There's Something About the Water

Today I am at a place by a lake.  It's a day of study and prayer.  There's something about the water.  Jesus spent a lot of time on the water or near the water.  I don't know all the reasons why but it fascinates me.  The longer I live I think I know at least some of the reasons why.  For some it's the mountains, for some it's the water, but for all it's the creator who made it all.  

There's something peaceful about the water at times.  David said, 'He leads me beside still waters.'  There's a reason for that.  Sheep are afraid of rushing waters.  The Lord is our peace and He leads us in every situation with a deep peace in our hearts.  

As I look at this lake today, I am amazed at it's grandeur and more than that I am aware that it is extremely deep.  It serves as the water supply for the city of Syracuse.  To be sure I'm not worshiping a lake but I am worshiping the creator of it all and the reminder that He is so much greater than I could ever imagine.  

This lake, as large as it appears, is but a speck on a map of the world.  My life is a much smaller speck.  Even so, the Father sent the Son to be the Savior of the world.  So worship Him today.  He loves you.  Let Him lead you by the still waters.  

And if you are in a storm, remember this:  if Jesus is in the boat, you are going to be fine.  In fact in that story in Scripture, He was asleep in the back of the boat.  He got up and calmed the storm.  He is able.  He is great.  He is amazing.  Worship Him.  Love Him.  Look to Him this Christmas.  

It's Good to Be Busy

I went into Starbucks yesterday to get some coffee.  I noticed a pastor reading the paper over to the side as he often does.  He's a great man.  He's older now.  He's in his seventies I believe.  He once called me years ago in my early days at Northside.  He told me the Lord had told him to call me and say one thing:  'Better days coming.'  I cherish that memory.

Recently on a previous visit, I saw this man and he looked very downcast.  I asked him how he was and what was so heavy on his heart.  He told me that his wife had died.  She had fought a valiant fight with cancer.  He looked so lost without her.  He wasn't lost spiritually - Jesus means everything to him.  What I saw was honest grief, pain and loss from years of marriage that were no more.  Death had taken this man's beloved wife.

I cherish every day I see him at Starbucks and yesterday was another of those days.  I was in a hurry.  I didn't want to be rude.  He didn't seem to notice I came or was leaving in the midst of a busy store - but I couldn't leave without saying a quick hello.  He had a smile yesterday when I spoke to him.  I think he's doing better and my heart is glad.  He said, 'How are you Bruce?'  I told him I was doing well.  Then I said, I'm busy!  He said, 'It's good to be busy!'

As I walked away, I thought about that statement.  Rarely have I heard someone say it's good to be busy.  But somehow I knew wisdom had spoken through this older brother.  God has a way of reminding us of Scripture in all of these moments.  The Lord reminded me of this verse in that moment:  "I must work the works of Him who sent Me while it is day; the night is coming when no one can work." John 9:4.

It is good to be busy.  It's good to be busy about the Lord's business.  Notice my friend did not say 'It's good to be too busy.'  We all must evaluate life and schedules - but can I tell you this - I was blessed and encouraged to serve the Lord with all my heart by this elder statesmen of the faith.

To some he's just an older man sitting in Starbucks reading the paper.  To me he is a hero.  God bless you pastor.  You are still making a difference in my life and many more.

Keep the fire burning!

Bruce

Give Your Fears to Jesus

It’s Monday, and I have been getting caught up on errands, and watching the weather channel with interest to the coming storm.  I’ve had a couple of thoughts.  The Bible says, ‘Then there will be signs in the sun, moon, and stars; and there will be anguish on the earth among nations bewildered by the roaring sea and waves.  People will faint from fear and expectation of the things that are coming on the world, because the celestial powers will be shaken.’  Jesus then referred to his return and said ‘Then they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory.  But when these things begin to take place, stand up and lift up your heads, because your redemption is near!’  (Luke 21:25-28). 

I’ve never been one to predict the Lord’s return and I’m not going to start today.  Jesus said that no man knows the hour.  The Father knows the hour.  He did give warning signs and one of those included people overcome by fear.  These can be fearful days.  There is uncertainty with regard to the storm, the economy, the upcoming election, and besides all that global issues.  In the midst of it all, give God your fears.  Pray and trust the Lord in the midst of whatever storm you are facing – literal or internal.  Stand on the promises of God.  “I sought the LORD and He answered me and delivered me from all my fears.”  Psalm 34:4

In the midst of it all, give your fears to Jesus.  He is the master of the wind.  He is the one in this boat of life with you and will never leave you or forsake you.  If you have never trusted in Him as your Lord and Savior, do so now without delay!  May the Lord be your peace in the midst of the storm.  One day, He will come again.  What a day that will be!

Bruce

The Fire is Burning Again!

It’s been a while since I’ve posted on this blog.  I was reminded of that recently, and nudged by the Lord to get back at it!  Some times life brings great challenges.  For me these have included my sister being diagnosed with brain cancer, and my mother – a widow of 32 years – breaking her hip at the age of 85. 

In the midst of it all God is working and He has the big plan!  I’m so thankful for family, friends, and the family of God.  I’m thankful for the privilege to serve the Lord.  I’m grateful for the Lord’s faithfulness and for His awesome power.  While it has been a year of challenges, there have also been some wonderful celebrations.  Our first grandchild was born and we love her dearly.  Our third child (no longer a child!) graduated from college.  Another wedding is in the plans in the Aubrey family and in many ways life is good. 

Paul wrote to Timothy and said – ‘Therefore, I remind you to keep ablaze the gift of God that is in you through the laying on of my hands.’  2 Timothy 1:6.  Fires die down and sometimes fires blaze.  The saddest thing would be for a fire to go out unnecessarily or unintentionally.  This verse speaks of the responsibility of the person to keep ablaze the gift of God.  Spend time in the word, in prayer, serving the Lord, staying healthy and embracing and enjoying the Lord and the life He has given us!

I was reminded at the Southern Baptist Convention this year through the preaching of Pastor Don Wilton that as a pastor I need to fight like a soldier, run like an athlete and work like a farmer.  All three of those statements resonated profoundly with me.  I cherish the memory and embrace the challenge again today.  I encourage you to do the same.  I feel like my fire is burning again.  My prayer is that yours will also!

Bruce

Congratulations, Bubba! Keep the Fire Burning!

It’s a beautiful morning in Ohio.  After preaching five services this weekend, my wife, youngest daughter and I are on our way to visit our oldest daughter, son-in-law, and granddaughter!  I can hardly wait to see them!

As we began our trip last evening, I was following the Masters, which is one of my favorite golf tournaments.  At the end of the day a former Georgia Bulldog from Florida by the name of Bubba Watson, won the tournament.  He is 33 years old, and a strong believer in Jesus Christ.  If you go to his Twitter home page, his bio reads like this:  Christian.  Husband.  Daddy.  Pro Golfer.  Owner of General Lee 1.  Note the order.  It’s profound. 

I think it is equally worth noting some of his recent tweets.  Saturday night he posted: “Thanks everyone for the support!  3 reasons tomorrow will be #awesome, 1.  Jesus has risen 2.  See my new baby boy & my wife 3.  Masters Sunday.”  Sunday morning, hours before he would play his last round and win the tournament, he posted:  “1 Thessalonians 5:16-18  Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”  After he won he posted, “To God Be the Glory!!!”. 

Now I’m sure Bubba’s not perfect, and I’m confident he would quickly acknowledge that.  But I’ve got to tell you I’m impressed with his bold witness for the Lord.  He is living a life unashamed.  It also is fascinating to me that a 33 year old man (about the same age Jesus was when He gave his life for us) won the Masters on Easter Sunday!  1 Samuel 2:30b says ‘I will honor those who honor Me, but those who despise Me will be disgraced.’  Take a cue from a 33 year old young man who is bearing strong witness for our Lord.  I’m not saying if you honor the Lord you will win the Master’s next year.  I’m saying, honor the Lord.  It’s the right thing to do and He will know you did.

There are a few more things you should know about Bubba.  He was taught the game of golf by father, and has not had a lesson since the age of 10.  His Dad died two years ago of throat cancer.  His mother was the first on the green to congratulate him.  Oh, and one other thing – he and his wife just adopted their first child six weeks ago – a boy, named Caleb. 

What a blessing it is this morning to reflect on the fact that we have been adopted into the family of God by the wonderful gift of salvation through Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior.  What a privilege to know we have a heavenly Father who guides us, instructs us, and gives us everything needed to live the life He has called us to.  I pray your faith soars, your heart increases in the Lord, and that the joy of the Lord is your strength!

For the sake of souls, and the glory of God,

Bruce

You can learn a lot at a funeral . . .

           Today, I attended a funeral.  The father of one of our staff member’s went to be with the Lord just a few days ago.  Today we honored his life and celebrated the hope we have in Jesus Christ.  It was an honor to sit there with our staff and be a part of the service at a neighboring church where this man was a member and listen to his family, friends, and pastor offer testimonies and teaching from the word of God.

            I recall Rick Warren talking about the fact that you can learn a lot attending a funeral.  It seemed he referenced Ecclesiastes.  I did a little checking and found this verse:  ‘It is better to spend your time at funerals than at festivals.  For you are going to die, and you should think about it while there is still time.’  Ecclesiastes 7:2

            The first thing that was said about this man by his pastor was that he was a man of contentment.  What a great tribute.  The Bible says, ‘ . . . for I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am.’  Philippians 4:11b.  This man had lived out a valuable principle of Scripture that he had learned from His Lord. 

            I listen to family, friends, and his pastor share wonderful, heartfelt stories, testimonials, and the message of the word of God.  It reminded me that life was meant to be simpler.  We make it complicated.  At the end of the day, we will all face eternity.  I want to live life to the fullest until the day He calls me home.  I hope you feel the same way.

            Funerals aren’t easy.  I heard sniffles, and sobs throughout the morning.  My heart goes out to all in their grief.  I was reminded today that heaven is a prepared place for prepared people.  During this week as we reflect on the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus, it is awesome to know that His death brings life forever to all who repent of their sins, and place their faith in the Lord Jesus Christ.  His resurrection brings us hope.  Hallelujah!

            The man was laid out with a NY Yankees jersey.  The family had fully intended to have him in a suit, but decided to go with the jersey.  He had been looking forward to the start of the season, even though at age 81, his eyesight was now gone.  What’s the point?  He knew his team, and was looking forward to a new season.  Well, thankfully, he had made a decision years ago to be on Jesus’ team, and he is now in a new season.  To God be the glory.  I learned a lot today.  I think we all can.  

If you knew you were going to die . . .

            This week seemed like movie week.  I took one of my daughters to see the Hunger Games.  As the movie unfolded, I realized that there was a question pummeling my mind.  How would you live if you knew you were going to die?

            I must admit, the movie was popular, and I have not read the book(s).  I was interested in this sociological craze, and it sounded intense, and I thought it would be good to see.  The first part of the movie left me thinking, ‘I will need to see this again’ several times.  I thought of how when the DVD comes out, I would want to watch it a few times, because I thought with so much going on in this film, I must be missing a lot.

            Then as the movie concluded, I can’t say I regretted seeing it, but I would be satisfied to never see it again.  Intense it was.  In fact it was very intense.  Participating in the Hunger Games meant basically a death sentence for 23 of 24 participants. 

            So how would you live if you knew you were going to die?  Well, that’s a great question, because we all are going to die.  Apart from the rapture of the church happening before our final breath, we will all die.  That leads me to the second movie I saw this week. 

On Tuesday night, my wife and I attended the live event kick off in theaters of the movie ‘Monumental’ by Kirk Cameron.  Kirk retraced the steps of the pilgrims and significant events in the life of the United States to look deep into our past to better understand our response to the present.  I was overwhelmed with the strength and determination of those early pilgrims.  They were focused even though they knew they might die.  They had a cause.  They had the right cause – the glory of God, and the advancement of the Christian faith.  You can read about that in the Mayflower Compact.

Hebrews 9:27-28 says ‘And just as it is appointed for people to die once – and after this, judgment – so also the Messiah, having been offered once to bear the sins of many, will appear a second time, not to bear sin, but to bring salvation to those who are waiting for Him.’  It’s true we will die.  It’s also true that we live.  The way to live if you know you are dying, is live every day to the fullest for the glory of God and for the right cause.  That cause is the gospel of Jesus Christ, and I gladly devote my life to keep the fire burning for that purpose.  It is for me, my family, our neighbors, our community, and to the ends of the earth.  

A little town called Phelps

This week, I attended a funeral about 50 miles from Syracuse.  I was going to encourage a family who are members of the church where I serve.  One of our members had experienced the death of her mother, and to her children, they lost a grandma.  Those are never easy times.  Thankfully, the woman was a believer as are many in the family.  They have an eternal hope that is steadfast and sure.

In the process of attending the funeral, I was once again challenged with the vision of Keep the Fire Burning.  Phelps, NY is a town of about 1900 people.  It took me back to my roots.  I grew up in a town like that in another part of New York State.  I drove around the town and noticed the various shops, restaurants and churches.  There were three churches that I noticed.  The one in which the funeral was held, has a pastor who shared the gospel.  I appreciate what he had to say in that moment.

My mind however raced to the fact that though there are 1900 in that town, how many attend church any given weekend?  In New York in general it is one out of three.  Perhaps that is true in Phelps.  If so, over 1200 do not attend church regularly.  I learned that our own denomination has only two churches in that whole county - one for every 53000 people.  While we are certainly not the only ones preaching the gospel, I found myself reminded of the need for more churches started, and more churches encouraged and revived.

When people think of New York they often think of New York City, Albany, Syracuse, Rochester, Buffalo, Watertown, Binghamton, Utica, and Ithaca.  I think of those places, but I must admit my mind quickly drifts to little places like Phelps.  Who will take the gospel to the places both small and large?  May the Lord move in all of our hearts as we answer that question.

Keep the Fire Burning,
Bruce

One More for Jesus

The Bible tells us that Andrew went and found his brother Peter and brought him to Jesus.  (see John 1:41).  That, ladies and gentlemen, is Evangelism 101.  Just bring people to Jesus.

I remember hearing Rick Warren tell the story of what his father began to say over and over on his death bed.  'Gotta reach one more for Jesus.  Gotta reach one more for Jesus.  Gotta reach one more for Jesus.'  They say that in approaching death, people revert back to talking about what is most important to them.  In this case, for Rick's Dad - there was nothing more important.  Jimmy Warren, Rick's Dad, repeated that statement more than 100 times.

This morning at Northside, I preached on the return of Jesus.  It had been a while since I had preached on the Second Coming of Christ.  I went back to the Gospel of Luke, and I picked up where we had left off a few months ago.  That led me to Luke 12:35-48, and this subject.  In doing so, I was reminded again of living in the light of His return.  I also relived the urgency with which we must minister.

At the close of the service, I found myself making a strong appeal to the congregation to trust the Lord and profess their faith in Him.  At the two services this morning, six people professed their faith in Christ, and two more rededicated their lives to the Lord.  As a church we rejoiced and gave God praise for the power of the gospel unto salvation.  HALLELUJAH!

When Andrew looked back over his life, he would know that he had the privilege of introducing his brother Peter to Jesus.  I'm sure he has no regrets about that.  Many believers are familiar with Peter and his bold faith for the Lord.  I'm especially grateful for Andrew who brought him to the Lord.  Andrew is the first of the disciples I hope to meet in heaven.  I will tell him how greatly he impacted my life.  I will tell him that our first daughter was named Andrea in essence after him.

Who are you reaching out to with the gospel?  Is it a constant concern and passion of your heart?  Will you echo Jimmy Warren's statement with me?  'Gotta reach one more for Jesus!'  Now that's how you keep the fire burning!

Just call me Grandpa

I've heard the comments for years.  People love being grandparents.  You pretty much get the impression that it is the greatest thing in the whole world!  Months ago, my wife and I learned that our day had come.  Our first grandchild was on the way!  What would it be like to be grandparents?  What would it be like to have a grandchild?

I remember my grandparents.  I was blessed to know three of them very well.  One grandfather died before I was born.  The other three each had a profound impact on my life.  Just days ago, I experienced the joy of holding my first grandchild in my arms.  A beautiful baby girl was born to our oldest daughter and son-in-law just last week.  You know what I'm going to say - but I think I'll say it anyway.  She's beautiful.  And she has grabbed my heart already - but then again she did before she was even born.

You see, life begins at conception.  So, I've been a grandpa for about nine months.  I just got to meet her this weekend.  Her Mom and Dad are doing great, and my wife and I, along with our youngest daughter enjoyed a fabulous time celebrating this birth.  To be honest, it took me back to when her mother was born.  That was one of the greatest day of my life - ever - period - exclamation point!  This was yet another.

I don't feel like a grandpa.  In fact, I still think I'm about 35, until I look in the mirror and find myself asking, 'Who is that old man?'  Life is full of seasons.  This is a new one.  I welcome it.  I'm grateful for our kids, and now for our grandchild.  To keep the fire burning, family plays a huge role.  Family has a way of reminding you of who you are.  They know you best, and love you anyways.

God is so good.  He is faithful.  He blesses us beyond what we deserve or could imagine.  That little baby girl was formed by Him in her mother's womb.  That's what God told Jeremiah - 'Before I formed you in the womb I knew you'.  And the psalmist said, 'You knit me together in my mother's womb.'

Children are a heritage from the Lord.  They are also a great testimony of his power.  We really are fearfully and wonderfully made as the psalmist also declared.  What a miracle.  I kissed that little girl on the cheek this morning and said goodbye.  We drove home the 500 plus miles we live apart.  I may be 500 miles away, but that precious family is very close in my heart.  I'm praying for them.  I know they pray for me.  I'm so grateful.

Saying Goodbye to Last Year

It's been almost three months since I've written on this blog.  It's been an interesting time in my life.  I took my first ever sabbatical for one month.  That is something I would highly recommend and will write more about soon.  In addition, I've faced one of the greatest challenges of my life.  My sister (only sibling) was diagnosed with a brain tumor.  This past year has been a test for sure.  It's been a year of highs and lows.  I'm learning once again, life is like that.

Early in the year, one of our administrative assistants was diagnosed with a brain tumor.  She didn't make it.  She is now with the Lord.  Her tumor was the worst kind.  I still talk to her husband and he is a great friend.  I am honored to be his pastor.  Mid-year, my mother-in-law faced open heart surgery in her 80's.  To God be the glory, it was successful.  The Lord sustained my wife, her family, and all of us close to the situation, and for that we praise Him.

In the fall, I took a sabbatical.  I way overestimated what I could accomplish academically toward a doctoral thesis, and way underestimated what would happen in my own heart.  I was refueled by the much needed rest, the powerful research, and time away.  I found that to keep the fire burning, you need faith, family and a future.  I am blessed and grateful for that month and will never forget it.

My first week of sabbatical, I learned that my precious sister was diagnosed with a brain tumor.  Thoughts raced and my mind needed to stabilize and find rest in the Lord.  My heart ached for my sister, her husband, her two sons, and our mother.  Thankfully, it is not the worst kind of tumor, but it is a battle for sure.  On December 12, she had successful surgery to remove a significant amount of the tumor and will begin treatments this month in her battle with this dreaded disease.

I see in her, so many things about my Lord.  I see peace, and gratitude.  I see hope and truth.  I see grace and mercy.  I see perseverance and endurance.  I see His love.  I pray the Lord heals her, sustains her, and that she has many wonderful years ahead to enjoy her family and friends.

In ministry, this was the first year of our Keep the Fire Burning conference.  We had 200 leaders from 82 churches and 7 states.  It was an amazing time with the Lord and His people last February.  It was a dream come true.  This year's conference is scheduled for March 4-6.  I hope you will join us.  More on that later as well.

I'm saying goodbye to 2011.  I'm saying hello to 2012.  I'm holding out for hope.  I've learned that you've got to keep the fire burning, even when you face life's toughest tests.  The Lord is faithful.  He always has been.  He always will be.  On the bright side, I am now a grandfather.  I will meet that precious little girl in the next three weeks sometime when she makes her arrival.  I can hardly wait.

Bruce