ago. The old building still is holding up, but is definitely showing its age.

Ever since I started leading this ministry hear about four years ago, one of my goals was to either find us a larger and more functional building or to construct a new one on this site. Our board is presently in the talking and praying and dreaming stage about another building. However, as one board member reminded me of yesterday, it's vital that we don't get the cart before horse.

At lunch yesterday Randy surprised me with his words: "Jim, I'm not a big advocate of that new building. Becuase I think you need a vision before you build a building. I know you're embarrassed by it, but that's not a reason to build something new."

He and I then brainstormed about how we could go about seeking a new vision from God for this ministry. Only then would it be wise to make plans for either revamping an existing facility in Abilene or construct a new one.

His words hurt a bit because I was getting excited about the possibility of having a place with more room, a much more functional floor plan. This is a very old, moldy building. And I can envision how we could build a place or remodel an existing building to fit our needs much more.

Please pray for me and the board as we seek a vision from the Lord about how this ministry can best serve the poor of this community in the Name of Jesus. And then if He gives us a building, that we'd use it all for His glory.

Jim

Receiving His Love

I once heard a woman tell her testimony where she described growing up in a Christian home and accepting Christ as a young girl. Time went on, she eventually got married, and moved away from her home town. And though she still believed in Christ she didn't have that close of a relationship with Him.

One evening she and her husband attended a Bible study led by a man who was with the Navigators. He taught with such authority and passion for the Lord. This woman could tell that he had a deep love for Jesus. After the study was over, she immediatly walked up to this man and said, "I want what you have." His reply was simple: "Get to know the Savior." And that brief answer started her on a journey towards a growing love for and knowledge of the Savior.

That story popped in my head late last night. Susan and I were blessed to be a part of the Dennis Jernigan praise night at ACU. Most of you probably know his story -- how the Lord delivered him from homosexuality 26 years ago and then gave him this amazing ministry of writing worship songs and leading worship events.

Near the beginning of last night's "concert," Dennis said, "You can either receive God's love or reject it. I thought, "Man, I want to receive His love. To let go of my controlling nature and abandon myself to Jesus."

The more Dennis sang, interspersed with words of encouragement and more of his testimony, the more I thought, "I want what He has -- such a passion for Jesus and awareness of how deeply Christ loves him...and even likes him."

After the praise time was over, Susan went home because she was tired. I hung out for awhile talking with a couple friends. As I noticed most of the folks being gone, I looked around and found myself next to a short line of people waiting to talk to Dennis and get their picture with him. I decided to stay a few minutes and thank him.

Not wanting to bother him much, I just gave him a hug and told him how much I appreciated his focus on the Lord and not himself. He seemed like just an ordinary guy -- which he is.

As I headed out of the auditorium and began walking to my car, I thought again of that story: "I want what you have." At first I wished that I said that to Dennis. Then it's as if the Holy Spirit said, "Just ask Me." And I did: "Lord, I want to know You more the way Dennis Jernigan knows you." All the way home I kept thinking about and enjoying, really, the love of Christ. As soon as I got home I opened up to this passage, which I had heard quoted on the Emmaus Walk last weekend:

Long ago the LORD said to Israel: “I have loved you, my people, with an everlasting love. With unfailing love I have drawn you to myself. -- Jer. 31:3

"Get to know the Savior, " the Navigator guy told this woman. Last night we were certainly brought into the presence of our Savior. And it certainly lit a flame in my heart to just bathe in and be lavished by the love of Jesus more. And then to be a mighty instrument of His love to others.

HOW HAVE YOU EXPERIENCED THE LOVE OF CHRIST? WHAT HAS HELPED YOU "GET TO KNOW THE SAVIOR?"

Jim

Seeking Greatness

My friend in Boston, Steve, referred me to a great article in another blog. Below is an excerpt. Great stuff about how to experience greatness in God's eyes. If you want to read the entire article, see:

http://subunderground.blogspot.com/2007/03/greatness.html

Maybe I am not great. I freely admit I don't even really know what the word means. I do know that most of what I would expect to help make me great will really only make me shallow and self-absorbed.

God's plan for my life is to make me like Jesus. The character of Christ is one who came to serve and not to be served. Jesus was the leader who got on his knees and washed his follower's feet. He was the one who suffered and died under the hand of unjust punishment without striking back. He even forgave those who were in the act of torturing him to death.

The path to greatness is not the same as the path of Jesus. The way of the cross is the only way to follow him. He said so himself.

His ways are not our ways. His thoughts are not our thoughts.

This is why Jesus calls us to "Repent" in order to enter the Kingdom of God. Because "Repent" literally means to "think again". It involves re-thinking our lives and re-defining the things we value most.

I am not great. I am just me. And the real problem begins there.

The real miracle is that, someday, somehow, God's plan is to take someone like me and make me into the image of his Son.

So, every day I have to wake up and take up my cross and submit my life to Christ. There is no other way.

"If anyone would be the greatest, he must be the very least and the servant of all"- Jesus (Mark 9:35)

-- by Keith Giles, a freelance writer and church planter in California.

The Opening in the Storm

While I'm exhausted this morning I'm also exhilirated. Once more God gave me the privilege of working a Walk to Emmaus. It was another amazing experience of the outpouring of the Holy Spirit on a group of men whose hearts were humbled, broken, healed and loved. Throughout the 72 hours there were prayer warriors all over the Abilene area and elsewhere that were taking turns in half hour segments praying for this Walk.

Two things really hit me this weekend.

1. What damage Satan does when we don't live in God's grace and try to control our own lives

2. What wonders Jesus does when we let Him in our hearts and allow Him to take control.

One of the most powerful stories was in the final talk. This brother told of being caught in a terrible thunderstorm while flying a plane all by himself. The storm was so fierce that he feared that the wings of the plane would break off. It was at this point that he realized that he couldn't get himself out of this crisis. And then it hit him -- for all of his life, God was part of his life, but not all of his life. He treated God like his co-pilot. In the midst of the storm he knew it was time to give up all control of his life and he cried out to Jesus, "Lord, You're going to have to be my pilot." Not long after that prayer, a huge opening in the sky burst into his vision. He flew right for that opening and into clear sky.

From that point forward, he has let Christ be his pilot and he has experienced over and over the resurrection power of his life.

What is it about the battle of our flesh that we want to keep taking control? After this Walk, I'm reminded once more that daily surrender to the power of the Holy Spirit is what our Lord is calling us to do.

As my friend Bill Nash told us in his talk what he's learned, "I can't...God can...I think I'll let Him."

What joy and freedom awaits us when we let Jesus take the wheel. And what blessings we bring to others when we stop being control freaks and let Christ be our Master...to His glory.

Jim

Imago Dei

Three years ago I was in New York City for a conference. Before attending the event, I had an entire afternoon free. It was a gorgeous fall day in upper Manhattan. I love being free in that city to go where ever I want to. What site did I choose? The Metropolitan Museum of Art. Just looking at the outside, with its beautiful buildings and large number of steps (dotted with people basking in the sun) is a treat. And yet what amazing artistic treasures await those who have a few hours to look.

One of the most fascinating permanent exhibits to me was all the armour and weapons used in battle during the medieval times. After spending about 45 minutes gazing at these items I was struck with the desire within man to be creative. Every knife, sword, horse armor and shield was inscribed with some sort of decoration. Many of them had very elaborate artwork graved into the metal. It hit me that people can't but help express their creativity.

Last summer Susan and I went to Chicago for our 25th anniversary. One of the highlights was going on the architecture tour up the Chicago River. As the docent described the history of each building and what architect designed it, once more I saw before me the creativity of mankind. These buildings could have been merely utilitarian. Why must they all be so different with uniquely designed exteriors. Again, man is bursting with this urge to create something beautiful.

Don't we all feel this urge? Whether it's to try a new recipe (like my wife loves to do and does so well), learn to paint, take photos, or write an article or book -- we all want to create in some way. And we get so much satisfaction out of this process. The photo above was taken at a Catholic retreat center in Oceanside, California. I was walking the grounds one morning before our first session. Accenting the man-made buildings was God's handiwork, such as these gorgeous flowers. I loved the beauty of the place and enjoyed so much photographing different scenes there.

Yesterday I glanced at the back page of a church leadership magazine and saw a fascinating photo of a walking stick. No, not the kind to help an elderly person get around. I'm referring to thse bent-legged insect that God created. The article said, "entomologists have identifed mroe than one thousand species of walking sticks. That borders on creative overkill, but it reaveals something about the personality of God." It is part of the Imago Dei -- God's image. And as Scripture says, you and I are made in that image.

So, when you feel that creative bent and want to express it, go for it. And recognize that it is the Lord God who built this tendency into the DNA of each of us. The Christian Olympic runner once said, "When I run, I feel His pleasure." I believe that we love to create so much because when we do so, we’re tapping into the very nature of God. Those who don’t know Christ feel it just as much as we do. But the advantage for the Christ-follower is that we can create with the consciousness that He is the One who gives us this soul joy and whatever creative activity we engage in we can thank Him and give Him all the glory.

Jim

Still My King

Today marks the 79th birthday of my beloved father-in-law, Bill Vaught. We call him "Daddy Bill," a name given by his first grandchild. I plan to give him a call later today and bless him with a birthday wish.

March 21 is also a reminder to me of another sort of birthday. Thirty years ago on a Monday night in Camarillo, California I was riding in a red Dodge Dart with one of my surfer friends, Rob Grenville, and Larry Fuller, an elder in the church I had been attending. For several weeks I had been convicted of my need to pledge my faith in Christ in baptism. Finally one day I felt it was time to "take the plunge" and so I called Larry and asked if Rob and I could come out to his ranch house in Moorpark where we had spent many evenings together studying the Word.

We sat in his living room and I told him I was ready for him to baptize me. It was a joyful ride in his Dodge Dart as Larry talked to me about what an important decision this was. A handful of people were there at the church as they celebrated my vow to Christ, my body going down into the water and resurfacing. I certainly wasn't aware of all the implications of what happened that night. It would take years of study and prayer and experiences, both joyful and painful, to work out the implications of dying to myself and living under the Lordship of Jesus. But it has been an amazing journey.

I recall so well the next day. My boss and I played tennis on a beautiful Southern California day. And I was deeply aware that something happened deeply in my soul. In years to come I found myself feeling less at home in this world, hungry for Christian fellowship and times of corporate worship of my King, and being enamoured with the word of God.

Though I allowed myself to take some sad detours into legalism and sectarian thinking, I've witnessed Christ being so faithful in drawing me closer to Himself. And helping realize that only He can satisfy and only He is worthy of my trust and praise.

That Monday night, through this beautiful and mysterious sacrament of water baptism, I was declaring to Jesus in front of the world that I want Him to be my King. And by His grace, I'm still finding myself making that confession today. No one or no thing can be richer than knowing and serving and loving Jesus. And being loved by Him.

With Christ in our hearts, what better birthday celebration could there be?

Jim

Letting Go

Why is it that I have such a hard time letting go of our children, even though they've become adults? Our son, Aaron, is planning to graduate this summer. Isn't quite sure what he wants to do in life, although his great passion is being a basketball referee.

Every time I'm with Aaron I half joke about helping him figure out what he can do for a career before he's out of our sight again. It happened again Sunday night. After he and Shannon had returned home after being far away during spring break, they came over to the house for dinner. I brought up the subject again, asking Aaron about his plans and making a few suggestions. He said, "Dad, not now. I'm too tired. I don't want to think about it."

After he and Shannon went home, I talked to Susan some more about our son as we got ready for bed. I told her that I didn't want him to go through what I experienced after graduating from college -- struggling for a few years in trying to figure out what career fit me. Susan assured me that he would find his way just like she and I did -- as God led us. I knew she was right, and yet I want so much to help Aaron find his way in a career and in meeting a strong Christian woman that he could marry.

My friend Monnie Harris gave me and Susan a great imagery at church a few Sundays ago. We were talking about how difficult it is for us not to be in control. As we walked away she opened up her her hands and raised them up, as a symbol of letting go and giving up control to the Lord. That's what I need to do with our kids and with all my concerns. Realize that God is in control and He can do a much better job of directing our children than we as parents could ever do.

And so, once more I open my hands and release our kids to the Lord. They're His. My job is to continue praying for them and to be there if they come to me for advice.

Letting go really is hard to do. But if I remind myself that as I let go of trying to control our adult children and am turning them over to an all powerful, all loving, all wise God, it's not so hard.

Jim

Good News, Bad News

I read an interesting verse this morning in Luke, describing the ministry of John the Baptist. It said that he was preaching good news, but it sounds a bit scary, also:

He is ready to separate the chaff from the grain with his winnowing fork. Then he will clean up the threshing area, storing the grain in his barn but burning the chaff with never-ending fire.” John used many such warnings as he announced the Good News to the people. -- Luke 3:17-18

As I wondered what this verse meant, I read this comment from the Life Application Bible, which helped me understand a bit John's words:

The baptism with fire also symbolizes the work of the Holy Spirit in bringing God’s judgment on those who refuse to repent. The winnowing fork was a pitchfork used to toss wheat so that the kernels would separate from the husks. Those who refuse to be used by God will be discarded because they have no value in furthering God’s work. Those who repent and believe, however, hold great value in God’s eyes because they are beginning a new life of productive service for him.

As I pondered that verse, a couple memories helped me come to see some of what John meant. First, a film. Susan and I watched "Luther" Friday night -- the second time we've seen it. It was so interesting to see the contrasting reactions unfold in response to Luther's discovery of the gospel. To many of the common people, this good news was so liberating to them as they came to see they could be free from the crushing weight of works righteousness. But to those in political and religious power structures, this new message was an extreme threat. It wasn't good news to them at all because their comfort zone was deeply threatened by Luther and his growing band of reformers.

The second memory was of a scene on the beach of Southern California. I was living a very comfortable life of surfing and parties. And then along comes these guys with long hair and beards telling us about Jesus. I wasn't ready to hear the message, and so what I heard was judgment on my life, not freedom. A couple years later, when I decided to read the New Testament for myself, it both excited me and threatened me. The threat was that I sensed that in accepting Christ and allowing Him to take leadership in my life, it meant turning my back on my family and most of my friends. So it seemed like bad news until, by God's grace, I finally turned to Jesus and said "Yes" to the great invitation.

I'm not quite sure what the application of this passage is to our lives as Christ-redeemed followers of the Master. But it seems to me that we need to always realize that when we do witness to Christ, some will reject the message -- to their judgment -- and some will accept the message -- to their eternal joy.

However, a person responds, our call is to keep proclaiming the living Christ...and let the Holy Spirit do His work.

Jim

Looking Upon His Friendly Heart

Next weekend I'll be working a Walk to Emmaus and will be speaking on the topic, "Justifying Grace." I've worked many Walks and given lots of talks, but never this one. Each time I speak at one of these glorious weekend Walks I've always tried to do more than give theology...I tell my story, which is what most of the others do. For the past few weeks as I've prayed over and wrestled with this talk, what came to mind as framework for this message was the movie, "Luther."

I'm going to show a clip from the early part of the film, where this terrified monk is in his room crying out to God in anguish because of the lack of peace in his heart. His father in the faith, an older and wiser monk, walks by his room and hears Luther mumbling his prayers of despair. The senior monk walks gently into his room, listens to young Luther, then kneels down with him and began ministering to this tormented soul. He asked, What is it you seek, Martin?" Luther replied, "I want a merciful God. A God who loves me."

Then the elder monk did the coolest thing. He took off from his neck a necklace with a large cross hanging from it and placed it in Luther's sweaty hand. He looked with love into Luther's eyes and said, "Then look to Christ. Bind yourself to Christ. Say, `I am yours. Save me. I...am...yours. Save me." And Luther rather sheepishly repeated these words while clinging to the cross with one hand and squeezing his mentor's hand with his other.

Not long after that incident Martin was sent to Wittenburg to teach and he began reading the New Testament. While reading the book of Romans he discovered the gospel of grace...and Christ set his heart free.

There's another great scene in the film I must tell you about. He is speaking to his congregants about his newly found freedom in Christ. And he tells them, "If we truly believe Christ is our Savior, then we have a God of love. To see God in faith is to look upon His friendly heart."

I love that line: "We look upon His friendly heart." When we trust Jesus to save us, we become a friend of God and know this God who LOVES us."

Eugene Peterson describes this "friendly heart" of God so well in this paraphrase of a passage in Romans 5:

By entering through faith into what God has always wanted to do for us – set us right with him, make us fit for him – we have it all together with God because of our Master Jesus. And that’s not all: We throw open our doors to God and discover at the same moment that he has already thrown open his door to us.” – Rom. 5, The Message

As we trust completely in Christ and what He did for us on that cross, may we be filled with His Spirit and know deeply in our hearts that we are deeply loved by Him...and that we look upon His friendly heart.

Jim

Dwelling on His Nature

At my weekly lunch with Randy Becton yesterday, he led a prayer where his main focus was on God's character. Randy praised the Lord for Who He is -- holy, loving, merciful, kind. After his prayer I mentioned how important it was that we dwell on our Lord's awesome nature and praise Him. Too often I've focused instead on asking Him for things, including a plea that He will help me be more obedient and to resist sin.

I'm just wondering, however, how the Lord would turn my heart toward Him more if I dwelled more on His goodness and grace and love, and spent times praising Him and loving Him for Who He is.

This morning I read the prophesy that Zechariah declared when his son, John the Baptist, was born. So much of his Holy Spirit-filled statement contained references to God's character: He's a Mighty Savior, Redeemer, Merciful, Rescuer.
We might try this today -- take one characteristic of God and dwell on Him and praise Him all day as we think if this part of His nature. Perhaps you could select a Scripture that describes His nature, write it on an index card and meditate on that passage all day.

For example, here's a quote from Psalms that is a prayer with a declaration of God's character imbedded in the plea for help:

Answer my prayers, O LORD,
for your unfailing love is wonderful.
Turn and take care of me,
for your mercy is so plentiful. -- Ps. 69:16

I think I'll put that on an index card and pray that prayer all day.

May Christ fill you with His presence today as you meditate on His awesome nature amidst the joys and challenges of the day. Amen.

Jim

His Holiness

Yesterday I ate lunch with and then spoke to a group called the "Hilltoppers" -- some delightful senior saints at the Hillcrest congregation. It turned out to be somewhat of a reunion as I renewed friendships with former Highland members, including my sweet gray haired angel friend, Polly Hilbert. She is still going strong as she turns 87 this year.

After I showed my Powerpoint presentation and told about volunteer opportunities at the Service Center, Polly came up to me and insisted that I go with her upstairs so she could show me her classroom. She co-teaches a class of young people -- the type of ministry she's been involved in for years. What Polly especially wanted to proudly show me was this model of the tabernacle that her students made. It was quite impressive -- a miniature recreation of the table of showbread, candles, washing basins outside the tabernacle, and of course the ark of the covenant. And ever piece was spray painted in gold.

As I gazed at this model, I was struck with the truth that our God is holy, holy, holy. And how much we need a go-between in order to approach Him.

Last Saturday while out west to visit my Mom, I read a brief yet potent article in the new Discipleship Journal, my favorite magazine. One of the best authors I've read lately, Mark Buchanan, wrote a stunning article on God's character as revealed in the Old Testament prophets. In three and a half pages, Buchanan paints an awesome vision of God's majesty, especially the holiness of Almighty God. Here are some snippets of what he wrote:

The prophets give us the fullest portrait of the awesome holiness of God...We encounter Amos' God who roars from Zion. Isaiah's God, whose robe fills the temple and whose glory fills the earth. Jeremiah's God who overturns the deluded optimism of a nation. Ezekiel’s God who shows up in wild contraptions of metal and fire...This is the God we fear and revere. Hallowed be His Name.

The wholly otherness and utter holiness of the God the prophets reveal serves as a needed and potent corrective in an age that craves intimacy with God but treats obedience as optional. It provides an antidote to the trivialized image of a god whose main purpose is to find us parking stalls close to the mall entrance and new jeans on sale in our size.

Better to come trembling before the true God, fierce and wild, who could destroy you with one breath and burn you up with one glance, but who instead longs to breathe His Spirit fresh into you, making even dry bones live, and touch heaven's fire to your mouth, making even your unclean lips fit for praise.

I'm wondering how much more we would praise and thank God for the cross of Jesus Christ if we dwelled more on the holiness of God. And how much more would we strive for holy living if we believed deep in our hearts how holy, holy holy our God was. And that the only hope for salvation for us sinful creatures is the atoning blood death of our precious resurrected Lord Jesus.

The replica of the tabernacle constructed by Polly's students and Buchanan's reminder from the words of the prophets made me appreciate all the more this amazing promise to those who believe in Christ:

"We have access to God at any moment." (Eph. 2:18)

And so I bow down to His holiness and say how great and awesome He is. And so full of love that He would save me, give me His Holy Spirit and then touch my lips so that I would declare His praises throughout my life...and forever.

Jim

Getting a Vision from God

Some time back I read a quote from one of my favorite authors, Bill Hybels, that has stuck with me. He said that if you want God to give you a vision for the ministry you're leading, go visit other ministries where you see Him at work.

I followed his advice and was so blessed by what I saw last Thursday. God touched something deeply in my soul, where I sensed him telling me that this was a vision for the Christian Service Center that I've been searching for the past 3 and a half years.

Here's a photo of the main building of Christian Community Action, located in Lewisville, Texas. It's led by the Scott Orr, the son of my dear friend in Abilene, Dub. For the year Dub has been telling me, "Jim, you've got to see this ministry my son is leading.? He was right. I needed to see it.

Born out of a Bible study 34 years ago, Christian Community Action (CCA) has grown into a ministry that has a food pantry the size of a small grocery store, six full-time case workers, a medical and dental clinic, a chapel, a chaplain, a Job Search SupPort Group, an off-site childcare center, an affordable housing and housing renovation program, and on it goes. They emphasize both compassion and accountability, which I have a burden do here in Abilene.

It has gradually grown into where it is today. And the part I especially love is that it is so Christ-centered. They're all about doing their ministry in the name of Jesus and for His glory.

At lunch today, Susan and I watched a DVD of this ministry, which modeled the type of DVD I hope to produce for our ministry and show at a banquet this November. I want to show this DVD to our board next week, helping them to catch this vision for how we could expand and improve our ministry here.

Please pray for us as we continue following the leading of the Lord and seek His vision for what the Christian Service Center could become as a Christ-honoring ministry to the poor and hurting and lost of Abilene.

Jim

Walking with God...day by day...year by year

To quote the popular book by Robert McGee, our "search for significance" nags at us constantly. At least it nags on me.

I mentioned yesterday that no one showed up at the first breakout of our "Quiet Place" session Monday night for caregivers. A total of three came to the second breakout.

Yesterday we had Pam Money come out to speak to our neighbors on the topic "Love and Respect in Marriage." She did a wonderful job. A bunch of our volunteers came out to hear her. And yet with all of our publicity to our neighbors...who come in each day for food, clothes, etc...only two showed up.

As I escorted Pam out the door I said, "I'm sorry that more of our neighbors didn't show up. Many more said they'd come than were here." This didn't phase Pam at all. As she walked to her car she turned back to me and said, "God brought those who needed to be here." So true, Pam. So true.

Last night as I read the last part of Phil Vischer's story of the rise and fall of his Veggie Tales company, I came across some gems that spoke right to my heart about what is significant in God's eyes. As he wallowed in grief over the bankruptcy and loss of Big Ideas, the company he built for 14 years, he sensed God speaking to him through Scripture, sermons and books by Henry Blackaby. Here's one quote from Blackaby and Phil's response:

"You may have wanted to do something outstanding for God and forgot that God does not want that. He wants you to be available to Him, and more important, to be obedient to Him."

The Christian life wasn't about running like a maniac; it was about walking with God. It wasn't about impact; it was about obedience..it was about listening. As I write this , I am growing increasingly convinced that if every one of these kids burning with passion to write that hit Christian song or make that hit Christian movie or start that hit Christian ministry to change the world would instead focus their passion on walking with God on a daily basis, the world would change. What is `walking with God?' Simple. Doing what he asks you to do each and every day. Living in active relationship wtih him. Filling your mind with his Word, and letting that Word penetrate every waking moment.

I felt the Lord speaking very clearly to me through Phil Vischer's convicting words. I focus too much on "success" and not enough on walking daily with the Lord. And being content with that daily walk, even though it may not be punctuated with many spectacular moments.

You may feel like your life is a bit too routine and not having all that much impact. Whether you're raising kids, living in retirement, running a business. It may not feel all that significant or world-changing. But what power there is in a child of God who allows His Holy Spirit to work through him or her each day! Week in and month in and year in...and year out. In the midst of the routine and hum drum. In those times when we don't know if we're making that big of a difference in people's lives. Christ is still doing His work with those who quietly walk with Him each day.

These words from Ephesians 5 that I read early this morning were another reminder of the power of that daily, faithful and at times routine walk with God:

Follow God’s example in everything you do, because you are his dear children. Live a life filled with love for others, following the example of Christ, who loved you and gave himself as a sacrifice to take away your sins. And God was pleased, because that sacrifice was like sweet perfume to him.

And when we follow Jesus each day and love others sacrificially and lavishly, God is surely pleased. And when I think about it, what could be more significant than pleasing the Lord.

Jim

Legacy of Love

Last Saturday Susan and I got up early and headed to Amarillo for the day. Our nephew, Henry Hancock, was going to receive his Eagle Scout Award that day. I've attended quite a few Court of Honor ceremonies for Eagle Scouts. This one was the most touching.

At least three different Scoutmasters went to the podium and commended Henry for his hard work, great attitude and perseverance. The youth pastor of Henry's church gave some stirring words from the book of Ephesians and talked about the leadership gifts of this young man and the mature faith he has which comes from the Lord Jesus.

Of course, the highlight and tear jerker moment of these events is always when the scout talks about their parents' influence and then giving their folks a pin. Henry spoke at great length about the support of his mother and Dad -- including the many hours his father put into helping with the troop, including going on camping trips. This young man has been deeply loved his 16 years -- by his parents and sisters, scoutmasters, pastors, and extended family. And it was the support of this tremendous community of encouragers that helped bolster Henry to achieve this milestone that is attained by only one in a hundred Boy Scouts.

Yesterday I was reading in Mark the response of Jesus to a man who asked Him what the greatest commandment is. We all know this familiar reply of the Lord:

The most important commandment is this: ‘Hear, O Israel! The Lord our God is the one and only Lord. And you must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, all your mind, and all your strength.’ The second is equally important: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.' No other commandment is greater than these.”

I noticed in the column of my Bible that I had written these words:

Lord, please help me leave a legacy of love.

Friday night we watched the excellent film, "United 93." One of the most touching scenes were of the passengers calling their families to say goodbye. They didn't make calls to their broker to have their stocks rebalanced. Or contact their attorney about updating their will. They wanted to talk to their spouse or children or parents -- and say, "I love you!"

Last night I experienced another touch of God's love through His people. I had spent a long time preparing for a breakout session at a workshop for Family Caregivers. I asked Susan and a few dear friends to come help me in "The Quiet Place" -- where we offered a place of respite for these caregivers. We had lit candles around the room, had soothing Christian music playing, and set up prayer stations. I asked my friend Rod Pringle to come play the guitar. Placed on four different tables were sheets of paper with a variety of Scriptures for their comfort. The night finally arrived. About 50 people came for the event. When they all dispersed to the four breakout sessions, we waited for people to come in. And we waited...and waited. Not one person came in for our breakout session. Finally, a few of the staff members walked inand so we conducted our session with them. At the next breakout session (a repeat) a total of two came. I was really disappointed, especially when I thought of all the work I had put into this.

As we dispersed, Rod came up to me, guitar case in hand, put his strong around me and said, "Brother, I don't want you to be discouraged. This did more good than you realized. I appreciate you so much."

Then that evening at home Susan was so encouraging to me, telling me that she was proud of me in how I had organized that event.

These words of encourgement meant the world to me in what could have been a very discouraging moment. They loved me.

That is the kind of legacy I want to leave behind -- that I loved Jesus with all my heart, soul and strength and loved others in His Name. That ultimately is what life in Christ is all about. Henry felt it last Saturday. I experienced this love last night. And I pray that you'll both receive and give such love this week. For Jesus' sake. Amen.

Jim

Redeeming Films

On yesterday's Focus on the Film, Dobson and crew provided an unusual program -- their version of the Oscars. Although some people think that Dobson is too reactionary or political, I must admit that he was right on yesterday -- pointing to the degrading nature of some many award-winning films, and yet describing some of his favorites that have redeeming value. He had his two guys that run Plugged In Online, which is a movie review that I check frequently (go to www.family.org and look to the column on the right).

Susan and I had an interesting discussion about this program and about films after hearing this broadcast while preparing dinner. She reminded me of a website that she often checks late in the week -- the media section of www.Christianitytoday.com (go to their website and click "media" at top and you'll see "movies" come up). One neat thing about this website that Susan pointed out is that the reviewers provide their "Top Ten List," including a "Top Ten of Redeeming Films" That's how we learned about the somewhat quirky British film, "Millions." (What an amazing ending!)

I asked her, "What have been some of the most redeeming films you've seen the past few years?" I like films that especially remind me of Jesus, what matters in life, the power of love, poeple who overcome, and other such redeeming qualities.

Here are a few of my favorites (some oldies and some new):

1. Chariots of Fire -- I suggest you rent the 25th anniversary edition and watch the interview between the director, Hugh Hudson, and David Puttnam, the producer. What they say shows that God's hand was all over the production of that exquisite film about the missionary/Olympic runner, Eric Liddle)

2. Tender Mercies -- the only film that for which Robert Duvall received an Academy Award. It has some sad moments, but is so powerful...and what a great baptism scene.

3. Akeelah and the Bee -- one of Christianity Today's top 10 redeeming films for 2006. Lawrence Fischer and the young girl playing the spelling bee participant were wonderful. What a tremendous message about the power of community

4. Enchanted April -- another quiet British film with an extraordinary cast and sweet story. I especially loved the performance by Michael Kitchen

5. The Apostle -- okay, I know this is another Robert Duvall film. But I have loved his performances ever since his debut as Boo Radley in "To Kill a Mockingbird." Another Oscar worthy performance. Great conversion scenes. And an honest portrayal of the believer's battle of the flesh and our desire to be led by the Spirit.

6. Regarding Henry -- one of my favorite performances by Harrison Ford. Screenplay by a young 20-something budding screenwriter named J.J. Henry who has gone on to be a Hollywood wonderboy (Creator of Lost and Alias, director of Mission Impossible 3). I showed a clip of it in my men's Bible class a few weeks ago -- the tender scene of Ford with his young teenager daughter, as he has been transformed from a hard-driving and selfish attorney into a compassionate father and husband.

Okay, bloggers, what is your Top 5 (or 6) REDEEMING films -- those that feed the soul and grip your heart with an uplifting message?

Jim

Giving It Up

My reading in Mark this morning made me think of a few stories:

1. The young girl at our church who kept asking her parents if she could be baptized. Her parents encouraged her to wait until she could understand more of what she was doing but then finally relented to her wishes.

2. A niece who at a very young age asked her mother about how to receive the Holy Spirit since she had heard about Him at church at home. She invited Jesus into her heart when she was six or seven.

3. The "surfer dude" to whom my brother and I witnessed about Christ back in the mid-70's. He told us that he wasn't ready to accept Jesus because he didn't want to give up having sex with women.

4. The times I feared the Holy Spirit and was reluctant to surrender my life to Him because of what I'd need to give up and risk losing.

You might read this whole passage: Mark 10:13-26.

But here are a few phrases from these encounters people had with Jesus:

Let the children come to me. Don’t stop them! For the Kingdom of God belongs to such as these. I assure you, anyone who doesn’t have their kind of faith will never get into the Kingdom of God.”

“How hard it is for rich people to get into the Kingdom of God!”

And Jesus replied, “I assure you that everyone who has given up house or brothers or sisters or mother or father or children or property, for my sake and for the Good News, will receive now in return, a hundred times over, houses, brothers, sisters, mothers, children, and property—with persecutions. And in the world to come they will have eternal life.

Bloggers, why is it that children tend to be more open to Christ and adults often are less likely to accept the forgiveness of Christ and let Him be their king?

The word that came to mind while I was showering and pondering this verse was: ATTACHMENTS.

Don't you think that our attachments to things of this world, including close family and friends, can get in the way of us giving our full allegiance to Jesus?

As I talked to Susan about this a few minutes before leaving the house, she gave me a suggestion: what if we started paying our cleaning lady more for her twice-a-month work? My first reaction was, "I dont' want to give up more money." Then it immediately hit me -- attachments! "Give it up, Jim. Isn't God enough?"

I've been reading a fascinating autobiography of Phil Vischer called Me, Myself and Bob. He's the guy that invented the wildly successful Veggie Tales videos. He tells of how his Big Idea company skyrocketed into fame and fortune -- and then blew up after a lawsuit in Dallas. It was in the aftermath of his lost dream that He began "hearing" the Lord wake him up to the fact that his dream had become an idol. And that God plus nothing is enough. He is enough.

And giving up for Jesus whatever we've attached to or let others attach to us is worth it all. He promises us so in vss. 29-30.

O, what those young children have to teach us about being open to Jesus! Teach us more, Lord, and give us hearts more yielded to You each day.

Jim

Giving It Up

My reading in Mark this morning made me think of a few stories:

1. The young girl at our church who kept asking her parents if she could be baptized. Her parents encouraged her to wait until she could understand more of what she was doing but then finally relented to her wishes.

2. A niece who at a very young age asked her mother about how to receive the Holy Spirit since she had heard about Him at church at home. She invited Jesus into her heart when she was six or seven.

3. The "surfer dude" to whom my brother and I witnessed about Christ back in the mid-70's. He told us that he wasn't ready to accept Jesus because he didn't want to give up having sex with women.

4. The times I feared the Holy Spirit and was reluctant to surrender my life to Him because of what I'd need to give up and risk losing.

You might read this whole passage: Mark 10:13-26.

But here are a few phrases from these encounters people had with Jesus:

Let the children come to me. Don’t stop them! For the Kingdom of God belongs to such as these. I assure you, anyone who doesn’t have their kind of faith will never get into the Kingdom of God.”

“How hard it is for rich people to get into the Kingdom of God!”

And Jesus replied, “I assure you that everyone who has given up house or brothers or sisters or mother or father or children or property, for my sake and for the Good News, will receive now in return, a hundred times over, houses, brothers, sisters, mothers, children, and property—with persecutions. And in the world to come they will have eternal life.

Bloggers, why is it that children tend to be more open to Christ and adults often are less likely to accept the forgiveness of Christ and let Him be their king?

The word that came to mind while I was showering and pondering this verse was: ATTACHMENTS.

Don't you think that our attachments to things of this world, including close family and friends, can get in the way of us giving our full allegiance to Jesus?

As I talked to Susan about this a few minutes before leaving the house, she gave me a suggestion: what if we started paying our cleaning lady more for her twice-a-month work? My first reaction was, "I dont' want to give up more money." Then it immediately hit me -- attachments! "Give it up, Jim. Isn't God enough?"

I've been reading a fascinating autobiography of Phil Vischer called Me, Myself and Bob. He's the guy that invented the wildly successful Veggie Tales videos. He tells of how his Big Idea company skyrocketed into fame and fortune -- and then blew up after a lawsuit in Dallas. It was in the aftermath of his lost dream that He began "hearing" the Lord wake him up to the fact that his dream had become an idol. And that God plus nothing is enough. He is enough.

And giving up for Jesus whatever we've attached to or let others attach to us is worth it all. He promises us so in vss. 29-30.

O, what those young children have to teach us about being open to Jesus! Teach us more, Lord, and give us hearts more yielded to You each day.

Jim