End a Marathon of a Day

Today is the last leg of the journey and we are determined to get out and check a few more things off our list.

I worked out (by the way they have a fabulous health club, beats the YMCA any day) while Sista lounged around just taken it easy. Watched a few episodes of a show based in Vegas (homework for somebody) never caught the name but really good. Pastor Willis made reservations for 1pm at Sweet Georgia. We were schedule to go on Sunday for brunch but when we call they could not accommodate a larger party (my family plus a few staff members who wanted to hang.) Well, I quickly realized why the atmosphere and the food were superb (soul food with white table cloth). Had a great time fellowshipping and talking about the Lord and His Church.

Next on the agenda was site seeing (first clear day since we arrived in the capital). We had Pastor drop us off and we started walking and walking and walking and walking and walking and walking (You get the point?) Site we visited...

Lincoln Memorial
Actual spot where Dr. King gave "I have a dream" speech
Reflection pool
Vietnam Veterans Memorial
Constitution Gardens
Washington Monument
White House

As the sun began to set the temperature changes fast so we caught the train or subway (not sure what the call it) and headed to hotel. I 'm writing this sitting in mall, waiting on the first lady to finally stop (ya'll aint no way she is going to get this stuff in these bags...that's a whole other story.) Ya'll would be proud of me I'm just sitting here drinking my Starbucks (did I mention we need one of these in phase two.)

I'm ready for hot shower and room service...

Sunday Family Reunion

After a very, very, very relaxing night, we were awakening with a knock on the day with breakfast. The driver call came about an hour and a half later. What has been an eye-opening for me during the last few weeks is that not only do they do church much different but their attention to detail is unbelievable [we’ll talk more about it later.] The driver immediately took my bags, opened doors and what impressed me the most after greeting me never said another word for 25-35 mile while I reviewed my manuscript.

We arrived to the church; of course Vision Community Church has grown from just a dream to a little less than a 100 members. They rent a local High School in Stafford, Va for their Sunday experience and a local Christian school for weekly services. What is exciting is that most of the members that I greeted were individuals that had no previous church. Rev. Willis and the Vision Church are really growing a church with people who are introduced to Jesus Christ by their membership. Wonderful praise team, they use track music with a live drummer and bass player [surprising you couldn’t tell]. They escorted me straight to the stage and I was given 40 minutes. Not sure how I did with time but the Lord blessed us and from their comments they were blessed by the Word.

I’ve spent time this week with new friends Pastor Anthony Maclin and Pastor Vaughn McLaughlin. Old friends Rev. Michael Woodberry and Pastor Ron Willis but what has made this trip has been getting a chance to visit with family. I told you about my aunt Bettie yesterday, Sunday morning my Uncle Elder James Booker, Aunt Cathy Booker, cousin James Jr (JJ) his wife Carmen, cousin Jason (I told you guys it was a family reunion). We talked and laughed, it was a great time. They drove in two hours to be with us and it was a very, very special time.

Headed To Stafford, Virginia from DC

Visited the Vision Community Church for the first time this morning as Janice and I was asked to share with the women and leadership team on vision. Nothing in ministry excites me more than sharing with leaders. When you impact leadership you impact generations. This church is only an year old, meeting Sundays at a High School and rented space during the week. Vision is a small church with huge vision. Pastured by one of my good friends Rev. Ron Willis. God truly has great things in store for this people. We will be honor to meet the entire church family in morning during their 10am experience.

After the leadership session we took the small window of opportunity to do some site seeing (it has literally been raining since we arrived). First stop Arlington Cemetery and you probably guessed it the moment we arrived it started raining but we were determined to do this. Was able to visit President John F. Kennedy's and Supreme Court Judge Thurgood Marshall's grave sites. Rain got the best of that outing, so we wrapped it up early.

Next stop was suit shop (yea..................can you tell I've been waiting on that?) Simply incredible collection I won't tell you who's fault that was (give you a guess his 1st name starts with David and last name starts with Young). After literally having to be dragged out and threatened. I went kicking and screaming to our next stop.

With appetite in-tow we then ended the day visiting family. My Aunt Bettie is a Washingtonian, a beautiful women who has defied age and mother nature and I'm her favorite (don't tell my brothers) and she's very special too me. We all had those relatives who we looked up to and admired and she was one of them. We could smell the food as we walked up to the door (she lives in the big city but is still country...you know you have to feed kin-folk). My cousin can simply throw down, great meal and great conversation. Before we knew it time has gotten away and said our good-byes and headed to hotel.

Getting ready to lay it down. Big day tomorrow and need to be rested. Will check in tomorrow.

Just Too Much But I Like It Like That

You every been hungry and went to a buffet looked at all the food and then lost your appetite. That has been how these last few days have been.

Check this out:

The Ritz is connect the mall in picture (we spent the great part of the day and didn't make it through)

There is a food court with every thing from McDonald's to Starbucks (yes, I'm hooked...think that Bethel Community needs one)

There are so many major site that I want to visit while here Arlington cemetery, the Washington monument, and the White House (before "CHANGE" changes it to the people' house)

Washington DC has been added to my top 10 places that make you proud to be an Africa America. The brothers and sisters are owners, lenders and the power brokers here.

I've met with some of the nation's most influential visionary for the kingdom of God. Can't explain it just Favor and it ain't fair. Will tell you more about this later today.

I haven't been yet but I've been told that there is suit stores here that will cause me to loose my mine...looking to that. (Again you have to know me. Sick! Pray for a brotha.)

Later today I will share more. Have a great day. Blessings on you!

Headed To Our Nation's Capital

(@12Noon) Tuesday, September 23rd I woke up in Newark, New Jersey, went to bed in Oklahoma City and headed to Washington, DC today – what an incredible journey the last few days have been. My travel arrangements were made as a sort of surprise and what a surprise it was (too many to mention here). One in particular was as we received our boarding passes we quickly realized that we’re booked for first-class.

Let me quickly say that there is a definite difference between coach and first-class. Just a couple obvious differences: [1] You are allowed one free checked bag in coach you pay $15; [2] You are give the option of priority boarding; [3] Before the other passengers are asked to board the flight attendant has offered to hang your coat, get you a drink, magazine, pillow and blanket, [4] Oh, yea there is one attendant for first class which is about 10 seats and one attendant for the other 35-45 seats – so you can imagine the attention to detail, [5] In coach you have to buy snacks but first class your are given an option of several free snacks, [6] and my favorite in coach they serve your drink in a plastic cup but in first class your drink is served in a glass (you have to know me to understand that craziness).

As I sat back for a good read 30,000 feet in the air the Holy Spirit began to talk with me about what God offers us. In John 10: 10 Jesus says “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” (NIV) I hope you don’t mind me sharing this conversation…First-Class is what Jesus offers and He desires us to have a first-class relationship with Him. You can fly through life on coach but what Jesus offers is first-class. Now before you get too excited about that let me say quickly say that to fly in first-class cost more. Some people just aren’t willing to pay the price to ride first-class. Jesus wants to have a first-class relationship with you…are you willing to pay the price. Before you answer the amenities are worth it the sacrifice.

(@7pm) We finally made it, it was a much easier ride in first-class but my frequent flier miles are catching up with this body of mine. Our driver didn’t make it any better I had to look twice because I thought he may have been a stock-car driver the way he was driving…like he was late for something. We arrive at the hotel (the famous Ritz-Carlton). The service is fabulous and the amenities are fantastic. Tonight we are scheduled to go to dinner in Union City.

(@9) We just finished an outstanding meal a B.Smith’s (that probably means as much to you as it did to me at first.) Matter fact as Janice and I was enjoying our meal this couple comes in and began to make their way around to all the table speaking…so I determined that they must be the owners as they made their way to our table. After a wonderful meal (by the way we had fried BQ chicken, potato salad, collard greens and cornbread. For desert Janice had cheese cake and I opted for strawberry short cake. We shared the meal so I thought I would go for the desert menu. I’m being good. I promise!) On our way out the restaurant there was several picture and then more and more as you walk through to the other side of the restaurant. Then we discovered that this very attractive lady was someone very special. So let me explain who this outstanding black woman is B. Smith is a former fashion model turned restaurateur, television host, author, entrepreneur and entertainer extraordinaire and is widely regarded as an expert when it comes to casual but elegant living thus her national syndicated television show B. Smith with style.

Here’s my B. Smith story I had decided to chronicle the trip on the blog so thought I would get a picture with my phone to attach to blog. So, I’m trying my best to take a picture of a picture and I hear someone say “You can do better than that.” You guessed it B. Smith and her husband Dan was standing behind me. Very pleasant couple Dan offered to take a picture with my phone – I had a better idea Janice just happened to have our camera in her bag. She posed for a picture and we share pleasantries and they headed into the station. I will post those pics ASAP.

Miss you guys see you soon! Pastor G

Ministering in Newark, New Jersey

Today, I'm sharing with the New Hope Baptist Church in Newark with my brother Rev Joe Carter. The New Hope family is celebrating the church's 105th anniversary. With businesses, financial institutions and corporations folding and closing there is a blessed assurance that God church has and will survive.

I was honored to minister in two of his three services. Carter's church is in the heart of Newark doing some amazing and innovative stuff (inner-city school, VA volunteer program, job placement). Joe is a fantastic preacher but this weekend he impressed me most with his pastoral expertise. His church didn't happen by accident but on purpose.

I've had the pleasure to preach, teach and visit several major ministries across the country and few churches have the gift of hospitality like New Hope. I was just blown away by the thoughtfulness and the personal care they took to make my stay enjoyable. (Standing Ovation!!!)

It almost sometimes surreal to be around people you've grown up with there's always that moment with me that I realize that we're talking about things that happened 20-25 years ago. Another strange thing is being around people who really, really, really good. The strange thing is that it feels like home. So many time people think they know you or they know the person every says you are...it just cool to hang out with people who know you and you know them.

Its taken me two days to post this...so at this point of the post its Monday and I'm sitting at the airport in Newark getting ready to head home. Ready to get home to see the family. Getting ready to board my plane check back going to be a long journey.

Headed to National Baptist Convention

After a very long but rewarding weekend, I'm headed to Cincinnati Ohio. I seen more airport this year than I would like to admit.

Yesterday , we begun a new sermon series called "The Heart of Worship!" As we continue to grow and mature as a congregation this is vital. Worship is uniquely tied to our understanding and relationship with God. We have recently committed as a worship team to shape and craft our into an experience. Jesus said that "they that worship Him must worship Him in spirit and in truth." Our goal is that the people who gather at 23rd and Jordan will be impacted by experiencing God through worship.

Sunday's outline...

Awesome God

Psalm 139: 1-18

1. We ought to worship God because He is omniscient vs. 1-6

2. We ought to worship God because He is omnipresent vs. 7-12

3. We ought to worship God because He is omnipotence vs. 13-18

I just received some very exciting news: the framing for our new church should be finished this week. Our congregation has so much to be thankful for...the spiritual growth, the numerical growth and physical growth. I am filled with excitement for the future possibilities they sre unlimited in God through Jesus Christ.

Can't wait to see what God wil do next!

Friday, August 29th - How To Say "Thank You"

“I will never worship anyone but you! For how can I thank you enough for all you have done? I will surely fulfill my promises. For my deliverance comes from the Lord alone.” Jonah 2:9 (Living)

“Thank you!” Those two words are incredibly significant and deeply spiritual. One of the greatest skills we can develop in life is the skill of saying thank you. Thursday, August 28th will forever be a special day for me and hopefully for you as well, as we witness Senator Barack Obama accept the nomination from the Democratic Party. Destiny would have it that this historical event happened 45 years to the day Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his famous “I Have A Dream” speech at the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom. Dr. King’s moving address still echoes today. What a significant day for America and Americans of every color under the sun. I could not help but think of the nameless and faceless persons that sacrificed to make this day possible. From the most famous and noted individuals to those whom names we will never know. We owe a great deal of Thanks. So, who do we say thanks? I Believe We Say Thanks By…

Being Responsible! Let’s not be careless with what has been passed down to us. We are privileged to find shade under trees we did not planet. Many of the things that we have come to take for granted came at a tremendous cost. Don’t be guilty of taking advantage of the dream and not contributing to the dream.

Being Real! Let’s help our white brothers and sisters understand that this is only a down payment on the dream this is not the dream fully realized. Now is the most important time for us to educate about the struggles of African American in this country (the incarceration rate, educational gap, discrimination in housing and that perpetual glass ceiling that hold so many of people of color back.) Even after November 4th when white America catches a cold, black America catches pneumonia.

Be Respectful! Vote and encourage others to Vote. The right to vote came at a great cost – it is shameful for any American not educate themselves and participate in our democratic process. In the voting booth everyone is equal, that’s what makes this country so great. Inside that booth it doesn’t matter how old or how young you are…how much money you have or how little money you have…whether you have a PHD or a GED. Your Vote Matters!

Tuesday, August 26th - The Ingredients Of Thankfulness

“I always thank God for you because of his grace given you in Christ Jesus.” 1 Corinthians 1:4 (NIV)

Understanding the right ingredients is all important! Heloise wrote in her “hints” column that that best way to cook a moist turkey was to, “Put a cup of water in the cavity of the turkey, cover with tin foil and bake.” A reader wrote back to complain. “The turkey came out fine, but the plastic cup in the turkey melted!” Imagining that person trying to squeeze that cup into that turkey reminds us that directions must be specific! What are God’s specific directions for developing a thankful heart? What are the ingredients that result in thanksgiving? Here’s your “Thanksgiving recipe.”

Recognize God’s grace! When was the last time you sent your boss a thank you note for that month’s check? Of course you don’t... you don’t thank someone for what you earned. That’s why recognition of God’s grace is such an important ingredient of thankfulness. When we recognize that all we have is a gift from Him it makes us into thankful people.

Understand God’s righteousness! “Righteousness” means that God ALWAYS does what is right. Are you beginning to understanding of how righteousness ties in with thanksgiving? Sometimes life doesn’t feel like a gift. Sometime life doesn’t look like a gift. Thankfulness, results from the knowledge that God is righteous. When life seems to have been unfair, when it seems to have cheated you, remember that God is righteous. His purpose will reign in the end.

Thank God with other people! Of course you can and should give thanks all alone. But the truth is: if you don’t have a place to give thanks with others you’ll soon stop giving thanks at all. You need to hear others give thanks. You need to share what God’s doing in your life with others. Thankfulness is grows best in bunches.

The 50th Anniversary and The Power of Following Leadership

Today marks the 50th Anniversary of Katz Drug Store Sit-ins. On August 19, 1958, Clara Luper led 3 adults chaperons and 14 young people serving on the NAACP youth council walk up to a segregated lunch counter in downtown Okalahoma City to order some soft drinks. The store’s refusal to serve the group drinks launched years of peaceful sit-ins at eating establishments across the city and nation. One of the 14 shared this sentiment, “We didn’t know really the impact of what we were doing. We simply were following the leadership of our workers.” What an awesome thought: the power and impact of obedient children. This small group of people changed the course of America simply by following leadership.

Friday, August 15th - Raising Your Worship To New Heights

“So here's what I want you to do, God helping you: Take your everyday, ordinary life—your sleeping, eating, going-to-work, and walking-around life—and place it before God as an offering. Embracing what God does for you is the best thing you can do for him.” Romans 12:1 (Msg)

A. W. Tozer put it well: “The presence of God in our midst, bringing a sense of Godly fear and holy reverence, is largely missing in the church today. Thus, much of what we call worship, God does not.”

The worship of God is a theme that dominates the entire Bible. In Genesis, man fell because he failed to worship God; and, in Revelation, one day, all of history will culminate in the worship of God as the King of Kings and Lord of Lords.

The Bible teaches us an amazing truth in regards to worship. God, who does not need anything, or anyone, desires the adoration and worship of His created children. God did not create us because He was lonely; rather, He created us so that He might have our Lord-SHIP, our Fellow-SHIP, our Steward-SHIP, and our Worth-SHIP.

One of the greatest definitions of worship I have ever heard, or read, was given by Ronnie Floyd in his book, “Life on Fire.” He said: “Worship is an encounter with Christ that results in a lifestyle change!”

There are two questions that beg to be answered, right here!

One – How does one worship God
Two – How can I assure that I get the most out of my time of worship

Let me take the back door approach and tell you what worship is not.

* Worship is bigger than a musical performance
* Worship is bigger than my preference
* Worship is bigger than my place of worship

So how do we worship God?

* By loving Him
* By trusting Him
* By obeying Him
* By thanking Him
* By serving Him

By now somebody wants to get more out of their worship experience. Now this is not going to be real deep but I believe that some of the most helpful stuff is just common sense. How this blesses you as much as it blessed me writing it. Pastor, how can I assure that I get the most out of my time of worship?

On Saturday:
1. Ask Christ to make you sensitive tomorrow to the needs of people in the body who are hurting.
2. Solve the “Sunday clothes hassle” make sure that what you will wear is ready and God honoring.
3. Spent time in confession so all will be right between you and the Lord when you meet tomorrow.
4. Determine to get to bed early so I will be refreshed and ready for church tomorrow.
5. Eliminate and guard your heart from Sunday afternoon distraction that will cause you to not to be able to allow the Holy Spirit to continue to minister to you.

On Sunday:
1. Get up in plenty of time so you will not feel rushed.
2. Program your morning so you will not just arrive at church on time, but get there early.
3. Eat a good breakfast, so that the enemy can’t use an empty stomach to detract your worship.
4. Bring your Bible, pen and church notebook in order to get the most out of your time of worship.
5. Come to church with a great sense of expectancy because you know Christ will be there.
6. Hang around and fellowship with God’s people…IT’S NOT ABOUT YOU!

On Sunday everyone needs to get up on time, eat at a set hour, and leave plenty early, ideally after a short time of family prayer asking that God will be glorified and speak to each family member. If you do this, YOUR SUNDAY WORSHIP WILL ASCEND TO NEW HEIGHTS.

Sunday, August 10th It's ALL About You, Jesus

Today is my birthday and I am so thankful to God. What a gift life is! I spent the first hour of my day in worship. Before the first birthday wish I wanted my heavenly Father to know how grateful I am and how I intend to spend the rest of the days He allows me to live. The older I get the more I realize that not a day since I got here was promised to me. As I look over my life He has simply been good.

Today I'm thanking God that...

#1 I'm Saved!!! I've ask Jesus to come live in my heart

#2 Both my Mother and Father are still here to celebrate my birthday with me

#3 All of my brothers are still here [my sister is already with the Lord.]

#4 My wife and I just celebrate 22year of marriage

#5 My children are healthy and well

#6 My grandchildren have been a blessing and I’m blessed to spend time with each and every day

#7 I’m blessed to be the pastor a incredible church

#8 I have some friends who I wouldn't trade for the world

#9 Not to mention in a few hours I’ll get a chance to do what I was born to do [preach and teach]

#10 And finally the Journey has been worth it

When I look back over my life – today is not about me but today is ALL about JESUS!

When the music fades And all is stripped away And I simply come Longing just to bring Something that's of worth That will bless your heart I'll bring You more than a song For a song in itself Is not what You have required You search much deeper within Through the ways things appear You're looking into my heart I'm coming back to the heart of worship And it's all about You All about You, Jesus I'm sorry Lord for the thing I've made it When it's all about You It's all about You Jesus King of endless worth No one could express How much You deserve Though I'm weak and poor All I have is Yours Every single breath I'll bring You more than just a song For a song in itself Is not what You have required You search much deeper within Through the way things appear You're looking into my heart I'm coming back to the heart of worship And it's all about You All about You, Jesus I'm sorry Lord for the thing I've made it When it's all about You It's all about You Jesus Its all about you Jesus

Thursday, August 7th - The Strange Mixture Of Sacrifice and Joy

“Those who sow in tears will reap with songs of joy. He who goes out weeping, carrying seed to sow, will return with songs of joy, carrying sheaves with him.” Psalm 126:5-6 (NIV)

Imagine being in a third world country watching as a tribe of people literally get down to their very last. A drought has hit the tribe and they are deviated and their supply of corn has been stretched to the limit. As you stand at the run-down mud refuge you see a father take one of the last bags of dried corn out of his families store room. This corn could have been pounded into meal to make the cakes that was the staple of the family’s diet. But, instead, he by passes the table and take the corn to the field where he sowed the seed into the ground. As you look into the father’s eyes tears begin to form and fall making streaks through the dust and the dirt on his cheeks. What has caused this father to be moved to tears? IT HURTS!!! It hurt to put into the ground what might be his family’s last meal. Yet he knew that without sowing that seed his family would certainly starve the next year. So he sowed with tears knowing that he would one day reap with joy.

I know I took the long way on this one but what’s the lesson? That we should give away our last meal? Surely not! The lesson is this.... it’s not always easy to “Generate Generosity!” When we talk about “Giving Cheerfully” it can sound as if giving is always an easy thing to do. That simply is not true. For those who give there is often the strange mixture of sacrifice and joy. You know that you’re doing what is right and yet it is often hard to let go. That’s true when we give our time, our treasure [money], our talents or ourselves.

But the truth is... there is an inevitable law of sowing and reaping at work. It’s a natural law. It’s a spiritual law. Those Who Sow In Tears WILL Reap With Joy. The result of our sacrificing to meet other’s needs is not just a feeling of satisfaction, well being or “having done the right thing.” It is JOY! What is joy? It is an overflowing sense of God’s perspective on life, an overwhelming experience of God’s presence in life and an overarching knowledge of God’s security for life.

Family discussion question: Can you remember a time when it was difficult for you to give something? (Everybody in the family can answer this, even preschoolers can think of an answer to this question!)

Monday, August 4th - Sacrifice To Live

“I tell you the truth, unless a kernel of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains only a single seed. But if it dies, it produces many seeds.” John 12:24 (NIV)

I stumbled upon this text the other day and began to have a conversation with this stalk of wheat. Imagine a grain of wheat talking to itself, admiring itself, noticing how round and brown and fully packed it is. Imagine the conversation that the wheat would have about the impending fate of falling into the cold, dark ground. The grain of wheat might say, “I’m feeling a little uncomfortable with this idea of falling. I’m cool just like I am. I’m happy, fluffy and full. Falling to the ground would be a waste of my life.”

Jesus is not talking about wheat in this verse. He is talking to us! He’s reminding us that a sacrifice given out of a loving heart for Him always results in new life for ourselves and for others. Yet most of us have felt like our mythical grain of wheat. Sacrifice is a great idea… for other people or for some other time.

We all want to do something great with our lives. We think, “I’ll finish those goals and then I’ll have time to make the sacrifices.” Jesus says to us, “Sacrifice comes first!” Jesus led the way for us. He sacrificed His life, literally, so that we could be forgiven. The most significant sacrifice in history brought about the most significant impact upon history.

This sacrifice is not a simplistic “no pain, no gain” philosophy. We’re not talking about working hard. (Although there’s nothing wrong with hard work.) Nor is this an invitation to a “martyr complex” faith [I’m getting therapy for this - tough one for those who grew up in the "old church"]. We’re talking about True Sacrifice is giving up that which is most important to you. Jesus could not have been clearer. Losing your life comes before finding your life.

And find it you will! Someone once said to a group of missionaries serving in a remote area “you have certainly buried yourselves here.” The missionary replied, “We were not buried here, we were planted here.”

Family Discussion Question: How do we get past the “I’m not sure I really want to do this” feeling that goes along with all genuine sacrifices?

Friday, August 1st - Get Off Your Ass ("donkey" - it's in the Bible)

“He answered: " 'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind'; and, 'Love your neighbor as yourself." Luke 10:27 (NIV)

(Read the story of the Good Samaritan in Luke 10:30-36)

Jesus’ parable of the Good Samaritan is a parable about the service that springs from love. The story is so simple that we often miss its incredible applications for our everyday lives. It is the story of three different types of people that represent three different responses to needs.

1. Those who create needs.
The robbers in this story created the needs that the Samaritan would eventually meet. How did they become such takers rather than givers? Their actions were the result of a single attitude: “My needs are more important than your needs.” Let me say it so you don’t miss it in a word, they were selfish. Self-centeredness creates an avalanche of needs... it always has and always will. That’s why the Lord so clearly says to us through Paul “Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others.” Philippians 2:4 (NIV)

2. Those who ignore needs.
The Levite and priest just “passed by.” It was easier to pretend the need didn’t exist, although it meant that the man would probably die. Ignoring needs is so easy. This is where the majority of us struggle. Why do we ignore others needs rather than meeting the need?

§ Fear: “We’re afraid we might get hurt”
§ Judgment: “We have judgmental attitudes”
§ Busyness: “We’re too busy with life's details” (Ouch!)
§ False purity: “We’re afraid of how their problems might affect us”

3. Those who meet needs.
The most striking thing about the Samaritan was that he made the choice to meet another person’s need. That meant personal sacrifice. His sacrifice was built upon his compassion. His compassion overcame fear and apathy. His compassion made him willing to care. His willingness to care came with a cost. It cost him the price of an inn. It cost him his time. It cost him his comfort, he walked while the man rode his donkey.

Family Discussion Question: Do you find it difficult to pay the price to love? To give of your time, talent and treasure?

Tuesday, July 29th - Sacrifice To Love

“If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal.” 1 Corinthians 13:1 (NIV)

Today is the last day of our 21 day fast, so I felt moved to share with you a few thoughts about biblical love. Fasting is all about sacrificing and sacrificing is the cornerstone of love. It's not enough for love to just be exciting, it also must be lasting! Teen age romance won't satisfy a middle aged couple. Puppy love won't last through the dog days of life [Now that was funny…I see you smiling]. Most people have allowed Hollywood to shape and form their idea and definition of love. Hollywood places fantasy in front of us and presents it as reality. But Paul writes to the Corinthians amidst their turmoil [about spiritual gifts] and tells them the secret of love that makes relationships last. Let’s look at I Corinthians 13 together and get some clues to the daily sacrifices that keep love alive.

“Love is patient...” (1 Corinthians 13:4)
Love is alive when it has time... is dying when it is hurried... is dead when it cannot wait. Waiting together is a part of all of our relationships! But many times love also means that I must wait for someone else ‑ wait for them to grow or to understand ‑ wait for them to heal or to get motivated. [That was difficult to say…pray for all the impatience people like me.] Who do you need to have patience with today?

"Love is kind..." (1 Corinthians 13:4)
Love is alive when it cares... is dying when it forgets... is dead when it ignores.
Kindness is the ability to do the little things well. The love expressed in kindness is learning how to turn those grand vows into simple acts and expression of love. Do you ever forget to be kind? We all do! Kindness in our families, with those we are closest to, takes real effort. Who can you show kindness too?

“LOVE does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud” (1 Corinthians 13:4)

Love is alive when it is secure... is dying when it doubts... is dead when it loses trust. Security is one of the #1 issues in relationships. Add a little insecurity to the best of relationships and love does not stay alive. Someone once told me that jealousy is a waste of emotion. I’m not really sure if I would go to that extreme but I will say that if you care deeply for someone it takes time to build a level of trust that can withstand certain challenges. This is even true in our relationship with God. The more we walk with God the more secure we become. The more we experience God the more we can rely on God. The more we learn how to trace God’s hand the more we can learn how to trust God’s heart. What is one step you could take today to make a relationship you are insecure in become more secure? Strengthen a relationship today talk to or call someone and say “No matter what happens, no matter what the future hold for us, I want you to know… I will always love you.”

Family Activity: Here’s your assignment...do two random acts of kindness. One toward a totally stranger and the other to someone in your family.

Monday, July 28th - Sacrificing To Grow

“Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize.” I Corinthians 9:24 (NIV)

The truth is, our biggest hurdle in making the sacrificial commitments we’d like to make for Christ is often OURSELVES! We don't always feel like doing what we know is right to do! Sometimes we feel like doing what we know is the worst thing to do. Wouldn't it be great if they made a TV remote control for people! Circumstances become overwhelming - click - change channels. Can't wait patiently - click - fast forward. Afraid of the future - click - pause. Want to make up for a mistake - click - rewind. Wouldn't it be great if they made a remote control for self-control?

Paul says in 1 Corinthians 9:19 (NIV) “Though I am free and belong to no man, I make myself a slave to everyone, to win as many as possible.” How do you do that? The key to self control is Christ control - the Bible says it is a fruit that God's spirit wants to bear in our lives. Paul talks about three areas of life that we need to make a commitment to if we are to follow his leadership in our lives in this area of a new sense of self control.

1. Excellence: “Run for the Prize…”
Don't run at the back, don't run with the pack but run for the prize. In a world where many are thinking it’s enough to have simply participated, we are challenged to strive for excellence.

2. Eternity: “Train for the crown…”
If the relatively small promise of a reward like a gold medal can motivate us to such great heights even on a human level - just think of what a focus on eternity could do!

3. Energy: “Aim for the goal”
If you’re running a race it’s good to have your eye on the finish line! Paul reminded us that those who reach the finish are those who make sacrifices. He said he “disciplined his body.” We have a choice. We become a slave to our passions or we live for Christ with the passion of a slave.

Family Discussion Question: Where do you need a renewed commitment to excellence… focus on eternity… discipline for energy?

Thursday, July 24th – Sacrificing To Change

“Then God said, "Take your son, your only son, Isaac, whom you love, and go to the region of Moriah. Sacrifice him there as a burnt offering on one of the mountains I will tell you about.” Genesis 22:2 (NIV)

We all have something we’d like to change in our lives. It might be our schedule or our habits, our words or our weight. Many of us struggle with making those changes. Instead of telling yourself you cannot change, why NOT discover the secret of lasting change.

The secret of lasting change is sacrifice. In the give and take of life what you give you keep and what you take you end up losing. Any talk about change must include an honest look at sacrifices. Lasting change is built on real sacrifices. Your attitude towards sacrifice can be a grumbled, “We all have to make sacrifices,” or a faith filled, “God asks us all to make sacrifices.” The sacrifices God asks of us always build towards the blessings God wants to give to us.

Abraham understood sacrifice. He sacrificed his former life and people when he moved to the Promised Land. And then, when it seemed that all the sacrifices had been made and he could coast for the rest of his life, God asked for the biggest sacrifice of all. [God is always asking for another “Yes!”] He told Abraham to sacrifice his son. How could God ask that of Abraham? I hear you asking yourself “How could God ask for so much of us?” You've got it all wrong! It's not as if He takes and we give. It's more that he teaches us how to give so that He can give us even more.

We read this story and the tension builds - would God really let Abraham go through with it! There is a sigh of relief in us all when God stops Abraham at the end - when He provides a ram in the thicket. Hebrews 11 tells us that Abraham trusted God to resurrect his son even if he had completed the sacrifice.

In New Testament days this scene is replayed. [Hallelujah!!!] Once again it's an Only Son, ready to be sacrificed. But this time it is Jesus, God's Son, on the cross. But this time no voice calls out, and there is no ram in the thicket. What He would not allow Abraham to do God himself did. [Just take a moment and think about that – what God would not allow Abraham do God did himself!] Jesus sacrificed His life!

The sacrifice that Abraham did not have to make changed him. The sacrifice that Jesus did make changed us. There is no change without sacrifice.

Family Discussion Question: What would you like to change and what has Jesus Changed already?

I'm BACKKKKKKKKKKK

After a long aparent absence I’m back! I’m been just simply burning it at both end for months now. But I simply want to share a word about our 21 day fast. When you study the Scriptures, you’ll find that when people fasted it was for a purpose — not just a religious exercise. Daniel fasted from the king’s foods and wine because they had been offered to the Babylonian gods and he didn’t want to defile his body. He later prayed and fasted to “encourage” the prophesied release from captivity for the Israelites from Babylon. And in his third recorded fast, Daniel was seeking solace for the great pressure he felt because of a dream he had experienced.

In the New Testament, people would fast when they needed guidance or answers to prayers. Many times, when the Scripture used the words “by prayer and supplication” it likely referred to fasting.

As continue our Daniel Fast, what has been our purpose? Think about it and I will see you tomorrow!

Thank You!

Today is Sunday, July 20th...Day 12 of our 21 day Daniel fast & my 16th Pastoral Anniversary. Its been a full day.

We've made it over half way (12 of 21 thank the a Lord)! As I shared earliers fasting is a spiritual discipline that was practiced by some of the greatest men and women of the Bible. What a privilege it is to be apart of a Church like Greater Bethel that teaches the discipline and then promotes opportunities to practice and please God. Fasting allows us to say to God that we want less of us and more of Him. As we continue to as God to make us and mold us into a worshiping, studying, loving, praying, giving & willing Church know that you are participating in one of the most spiritual things you could do.

16 years ago I was voted as pastor of the Greater Bethel Church becoming the Co-Pastor of the church as well as only the second pastor ever. With mix emotion I began the journey to becoming the senior pastor-teacher of a church that lives up to her name (GREATER Bethel). I am proud to have been chosen by God to participate in the amazing things He is doing.

Its also a special day because my pastor, 1st Vice President of the National Baptist Congress of Christian, President of the Oklahoma Baptist State Convention, President of the Baptist Minister's Associations, President of the Concern Clergy for spiritual renewal and pastor of the Fairview Baptist Church (just to mention a few lets just suffice it to say he is president of everything) came to preach. Words can't express the joy to have him share the over 50 years of wisdom and experience with our young progressive growing church. Armed with is wife of 45 years he simply just lost his mind..."What the preacher really wants" using Romans 10:1-3.

Let me finally say THANK YOU to the Greatest Church in the world. There is a development of a culture that understands the biblical mandate to care for her pastor. That has made these last few celebrations much more enjoyable. The gifts are greatly appreciated and humbling as well. From the bottom of my heart the kindness and sacrifice of the people is amazing.

Now, we must turn our attention to our building project (2.7 Million Dollars) that God has called us to and for. We are months from completion and there are many important things we must do. 1. We must close out one capital stewardship campaign and start another that will allow us open at a God honoring way. 2. We must adapt and adopt "CHANGE" as a way of life. 3. We must make prayer priority...Jesus says "My house should be call the house of prayer."

Please join me in saying to God "Whatever It Takes!"