20 Years Later

It's Friday night, September 10, 2021.  Tomorrow morning we wake up to 9/11 and for many of us the incredible reminder of a day we will never forget.  It was 2001.  I had gone to the church to my office for what I would expect to be a typical day.  It was anything but that very quickly.  My wife called to let me know that a plane had flown into one of the twin towers in NYC.  I was thinking a small plane off course.  Soon we would all learn this was a horrific planned attack on our country.  I quickly headed home.  I wanted to be with my family.  I watched as the towers fell on live TV.  Soon, knowing my family was ok, I headed back to the church trying to get my head around how to shepherd God’s people in a time like this.  The Twin Towers had fallen, the Pentagon had been attacked, and another plane had gone done in Pennsylvania diverted from its target by some very brave passengers.  

 

Now back at the church wee put a small tv in the foyer near the old sanctuary (this was before our expansion was complete).  We kept up with the news while answering phone calls and thinking about the day.  People began to ask if we were going to gather to pray as a church perhaps even that night.  I hate to admit but will honestly say I was a bit frustrated by that at first thinking to myself - do we only pray because of trouble?  But I quickly decided to go for it and we had a sign with interchangeable letters and announced on it that there would be a prayer meeting at 7pm.  As I recall the church was packed for that prayer meeting.  We prayed for one another, for our state, for our nation, and comforted one another.  We had no idea what the future held.  

 

Crises have a way of drawing us together, and it happened 20 years ago.  Now fast forward to today.  Our world is in a mess.  Our nation is in a mess.  We need answers.  We still don’t know what the future holds.  However, I’ve got good news.  The same good news I had 20 years ago.  As you wake in the morning, pray for your own life, your family, Northside, our community, this nation and God at work all around the world.  Many things have changed, but He remains the same.  He is faithful and true.  

Pray for churches that preach the gospel and lift up Jesus to be empowered this weekend to preach the glorious gospel of Jesus Christ.  Jesus is the answer.  In fact that’s the title of my message at Northside this weekend.  If you are looking for a church to attend, I invite you - Saturday night at 6pm, or Sunday morning at 9 and 11am or watch online through the Northside Church Liverpool app.  

 

I want to remind you of this invitation from the Lord.  Call upon Me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you shall glorify Me.  Psalm 50:15  What a precious promise.  Call on Him, believe His promise, and live to glorify Him.  That was my goal 20 years ago.  That's my goal today.  That will be my goal tomorrow.  Join me in that journey.

 

A Rest Stop on the Thruway

About 56 miles from our home, there is a rest stop on the NYS Thruway.  On our way home from Ohio today we stopped there.  We did the same things two years ago.  Only two years ago, we got gas and I asked my wife - 'Do you mind driving?'  She did not, and we headed home.  We were bringing our daughter home from her sophomore year in college.  After we unloaded the rental van, we were going to take it back.  That plan soon changed.  I began to develop some stroke like symptoms, and soon we were in an ambulance headed to the hospital.  That began a journey over the next months unlike any we had ever known.  To keep the story short, I was diagnosed with a form of meningitis I should have never gotten - but I did.  My central nervous system was attacked.  I know now the first miracle was that we got home before the difficulties began.  I had been dealing with some mild headaches - but didn't think a lot of it - I know now my brain was swelling.  

On May 4, 2019, I thought I might die.  I knew instantly I didn't want to - for several reasons.  I'm not afraid to die, I just still wanted to live.  We had just spent 2 days with five grandchildren in Ohio, and we had just brought our youngest daughter home who had two more years of college.  Ministry was becoming a joy again and I believed God had more in store.  For everyone who has ever prayed for me - thank you from the bottom of my heart.  To my wife - Kathy you are one of the key reasons I'm still alive.  The Lord used you to offer so much support and hope.  I could never thank you enough.  Each of my kids were a blessing as was our incredible church family. The young lady who was in college was so strong as her Dad lost the ability to speak clearly and things were not looking good.  She would go on to finish her college degree in just a year and a half more (finishing a semester early).  Today I've been 100% cleared and I know it's the mercy of God.  To Him be all the glory.

So back to the rest stop.  As is often the case on long trips, Kathy and I rotate the driving.  She was driving today as we approached that rest stop.  We decided it was time for a short break and then it hit me (and she already knew) - this was the rest stop.  I drove home this time.  All is well.  God is faithful.  Two years later I got to watch that same daughter graduate yesterday - a day I wasn't sure I would ever see.  Tonight I'm one grateful man.  

When You Drop a Communion Tray . . .

This past Sunday was a first for me.  I dropped a communion tray.  We were observing the Lord's Supper as a congregation.  We share juice and bread - symbolic symbols of the body and blood of our Lord who said - eat this in remembrance of me.  His body was broken on our behalf and his blood poured out as the atonement (payment) for our sins.  At the 9:30 service, I was coming off the platform to join the deacons who had served when I reached for the tray one of the brothers was holding - actually he was holding two. I had in my mind what I was going to have him do - but he can't read my mind!  I was going to take the top one and leave the bottom one for him to serve the worship team.  He felt me grab them both and in that moment - well - the bottom one hit the floor.  It's all on me.  In that moment several things happened.  

I quickly heard the man on the left in this picture say something like 'I've got it' - or 'I'll clean it up' - our deacons are amazing servants.  I can't begin to express my gratitude and respect for them and their service to Christ through Northside.  Another gentlemen close by helped out immediately.  That situation was cleaned up faster than anyone could imagine.  

I learned later that when it happened, my wife leaned over to the lady sitting next to her in that service and said 'He will either say nothing, or use it in some way.'  After 15 seconds of silence the lady said - I think he's going to ignore it.  Not knowing anything about that conversation, I found myself saying to the congregation, 'when I was in seminary, one of my professors said - when something unexpected happens, you either ignore it and just press on, or you bring attention to it and use it somehow.  

What nobody knew at that point, was what had happened when that juice hit the floor.  I recoiled.  I flinched back quickly - I didn't want to get any of that grape juice on my pants or my shoes - and in reality - it got both.  Then I had a deeper thought.  This may just be juice - but when it comes to the blood of Jesus that was poured out on the cross, I not only need it - I need to be covered by that blood for the forgiveness of my sins, and the salvation of my soul.  I shared that story in those moments with Northside.  We need the blood of Jesus.  God met us yesterday in a deep way at about 9:50am.  

While this tray held juice, a symbolic reminder of our Savior's sacrifice, Jesus shed his blood - for real.  I wonder if those at the cross were taken back to have gotten any on them - the ones who crucified him, or stood nearby.  This world recoils from the gospel in the same way I recoiled from the potential for a mess - a stain on my clothes from which I would still preach two more services.  The reality is that only the blood of Jesus can remove the stain of sin so deep in my heart, and in all of our hearts.  

I'm a perfectionist and so moments like this can bother me.  Was I too distracted?  Was I thinking about too many things at once?  What caused me to drop a communion tray for the first time in my entire ministry?  I think God was in it.  No - I know He was.  He wanted to remind me - and the entire Northside family - and maybe you right now - that his provision was for the covering of our sin.  There's no other hope.  We need Jesus.  He died for our sins, was buried and rose again conquering sin, death and the grave.  That's the gospel.  That's good news!!!

'Knowing that you were ransomed from the futile ways inherited from your forefathers, not with perishable things such as silver of gold, but with the precious blood of Christ, like that of a lamb without blemish or spot.'  1 Peter 1:18-19, ESV.  

Soccer, Tears, and Eternity

Today is my day off.  I'm watching World Cup Soccer.  I'm tired of the soccer hating.  To me the game is like music - a symphony that may take a while to develop - but I find it quite interesting and respect the game immensely.  Having raised a son who played in hundreds of games from 7 years old til the present, I have huge respect for the athleticism and heart of the athletes.

To be sure there are some challenges.  There aren't tons of goals, but there is an enormous amount of strategy.  The coaches and athletes know exactly what they are doing.  I specifically don't like faking injuries.  I've seen players brought off the field with serious injuries.  To fake one is upsetting.  I think the refs should give red cards for faking an injury!  Throw those guys out of the game!

As I'm writing, France is leading Uruguay 2-0.  Both clubs are excellent and beat powerhouses Argentina and Portugal just to get to the quarterfinals.  The level of play is elite for sure.  Both goals have been strong and both teams are playing hard.  At this moment of typing, we are at the 84:05 mark of the game.

One scene has had the biggest impact on me.  A shot of the fans in the stands showed a young boy wearing a Uruguay jersey weeping after the France's second goal.  I get that.  He loves his country, his team, probably the game and who knows all that is going through that little guys mind.  I don't mean to disparage him at all but I want to finish with a somber reminder.

When is the last time you wept over souls for eternity?  This young guy is weeping because it looks like his country will be eliminated from the World Cup 2018.  I salute his passion for the game and for life - but I pray for his understanding and more for yours and mine for eternity.  Take a moment after reading this and think about the reality that eternity is forever.  Everyone will spend eternity - forever - in one of two places.  You, your family, your friends, your neighbors, your co-workers and people you meet and never meet.

Trusting Jesus as Savior and Lord is the wisest decision anyone will ever make.  I encourage you to consider the claims of Christ and put your trust in Him!!!  I love sports.  There's a line in the movie Lalaland that says 'people love what other people are passionate about'.  That is evidenced right now in a stadium in Russia.  People love the passion for the game that has been born out in the hearts of the national teams and everyone filling the rosters.

Be passionate about the gospel.  Serve the Lord with all your heart.  Bring people to Jesus.  Don't be silent.  Share the gospel.  Show the gospel.  There's no other hope - and without Christ eternity will be spent with weeping and gnashing of teeth.  The good news is you don't have to go to hell.  Heaven is a prepared place for prepared people-  and the way to prepare is to realize you have nothing to offer and are without hope apart from the merits of Christ.

Game's now over.  France won.  Uruguay is indeed out.  But life is not a game.  Eternity is for real.  Put your trust in him today!  In heaven God will wipe away all tears!!!  Repent of your sin!  Believe on Jesus!  Receive His love gift of eternal life, forgiveness of sin and salvation!!!  Do it now!

Grateful

Today I find myself deeply grateful.  Grateful for the gospel and for God's faithfulness.  Grateful for the privilege to serve the Lord.  Grateful for a church that loves me and believes in impacting others.  I love you Northside.  Grateful for a ministry that was begun to impact pastors and leaders for the glory of God throughout the Northeast and to the ends of the earth.

Tonight we begin our Keep the Fire Burning conference for pastors and leaders at Bible Church International, in Randolph, New Jersey.  We gather tonight and tomorrow to worship the Lord and seek him.  In 2 Timothy 1:6, 'For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands.'  The older pastor (Paul) writing to the younger (Timothy) reminds him to keep ablaze - fan into flame - the gift of God.  Basically - keep the fire burning.

Our first conference at Northside was in the spring of 2011.  We hosted them for six years.  We took year seven off to stoke our own fire again.  This year we are going on the road - New Jersey for the Northeast and the Philippines for international impact.  By the end of the year we hope to have impacted well over 1000 leaders for the glory of God.

We pray for faith to be renewed, for instruction and inspiration, for revival and renewal and for encouragement.  Before our first conference God gave me this passage and I returned to it this morning.  Hosea 6:1-3, 'Come, let us return to the LORD; for he has torn us, that he may heal us; he has struck us down, and he will bind us up.  After two days he will revive us; on the third day he will raise us up, that we may live before him.  Let us know; let us press on to know the LORD; his going out is sure as the dawn; he will come to us as the showers, as the spring rains that water the earth.'

I'm trusting Him for all of that tonight.  What a wonderful Savior.  What a mighty God.  Praise the name of Jesus.

Kilimanjaro

On December 28, 2016 I did something I don't usually do.  I wrote down goals for the year.  An invite to Tanzania to teach pastors just a couple weeks later led to the fulfilling of one of those goals.  I wanted to invest in the life of at least a dozen pastors.  I try to do that regularly - but this would be yet another opportunity - and on a continent I had never visited.  I would go in May and that week would profoundly impact my life.

My first trip to Africa would be to teach at a small college in Moshi, Tanzania.  We would be staying at a Lutheran conference center that would have a view of one of the greatest mountains in the world - Mt. Kilimanjaro.  At 19000+ feet it is called 'The rooftop of Africa'.  We were in the territory where many come from all over the world to tackle a bucket list item - climb that mountain.

As the week wore on, it was cloudy every day.  Our trip was during the rainy season.  I remember asking my class one day for a small request - would they pray with me that the skies might open one day and the clouds disappear and we would be able to see the mountain before we left?  Well as the week wore on - we didn't get that view - but one student offered  to drive us on Saturday to an area where he had grown up and we could see perhaps a glimpse of the mountain from a different side.

We made that trip and caught a glimpse, and I must admit it was breathtaking.  I can't imagine what it would be like to see that entire mountain on a sunny clear day.  I must admit God taught me a powerful lesson that week however.  I learned that though I couldn't see the mountain it was still there.  The same is true with our Lord - I don't see Him - though I often see His work - but He is there - of this I am sure.

I was teaching the class 'The Inner Life of the Leader'.  Here's the lesson - trust Him - even when you don't see Him.  He's there.  A few years ago God told me I had more mountains to climb.  I've climbed some since then (not literal - but life mountains).  I'm sure there are more.  This much I know - the one who created the mountains is greater than my mountains.  I'm grateful for the lessons He taught me that week.

When God Heals

I just finished listening to a message by Jim Cymbala, pastor of the Brooklyn Tabernacle.  As I listened it took me back to a day a few years ago and then I also thought of today.  This morning, I saw on social media the plea of a fellow pastor to pray for his grandson and surgery this morning.  I called and prayed with that brother and for his family.  Two days ago I stood in the hospital with a family from Northside and prayed for them and all who would be involved in a very challenging surgery.

God is a healer.  I have no doubt.  He can heal instantly or He may choose do so by surgery.  Now to be sure, I've prayed for people to be healed, and they weren't.  That doesn't mean God is not able.  It does mean He is God and He knows what He is doing and I trust Him.  This post was triggered by the memory of being at the Brooklyn Tabernacle somewhere around 2014.  That night I gave a huge request to the Lord for the healing of one of our daughter's who was battling scoliosis.  It seemed in the months to follow that God did not heal.  But a few months later He did - through surgery.

Whatever you are believing God for - keep praying!!!  This morning I read '. . .  for I am the LORD your healer.'  Exodus 15:26  God is able.  God has a plan.  Call on His name.  It may not turn out the way you anticipated, but He will hear and answer - and when He does - He will get the glory! He is perfect in all of His ways!  Maybe it's physical healing, or emotional, or relational, or any number of other needs that may be flooding your soul right now - the Lord is your healer.  Trust Him.  Turn to Him.  He loves you.  He always has and He always will.  Don't give up now!  Call upon the Lord!

Seven Minutes a Day

Recently, I've been preaching on the Beatitudes from Matthew 5:1-12.  Rick Warren calls this passage 'Keys to a Blessed Life'.  I've called it 'From Broken to Blessed'.  This world throws away what is broken, but God knows not only how to fix it, but even make things better!

Last weekend I preached from the verse where Jesus said, 'Blessed are those who hunger and thirst after righteousness for they shall be satisfied.'  (Matthew 5:6)  To be sure, the satisfaction that comes from salvation in Jesus is without rival.  As we walk with the Lord, we continue to feed our souls with the precious instruction manual He has left for us - the word of God.

I challenged people last week, and want to do this again through this blog, to simply begin feeding their souls by spending 7 minutes a day with God in prayer and Bible reading.  7 minutes is less than 1/2 of 1 percent of our day.  Do it for 21 days and it will be a habit.  Begin with the Gospel of John - there are 21 chapters - so here is the plan.

Begin with a prayer that expresses praise and thanksgiving to God.  Take a moment to confess sin and thank Him for forgiveness.  Express to Him your overwhelming gratitude for His mercy and grace.  Pray that He speaks to you through His word - and take your burdens to Him.  Then read a chapter in the gospel of John and maybe underline one verse in particular that spoke to you and reflect on why it impacts you.  Then close with another minute of prayer that is a response to that time with the Lord and put the day in his hands (if in the morning) - or the night and coming day (if at night).

This plan stems back to my college days when I was on staff as youth director of a wonderful church in Penfield, NY on the east side of Rochester while a college student at Roberts Wesleyan.  I wanted to encourage the young people in my youth group to connect with the Lord and keep it simple.  I want to encourage you to do the same today.

To be sure there may be days that 7 minutes turns to 15 or 30 or an hour (which is still less than 5% of our day - we have 24 of them!).  But know this - God's not watching the clock.  Just like a loving Father loves to spend time with his children - so does our loving heavenly Father - and our lives will be so much richer for the time we spend with Him!  Take the challenge!  Go for it.  The result?  You will be satisfied.

Rebound

Back in July I took a retreat - typical for me - every three months to get away for three days and two nights as I am able.  I do this to hear from the Lord, and for the work of the Lord here at Northside, and in more recent months to plan out preaching for the months to come.  We were in a series on the book of Jonah.  I had brought a book with me called 'I Will' by Thom Rainer that we planned to use for a series and life groups emphasis in the fall.  

I arrived at the camp where I would stay.  I began by reading the book I Will and read it through that first day as I recall.  Later I began to map out the weekends for the remainder of the year.  The Lord led me to the book of Philemon and late one evening that became a four week series called 'Grace from Start to Finish' for the end of summer.  I also had a strong burden for a series called Rebound.  I began to make a list of those in scripture who needed a rebound - and quickly had 8-10 possible individuals for those messages.  

I was led to Luke 2 and the verse that described who was in the manger - Mary, Joseph and Jesus.  'Who's That in The Manger?' would become our Christmas series for 2016.  In addition, He put it on my heart to teach the beatitudes from Matthew 5:1-12 to begin 2017 in a series that will be called 'From Broken to Blessed'.  Upon return to Northside, we began to work on final details of scheduling and length of series.  'I Will' would become a seven-week series.  Rebound would be the next to follow.  

As that series came closer I was searching in my heart before the Lord asking the question 'Where do you even begin with this one?'  He said - start with Peter - and so we did.  If you can rebound from denying you even know the Lord, hours after you said you would die for him, you can rebound from anything.  Week one began with a towel on every chair with the word 'Rebound' on it.  We used a basketball theme to launch the series about getting a second chance - but soon discovered it had much stronger impact, with reminders of the grace of God and rebounding from a myriad of situations.  

Week one was rebounding from denial, the story of Peter.  Week two was rebounding from adultery, the story of David.  Week three was rebounding from anger, the story of Moses.  Week four was rebounding from shame, the story of the woman caught in adultery.  Week five was rebounding from the fall, the story of Adam and Eve.  

Each week we've had homework.  Week 1, I challenged the church to read 1 and 2 Peter - two letters toward the end of the New Testament inspired by God that He chose to use Peter to write.  Week 2 was to read and meditate on Psalm 51, written by David after he had sinned.  It's the story of his rebound.  Week 3 we were challenged to live in Ephesians 4 - particularly verse 26-33.  Week 4 we focused on the gospel prayer and the reminder there is nothing we can do to make Him love us more, and nothing we have done to make Him love us less.  Week 5 we have been challenged to read Romans 5 and see the contrast of the fall because of Adam, and the free gift of salvation because of Jesus.  

During the series, I've heard the stories of people who are experiencing rebounds in their lives.  This morning I spoke with a friend out of town who has been listening each week online.  I also think the Lord is causing Northside to Rebound.  After some seasons of drop in attendance (we averaged 899 for the series 'I Will'), we have averaged 1004 for the series Rebound.  

During the 'I Will' series we discussed Thom Rainer's observations about why churches decline.  We admitted that we were in decline - having peaked at 1300 in 2010 after growing from 82 in 1993.  Rainer says that churches decline because people don't 'Go' anymore - or in other words we aren't intentional.  We forget our Jerusalem and the needs right around us and to the ends of the earth.  I believe it was a defining moment - Go - or die.  

Now we head to Christmas and the new year with the reminder that the gospel is the great love of God beyond measure.  For the sake of every soul at Northside now, and for the 92000 who live within 5 miles and the 440,000 who live in this county, we are going to keep the fire burning!!!  Those numbers are important because every number is a person.  

Perhaps you are facing a situation where you need a rebound.  You are in a place where you never expected to be.  Peter denied Jesus.  David slept with another man's wife and murdered her husband.  Moses lost it -  in anger in front of the people of God - and it cost him greatly.  A woman experienced horrific shame and scorn.  Adam and Eve felt the weight of sin for the first time in their lives because of disobedience.  But Peter was restored.  David was forgiven.  Moses experienced a remarkable rebound.  The woman found salvation and freedom instead of condemnation and Adam and Eve experienced the reality that God pursues those who even try to hide from Him, and will send the Messiah as the cure for our sin.  

Wherever you are today, God has a rebound for you.  Run to Him.  Look to Him.  Trust Him.  It's life's greatest rebound!!!

More Than a Conference

In 2010, the Lord put it in my heart to begin a ministry that would encourage pastors and churches.  Northside embraced that journey and we began a conference called 'Keep the Fire Burning'.  For the past six years, we have had the privilege of hosting more than 550 pastors and leaders from more than 140 churches and 11 states as well as a couple of other nations I believe.  The passion was to impact the Northeastern United States - a region of nine states with 55 million.  This area once blazed with the gospel.  Today, 83% do not profess faith in Christ.  That's 45 million people.  

The goal of this ministry was that pastors not quit, churches not die, communities not lose a lighthouse, and those without Christ have more opportunity to hear the gospel and believe.  Using the acronym FIRE - it was so that Faith would be renewed - there would be Inspiration and Instruction - it would be a catalyst for Revival and Renewal - and ultimately pastors and leaders would be Encouraged.  

We are living in the day of ministry burnout.  It's not new.  Elijah battled it as did others in Scripture.  This much I know - while caring for the souls of others, we must also remember to care of our own.  I've been reminded of that lately.  As I watched the video of a godly pastor - Pete Wilson - resigning after planting a church that in the last 14 years has grown to more than 7000 on the weekend, I was humbled by his honesty, and troubled by his weariness.  There was no scandal, he was just tired, broken and needed rest.  How many pastors could not identify?  I have great respect for Pete.  

As we have been planning for 2017, our team had an open and honest discussion about KTFB.  This week, I have made a decision with their counsel and other godly leaders who have impacted my life.  The ministry will continue.  Keep the Fire Burning will remain in the budget.  The conference however will not be held in 2017.  In Scripture, the land was given a rest every seven years, and then came back even stronger after that.  We've been at it six years, and I believe it is time to give this field a rest while we focus on others closer to home.  It may sound selfish, but I prefer to believe it is wise - in fact I believe very wise.  

I feel the need to stoke my own fire, and the fire of our team at Northside.  I am watching God work in our midst right now and am trusting Him to do great things rekindling the fire at Northside day to day, and week to week.  I see him working right now in our current series 'I Will'.  We will be calling a new worship pastor, and are closer to the finish line on that journey.  In the midst of caring for others, we need to care for our own souls and pace ourselves for the long haul.  

As for KTFB, I and at times others from Northside traveling with me, will make trips throughout the northeast in 2017 to see the land once again.  I believe these trips (2 or 3 days at a time, perhaps 3-4 times in the year) will give us the Nehemiah glimpse of the wall and a fresh understanding of what God is doing.  I look forward to those gatherings and hearing from the Lord through our time together as pastors and leaders in your own context.  

I will gather pastors in locations for candid conversations about their greatest struggles, and greatest needs in life and ministry.  I will ask them how to best lead Northside to impact them and others for the glory of God and be a spark for revival and renewal in the Northeast.  We will take the year to plan the best format(s) to impact the northeast in 2018.  It may look similar to the past or different - all we want is the best - for the glory of God!

To my Northside family I cannot thank you enough for your constant encouragement and support of this ministry that reaches way beyond our walls.  To every participant of the conference in the past, this is not the end.  It is a new beginning.  I make no apology for taking time to stir my own fire, that of our team and our church, and I am totally confident that our Lord will do great things for His glory.    I thank you for your understanding and prayers.  Keep the Fire Burning!!!

Never Lose the Wonder

Anyone who knows me, knows I love the game of golf.  I’ve been blessed to play some amazing courses, and have made and shared some profound memories with family and friends around this game.  I started to play the game when in college, and my most recent round was this morning.  I’m not a great golfer, but I love to play the game and to me there is still a wonder about it.  I’ve never had a hole in one, but even this morning, one tee shot on a par 3 for a moment had me wondering as it was tracking towards the pin.

Yesterday was the final round of the Dean and Deluca Invitational at the Colonial Country Club in Fort Worth, Texas. The course is referred to as Hogan’s Alley as Ben Hogan won there five times when the tournament was called the Colonial National.  This year Jordan Spieth entered the final round in the lead. Jordan is one of the most remarkable golfers I have ever watched and to follow his career is a lot of fun.  He loves the game - that is obvious.  He’s only 22 years old and for some has earned the name ‘boy wonder’ because of his youth. 

Jordan started his round with 9 pars and was behind by a stroke or two at the turn.  What happened next was not surprising to those of us who are fans.  Though he had suffered recent demises at the Masters and other tournaments in the last rounds, this week such would not be the case.  He birdied 10, 11 and 12, and then birdied 16, 17, and 18.  He won convincingly.  I had taped the end of the telecast and watched it back later last night.  I knew he had birdied the last three, but was totally impressed to see how he did it.  He made long putts on both the 16^th and the 18^th. 

What happened on the 17^th led to a moment that inspired this article.  He was over the green and chipped in with an amazing shot.  When the ball went in – he just looked up with that stunned ‘can you believe that?’ look that reminded me – he has not lost the wonder of the game!!!  It was awesome. 

Now let’s shift gears.  I’ve known Jesus as my Savior and Lord for 43 years now and have been serving Him in churches on staff for the last 39.  Yesterday I witnessed the wonder of a middle-aged man responding to the gospel and giving his life to Christ.  The wonder of it all lit up his face profoundly.  I will not soon forget that.  I’ve seen it before – and I expect to see it again.

I’m writing to encourage you – the reader – to never lose the wonder of who Jesus is and all He has done for you.  The devil will do his best to get you sidetracked or doubting the faithfulness of God.  This I know – the Lord is faithful.  Psalm 77:14 says ‘You are the God who works wonders; you have made known your might among the peoples.’ 

There’s even a promise for our kids.  Psalm 22:30 says ‘Our children will also serve him.  Future generations will hear about the wonders of the Lord.’  I love that. I leave you with Psalm 105:5a which says ‘Remember the wonders he has performed.’   As you live for Christ, never lose the wonder of it all.  What a mystery and precious gift that salvation is available by grace through faith.  Oh the wonder of it all!!!

Liverpool Warriors

Tonight I’m sitting in the parking lot of our local high school.  Twenty-three years ago, my wife and I were in town to take our first look at the possibility of moving to Liverpool where I was being considered to come serve as pastor.  While we knew the decision was ultimately the Lord’s we were getting to know the area. We decided to drive to the high school (just a mile from the church buildings) and see the school.  I was particularly interested in the mascot for some reason – in case my kids played sports – what would they be?

 

As we drove to the parking lot by the stadium Kathy and I were struck with the words ‘Liverpool Warriors’.  The spiritual implications of that word for a possible move for ministry here were profound that day and still are tonight.  Our kids were 8, 5, and 2.  We went back up north and the next week my wife heard the Twila Paris song ‘The Warrior is a Child’ sung as a special at a women’s gathering.  Kathy sat there and wept as God was revealing His will to us in so many ways. 

I still remember when our son came off the practice field as a seventh grader 7 years later with his Liverpool Warriors soccer jersey.  He would play for Liverpool the next six years.  He was a warrior.  I also remember his last band concert.  The piece was not a Christian piece per say – but the song included a powerful section where the trombone section (which was his instrument) and the lower brass played the tune that correlates to the song ‘Christ the Lord is Risen Today’.  One of the finest bands in America played with moxie that night and I sat there amazed.  I went to my car after the concert and happened to be tuned to a Christian station only to here Larnelle Harris sing these words:  ‘so you were in it after all’.  I sat there in amazement of the journey from 1993 to 2005.

Today those three young kids are grown, college graduates, married and moving on with life.  They all graduated from Liverpool High School.  Our fourth will graduate next year, 2017.  To God be the glory they are all doing well and spiritual warriors for the Lord.  Last night I came here to vote on the school budget and for board members, and the meaning of this parking lot hit me profoundly.  I was blessed for sure and knew that I wanted to write this blog story. 

Today I did a little study on the word warrior in the Bible.  I read that ‘The LORD is a warrior, the LORD is his name.’  Exodus 15:3.  I read that the angel of the LORD had a word for Gideon though he may have doubted it.  That angel said to him ‘The LORD is with you, mighty warrior.’  Judges 6:12b.

I’m heading home from this parking lot to watch a basketball game.  The Golden State Warriors are playing the Oklahoma City Thunder.  I’m a Warriors fan.  I plan on enjoying the game.  This much I know – that team is full of warriors.  But I also know this too – since I came to Liverpool, God has call me to be a warrior – not militant – but vigilant.   And this much I also know – it’s not a game – but rather eternity is on the line for multitudes.  To that end I’m glad to be on the Northside team.  We are warriors too.  It’s been a great journey.  I’m looking forward to the future.  It could be the best is yet to come. 

Reflections on a Mission Trip

Reflections on a Mission Trip

When I was in seminary, we sang the alma mater every Tuesday in chapel – for three school years.  ‘To all the world for Jesus sake, where bodies hurt and sad hearts ache, lift high the cross, His love proclaim, Mid-America bear His name.’  When I met Jesus, He did something in my heart that placed in me a longing for others to know Him – both near and far.  Those three years in Memphis, Tennessee at Mid-America Seminary fueled that passion.  While at times it may have waned, it has never died out and this week the flame got fueled again. 

I’ve had the privilege of serving in many states and communities in the United States.  In 1983, I began to be more intentional in international ministry.  I traveled to Brazil and ministered there for 8 days.  In 1986, I preached in Venezuala for 8 days.  In 2000, I taught at a leadership academy in Nicaragua.  In 2011, I ministered with Northsiders in Bulgaria, and was blessed to encourage many who serve the Lord there.  It’s all been a huge privilege for the glory of God.

This past week, I got back on the trail.  I travelled this week with a group of 21, many of whom call Northside home, to the Dominican Republic.  Part of the DNA of Northside is missions – near and far.  One of our staff members, is also a missionary with Score International.  We’ve had a lot of great teams led by a lot of great people at Northside, but I have to give a shout out to Joe Salvagni.  He does a remarkable job leading a team with a huge servant’s heart. 

Here’s a brief review of the trip. 

Sunday – we left New York and flew to the Dominican.  We arrived, settled in, had a group meeting and prepared for the week. 

Monday – I was blessed to go to a village – San Jose – and teach 10 students for about 3-4 hours concerning ministry.  7 were leaders from the DR and 3 were students here from the United States on a year’s study.  I love pastors and leaders and it was an honor to share that time together with a rock star missionary by the name of Craig McClure as my interpreter.  Our team went to Josiah’s House – a boy’s home where they began the facelift of a church facility – both inside and out.  They did an amazing job.  The Lord used them greatly. 

Tuesday – The team went back to Josiah’s House and continued some remarkable work on the church and ministered at the home.  I went back to Craig’s village and taught a group of 6 young men from the DR for about 3 more hours.  Craig then showed me some of the Major League Baseball team headquarters here for the Dominican league.  We saw the Yankees, Rockies, Mets and Nationals fields.  Amazing.  Craig works with Baseball Chapel as chaplain to the Rockies.  One of his pastors is the chaplain for the Yankees.  Amazingly, I’ve had the privilege of speaking at Baseball Chapel in Syracuse for the Chiefs.   He took me through more villages and another city.  We also visited in the home of one of the members of the church and got to share the gospel with that member’s wife who has yet to trust in Jesus. 

Wednesday – I went back to Josiah’s House with the team, and we painted two more buildings on the outside.  After three days, three buildings got a facelift and a ministry was encouraged.  It was an honor and a privilege. 

Thursday – We took the entire team to Craig’s village – San Jose, where he met with us and another group and shared his testimony and missions strategy.  It was powerful.  We sat there for more than 90 minutes and listened to God challenge us through the heart of a man whose life has God’s hand all over it.  We then travelled to a school called Emmanuel House – which educates nearly 150 students who would be ostracized or marginalized for various reasons were that school not there.  From there we travelled to El Pinion and saw a church that outgrew its facility so a second church was built by a team earlier this year.  We met this humble, confident pastor and heard his testimony and had prayer with him. 

Friday – We visited the capitol – Santa Domingo – and got some great history from a five year missionary here – Charles Carter – who led us through a tour of the city and gave us insight into this nation.  We relaxed by the ocean this afternoon, and after dinner this evening have packed to go home.  It’s been an amazing week. 

The highlights for me have been:

1.     Growing in fellowship with the team that served here this week.

2.     Encouraging missionaries, hearing their stories and being inspired by the Lord through them.

3.     Teaching pastors and leaders the word of God, and encouraging them in the work of the Lord.

4.     Sharing the gospel with a woman who is about 70 years old, whose husband recently came to Christ but she has yet to trust Jesus as Lord. 

5.     To see up close and personal the work of God in this country,

6.     To thank God for those being rescued from sex-trafficking and ministered to effectively and profoundly by caring mentors. 

7.     To be challenged that God’s plan is best and that He is worthy of all glory.

8.     To see young and older serve God with all their hearts together. 

9.     To walk alongside those who are on their first mission trip, and know they will never be the same. 

10.  Hearing God speak to my heart again through His word, prayer, and His people. 

11.  To see the value of serving with others for a few days together, and the difference it can make in everyone for the glory of the Lord. 

Tomorrow – Saturday – we head back to our homes in the United States – but more confident than ever that our citizenship is in heaven, and we will do whatever it takes to spread the gospel of Jesus Christ so more can know Him!  Hallelujah!