12/21/07

What is the miracle of Christmas? I could choose from so many. I have two beautiful daughters whose birthdays are this month. I’m blessed with a wonderful, godly and supportive wife. I would be hard pressed to have enough time within 12 hours to call everyone on Christmas Day who has blessed my life. I am covered with miracles like Mike Huckabee is covered by the media. What is THE miracle of Christmas? The Miracle of Christmas is that God had in His plan to save the world by the sending of His Son to earth as Savior and Lord, “Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you: he is Christ the Lord,” Luke 2:11.

 

Pastor on the run: yeah right.

 

12/19/07

I would have liked to be in Florida during the recent 25 degree chill, especially during the recent display of latté generosity at Starbucks. Customers in a South Florida drive-thru got an early Christmas gift when someone paid the bill for the customer behind him. This began a chain reaction of continuous generosity that lasted ALL day. Was this a miracle or just a bunch of happy coffee people? What is the miracle of Christmas? We all agree that this is a special time of the year. Begin reading Luke 2:8-20 and listen for the miracle of Christmas.

 

Pastor on the run: ran three miles on Monday.

 

12/14/07

Christmas + Family = Tension. This simple formula is true every Christmas. Christmas is full of strife and conflict when extended, blended, and multigenerational family groups come together. Loneliness among our singles and seniors is a serious problem. It is ironic that the incarnational message of Christmas, as we visited last week on Sunday, is not connected with our own family strife. Mary and Joseph faced a bombardment of social, religious, and personal conflict because of her pregnancy. The birth of the Son of God caused conflict in family, and still does. Read in preparation for Sunday, Matthew 1:18-25 and focus on the relationship between Mary and Joseph especially as a family unit.

 

Pastor on the run: ran five miles under fifty minutes the one sunny day we had this week.

 

12/06/07

Take Jesus out of the manger scene and we have just a nice pastoral setting, if not a little unusual. Take Jesus out of our lives, and we would be hopeless and lost. Take Jesus out of our churches, and they would become well meaning civil organizations. Take Jesus out of Sunday worship and it would become a rally for good thoughts and good feelings. Take Jesus out and what is left? A thought that is nearly as troubling, is wondering who would notice if Jesus was missing from the manger, our lives, our churches, and our worship. Join us Sunday as we consider a world without Jesus Christ.

 

Pastor on the run: Walked earlier this week and hope to run today or certainly tomorrow, too much fruitcake.

 

12/4/07

The holiday classic, “It’s a Wonderful Life,” is a must see for most at Christmastime. Although the film was set at Christmastime, the movie was really filmed during a heat wave. Snow during a heat wave, Hollywood often makes the impossible, possible. God makes the impossible, possible. God comes in the form of a baby. The movie classic follows the story line of what if George was not born. Life in Bedford Falls would be vastly different if George had not been born. What would life be like if Jesus Christ were not born? Join us Sunday as we consider this probing question and begin reading John 1:14-18.

 

Pastor on the run: Ran four on Saturday, three miles on Sunday and walked Jack yesterday.

 

11/30/07

I’m trying to raise two daughters, a preteen and a teenager. I spend most of my time walking through the house picking up things and turning off lights. Its dirty work but someone’s got to do it. My daughters have no understanding about the cost of living. There is a cost to raising a child. It costs a small fortune, an arm, leg and your sanity. There is a cost to all things important. How much does it cost to support a missionary? It costs $40,866.61 a year to support a missionary on the field. Because of your gifts through the Cooperative Program and the Lottie Moon Christmas Offering for International Missions they are supported. Our church goal is $39,600.00, nearly the cost of one missionary. I believe that we can meet his goal and reach the 40,866.61 challenge. I love my daughters and so I support them. We love our missionaries and therefore we should support them. Join me Sunday for this special day of mission focus, “Tell Me the Story of Jesus.”

 

Pastor on the run: The only running I’m doing is to the next appointment.

 

11/28/07

What would it be like to be the first Christian of your culture? Can you imagine the significance of being the first Native American to accept Jesus Christ, the first African to become a Christ follower, the first Eskimo to be saved? What is even more amazing is these firsts still occur today. There are still unreached people groups. Our International Mission Board announced that this first birth recently occurred in West Africa. The first known believers among the Sereer-Safen people group of West Africa have been baptized. “Bible storying” – sharing Bible stories chronologically and conversationally – made the difference. This is only one example of how the Gospel continues to penetrate new territory around the globe. When you give toward the Lottie Moon Christmas Offering you are helping to take the gospel to the world so that there will be other “firsts.” Join me in giving and reaching our Lottie Moon Offering for International Missions with a goal of $36,900.

 

Pastor on the run: three miles on Monday on a cool November day .k

 

11/21/07

I have had three “Thanksgiving” meals so far. It began with the Chamber of Commerce monthly meeting in November. This usually begins the first feast of the season followed by lesser and various versions of the turkey, dressing meal. I will have two more Thanksgiving dinners this week and I’m not leaving town! Several people I know began their Thanksgiving feast on Saturday. The point of this week is not how many meals, servings or miles traveled, but that we embrace the spiritual theme of thankfulness as Christians. “Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful,” Colossians 3:15. Be full, but also be thankful. Anyone for pizza?

 

Pastor on the run: exercised yesterday and will jog today before tomorrows six miles in preparation for another Thanksgiving meal.

 

11/19/07

The inspiration for Sunday’s sermon comes from the book of Psalms and a book by Christian George entitled, Sacred Travels. This young evangelical leader reminds the reader of the ancient practice of pilgrimage. We are all on a journey. He writes,

“The purpose of this book is to introduce the body of Christ to the spiritual discipline of pilgrimage. Pilgrimage is an ancient practice in need of modern discovery—a physical, emotional and spiritual journey that goes inward, upward and outward.” Sacred Travels, InterVaristy Press, 2006

The son of Dr. Timothy George, founding dean at Beeson Divinity School, has wisdom beyond his years. I would highly recommend this book for devotions, especially those who love to travel. Pack your bags and get ready for your trip as we begin Sunday in Psalm one.

 

Pastor on the run: Ran three miles on Saturday like a turkey

 

11/14/07

Anyone can be thankful, but it is when thankfulness results in actions of gratitude which proves a thankful heart. I recently read about some grateful people. The news account reported, “On a flight from Atlanta to Chicago, nine U.S. soldiers—home from Iraq on a two-week leave—were among the passengers. Before one of the soldiers boarded, a passenger traded his first class ticket for the soldier's coach ticket. As the plane was boarding, other passengers asked to trade their first class seats for the coach seats occupied by the remaining soldiers. Devilla Evans, a flight attendant on the American Airlines flight, said ‘it was a privilege to be flying with those two groups of unselfish people: those who would put their lives on the line to protect their fellow citizens' freedom, and those who were not ashamed to say thank you.’”  Being thankful should result in actions of gratitude toward God and others. Join us Sunday as I share a “Top Ten” list of reasons to be thankful this Thursday.

Pastor on the run: Been walking lately with Jack, hope to run on Turkey day.

11/2/07

This Psalm is the most beloved, read, and memorized passage of scripture in the world. It is recognized by most people as being a special passage. This passage is loved by both Jews and Christians. It has been read in worship, shared devotionally, comforted countless people in a time of death, sung before thousands, and recited at moments of great peril. It is the 23^rd Psalm and it will be the focus of our worship on Sunday. If you want a real blessing, follow this link to see a princess read this passage:

http://www.godtube.com/view_video.php?viewkey=9e7c4b40cf5a13cea6ca

 

Pastor on the run: Mile run yesterday afternoon on a beautiful fall day.

 

10/31/07

“Happy Halloween,” this greeting sounds as comfortable and natural as greeting someone with, “Happy Day of the Dead.” Christians are usually divided into two camps on this autumn celebration; Pumpkin-carvers and non-pumpkin-carvers. Some choose to carve the gourd in a gruesome face then illuminate it on the front porch. Others see it as a tool of the devil. The truth is that for far too many in our world Halloween is as Christian as Christmas. The prophet Amos taught, “Hate evil, love good,” Amos 5:15. Christians should every day, especially today, love good and reject that which is evil.

 

Pastor on the run: Ran nearly six miles on Monday and took a couple of days to recover.

 

10/18/07

We have not always been called Campbellsville Baptist Church. The history of our church began in 1791 as the Robinson Creek Church on Elkhorn Road on Weant Branch of Robinson Creek. At one time we were called the Pitman Creek Church located, yes you guessed it, on Pitman Creek. These congregations merged to be called the Pitman and Robinson Creek Church. There was even a time when we were called Baptist Church of Christ on Pitman!? In our long history we have had many names, four in fact. Change seems to be the only constant in our church history. Please continue praying about your vote, requested by the Land Feasibility Study Committee, on October 28^th concerning the land option. See my earlier blogs for specifics as to this recommendation. Join me Sunday as I share my vision for our church. I cannot implore you more sincerely to pray about this matter. A few questions have been raised about the affects on nearby churches of our possible future relocation. Some responses to this concern:

• I personally approached our Director of Missions for the Taylor County Baptist Association and the local pastor to explain the option and possible church action.
• May I remind you that our belief in the Autonomy of the Local Church means that CBC is competent and responsible to determine her future apart from association, state or national organizations.
• Any presence we have on the land location for recreation and other ministries will be open for use by all churches, as is our current facilities.
• Consider this scenario, if in the future CBC relocates one mile from our present location we will most likely be near a church and most likely a Baptist Church.
• The initial findings of the Land Study Feasibility Committee suggest that the Highway 210 corridor will be the main area of growth in the future. There will need to be more churches in that area to reach the lost and unchurched. Currently, no Baptist church has road frontage on this corridor, a road that is the main entrance to our community.
• If I thought any one church could reach all the people in an area, then I would understand other’s concerns. However, our community is increasingly unchurched and lost.

 

Pastor on the run: Ran Monday with a nice run, looking for a good Turkey Day 5 K to run, email me if you have any suggestions at skipa@cvillebaptist.com.

 

10/10/07

Before our congregation this month is an important vote concerning optioning 60 acres of land. A letter was mailed to all church members listing the specifics as to location and place along with an explanation by the Land Feasibility Study Committee. The issue for this month is simple. A vote in favor of the option is a vote to give the Land Feasibility Study Committee more time to finish their final report to the church while not loosing our option to buy a great piece of land. This action will not have any financial cost to the church because funds have already been given for the option. The vote on October 28 is about more time to complete the study that will not cost the church anything.

Also, allow me to spend some time answering some specific questions:

1. Where is the land? The land is located directly across the road from the home of David Keeton or approximately across from Campbellsville Country Club.
2. Are we moving the sanctuary? Obviously the purchase of 60 acres will allow for the growth of current ministries, but also a relocation of our facilities for future generations.
3. Is this a vote to buy land? No, the vote on October 28 is a vote to allow the committee to hold the land until such a time that the committee’s final report is completed. The committee will return to the church with a final recommendation concerning future land purchase. By optioning the land, we will hold the land until the committee concludes their final report.
4. Is this budget money? No, monies have already been given to offset the cost of optioning the land and no budget money will be used for this purpose.
5. What will happen at Business Meeting on October 14? At the monthly business meeting the Land Feasibility Study Committee will present more information concerning the land and have a question and answer time concerning the motion to option the land.
6. What about our pastor? I will present a vision sermon on October 21 in both morning worship services that will outline the benefit of the land. I am convinced that Campbellsville Baptist Church should option this land and allow the committee to complete their study. We will be a stronger and better church now and in the future with the purchase of this land. It is my desire to be your pastor until I am an old man. The Lord called us to Campbellsville Baptist Church and the Lord has allowed us to do many wonderful things together in our five years. My dear friends, I am not content to only read our history and remember what great things we have done, we are also called to make history.

Pastor on the run: Ran the miles this morning at 27:14. It was a crisp cool morning.

10/04/07

Think small. There is an attraction to the small or miniature. Small is a good thing. Consider puppies. No one ever goes up to a puppy and asks the owner if he or she bites. However, we would all be shy in approaching a full grown German shepherd. Speaking of puppies, I would like to announce the newest addition to the Alexander family, Jack Sparrow. Jack is a seven-week-old yellow lab. He is small for the moment and lovable. Jesus commended small thinking when he taught, “Because you have so little faith. I tell you the truth, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there’ and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you,” Matthew 17:20.

 

Pastor on the run: Ran Monday, and hope to get a run in today.

 

9/28/07

Skip Alexander, D. Min.

            If you can imagine with me the preaching of Peter on the day of Pentecost when the crowd was already worked up. They had seen the falling of the Holy Spirit and heard each of the believers testify of Jesus, and each person who traveled from one of the many nations around the Mediterranean Sea heard them in their native language. They imagine that the disciples are drunk on wine. Peter steps up to address the people.

            He sends each person a podcast they view on their IPods. They watch downloaded funny things people do when they are drunk. He shows the uninhibited behavior of people’s actions as a result of drunkenness. They all laugh heartily at the clips and laugh at themselves. Just when they want another funny clip, it stops and Peter steps forward to address the crowd. Then he begins in the Old Testament and builds the cause for the coming of Jesus Christ and the fulfillment of the scripture. He quotes the prophet, “In the last days, God says, I will pour out my Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your young men will see visions, your old men will dream dreams . . . and everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” They hear his powerful, biblical preaching and the conviction of the Holy Spirit and they respond, “Brothers what shall we do?” Three thousand were added to their number that day. They were saved, because of the video? No, they were saved because of the power of the Gospel.

            One can go too far with this search for technological advantage. I have gotten caught up in the search for moving PowerPoint. I’m not satisfied with plain PowerPoint backgrounds. No, I want my PowerPoint to have moving backgrounds.

            Twenty-first century preaching is marked by the drama and the movie clip in large part because of the boredom of the three point sermon. I have preached a few sermons as have you when the movie clip was a welcome diversion from the hopeless homily. We needed sermonspice.com because our sermons in large part had become bland. Biblical preaching IS relevant. These items are aids to the preaching tasks.

            Twenty-first century preaching will be powerful when we focus on the biblical message, find the spice in the Word. Look for the “u” in the passage not just the internet clip. Allow the drama of the story to be the focus instead of a movie clip.

           

 

9/26/07

Skip Alexander, D. Min.

            Sermonspice.com, utube.com, movie clips, and PowerPoint are all expected elements of preaching in the Twenty-first Century. In an era long ago the spice of the sermon was called the Holy Ghost. The focus of the sermon was not the videoed foolishness of humanity but the complete holiness of the incarnate Son of God. In a time long ago the PowerPoint was not projected on a wide screen in the worship center but the power point was the result of a pastor’s long and laborious efforts of exegesis that brought the Word of God to the people of God. What is effective biblical preaching of the Twenty-first Century?

             The widely held view by culture is that the church is irrelevant and thus preaching is irrelevant. This rejection by culture forces us to grab hold of anything that might prove our relevancy. Like the kid not picked for a team at recess who shows up the next day with new tennis shoes, we are in danger of using technology to prove our relevancy. We shout, “We are here” and that we do “get it.” The early church did not clamor for relevancy, it was relevant. One has a difficult time imagining the preaching of the early church enhanced by the benefit of a resourceful media ministry. Imagine how Paul’s preaching would have been enhanced.

            Paul delivers his sermon before Felix. He says, “Can I get someone to dim the lights?” and says to the royal court, “Watch this video with me.” Then the projector begins a series of man on the street interviews in Jerusalem with one of the disciples asking, “What do you think of Jesus of Nazareth?” The Hellenized citizen looks blankly into the camera and says, “Who is Jesus of Nazareth?” A woman is stopped and asked the question. She says, “Don’t bother me I have to get to market and purchase my meat, oh by the way, ‘Caesar is Lord.’” The third interview is a woman who was orphaned as a child, “I’m not sure, but my life was saved when a couple took me in and raised me so I would not be sold as a prostitute. They were Christians.”

            Paul then steps into the view of the screen and says to the King, “I am here to tell you about Jesus Christ who saved me.” He goes into the early church kerygma and testifies that Jesus Christ saved him, a faithful Jew who persecuted the Christians, and then he says, “Now I am called to tell people like you dear King, that Jesus Christ who is Lord will return one day.”

           

9/25/07

“The Day I Found You”

By: Samantha Sunshine Lane

I was so lonely, so sad, so blue. I once was so lost . . . then I found you.

I was so mad, so hateful, so crude. I once was suicidal . . . then I found you.

I was so angry, so bitter and cruel. I hated life . . . yes, I disliked you.

I was a drunk, I loved to take pills, I was a misfit headed for hell.

I ran around, I didn’t care. How could I cry when there were no tears?

I was heading down a long, rocky road, sad part about it I wasn’t alone.

I have six angels; one big and five small, how could I hurt them I was destroying us all.

I found you one day at my kitchen table, you were waiting for me, I was very unstable.

I felt you touch me, your touch was so strong, I laid my life in your hands.

I could no longer hold on, I opened my eyes for the first time in years.

I looked all around me my eyes filled with tears, I was truly happy for the first time in years.

I now feel so lucky I know that I have been blessed, for while sitting at that table no burdens upon my chest. You gave me another chance the day I chose you.

How could you forgive me, after all I had done to you?

Standing in the water . . . Brother Skip by my side, I go under come back up. The old me had died. Now I am carefree, happy and loving. Before I found you Lord, my life meant nothing.

The day I found you I found me, this is true. The day I found me I found Samantha through you.

 

9/21/07

Are you going to heaven? It is a simple enough question. During an edition of the news program 60 Minutes, Dan Rather interviewed Jack Welch, the outspoken former CEO of General Electric. At the end of the interview, Rather asked Welch, “What’s the toughest question you have ever been asked?” Welch replied, “Do you think you'll go to heaven?” When asked how he had answered that question, Welch continued, “It’s a long answer, but I said that if caring about people, if giving it your all, if being a great friend counts—despite the fact that I’ve been divorced a couple of times, and no one’s proud of that. I haven’t done everything right all the time. I think I got a shot.” God did not intend for this to be a tough question. The Bible is very clear about how you get to heaven. Culture has blurred the lines, but truth is not fuzzy on this issue. Join me Sunday when I will present a very simple presentation of how you can KNOW, for certain, without a doubt, that you are going to heaven. Unlike Mr. Welch who believes he’s “got a shot,” I know for sure where I’m headed. You can also have that same assurance. Join me Sunday to find out.

 

Pastor on the run: Good race at Cow Days for their 5K run at about 26 minutes. It was not my personal best, but a great day none the less.

 

 

9/14/07

Last week’s shared sermon with my wife was extremely successful. We heard many good comments such as, “we haven’t had preaching like that in some time,” or “now we know who has the brains in the family.” Well, rest assured I already knew these things and I willing broke a long held rule: never invite a better speaker to the pulpit. It was a unique experience to share that teaching time with my wife with the sermon title, “What Wives Wish Their Husbands Knew.” This Sunday we will resume the second sermon in this two-part series entitled, “What Husbands Wish Their Wives Knew.” Staying in Ephesians 5:21-33, I have felt a leading to follow the Genesis reference within this passage. What do the Old Testament stories of the Garden of Eden and the fall and struggle between Cain and Abel teach us about men? Join me Sunday in considering this perspective.

 

Pastor on the run: Did my best time at the Tiger Trot 5K last week and will run in the Cow Days 5K on Saturday. Watch out for those cow patties.

 

9/7/07

To quote the great marriage counselor, Henny Youngman, “The secret of a happy marriage remains a secret.” There is not one secret for any important area of our lives, marriage included. This Sunday I will have a very special guest during the sermon as I launch a two-part sermon series. This week’s sermon is entitled, “What Wives Wish Their Husbands Knew.” Next week I will conclude the series with the sermon entitled, “What Husbands Wish Their Wives Knew.” The basis for these sermons will be Paul’s instruction regarding marriage in Ephesians 5:21-33.

 

Pastor on the run: I have rested in preparation for the Tiger Trot on the campus of Campbellsville University sponsored by the Cross Country Team.

 

8/31/07

            We are calling it the Mannsville Revival and for good reason. When was the last time you have seen twenty-five people make sincere, life-changing commitments for Jesus Christ with the vast majority of them being adults? I have asked several people and they cannot recall a time in our church or community when so many were saved. Some have compared it to the Bill Glass Crusade, a time for which we are all appreciative, but considerably fewer came to personal faith in Jesus Christ during those meetings. What can we conclude with this powerful sign from God?

I can only conclude that we are on the verge of a revival in central Kentucky. If you consider God’s salvation history, great things often come out of small places. In the Old Testament, the youngest son of Jessie, David, would become the greatest King of Israel. Consider in the New Testament the words about that little town, “‘Nazareth! Can anything good come from there?’ Nathanael asked. ‘Come and see,’ said Philip,” John 1:46.

Campbellsville University will begin a revival on campus this week and we should support this ministry. I would also like for you to join me in prayer and fasting to discern God’s movement about beginning a revival at Campbellsville Baptist Church. Join me and other church leaders in prayer about this matter. Following Journey on September 5, we will gather in the Worship Center for additional prayer about this decision.

Much work is being done to disciple those who have made decisions for Jesus Christ. Several in our church, along with Justin Watson, are working to disciple the new converts. Our new Christians are meeting every Friday night for Bible Study, attending Sunday School and coming to worship.

Finally, those who were involved in the Thy Kingdom Come study and discussion will recall this powerful insight: If Campbellsville Baptist Church is to remain a significant force for the Kingdom of God in the future we must do better at reaching our indigenes community (those born and raised in Taylor County). We must be a church for the college community and the professional, but we must also make significant inroads of outreach and ministry to reach the citizens of Taylor County.

I believe this revival is a direct result of prayer and God’s gift to us to see how we can truly become a Kingdom growth church. There are many challenges in reaching out to others. How will you respond Campbellsville Baptist Church? As Philip said, “Come and see.”

 

Pastor on the run: three miles this morning, call me Mr. Slowski.

 

8/29/07

 

Have you ever seen a true, heaven-sent, Holy Ghost revival? Have you ever experienced a movement of God that could only be explained by God? If not, then take heart and join me in thanksgiving and continued prayers for the “Mannsville Revival.” Because of the obedience of a few, over two dozen people have been led to personal faith in Jesus Christ in this small community in Taylor County. Your prayers toward this revival are essential. Please pray for continued boldness in witnessing in this community. Join me in making welcome these folks who decided to unite with our fellowship and follow through in believer’s baptism. Pray that what God is doing in Mannsville, will continue in Campbellsville. I am reminded of the word said concerning the little town, “‘Nazareth! Can anything good come from there?’ Nathanael asked. ‘Come and see,’ said Philip,” John 1:46. Would you come and see?

 

Pastor on the run: Ran three miles this morning to some great hits from the 80’s and Toby Mac.

 

8/28/07

The past week has produced two confessions, one from Mother Teresa and the other from Michael Vick. I am certain this is the first time these two names have ever been used in the same sentence. One is called a saint and others would like to play for the Saints. One confessed through surviving letters of her personal struggle of faith, the other confessed of sins and of getting caught. One saw the worst of human suffering and questioned God; the other participated in shocking behavior in defiance of God’s creation. One is called a saint and the other is called a sinner. Are they not both saints? If Jesus can forgive lack of faith and rebellion, are they not both saints? The Kingdom of God includes all people who have Jesus Christ in common from Mother Teresa to Michael Vick. Remember, “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus,” Romans 8:1.

 

Pastor on the run: ran four miles yesterday preparing for the Tiger Trot on September 8^th.

 

8/24/07

All month we have focused on worship, worship that changes everything. We have heard the biblical expectations to praise God. David Johnson has reminded us the chief way to praise God is through music. An entire cast of people, on and behind the platform, has led us to worship. Perhaps the final most unusual call for you to praise God is that God first sings for you. Yes, God sings over your life. My favorite verse from Zephaniah and perhaps the only verse from Zephaniah that I recall is found in Zephaniah 3:17, “The Lord your God is with you, he is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, he will quiet you with his love, he will rejoice over you with singing.” Musicians love this verse and preachers often forget this verse. Sing to God this Sunday because He has been singing over you for some time now. Carefully read Revelation chapters four and five for Sunday.

Let me encourage everyone to join us Sunday for our annual baptism service at Green River State Park. You can reserve lunch by calling the church office and pay on that day. We are gathering at the Lone Valley shelter and dock. The baptism service will be held at 3 PM. Come and enjoy the day at the lake!

 

Pastor on the run: three mile run this AM and hope to have a long run tomorrow.

 

 

8/23/07

 

We do not usually get celebrities or dignitaries through Campbellsville/Taylor County…that is until today. At noon today the Chamber of Commerce luncheon hosted Senator Mitch McConnell as the guest speaker. The Senator is the distinguished leader of the Republican Party for the United States Senate. His visit merits some special attention. There was some level or preparation needed before his visit. Our “Rev of Rec,” David Akers, earlier this week, was shown a badge from a guy that looked like he knew fifteen ways to kill a man. His pre-visit was to help prepare for the senator’s arrival. A portion of this week should be spent preparing for the arrival of another dignitary, THE dignitary, our Lord. The stately presence of a United State Senator does not compare to the regal presence of the King of Kings. Welcome home Mr. McConnell. Let us all remember to welcome the King on Sunday in worship.

 

Pastor on the run: Ran three miles Tuesday, rested yesterday, and ran a two miler this morning as the sun rose.

 

8/16/07

It is unfortunate but apparently true. A survey by the Barna group reports that most worshipers believe, “they did not experience the presence of God during the service,” (Barna Reviews Top Religious Trends of 2005). What does it mean to “experience God” during the service? It seems to be a two-way street, an equal portion of worshippers who enter prepared to worship, worship leaders who are prepared and anticipate worship and a God who is faithful to be present in worship. If worshippers are preoccupied with their checkbook rather than His book, if worship leaders are more concerned about a sermon joke or the sound system then worship may not occur. Then there is the most shocking result of worship. The worship service has ended and I am less than enthusiastic. I feel that we missed the mark, I was about as effective as the Dalai Lama preaching the pastor’s conference at the Southern Baptist Convention. Someone leaves worship and says, “I worshiped God today, thank you.” I want to say, “Don’t thank me, I had nothing to do with it.” This Sunday we will continue our sermon series on “Worship Changes Everything,” by studying the passage in Acts 2, the church in worship. When reading this passage, consider the essential elements of worship found in this chapter.

 

Pastor on the run: three-miler this morning on what may have been the hottest morning in history, it felt like 100 degrees.

 

8/09/07

Life changing worship as experienced by Isaiah in chapter six is essential. There is nothing more vital in the Christian life than meaningful, life-transforming worship. Isaiah tried to live as the spokesman of God without the experience of worship in chapter six. Isaiah became the prophet of God when he experienced transforming personal worship as described in chapter six. The Christian life cannot, should not and must not be lived apart from worship that is marked by the glorious presence of the Lord, personal confession and renewal of living the Christian life. Continue reading Isaiah 6:1-13 as we approach Sunday. Worship for Isaiah and for us really does change everything.

 

Pastor on the run: ran 3.5 miles this morning and watched the sunrise. Praise the Lord for another day.

 

8/8/07

Chapter six is an important chapter in any book, unless your book has only five chapters. By chapter six you have figured out the plot. By chapter six you have bonded with the main characters and usually by chapter six you are fully committed to the book. If the book hasn’t captured your attention by chapter six, then it likely will not happen. It is not until chapter six of Isaiah that we see the prophet receive his commission from the Lord. Surprising or did the people at Lifeway make a printing error? No, I checked my other translations: the NIV, “nearly inspired version,” the HCSB, “hardcore Southern Baptist Bible.” They all have Isaiah worshiping in chapter six and not in chapters one, two, three, four or five. Spend some time pondering this chronological issue as Sunday’s theme of “Worship Changes Everything” approaches.

 

Pastor on the run: Three miles at 9:00 PM last night during a cool 90 degrees.

 

8/2/07

Who worships? Are preachers the only ones in church who worship? Our congregation, as do most Protestant congregations, have platform chairs for those who will lead the congregation in worship. This tradition was established for very biblical and sound reasons. In fact the platform chairs were a revision from the elevated podium of an earlier time period. These majestic chairs usually seem more appropriate for your grandmother’s living room or the TV set of some preacher on the faith channel. My problem with the platform chair is that some may conclude that those who sit on stage and in those chairs are the ones who worship and the congregation observes. Not so. Those who lead in worship, invite the worshipper to become worship participants. Join me Sunday; I’ll be the guy sitting on the front pew.

 

Pastor on the run: Got a three mile summer’s night run in last night.

 

8/01/07

One of the most memorable worship services of my life was my graduation from seminary. It wasn’t spiritual because of the collection of great theologians nor because we were all ministers committed to full-time Christian service. This worship service was powerful because it was in Louisville, Kentucky. In 1994 I graduated with my Master of Divinity degree from The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. I had left the same city in 1973, the youngest child of a single, alcoholic father running from the past and headed nowhere. I am even overcome today when I consider that my heavenly Father took the ruins of my life and rebuilt it by the grace and the power of God in Jesus Christ. On that December day in Alumni Chapel I walked on the wall of praise and celebration. The commencement speaker selected Psalm 27:10 as his text, “Though my father and mother forsake me, the Lord will receive me.” God got my attention that day in worship and it changed everything. Nehemiah and the entire congregation of Israel walked on the wall that only months before had been in ruins. They offered their collective celebration in praise to God. Begin reading Nehemiah 12 and consider how meaningful it must have been for Nehemiah to walk on the rebuilt wall around Jerusalem.

 

Pastor on the run: Runners burn 800 calories per hour.

 

7/31/07

Have you noticed how Americans observe a football game, but Europeans experience a football game? We sit back and watch, the international soccer fan participates as if they are on the field. We worship as Americans. The stage is the field, the owner is in the sky box, and the fans leave sometimes happy about the game and sometimes complaining about the game. This Sunday I will begin a sermon series entitled, “Worship Changes Everything.” We will study four worship encounters in the Bible that shaped and formed the people of God. This Sunday begin reading Nehemiah chapter 12. The wall around Jerusalem is constructed but not yet complete. The returning exiles are all invited to worship and dedicate the wall. Take special note of their participatory, celebrative, and sacrificial worship.

 

Pastor on the run: three mile run with my new Nike shox, great shoes, I feel like kid on the playground of school.

 

7/27/07

This week I returned from probably the best vacation of my life, except of course my honeymoon. My wife may decide to read the blog today. Thirteen days in Florida visiting Disney and cruising. What is not to love! In fact, I would like to return today if VISA and my church would allow it. This week I felt the tug to return to vacation and the tug to return to what I love as a pastor. This tug of war continues and I guess that is natural. It is not much of a vacation if you need a vacation from the vacation. Rest is essential. Psalm 62:5 commends us to “Find rest…” Have you found rest lately?

 

Pastor on the run: have run a total of ten miles so far this week and hope to get a run in tomorrow.

 

7/24/07

Is there anything about Jesus Christ that is secretive? The title from Brian D. McLaren’s most recent book, “The Secret Message of Jesus,” immediately put me in a defensive position. Certainly there is a mystery to the God-head and the person of Jesus Christ. I read his book while attending the Southern Baptist Convention in San Antonio, Texas this June. I’ll admit it was a fairly bold statement to walk around the SBC with this near-heretical author. The book’s strongest point is the indictment of Christless church life. Many mainline churches have produced passionless Christians that have omitted many of the teachings of Jesus and the passion-filled mission of our Lord. The author correctly reminds the reader that church has over-emphasized heaven and preparing for the hear-after. He puts emphasis on the Kingdom of God, the here and now. He defines and captures the Jesus ethic for today.

 

The book missed on several fronts from the parables of Jesus to a very weak explanation of evil. My biggest problem with the book is the under-lying assumption that Jesus spoke the purpose and message of the Gospel in secret form. The parables were not secret, but made their point with amazing clarity. What the author calls “secret” is removed by true Bible study to understand the context of Judaism and Roman culture.

 

The helpful insights regarding the Kingdom of God build upon the foundational works of Ladd and Bright’s work. This book is a good gift to the searching non-Christian or the disenchanted believer. As is true in most of our lives, I struggle with fulfilling the obvious teachings of our Lord let alone the secret teachings.

 

Pastor on the run: three miles today, there’s no secret about running, just put one foot in front of the other.

 

7/6/07

Sevens have been good to me. My life took a drastically different direction when at the age of seven I went to live with my aunt and uncle. I was saved at the age of seventeen. I first kissed Leigh Anne on the seventh date. Not really, but I wrote this just in case my daughters read this blog. Seven is an amazing number. There are more sevens in the Bible than any other number, over 600 references. The first sentence in the Bible contains seven Hebrew words. The last book of the Bible contains two doxologies that contain seven words. The Bible begins and ends with seven. Join us Sunday as I share the seven ways seven is heavenly.

 

Pastor on the run: still resting from the Bluegrass 10,000, hope to run tomorrow for seven miles.

 

7/5/07

Are you a perfectionist? Are you married to a perfectionist? Do you work with a perfectionist? Perfectionist you know who you are and in fact you have just corrected my grammar. A dangling modifier drives you mad. A crooked picture frame causes convulsions. The perpetual left turn signal by the car in front of you brings groans of disbelief. Oh, the life of a perfectionist. This Sunday we will consider the theological premise-God alone is perfect. The use and overuse of the number seven in scripture illustrates the perfection of God. The psalmist declares, “And the words of the Lord are flawless, like silver refined in a furnace of clay, purified seven times,” Psalm 12:6.

 

Pastor on the run: completed the Bluegrass 10,000 with an official time of 53:12 and improved upon my time from last year’s race.

 

 

6/29/07

Enjoyed breakfast in America at the Holy Huddle House and had an interesting visit. The guy beside me ordered four eggs, steak, and chili cheese sauce on the side. I could hear his heart screaming. I sat beside a friend who loves his church and works to make our community a better place. His grandson is in Iraq with the striker brigade. He sure would like to see him get home as with all our troops. The cook noticed my CU golf shirt. (I own one dozen CU golf shirts. My goal is to have one for every day of the month). The cook asked if I was with the university and I said, “You could say that.” He went on to tell me that he wanted to be a chef and hoped to go to college. He asked if Campbellsville University offered a related degree. I took his name and number. Before I left I complimented him twice on my meal. Seems to me he is already a chef. We do live in a free land. We are free to order everything off of the menu that could kill us. We are free in the hopes and ideas of democracy that unfortunately come with the high cost in the lives of our young adults. We are free so that a short-order cook could become a renowned chef on the Food Channel one day. We are free to love and serve our Lord Jesus Christ.

 

Pastor on the run: I was free to run three miles today with my best time under 26:00.

 

6/28/07

I love America, but I love Jesus more. I had the unique opportunity to drive nearly 900 miles from Dallas, Texas to Louisville, Kentucky (far too long a story for a blog entry). I was able to pass through four states, see parts of the Midwest and marvel at the expanse, freedom and wonder of our beautiful country. (Note to self, hamburgers and pecan log from Stuckey’s hardly qualifies as “daily bread.”) We traveled freely without fear of car bombs, IED’s or border wars. This is an amazing country. I love America. The apostle Paul instructs us to love our country and obey our leaders in Romans 13. I love America, but I love Jesus more.

This sounds almost un-American to say you love something more than your country but I believe I am on strong biblical ground. We are instructed to establish the Kingdom of God on earth not a national religion. The apostle John gave encouragement to the believers of the first century who were severely persecuted by Rome. Through the cloaked style of Jewish apocalyptic literature found in Revelation 13, John gives believers hope. This Sunday we will consider living between Romans 13 and Revelation 13.

 

Pastor on the run: Ran a long run in the Lone Star State —ride’em cowboy!

 

6/20/07

The song from the late James Brown, “It’s a Man’s, Man’s, Man’s World” decries a blues truth of the age. This is true for good and for bad. It may be a man’s world, but I live in a woman’s house. Living with three ladies is increasingly an adventure. I’m not only from Mars, but I’m a completely different species. I am not only outnumbered at home, but I am also outnumbered at church. Women outnumber men in every church in America with few exceptions, if any exceptions, yet they have little influence in some congregations. That is why I read the recent work by Denise George entitled, “What Women Wish Pastors Knew,” published by Zondervan. Building on a national survey, and organized thematically with very helpful chapter summaries, I am a better pastor having listened to Mrs. George. She is an author in her own right, but should also be noted that she is marred to Dr. Timothy George, founding dean at Beeson Divinity School. The book is full of insights for the pastor. The book is nearly overwhelming with prophetic truth for the church. It should be read with a defensive posture. The book confirms the universal desire to find your place to belong and live in significance. I appreciate how the author avoids the temptations to further an agenda or perspective. Reading one book or living in a house of women does not equip me to understand the hopes, hurts, needs and dreams of woman, but I am better informed and more sensitized to the issues facing women in church.

 

Pastor on the run: ran three miles yesterday and preparing for the Bluegrass 10,000 on July 4^th.

 

6/15/07

The child’s song goes, “Who built the ark?” and the children reply, “Noah, Noah.” Next week the movie Evan Almighty premieres. This movie is the sequel to Bruce Almighty. The movie has received positive reviews for its wholesome content. The movie has spun off a national movement encouraging good deeds. Visit www.arkalmighty.com for more information. The website will connect needs in a community to the abilities of those in your church who enlist on the website. I applaud the idea, the church certainly needs to leave the building and be missional by performing acts of kindness in Jesus’ name. However, what is the message of Noah found in Genesis 6-9? Is the walk away idea from this Old Testament story that we should do good deeds? This may be a minor theme, but the major theme in the passage is God’s mercy and justice. The passage could be outlined: God blessed, people messed but God extended mercy. God’s actions of provision for Noah and his family, God’s actions to bring a remnant of nature into the ark, God’s actions to dry the earth and God’s commitment to restore the fallen creation is the message of the passage. Remember, the story tells that one man among thousands did the right thing. Noah is a worthy example for all men on Father’s Day, but God’s mercy is the great message of this passage. Join us Sunday as we pick-up the story of Noah with the sermon entitled, “God Almighty and Noah.”

 

Pastor on the run: three mile run this morning.

 

6/14/07

I returned yesterday from The Southern Baptist Convention in San Antonio, Texas, still a Southern Baptist. I am a Southern Baptist because of Randall Cunningham. Randall was a deacon who ministered to our family when I was a child. I am a Southern Baptist because of Rev. Jerry DeBell, the pastor of First Baptist Church, Hilliard, Ohio, who led me to a personal faith in Jesus Christ. I am a Southern Baptist because of Esther Boroughs, who instilled in me passion for Christ when I was a college student. Returning from the SBC is like returning from family vacation. You were blessed to be among the family members, discouraged by some of the old issues and wondering about some of the cousins. This year’s SBC was encouraging on several fronts. Thankfully Southern Baptists rejected the further narrowing of the definition for those who would serve our agencies by going beyond the BFM 2000. The most hopeful sign was the “official” inclusion in our packets of a booklet with sermons by Charles Colson, David Dockery and Timothy George calling Southern Baptists to begin building bridges of reconciliation between Calvinists and Arminianist, bloggers and traditionalists, conservatives and moderates etc. The convention elected Frank Page to the customary second term. We were fortunate to welcome him to the CU campus and to our church this spring. The convention held the good and faithful support of mission partnerships through the Cooperative Program with a pronounced sense of humility and prayer.

 

Pastor on the run: Enjoyed three days of exercise while at the convention.

 

6/7/07

Individuals and organizations have creeds. Creed: 1) an authoritative formulated statement of the chief articles of Christian belief; 2) an accepted system of religious or other belief. You do not have to be at a place very long before you understand their creed. The unspoken creed of a college student is “freedom.” The runner’s creed would be “live to run.” Leigh Anne and I have seen that home school families have a creed of their own. Churches have formal and informal creeds. Individual churches have unspoken values, both good and bad, that the group believes. Some churches have an unspoken belief that you must be “middle-class and like us” to fit in. Other churches have a creed that stresses “anti-traditional church or religion.” Some congregations have a creed of “social causes toward changing the world.” What is your creed? What is the unspoken creed of our church?

 

Pastor on the run: three miles yesterday at a slow pace, I’m afraid I did not live up to the runners creed.

 

6/06/07

The Jesus Creed simply stated is as follows: “Hear, O Israel, the Lord our God, the Lord is one. Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind and with all your strength. The second is this: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no commandment greater than these.” In Hebrew it is called the Shema which is the first term of the prayer in Hebrew, “hear.” The faithful Jew was expected to recite the prayer twice a day. Walk with the prayer today. Begin and end your day by reciting this prayer. Live with the prayer this week, hear it and allow the thoughts to begin to influence your actions. Hear it.

 

Pastor on the run: rested yesterday hope to run this afternoon.

 

6/04/07

Preachers love to read books. Reading a book is like meeting a new friend or finding a great new restaurant. They can be enjoyed and then shared with the people around you. Here is a new delicacy.

 

The Jesus Creed by Scot McKnight is one such book. It came highly recommend by a friend. I have enjoyed reading the book and suggest it to you. Under the category of spiritual formation from the missional school of thought, it is not as substantial as Foster’s Celebration of Discipline, nor is it as shallow as much of the work under the same category. The book is written with the scholar’s touch yet filled with practical insights that preach. Every point is illustrated by inspiring and believable stories which provide great thought for the preacher. This book encourages practical Christian living by loving God and loving others.

 

The Jesus Creed is the simple version of the Shema of Deuteronomy 6:5 and is given by Jesus in Matthew 22:37-39:

 “’Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.' [38] This is the first and greatest commandment. [39] And the second is like it: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.'”

 

Pastor on the run: four mile run this morning.

 

6/01/07

Running into the Papa John’s stadium at the end of the Papa John’s 10 K was a thrill. As I entered the stadium I could hear the crowds say, “Look the last one!” Just as I crossed the finish line I could see my pained expression on the jumbo-screen just before I passed out - proud moment! The author of Hebrews has the stadium filled with men and woman of the Old Testament from chapter eleven now present in the stands in chapter twelve. As you run the Christian race you can hear the cheers of Able, Enoch, Noah, Abraham, and Sarah say run the race for Christ! Run the race this week!

 

Pastor on the run: three miles at 25:50 this morning and I could hear the cheers from the great crowd of witnesses.

 

P.S. a special cheer to Laura, a dear Christian lady—thanks!

 

5/31/07

I ran yesterday in the 90 degree heat and found out that it’s a good way to see visions. Nearly heat exhausted, I was reminded of the difficulty of running with any hindrance. The first century was very familiar with athletics via the Greek culture. One of their main athletic events was running. Runners run best when they are not hindered from making the best pace. I agree with many other commentators who identify this passage as one of the most significant and inspiring passages in all of the New Testament. I commend it to you.

    “Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. [2] Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.” Hebrews 12:1-2 (NIV)

 

Pastor on the run: Nearly 3 miles yesterday followed by lots of water.

 

5/30/07

I saw the “Spiderman III” movie last night and was instantly reminded of the little kid in all of us. We all had our superheroes growing up. My comic book superhero from Marvel Comics was Iron Man. Iron Man’s real name was Tony Stark who was a famed industrialist turned superhero. Later in life I discovered that Iron Man could rust and had a sin nature. Superheroes, like all of us, have weaknesses. Spiderman was no exception. I was struck by the obvious Christian theme in all of the three Spiderman movies. Do you remember the song from the cartoon growing up? Sing along…

Spiderman, Spiderman,

Does whatever a spider can.

Spins a web, any size,

Catches thieves just like flies.

Look out! Here comes the Spiderman.

Peter Parker finds freedom from the dark suit and his dark side by finding the steeple. His great struggle storyline has the hero going to church and in church a transformation occurs. In the bell tower the high decibels somehow break the hold of the dark suit. It was refreshing to see a film actually point to a higher truth and affirm the message of the church and of God. Join me Sunday under the spire for transformation.

 

Sunday’s scripture passage is Hebrews 12:1-3. This is the theme passage for Game Day, Vacation Bible School at our church. We will study this passage and consider Jesus the true hero of our life.

 

Pastor on the run: Ran four miles on Monday and hope to get a run in later today.

 

5/23/07

Tomorrow I will caravan to Birmingham to begin the pomp and circumstance and walk to “Pomp and Circumstance” for my graduation. No one walks across the stage to receive their diploma alone and I am no exception. As I walk across the stage at the Birmingham Jefferson Convention Complex Arena as Dr. Skip Alexander, there are several who made the walk possible.

I want to share a special thank you to the proof readers who read and reread my project report. They were always eager and willing to help. These dear folks are: Lillian Clark, Ernestine Jennings, and Carlton Winters. A very special thank you to the people involved in the focus group for my project: Chuck Vaughn; Jeanette Connor, Paul Osborne, Larry Creason, Tammy Grider, Susie Pollock, and Joe Segree. The biblical and theological foundation chapter was strengthened and improved upon by the insights from Mark Medley, thank you Mark. The person who knows more about the project than even my chairman is my ministry assistant, Karen Edwards. She contacted publishers, helped collect information and has certainly earned a masters degree, thank you Karen. A final thank you to Alan Medders, Scott Wigginton and Eric Bruns who prayed and offered hours of encouragement throughout the project.

I look forward to focusing on the more important titles in my life as brother in Christ, husband, dad, son and pastor.

 

Pastor on the run: good run this morning with a goal of daily short runs.

 

5/22/07

I buy the stamps for the household. For some reason this responsibility comes to me. I have always enjoyed stamps, not so much that I wanted to collect them, but I usually take a moment to study them. There was a period during adolescence that I collected stamps as a distraction from girls, but it only lasted a week. I have a very nice stamp collection of ten stamps if anyone is interested. I stopped by the post office on the way to buy Uncle Sam’s stamps. The civil servant sold me “forever” stamps. I asked the lady to explain. “Forever stamps” will forever be recognized in the future as valid postage. So when a stamp and a gallon of gasoline are roughly the same price, this 41 cent stamp will still be honored. I asked the lady if she really believed that the “forever stamp” was good forever. This was not the moment to have an eschatological discussion, so I took my “forever stamps” and thought….few things are forever.

“Hence, also, He is able to save forever those who draw near to God through Him, since He always lives to make intercession for them,” Hebrews 7:25 (NASB).

 

Pastor on the run: Ran three miles yesterday and today to start the day.

 

5/18/07

It took about a week, really surprised that it took that long. It happened after the successful defense of my dissertation. The committee greeted me for the first time as Dr. Alexander. About a week after this I noticed when someone did not greet me as Dr. Alexander. My disappointment was immediately met with a huge does of humility and I recalled the words, “And do not call anyone on earth ‘father,’ for you have one Father and he is in heaven. Nor are you to be called ‘teacher,’ for you have one Teacher, the Christ,” (Matthew 23:9-10, NIV). This passage is the focus for Sunday’s sermon. It is not, however, a universal prohibition against titles. There are many passages in scripture that encourage the use of titles such as Acts 13:1; I Timothy 2:7; I Corinthians 4:15 and others.

“There is thus nothing inherently wrong with Roman Catholics use of Father, for priests or with Protestants Reverend for ministers or even with the academic Doctor for people with certain degrees.”      

--Craig Blomberg NAC, Matthew

The test is the heart. Jesus encouraged humility over recognition. If we use our titles, positions or authority to honor ourselves, then we sin. We should all want to do better. I do not apologize for the hard work and long hours toward earning this degree and thus expect the recognition and honor that it entitles. This recognition is to honor my Lord and Savior whom alone is due the glory.

 

Pastor on the run: Dr. Scholl’s, I mean Skip will run today.

 

5/17/07

Symbols are prideful things. Our eagle-eye can quickly identify the American Eagle symbol. The figure on the grill of our car is immediately discerned as a Mercedes, Lexus or Cadillac. Symbols have always been used to identify who is who and religion is no different. In Matthew 23:1-12, Jesus isolates prominent religious symbols that have been misused. Moses’ seat, phylacteries, and titles were all recognizable symbols to identify the religious elite. Symbols in and of themselves are inert morally, but our use and misuse of these symbols can point to Jesus or point to ourselves.

 

Pastor on the run: I’ll be the guy running with the Nike swoosh.

 

5/16/07

I have never been accused of suffering from a low self-esteem. Like other over-confident people, we may be wrong but never in doubt. I have already asked a good friend to write the forward for my book on humility. That is what makes humility such a difficult pill to swallow. This Sunday’s sermon is entitled, “Dr. Skip?” The scripture for Sunday is found in Matthew 23:1-12. Begin reading this passage with me, but resist writing my name in the margins.

 

Pastor on the run: not so far this week, but will hit the pavement soon.

 

5/11/07

I have to eat Jell-O. I really don’t want to eat it, but there is within me a mom-message I hear saying, “Eat your Jell-O, it’s good for you.” I believed this as a child but later understood that there is little to no nutritional value found in Jell-O, unless you are recuperating from surgery. My parents sent me to college and I learned that Jell-O is a food substitute made out of two cups of water, into which is poured a packet of gelatin that after four hours of refrigeration will provide four servings of pure food placebo. My leather shoe has more nutrients than Jell-O. For some reason, my mom thought that Jell-O was good for you. Maybe it was the hidden, sugar-cured nuggets of fruit that the jiggling concoction contained. God bless my mom and the Jell-O I consumed! She was well-meaning. I wonder what messages I am giving my children when I say, “Eat your bran?” There is no perfect parent. Jabez had his mother’s malady placed in his heart. It was not Jell-O but pain. Jabez was named pain and therefore feared that he would cause or receive pain. His predisposition to cause pain or receive pain was overcome by the intervention of a loving God. He cried out and God carried-on toward his behalf and Jabez was blessed. I believe this was a specific prayer for Jabez and not a formula for all believers to recite and expect. The lesson from the prayer of Jabez is that in heaven there is a God who desires to be in a loving relationship with His children. This relationship is made possible by the sending of His Son, our Savior, Jesus Christ. Our Lord is present and able to empower you to overcome the mixed messages and sin complications that come to all of us.

 

Mom, Happy Mother’s Day! I love you for all that you have given me and allowed me to become. I am doubly blessed to have had both a biological mother who gave me life and a mom of the heart who showed me how to live this life. Here’s to you mom. I will proudly eat a cup of Jell-O this Sunday in your honor (all the while knowing there is no nutritional benefit).

 

Pastor on the run: off today will attempt a long run tomorrow only if I can get Mrs. Alexander’s flowers in the ground.

 

5/10/07

I will admit that working through the Bible reading plan is both a blessing and at times a challenge. I would much prefer to read about our Lord’s miracles in the gospels, the bold acts of the Apostles or the comfort of the psalms than to read that the sons of Etam were Jezreel, Ishama and Idbash. Try and get a sermon out of these four names. The book of I Chronicles begins with nine chapters of genealogies and by the time you finish these lists your Raisin Bran is soggy and the mail has been delivered. However, these lists provide an important link in the story of grace and there is within the names and begots a message. We see one of these surprise messages with the name and description of Jabez in I Chronicles 4:9-10. Jabez was handed not only his parent’s DNA but also Adam’s spiritual DNA. He was given a mixed bag of chromosomes and wickedness. We read that Jabez was given the name and potential to cause pain. Like 99% of moms in the world, he was loved, but flawed. I’m sure his mother and family, even Etam, had hopes that he would do great things for the God of Israel. Continue reading this passage with me and we will consider the prayer of Jabez tomorrow.

 

Pastor on the run: three mile run at 25:44, best time yet on a short run.

 

5/9/07

We have both a blessing and a curse from Adam and Eve. The garden paradise was altered by humanity’s decision to rebel against God’s way and choose their way. We all are a mixture of right and wrong, good and evil. The same is true of our parents. Just ask my kids and they can easily tell you my strengths and my weaknesses. I have been drawn to I Chronicles 4:9-10 for Sunday’s sermon. As you turn to it, you will immediately recognize it as the Jabez passage made popular by Bruce Wilkinson’s “The Prayer of Jabez.” I read it last week and noticed something that I had previously overlooked.

He was named by his mother; there is no mention of a father. This is a rare occurrence, but not without other examples. Where was his father? It is fair to say that the name order and the listing of a name or the absence of a name tell us something. What does this tell us?

 

Pastor on the run: Ran three miles on Monday and exercised yesterday.

 

5/7/07

I have a book in my study entitled, “14,000 Things To Be Happy About,” by Barbara Ann Kepfer. The book is a random list of things to be happy about. For example, be happy about: going to sleep, writing a final sentence, Labor Day weekends, hailing a taxi (not in Campbellsville), chicken wings, celery stalks and blue cheese dressing (again not in Campbellsville), bowling alleys (we’ve got that), toys, peanut butter and jelly in one jar, and staying away from anyone called “Honest John.”

Every “happy list” this week should include a mother’s love. A mother’s love is perhaps the closest thing to the love of God on this earth. Thank God this week for a mother’s love in your life.

 

Pastor on the run: ran three miles this morning.

 

4/30/07

I have practiced all the self-control I could muster not to announce to the world that I accomplished a personal goal, but my vanity has won out, I must announce from the mountain top, climb to the top of the spire and shout to the world---I ran the mini-marathon under two hours! I ran it under two hours with five seconds to spare, but it was under two hours. If only I was as eager to share the news of Jesus Christ. As we continue our search for “The Pursuit of Happiness” we consider the good news of Jesus Christ. “If you’re happy and you know it, tell someone.” We will examine the story of the woman at the well in John chapter four. The thrill of the mini will pass but the joy of knowing and walking with Jesus Christ will remain. Join me this week in telling someone about the risen Lord.

This will be my only blog entry for the week of April 30-May 4^th. I hope you will have a wonderful week.

 

Pastor on the run: Mini-marathon race results:

342

Alexander, Claude

M40

Campbellsville, KY

0:56:33

1:25:58

1:59:55

2357

 

4/27/07

No stopping at the Holy Huddle House today, too many demands at the other Holy House. I feel pressed and stressed. Let me explain. Tomorrow morning I will get up and run 13 miles, no not minutes, but miles. On the same day, I will attend a funeral visitation, and dinner party for a dear friend. On Sunday I will preach three times, preside at a funeral, have church visitation and attend two meetings. Not to mention that next week I will defend my doctoral thesis before my committee. I am stressed but I LOVE IT ALL! I am doing everything I enjoy. I admit that this is a little overboard, which my wife will tell you is problematic with my personality. I have only two regrets about the coming days. I lament the death of one of our church members, and the grief suffered by the family. Also, I regret time away from my family. My point is this, which is always nice, but not always present in blogs, I am happiest when I do what I love doing, even when I am stretched.

The scripture comes to mind, “Being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ,” Philippians 1:6.

 

Pastor on the run: Runners take your mark.

 

4/26/07

I seldom finish something that I do not enjoy. Our home has several unfinished handyman projects. Leigh Anne said her next husband will be able to fix things. I reminded her that at least she married for looks the first time. Household projects that I attempt move along nicely until I come to a problem, which happens usually in the first five minutes. The problem becomes an obstacle that increases my frustrations and reminds me that I suffer from “homeimprovementphobia.” The obstacle reminds me that this is not what I am created to do, I don’t like it, and I’m not good at it. I pick up the hammer and the pets leave the room. So I pick up the phone and call JD or Kirk.

I discovered that obstacles are not setbacks when you are doing what you enjoy. Obstacles become hurdles you leap when you have found your purpose. I am thrilled to read the story of the woman at the well in John 4. I love to study its historical context, syntax and message of the biblical passage. What may appear to be a problem with translation is an opportunity to go deeper in study. It is not a problem but an opportunity to do what I love to do and therefore be happy. Could that be the secret of happiness?

The early church faced enormous persecution yet they grew. They loved Jesus and were fully committed to their calling; therefore they viewed persecution as prosperity. The apostle Peter wrote, “In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have to suffer grief in all kinds of trials,” I Peter 1:6.

 

Pastor on the run: Resting for the mini on Saturday.

 

4/25/07

Someone said the problem with life is that it is daily. Someone told me that happiness is a state of mind, but I can’t find the directions. Someone else said that happiness is being satisfied with what you have, especially if you’re Bill Gates. Others say that happiness is surrounding yourself with family and friends, but what do I do when they won’t return my phone calls? Join me this week as we are on the search for happiness.

 

Pastor on the run: 7 miles on Monday and 3 this morning preparing for the mini on Saturday.

 

4/20/07

Not much going on at Huddle House today. I was greeted with the normal hellos, settled on my bench and was soon surrounded with the clang of dishes and the hiss from the grill. There was some excitement about the truckfest at Alex Montgomery’s dealership. They were unloading the Raminator monster truck. The Raminator, what a coincidence that is the identical name for my Buick! Even the Raminator didn’t sustain the conversation. Sometimes work is just work and Fridays are more like Mondays. Even the monster truck is just another truck on steroids. Were the people at Huddle House content or apathetic about another day of tips and unhappy customers? To be content is a beautiful thing. Contentment is a synonym for happiness. To be happy is to be content. As the survivors of Virginia Tech begin to find peace in faith during the tragedy of this week, we too turn to faith on Sunday when we consider the godly choice of being happy in Jesus Christ.

 

Pastor on the run: five mile run yesterday.

 

4/19/07

The tragedy on the campus of Virginia Tech demands an answer from every theology or philosophy of life. Our prayers are offered for the families and the college community. I must admit the urge to change my sermon topic this Sunday entitled, “The Pursuit of Happiness: Don’t Worry, Be Happy.” It seemed appropriate to put this sermon aside and deliver a sermon that is both pastoral and biblical. This sermon would address the questions of this week seeking to comfort and provide answers to the problem of evil. After much thought and prayer, I have chosen to move forward with the sermon in the series because I think it does relate to the national events of this week.

 

The planned sermon this Sunday addresses the power to choose happiness. There are many individuals today who believe in the power of human thought to determine results. It is a humanism mixed with a pinch of spirituality and mysticism. The very poplar book and movement called, “The Secret,” espouses such a belief. The book teaches that thoughts become things. Think happy, be happy. Oh, that it could be so simple, but it is not. This power of positive thinking withers in the face of evil. Positive thinking apart from God is stinking thinking. This theory of the law of attraction is like cotton candy, sweet tasting that quickly dissolves into empty calories. The answers at least in this life are found in a loving God who sent his only begotten Son so that we may have life in his name and an eternity that meets divine justice. Christians can choose to be content in Christ. The apostle Paul wrote in 1 Timothy 6:6, “But godliness with contentment is great gain.”

 

Pastor on the run: Ran yesterday on the campus of my alma mater. I thought, “I’ll blend in as just another young guy running.” Someone called security when they saw the old guy limping on campus--not really. It was meaningful to run on the campus of Georgetown College.

 

4/16/07

We are on our pursuit of happiness which began Sunday morning. We discovered that money cannot buy happiness. Then how can we be happy? This Sunday’s sermon is entitled, “Don’t Worry Be Happy.” Can pure self-determination make someone happy? Try it today. Think happy thoughts. Think happy, I have to pay taxes today. Think happy thoughts, it’s Monday, no remember—think happy thoughts. Happy thought, no Monday Night Football, oops, I did it again. Try it today. Can an individual determine to make himself or herself happy?

 

Pastor on the run: Five mile run today, here comes a hill—happy thought!

 

4/13/07

Today they were serving waffles with a side of philosophy at the H.H.H. I call it the Holy Huddle House and we talked about Friday 13^th. Many had already had a bad day and were blaming it on the superstition around Friday the 13^th. I asked several if they believed in good luck or bad luck (No I’m not going to quote the Hee Haw show and song). One person said they didn’t believe in luck but said, “I kinda believe that if it’s meant to be, it’s meant to be.” I asked the person if you could change what was meant to be. They weren’t sure and probably thought to themselves, “That sounds like a question the preacher would ask.”

The rich man and Lazarus lived in a superstitious world of the first century. They believed in good luck and bad luck blessings and cruses. It is clear in the parable that Lazarus could have been helped not by good luck but good righteousness, by the rich man. The point of the parable is focused on the lifestyle of the rich man. The rich man’s wealth made him callous to the present needs around him and future reality of heaven and hell. The punch of the parable is for the rich man to examine his life and make the needed adjustment before it’s too late. There are minor themes of justice, hope for the poor, ethics and eternity. Lazarus did not have bad luck. He had a neighbor who did not show compassion towards him.

 

Pastor on the run: Three miles yesterday at a good pace and a run later.

 

4/12/07

Well, Kentucky and one from my own hometown of Louisville, has been implicated by DNA to the Anna Nichole Smith saga. Larry Burkhead is the father. I don’t think this is what Governor Fletcher meant by “Unbridled Spirit.” The entire episode is sad and reaffirms the truth for Sunday’s sermon. Things and money cannot make you happy. Anna Nicole Smith, like the rich man in Luke 16, “lived in luxury every day.” We would all agree that seldom have we witnessed a more obvious portrait of misery and sadness than in the life of this media diva. Money, things, and possessions cannot make you happy in this life and has no merit in the next life.

Continue reading Luke 16:19-31 with a careful eye of study. This is one of the most challenging passages in scripture to translate. What do you think is the main message of this parable? Is the main message, don’t have wealth, or is the goal of the parable to encourage the redistribution of wealth? Darrell Bock teaches that there are four main teachings to this passage. We will look at them tomorrow.

I will make a sad prediction---my fellow Louisvillian will live in the same misery and sadness that was the mother’s child, even with the promise of future fortune. He and all persons will never have true happiness apart from knowing Jesus Christ.

 

Pastor on the run: NOT.

 

4/11/07

Are you happy? Most folks I talk with are not happy. I will begin a sermon series this Sunday entitled, “The Pursuit of Happiness.” This Sunday we will consider, “Can Money Buy Happiness?” Begin reading the passage about the rich man and Lazarus in Luke 16:19-24. While the median income in the US is higher than it was 30 years ago, people are not reporting increased happiness, polls show. Even though research after research shows that money will not provide lasting happiness, we are unwilling to put aside this belief. For some reason, Americans want to believe that more money will bring them more happiness even if we know it is not true. It is the amazing ability we have to choose to do or think something that we know is not true.

 

Pastor on the run: Five mile run on Monday and hope to train tomorrow working toward the mini.

 

4/8/07

HE IS RISEN!

 

4/5/07

“I am James, the brother of John, son of Zebedee,” hardly. It does sound more impressive to be referred to as the Disciple James instead of the Disciple Skip! Tonight is the Living Lord’s Supper at 7:00 in the sanctuary. Many people have worked very hard to recreate the scene from the Upper Room where our Lord shared in the Last Supper with His disciples. The creators for tonight’s Living Lord’s Supper used as their inspiration Leonardo’s Da Vinci’s The Last Supper painting minus the Da Vinci Code. Guests tonight will be invited to share in the Lord’s Supper while being served by the actors who played the disciples. Come tonight to worship on Maundy Thursday.

 

Pastor on the run: Four mile run this morning, baby its cold outside!

 

4/4/07

            It seems that every cause these days merits a silicon wristband whose color or slogan champions a cause. We were first introduced to the bracelets through the “Live Strong” cancer free movement led by Lance Armstrong. We all remember and still own, though long since discarded, W.W.J.D., “What Would Jesus Do” wristbands.

            What is the message of our Christian faith this week? Christ Church Unity in Kansas City Missouri has championed the cause, “A Complaint Free World.” Rev. Will Bowen challenged his congregation not to complain for 21 days (this would kill most Baptists). The message and cause has caught on. Interviewed by Oprah Winfrey and George Lewis, a national movement has begun. This message along with the wristband will be discarded along with the half dozen others.

            The message this week is simple, timeless and profound. The message is “He is Risen!” You could put this on a wristband but it is more appropriately placed on the heart of every believer who has been rescued from sin, redeemed by the Savior and walking in the victorious Christian life. Whining, please! The Christian life and message is weakened by such shallow messages that do not resemble the cross. Sorry for my whining, but keep your wristband and give me the victory this Sunday!

 

Pastor on the run: Completed the Papa Johns 10 Miler with the official time of 1:31:30. Great race! I ran three miles this morning.

 

 

3/30/07

I learned something about friendship and Christian advice at the holy huddle at Huddle House today. I would much rather give advice at Huddle House than my wood-paneled study because the expectations are much lower. There are no degrees hanging on the wall, no books on pastoral counseling or theology surrounding you. In the study we sit entombed by the religious symbols of church and seminary and before you know it, they may actually think I know what I’m talking about. At Huddle House it’s just you, your friend and waffles and don’t forget--our Lord. Jesus would have met people at Huddle House and talked about how to get along with each other. I devoured my pancake, while listening to my friend with the sound of dishes being washed, frying eggs, and greetings among friends whose names are on their work uniform. I thank you, Lord, for Christian friends who can come together to share and pray, all with the smells of breakfast, at the holy Huddle House. “Perfume and incense bring joy to the heart, and the pleasantness of one's friend springs from his earnest counsel.” Proverbs 27:9

 

Pastor on the run: resting today for tomorrow is the Papa John’s 10 miler. Run, Forest, run.

 

3/29/07

One of the hardest elements of ministry is helping people put their lives back together because they knowingly and willfully sinned, and therefore brought pain into their lives and the lives of others. This is the sin of commission. These are the stupid things that men and women do to complicate their lives. More often than not, these are individuals who were “raised better” and “know better” but sin is real, Satan is alive and temptation wins over common sense. This is the foolishness described in the book of Proverbs. The foolish ignore wisdom and choose the wrong path. Here are just two such proverbs: Proverbs 15:5, “A fool spurns his father's discipline, but whoever heeds correction shows prudence” or consider Proverbs 20:3, “It is to a man's honor to avoid strife, but every fool is quick to quarrel.” You can become fool proof when you accept correction from those who love you and avoid conflict and arguments with others. These are just two examples from many found in the book of Proverbs. Listen to this wisdom and you won’t be April’s fool.

 

Pastor on the run: Three mile jog this AM, foggy but nice run.

 

3/28/07

The free internet encyclopedia Wikipedia has the origin of April Fool’s Day. It is a day to expose the gullible. Do you remember the Left Handed Whoppers? In 1998, Burger King ran an ad in USA Today, saying that people could get a Whopper for left-handed people whose condiments were designed to drip out of the right side. The internet is a fair playground for hoax. This year April Fool’s Day falls on a Sunday and will be the topic of the sermon title, no fooling. Who are the fool’s of April? Scripture is clear about the truly foolish people.

 

Pastor on the run: Ran an easy three miles on Monday and will do another this week preparing for the Papa John 10 miler on Saturday.

 

3/23/07

Friday is my weekly trip to Huddle House for what I call Huddle House theology. You can learn a lot about God and people at Huddle House, besides I love the smell of waffles. My server shared with me a great lesson about work. She said, “If everyone would just do their job no one’s job would have to be difficult.” She said this as she finished washing the pile of dirty dishes left over from third shift. Her homespun advice reflects a version of what Paul taught. Paul wrote, “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men,” Colossians 3:23. Imagine how life would improve where you work if everyone did their job and then no one would have an extra burden at work. Church life would be transformed if everyone served in a ministry with eagerness resulting in an even distribution of the ministry among the laity. “If everyone would just do their job no one’s job would have to be difficult,” Amen.

 

Pastor on the run: Ran three miles this morning, not sure of my time, because it was too dark to read my watch.

 

3/22/07

I almost always remember a person, business or personal experience when someone went out of their way to help or assist. We live in a two Subway town. I will drive to the Subway across town because the service and the welcome is measurably different. The other Subway is clean, and friendly, but the one across town is friendlier and has a different feel when you walk through the door. The workers seem to want to work there and really give the impression that they are glad you have come to their store.

If folks are excited about serving up a sub, how much more excited should we be about the Christian Experience! This is principle number one from the book, The Starbucks Experience, entitled “Make It Your Own.” Most people in our community pass several churches before coming to our church; therefore we must be friendlier and exceed their expectations about coming to church.

 

Pastor on the run: three mile run yesterday, momma said there would be days like this, sometimes running is just running.

 

3/21/07

I have never met anyone who wasn’t impressed with Starbucks. Even non-coffee folks are amazed by the growth of the company. Starbucks took a normal cup of coffee in a styrofoam cup and made it into an event. Would you ever believe that we’d pay over three dollars for a cup of coffee! The Starbucks Experience: Five Principles for Turning Ordinary into Extraordinary. This book by Joseph Michelli outlines the reasons behind the success of the coffee chain. What if we could make the same transformation about church?

 

Pastor on the run: started and finished the Rhodes City Run 10 K on Saturday at 51:17!

 

3/16/07

Most people I know are more comfortable at the Huddle House than Starbucks. Today I begin tracking my conversations about God at the Huddle House. Every Friday I will sit on the stool, have some breakfast and talk with whoever sits down beside me. Today I asked a guy what is really important to him. He’s my age and for him significance means raising his two daughters. He’s a divorced father of two girls trying to make a difference. He goes to church, works hard and loves his daughters. He gets dirt on his hands when he works; I get dirt on my wingtips when I work. We may dress differently, but we had the same heart-beat. Two guys at the bar at Huddle House anxious about our daughters, hoping they will marry a guy like their father, or more to the point, worried that they may marry a guy like their father.

 

Pastor on the run: ran four miles yesterday in freezing weather, 10K tomorrow. Tonight I’m having pasta!

 

3/15/07

Are you growing in your Christian faith? The letters of John were written to believers with the goal of maturing their faith. They were believers, but they were not fully developed believers. They were uncertain of the basics of Christianity. Their faith was challenged by new teachings. They were spiritually underdeveloped. I John 5:1-21 teaches the foundations of faith development. Sunday I will share a sermon that outlines the basics of a developing faith. The sermon will reveal three simple steps, one, two, and three, all from I John chapter 5. Join me Sunday by reading this chapter and come prepared to worship!

 

Pastor on the run: four miler today, off tomorrow and then the 10K on Saturday!

 

3/14/07

Spring Break is about hedonism. It is a time when college students typically practice the ancient sin of excess on beaches and in party houses. To be sure, some students will return home for some much needed rest with friends, but for many others it is a time of indulgence, except for 59 students from Campbellsville University. Today I prayed for Micah. He is a C.U. student traveling to Europe for a Spring Break Mission Trip through Baptist Campus Ministries. I thank God for the privilege we have to see our Lord do awesome things through the students at Campbellsville University.

 

Pastor on the run: light workout this week because of 10 K on Saturday, ran three on Monday and will do 3-4 tomorrow.

 

3/9/07

I had a scary moment yesterday on the Lincoln Parkway while traveling westbound; I was met by a car headed in the wrong direction. It became obvious that one of us was headed in the wrong direction! I had not consulted map quest for my journey, but I knew that I was headed in the right direction. So I pulled over, honked the horn and flashed my lights to get the attention of the directionally impaired driver. He waved and proceeded to turn left at the light unaware of his dangerous direction. I imagine that he told his wife at dinner that evening about the crazy drivers on the parkway!

You can imagine where I’m “headed” with this story. It is alarming to discover that someone is headed in the wrong direction.

Any citizen would do what is appropriate to ensure their safety and the other person’s safety. Any Christian ought to do more to reach the individuals we see daily who are headed in wrong direction of life. Jesus talked of the narrow and the broad road.

Matthew 7:14, “But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it.” I hope to do or say something today to someone to show them the road to heaven.

 

Pastor on the run: Ran four miles on Wednesday, hope to get a long run in on Saturday.

 

3/7/07

Rev. Rolando Muniz died Monday at Jewish Hospital in Louisville, Kentucky following complications from heart surgery. The loss for his family is obvious, and to the Kingdom of God considerable. He was one of God’s blessed children. Rolando was recently called as our Hispanic Coordinator for five associations. He worked to lead associations to reach out to the Hispanic population in our communities. Rarely have I had the pleasure of meeting a more godly individual commissioned by God to reach this growing population in central Kentucky. He is survived by his wife and two young children. Please pray for them.

 

The arrangements are as follows: Funeral: 7 p.m. Thursday at South Fork Baptist Church in Hodgenville, Kentucky. Visitation: after 4 p.m. Wednesday at the Bennett-Bertram Funeral Home in Hodgenville, and from 5 p.m. until services at the church Thursday. The family has asked that gifts be given to the Annie Armstrong Offering for North American Missions. Our church goal is $11,000.00. I hope that as a tribute to Rolando we will not only meet but also exceed this goal in memory of Rolando, but also work to reach others for Jesus Christ.

 

Pastor on the run: ran a good three miles on Monday.

 

3/1/07

This week I read about the distinction between cultural Christians and biblical Christians. Cultural Christians grew up in church and know the things about church life, but do not have a biblical world view. Their lives are practically indistinguishable from the world except on Sunday mornings at 8:30 or 11:00. Cultural Christians are church members somewhere, but often choose the world and its values over daily discipleship of Jesus Christ.

Biblical Christians are followers of Jesus Christ who seek to echo in their daily lives the truths and values in the Bible. Biblical Christians by definition are members of a local church and are followers of Jesus Christ. The apostle John writes to transform a cultural Christian into a biblical Christian. This week we will jointly consider during the message the signs of Christian commitment by what we do, believe and confess. Continue reading 1 John 2:15-3:10.

 

Pastor on the run: Ran three miles yesterday at 25:15 minutes.

 

2/27/07

 

Bring on the documentary. I would encourage you to watch on the Discovery Channel, the documentary entitled “The Lost Tomb of Jesus.” Invite your neighbors over and begin a spiritual conversation about Jesus Christ. We should welcome the research, study, and analysis of the miraculous life of Jesus Christ. Believers should not run and hide from the questions from the world. We should embrace them. Inquiring minds want to know. Beloved, nothing will be asked of us that will undo what occurred on resurrection Sunday. You cannot find the bones of Jesus Christ because they belong to Jesus of Nazareth who is alive and reigns with the heavenly Father. This is not only the confession of scripture, but the confession of our faith for over two thousand years and it is the experience of every born-again believer. As the women came to the tomb they learned and this truth remains, “He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay,” Matthew 28:6

 

Begin reading for Sunday, I John 2:15-3:10 as we prepare for Sunday.

 

Pastor on the run: Longest run on Friday at 7.6 miles, and ran 4 miles yesterday at a pace of 9:00.

 

2/23/07

 

I love apples. I love apple pie. I love my wife when she makes me an apple pie. My wife does not love apple pie, but she loves me. Therefore, I get apple pie. Fruit is the produce of a healthy tree. John teaches that the healthy Christian life will follow his commandment to love one another. Love is an ethical commandment for believers that results in fellowship with God. “