Prestoncrest Internet Ministry

May 4, 2008

Here we go! Are you ready?

Yesterday was the first of May, which means to me that summer is right around the corner. I realized this on my way home from church yesterday. And I admit that thought caught me off guard a little bit. “Summer, already?” I don’t know about you, but while I love the summer, I’ve got to get myself ready for it as well. You know how summers are. Schools out, so the kids are always around and busy with summer things like VBS, camps, play dates with friends. Work often slows down a bit as everyone takes vacations. Since the sun stays up longer, we tend to all stay up a little later, (maybe sleeping in later as well) enjoying activities outside. It’s always fun, but it can be a little crazy as well.

Some of my greatest memories come from summer. I love to travel, particularly to National Parks. One special trip stands out in my memory. 5 years ago, Stacey and I took a backpacking trip to Denali National Park, in Alaska. We spend 8 days there, exploring the wild beauty of the land, carrying everything with us on our backs. It was one of the greatest trips I’ve ever taken. We experienced it all: a glorious day spent in the shadow of Mt. McKinley, the summit over 18,000 feet above our heads; a night shivering as it snowed outside; eating only a Power Bar for dinner because we were too cold to cook anything and just wanted to get in the sleeping bags; seeing a mother grizzly bear and 3 cups running over the tundra; the amazing feeling of a shower after 7 days without one (you know you stink when your smell overwhelms even yourself.) It was a trip of a lifetime, something we enjoyed tremendously and will never forget. (Yes, I realize that experience sounds like the 4th level of hell to some of you, especially the part about one week without a shower.)

The point is that experience created a powerful memory for Stacey and I that will stay with us forever. It was a special thing that we shared together. We found out more about each other in a very “real” way. (As you can imagine, it is hard to pretend to be something you are not when you are tired and sore and hiking through heavy brush in a 45°F rainstorm when you have not taken a shower in 4 days.) It deepened our relationship and strengthened our marriage. That is the power of the great memory.

What are some of your most powerful summer memories? I want to hear your stories! Tell me about that trip with friends in college, the week at camp when you meet your spouse or when you decided to become a Christian. What are the great memories that you have from the summers of your life? As always, you can reply back and send me an email or you can add your comments at the bottom of the page so others can share in your stories as well.

This morning’s song comes from Third Day, a favorite group of mine. God’s glory is everywhere, but do we ever notice it? I have, but I’ve learned that I have to actually pause, turn my head and look at it. While God can speak through the grand (as He did when we were in Alaska), he often whispers through the quiet as well (as He often does through my marriage). If I ask and look for His glory, I see it everywhere. This song reminds me to do again. Let this song, in the video below, remind you to look for Him again too.

I caught a glimpse of Your splendor
In the corner of my eye
The most beautiful thing I’ve ever seen
And it was like a flash of lightning
Reflected off the sky
And I know I’ll never be the same
 - Show Me Your Glory – Third Day

Now join me as we “Focus on the First Day.”

God bless,
Mike

Prayer Time

Exodus 3:1-6

In the story of the burning bush, Moses entered into the presence of God, standing on the holy ground, hiding his face from God. Prayer Time is an opportunity for us to enter onto our own holy ground. God desires that intimate conversation with us, just as he had with Moses. Do that this weekend during Prayer Time; approach the Father, knowing He has invited you to join Him.

Communion

Psalm 51:15-17

God asks us to give our lives to Him because Jesus gave His life for us. That is God’s call for our surrender, sacrificing our lives and our will to our God, our Savior, and our Lord. But surrender is more that a response of duty out of obligation, it is a willingness to turn over control to someone else. Isn’t that what he really wants form us, a willingness to give EVERYTHING to him, joyfully? As you prepare to remember Jesus’ surrender on the cross, think about how you respond in surrender with your life.

Sermon

“Compassion: Going the Distance” (Bob Chisholm)
Luke 10:25-37

The term compassion is part of the vision of our church, “Compassion for People.” But what does it really mean to be compassionate toward others? It is easy to think that it means we “feel” for people; we see a story on the news about some tragedy and it touches our hearts. So we feel compassion for them. Jesus taught that it is more than that, that true compassion feels, but it also responds. Join us on Sunday as Bob looks at one of the most familiar parables of Jesus as the model of compassion.

We are encouraged to be a family of believers that choose to come together each week in worship. Come this Sunday with a desire to not just come to church, but come to truly be the church.

April 27, 2008

I promised last week a follow-up on the many replies I received from my Sunday Reflections a week ago. So here they are today. I listed a list of a sampling of the comments I received from you. Again I thank you all so much for your replies, delivered with honesty in love. That was very apparent to me. It is easy to see the love that you have for this church, its people and its future. Check out some of the desires, wishes, and ideas from your fellow members.

Worship
- Openness to allow people to worship in their “way”
- Welcoming people to share their lives (good and bad) during an invitation or prayer time
- Enhance singing during worship

Ministry Areas
- More ministry (programs) for women
- Evangelize more within our community and local cities
- Increase efforts to support marriage, both preventative and responsive
- Increase benevolence to those in need outside our church: the poor, the orphans, those who are disadvantaged.
- Encourage participation in ministry activities

General Thoughts
- Become a more inclusive church
- Communicate more about prayer needs within the church
- Connect our 2 “congregations” better (meaning 1st service and 2nd service people)
- Increase visibility into ministry happenings

There is a quick snapshot of some of the responses. So what do we do next? Well, I always love to hear your thoughts and welcome any reply back to me. Even better, I think, is to share thoughts with others as well. Talk about these with friends, family, elders, deacons, or ministers. If you feel comfortable, add you comments online to this blog so others can see and reply as well. You can do that below at the bottom of this page.

It is one of the most famous songs in history. We all know the song Amazing Grace. This week someone sent me a video with a rendition of it that I thought was very powerful, both in how the song was sung and the story behind the song. I hope it touches you like it did me. Enjoy the song in the video below.

Amazing grace, how sweet the sound!
That saved a wretch like me.
I once was lost, but now I’m found;
Was blind, but now I see!
 - Amazing Grace – John Newton

Now join me as we “Focus on the First Day.”

God bless,
Mike

Prayer Time

1 Corinthians 10:31

Join together as one body in worship and prayer on Sunday. Whether you sing during Prayer Time, pray with your family or a big group, give it all to God. That is what he wants from us.

Communion

Nehemiah 8:5-12

I’ve always found it interesting that our regular memorial of Jesus is a meal. Why is that task done by eating and drinking? Perhaps one reason is that eating and drinking is a normal part of our every day lives. The Supper is very special, but we should not save our thoughts of Jesus for only the special moments. Let the little things you do, like a daily meal, also remind you of this great gift from God.

Sermon

“Investment: Avoiding a Success that Fails” (Bob Chisholm)
Luke 12:16-21

As we continue through our series on the parables of Jesus, Bob will help us look at the importance of doing things in God’s way. That is the plan that will always succeed. What is that plan? Be there on Sunday to find out.

We are encouraged to be a family of believers that choose to come together each week in worship. Come this Sunday with a desire to not just come to church, but come to truly be the church.

April 20, 2008

Wow!

Well, I opened the door, and many of you took advantage of it. I appreciate all of the responses to me Sunday reflections question earlier this week. I continue to get responses with a great variety of ideas, suggestions, and concerns. Since I am still getting more, even through last night, I will hold off on my follow-up until later, allowing for the replies that are still to come. Please feel welcome to share your thoughts and ideas on how we should rethink “church” to make it even better. I have loved hearing from all of you. Usually, I try to reply back to most of the email I get from my FOTFD thoughts, but there have been way too many this week, there is no way for me to answer everyone and still keep up with the rest of my life. So allow me to thank everyone who has answered here and now, and with such loving hearts and attitudes. It is so great that you have felt comfortable sharing your honest thoughts.

Last night, I was fascinated to watch the storm roll through the Metroplex. We heard that they were coming all day and it was amazing to me to see them when they finally arrived. Up here in Frisco, they came through about 9:15 or so. Stacey and I stood outside on the front porch and just watched for a while and the storm surged through our neighborhood. I smelled it coming in and watched in awe as the rain and wind grew and eventually subsided. It was not a terrible storm, at least where we live. But watching the weather on the news, seeing what the storms looked like on the radar, and seeing some of the footage of what took place in various areas of our communities, brought me back to God.

I was reminded in one my favorite scenes in the movie twister. As a weather geek who really enjoys watching extreme weather, or even movies about it, I am awed by the power of weather. If you have seen the movie, you will no doubt remember the “finger of God” clip. You can watch that here as well. (Isn’t YouTube cool? It sure makes it easier to refer to videos when you can show them to others as well.)

Think of that statement, referring to the strongest tornados, which have winds in excess of 300 mph, as the “finger of God.” Now think of how the strength of only one of your fingers compares to the strength of your overall body. It’s pretty small isn’t it? Now think how powerful that analogy makes God, it still pales in comparison to the power that He actually has. It is more than just the power to destroy. It also includes the power to create, the whole word just by speaking at the creation, and most importantly, the power to love.

God loves us, even when we should be unlovable when we do things that break his heart on a daily basis. That is power, a love so strong it overcomes our mistakes, our bad choices, our sins. That is the love that conquered even death. Let the experiences you have, where you see tremendous power in nature, remind you of the creator of that power, the God who had the power to make everything that is powerful. Remember this God of power loves not only everyone, but you. He loves you! Love Him back and show Him how by your lifesong.

One of my favorite songs is “Lifesong” by Casting Crowns. The songs talks about how our life can be a song of praise and worship to God. Although I know there are many times when my life is not the song I want it to be. The thought that it can be a song of praise encourages me to live in a way to make Him happy. Enjoy the song in the video below.

May the words I say
And the things I do
Make my lifesong sing
Bring a smile to You

Let my lifesong sing to You
Let my lifesong sing to You
I want to sign Your name to the end of this day
Knowing that my heart was true
Let my lifesong sing to You
 - Lifesong – Casting Crowns

It is so fun for me to interact with all of you as we open our lives to each other. This morning, I’d like to ask where you see God’s power. Where in your life do you see something that reminds you of God and His love? Let me know with a quick (or detailed) reply. My goal in these weekly messages is to “open the door” for open communication, to be real with one another. I’d love for us as a congregation to share the powerful experiences that we have with one another, both the good and the bad. This is one place where this can be done if you like. You can add comments to the bottom of this page, sharing a powerful story from your life or affirming someone else who has shared their thoughts. If you feel up to it, please do so.

Now join me as we “Focus on the First Day.”

God bless,
Mike

Prayer Time

Ephesians 1:15-23

This week, a special Prayer Time will take place early in the service as we welcome and pray over some of our missionaries who will be in town and joining us in worship. Make a special effort to be there to greet and pray over them. Let’s thank them, and God, for the work they do to share His love throughout the world.

Communion

1 Corinthians 15:55-57

Death holds no power for those who are in Christ Jesus. He holds the ultimate power, winning the war by returning from the dead. During the supper, remember that this was the main purpose for Jesus’ life on earth. Rejoice in that victory and that we are on His side, now and forever.

Sermon

“Waste: Looking for a Purpose” (Bob Chisholm)
Luke 15

I don’t know about you, but Bob has been challenging me in this series on the parables. (Did anyone else think “thank goodness I’m not like the Pharisee?”) This Sunday, Bob continues that series by looking at a series of parables, all related, that shows what God thinks about those who are lost and how we wants us to respond to them. Be there Sunday morning to hear this powerful message about Reaching Out.

We are encouraged to be a family of believers that choose to come together each week in worship. Come this Sunday with a desire to not just come to church, but come to truly be the church.

April 13, 2008

I am worn out.

Do you ever feel that you are running full speed and are still losing ground? That is the way I have felt for the last week or two. My work load has jumped up lately, both at church and at home, and it feels like I am constantly scrambling to get stuff done, but am struggling just to keep up.

It amazes me how easy it is to slip into this state and how I tend to get very focused on the jobs at hand. A negative aspect of that focus is that I also tend to lose the big picture when I start to grind. I get frustrated with little details that don’t run smoothly. I get annoyed with people around me and how their “insignificant needs” get in my way and keep me from getting accomplished what I consider to be my top priorities.

In the midst of this chaos, God gave me a reminder that there are greater things in life than my “to do” list. On Wednesday morning, some of the Prestoncrest ministers attended the Dallas Leadership Prayer Breakfast and listened to Dallas Mavericks coach, Avery Johnson, speak. Avery spoke about what a blessing it is to serve the Lord. I can imagine how busy a professional coach’s life can be and hearing about his relationship with Jesus reminded me that I need to turn control over to God, daily, whether I feel overwhelmed by life of not.

That is a challenge to me, to give up control, especially when things get busy. That is when I am most tempted to hold on tighter. But I am reminded over and over to give control to someone who is must stronger than I am, someone who has much greater power.

I have been touched deeply by the stories that you have shared with me over the last couple of weeks. God has spoken to me through many of you and I love to see what happens in our church when we really open our lives up to one another. What are some of your biggest struggles in trying to keep control of your life when you really should turn them over to God? Let me know. Reply back with email or share below in the comments section if you feel comfortable so others can be blessed by your life as I am.

My thoughts this morning were triggered by a song I heard this week called Strong Tower by the group Kutless. It reminded me of God and his strength, especially in the times where I am weak. Watch below and enjoy.

You are my strong tower
Shelter over me, beautiful and mighty, everlasting king
You are my strong tower
Fortress when I’m week
Your name is true and holy
And your face all I see
Your face is all I see
 - Strong Tower – Kutless

Now join me as we “Focus on the First Day.”

God bless,
Mike

Communion

Luke 22:20

Covenant, a promise, an agreement.
Jesus described the supper as a covenant, which reminds me to do more than just think of Jesus and His death. It is the reminder of what God offers to us through Jesus sacrificial death. It is the reminder of what His death means to me, today and forever. My life is His because He asks for it in response to His death. Remember that during our time of communion.

Sermon

“Heart: Looking Up or Down” (Bob Chisholm)
Luke 18:10-14

For God, attitude is everything. It makes the difference in our relationship with God. Compare a life of humility with that of someone who is full of pride. How does each attitude direct their response to God? The wrong attitude can even damage a relationship with God in spite of a deep knowledge of God’s word. Join us this Sunday as Bob continues a look into the parables of Jesus with the story of the Pharisee and the Tax Collector.

Prayer Time

Luke 11:23

Jesus calls us to gather with Him. We do that each week as we worship, bringing praises in song, share in the communion, study His word, and pray with one another. On Sunday, do more than gather in one building, take the time to get together with others and pray together, for one another, during Prayer Time.

Sunday Night

“Search: Looking for God” (Bob Chisholm)
Psalm 73

Even though God is everywhere, we often have trouble finding Him. Why is that? Do we look in the wrong place or perhaps the wrong way? This Sunday evening Bob will help us in our search as we return to the Psalms to look for God.

We are encouraged to be a family of believers that choose to come together each week in worship. Come this Sunday with a desire to not just come to church, but come to truly be the church.

April 6, 2008

In my job, I put a lot of presentations and videos together where I get to see people’s pictures. It is a very interesting process to look at a sampling of a person’s life in pictures, whether it is for a graduation event, where you see pictures that cover 18 years, or even at a funeral, with pictures that cover a lifetime. For me, each time I put something together, I always feel that I get to know something about that person, who they are.

This week, I put together a video to show at the Jr./Sr. Banquet that takes place this evening. In making that video, I have been looking at pictures from the lives of 16 very special young people, who are finishing the childhood stage of their life and are about to leave the nest and strike out on their own (or at least beginning to do that.)

It really got me thinking about what our pictures say about our lives. For these teenagers, I feel I know them better after looking at 30-50 pictures of their life. I see the things they really care about and enjoy, their family, their activities, and their friends. You can really tell a great deal about them from their sample of life pictures.

So this morning, I’ve got a challenge for you, and I would love to hear what you discover, if you do this. This weekend, go get some of your photo albums and look through them. What do these pictures tell you about yourself? What are the most important things in your life according to your pictures? (Remember, we usually take pictures of the events we want to remember. So I think that means they are important to us.) Are you pleased with what you see or does it make you question what your priorities have been? If you like, let me know what you find.

This week, I’m sharing a song that is one of my favorites from the group DC Talk, called In the Light. It describes the need to be in Jesus, despite our failures. (Plus, I like the video that shows them performing at a concert from a couch. Gotta like that.) Watch below.

I wanna be in the light
as you are in the light
I wanna shine like the stars
in the Heavens
Oh, Lord be my light
and be my Salvation
’cause all I want is to be in the light
 - In the Light – DC Talk

You may find the FOTFD online here.

Now join me as we “Focus on the First Day.”

God bless,
Mike

Communion

John 6:56-57

This scripture reminds me that communion is more that just a ceremony to remember. When we share the supper, we connect to Jesus. It associates us with Jesus, making us holy. So when you think about Jesus on Sunday, remember him and thank him to standing by us and with us as we eat.

Sermons

“Growth: Looking for a Plan” (Bob Chisholm)
Mark 4

“Worship: Looking Up” (Bob Chisholm)
Mark 4

The Parables of Jesus and the Psalms of David are both windows on the soul. Through the window of the Parables we see the heart of God graciously reaching down to humanity. Through the window of the Psalms we see the heart of humanity struggling to reach up to God. Both are filled with powerful images, honest emotion and clear instruction. If you want to look through God’s window, then join us on Sunday mornings as we think through the parables and on Sunday evenings as we reflect on the Psalms.

Prayer Time

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

What does it mean to pray continually, without ceasing? I think God just wants us to always be thinking of him, staying in constant communication; checking in with him regularly through the day. Prayer Time offers a special time each week to do that together as a church. Share this tie with someone close to you this week.

Sunday Night

“A Life of Praise” (John Scott Davis)
Psalm 105:1-2

We are encouraged to be a family of believers that choose to come together each week in worship. Come this Sunday with a desire to not just come to church, but come to truly be the church.

March 30, 2008

Stacey and I have been struggling with a difficult situation over the last couple of weeks. My dad’s health has been declining recently. He has had MS for over 10 years, and while we have seen him change drastically over that time, it has been especially hard to see the latest series of changes. We are having to take a much greater role in helping take care of him on a more frequent basis.

It is difficult in a couple of ways. First, it is physically and mentally hard on us. I know of many of you in this church who are caregivers for spouses, children, or parents. And you know of this challenge by your own experiences. It is inconvenient, is takes time, it can be very hard word, and it is stressful.

But it is also hard on me in another way, to see the decline of my dad. It is hard to watch someone you idolize make such a dramatic change. I’ve always wanted to be just like my dad. He was a great athlete, a smart engineer, a caring and involved father, and leader in the church. He can’t do any of these things any more. It often breaks my heart to see what he has to go through. I very often feel very guilty for being so frustrated with him and what we have to do to help him.

I share this with you this morning, not to get sympathy or even to ask for your prayers, although they are always appreciated. I have come to realize how difficult it is for us in America today to be truly honest about what is going on in our lives. We have trouble being “real.” And while it is easy for me to share me dad’s health problems with you, it is very hard for me to share my own personal struggles with how I feel about it and the conflicts I experience in my family because of it. I’d much rather say “I’m doing great,” and that “I’m fine,” even when I don’t always feel that way.

So I offer this “real” look inside a small portion of my life as an offering and a challenge to you to do the same. It doesn’t have to be with me, but make sure to do it with someone. We all know that we face trials and challenges in our lives all of the time. But we very, very rarely reveal them so no one will think we are weak and don’t have our stuff together. Satan has great power in the secrets we keep. “Carry each others burdens” we are taught. But to do it, you have to offer your up as well.

I’ll try to do better. Will you?

How do you struggle with the events that take place in your daily life? How difficult is it to “be real” with others? I would love to hear back from you. Email me back with your stories or if you are comfortable, add you comments below so that others can benefit from your thoughts as I have.

I stumbled across a new group this week, Tree 63. You may have heard of them, but I had not before. This morning, I share the song “New Creation” with you. I liked the tune, but I really liked the message that Jesus changes us. I hope you like it as well. Listen below.

Free – I am free it’s no longer I who live but Christ in me
I am free, free to be whatever God made me to be
I can be everything that God intended me to be
I am free, bought by Holy Blood, I’ve been set free now
 - New Creation – Tree 63

You may find the FOTFD online here.

Now join me as we “Focus on the First Day.”

God bless,
Mike

Communion

2 Timothy 2:8

The Easter holiday reminds me of  how our culture looks to Jesus, rarely. Often only two times each year. And while we rejoice when our world do look to Jesus, I am also thankful that we do it continually. Each week, we have the opportunity to remember Jesus, his death and resurrection, as we share in the Supper. Thanks God for that opportunity as we share that meal together on Sunday morning.

Sermon

“5 Choices” (Bob Chisholm)
Matthew 27:11-22

This Sunday morning, Bob will look at choice made by some of the people who were around Jesus in response to Him on the final day before His death. What did these choices reveal about the people around Jesus? What choices can we make in our response to Jesus? Find out how what choices you can to about him this weekend.

Prayer Time

Matthew 16:24-27

We know that the biggest decision that we make in our lifetime is a response to the gift of grace offered to us by Jesus. Do we accept His as our savior? But even after becoming a Christian, we still make choices every day in response to Jesus. In addition to making Him our Savior, do we allow Jesus to be our Lord, our friend, our brother? Do I do it today? How about on Monday afternoons? Talk with God during Prayer Time this Sunday about turning your heart over to Him, letting the Spirit transform you into the person God wants you be … each day.

Sunday Night

“A Life of Praise” (John Scott Davis)
Psalm 105:1-2

This Sunday evening, our 5th Sunday sing returns. John Scott will lead us in a service of praise in song. Learn some new songs and lift up your love to God. If you love to sing, make sure to be here for this special service.

We are encouraged to be a family of believers that choose to come together each week in worship. Come this Sunday with a desire to not just come to church, but come to truly be the church.

March 23, 2008

March is one my favorite times of the year. I am a big college basketball fan and I really enjoy watching the NCAA tournament. I watched an amazing game last night that brought some interesting thoughts to my mind. Yesterday, Belmont University, a school of about 5,000 students in Nashville, just down the road from Lipscomb University, near defeated mighty Duke University, losing by only one point. (Watch the highlights here if you did not see the game.)

I started thinking about what that experience must be like for the Belmont players and how they will remember that for the rest of their lives. I am sure that they saw a “One Shining Moment” possibility, like I did, in the end of that came. I even wonder if some of them thought that game could have been the moment they had been created for; to experience a 15 minutes of fame that would live on forever.

While these basketball moments take place with different kids in different games each and every year, it brought to my mind the question of what we are really made for. In a culture than prizes fame and celebrity at any cost, what should we really try to accomplish with our lives? I think that we should try for an achievement that does truly last forever.

Since Easter is this weekend, it is easy for me to link this question to Jesus. His resurrection really was a moment that lives on forever, one that lasts beyond a history book or a YouTube video. He lives forever as well and He invites us to join Him … for eternity.

Let that be a reminder for you this morning as it has been for me. When you see one of those moments, one that will stick with you for a long time, let it take you back to the ultimate moment. Go back to that empty tomb that Jesus left, never to return. Make the purpose of your life be to join Him and create your moment that will live forever.

What are some of the moments that you have seen in your life that have stayed with you since? How have these moments brought you back to God? I would love to hear back from you. Email me back with your stories or if you are comfortable, add you comments below so that others can benefit from you thoughts as I have.

Early this week, I heard a song on the radio that created my thought about what my purpose should be. I wrote down this song by Toby Mac so I would not forget by before this morning. Let it remind you of your ultimate purpose, to love and by loved by God. Think of these lyrics as you watch the video below.

I was made to love You
I was made to find You
I was made just for You
Made to adore You
I was made to love
And be loved by You
You were here before me
You were waiting on me
And you said you’d keep me
Never would you leave me
I was made to love
and be loved by You
 - Made to Love – Toby Mac

You may find the FOTFD online here.

Now join me as we “Focus on the First Day.”

God bless,
Mike

Communion

Philippians 2:10-11

While we celebrate and remember Jesus on the cross each week, I think Easter Sunday is a very special day. It is the day that our Lord returned from the grave to live forever. At that point, the war with Satan was won. Sin was defeated and the power of death was destroyed. That is what the supper is really about. We recall his death and celebrate in his life. Without it, we would have no hope. With it, we have the ultimate confidence in our future. We will bow before His name, but as a chosen one.

Sermon

“Absence & Atonement” (Bob Chisholm)
1 Peter 3:18-22

Jesus’ final week finishes this Sunday as we look at an end that no one ever could have predicted. We left Jesus in the tomb last week as it appeared that the Jews had defeated him. Fortunately, we know how the story ends, with Jesus conquering death itself. Join us on this special Easter morning as we look at the last 2 days in Bob’s message, “Absence & Atonement.”

Go here for more about this series.

Prayer Time

Mark 15:39

When I became a Christian, I responded to the invitation that Jesus offers to each of us, to receive the gift of grace. Even today, I can still respond to the gifts that Jesus continues to offer to me. One of those gifts is the invitation to continually surrender my live to Jesus, to please Him with my submission to His will. Thank Him for His gifts and respond in surrender once again this Sunday during prayer time.

Sunday Night

“A New Spirit of Ministry” (Bob Chisholm)
Matthew 5:9-10

Bob completes our trip through the process taught by Jesus. Find out how we apply the lessons we have learned from the Beatitudes as we look at “A New Spirit of Ministry.” Join us this Sunday evening and experience the New Spirit that awaits you.

Go here for more about this series.

We are encouraged to be a family of believers that choose to come together each week in worship. Come this Sunday with a desire to not just come to church, but come to truly be the church.

March 16, 2008

We took a few days off this week and went down to the Big Thicket National Preserve just north of Beaumont, Texas. It was very nice to get away for a couple of days and get out into nature, which my family loves to do. We hiked on many of the trails there and went canoeing on one of their local rivers. Being out in the natural world always reminds me of God and I easily see his power through creation. While hiking, I had an interesting thought that I want to share with you today.

The beauty of God’s creation always causes me to worship him. Often I sing or whistle a tune of praise or pray as I walk. This week as I was praying, I realized that my worship, when I am outside, is a very different type of worship that when I am in church. Why is that? I think that my upbringing has trained me to behave in a certain way while I am in church and to be honest, it affects my worship differently. It is always controlled, planned, and organized. I follow the service and do what I am supposed to do at the right time. I sing when we sing, pray when we pray, listen during the sermon, and so forth. All good things, right? Those are good things, but I realized what I am missing, what I “experience” when I am outside; that is a true response to God in my worship.

In being controlled during my “church” worship, I usually don’t allow God, through the Holy Spirit, to touch me as well. While God is truly the audience of our worship, is it alright if we are also moved by that experience. In fact, I think God wants that to take place. He responds to our worship and wants us to feel that response. We in turn, amplify our worship in response to him. That circle of response feeds itself, powered by the Spirit. So the challenge for me is to truly seek God in my worship, whether I am out on a trail or in the church building, and reach out to touch Him and allow Him to touch me as well. I share that challenge with you as well. Really search for God in your worship. Not only will God be pleased with your worship, you will be blessed by it as well.

Thanks for letting me share with you this morning. In the last few weeks, I have received some amazing responses for you as you have shared your experiences with me. They have been powerful and touching to me as well. Please, continue to share your thoughts and experiences. How does the world touch you so that you can only respond in worship to God? Email me back with your stories or if you are comfortable, add you comments below so that others can benefit from you thoughts as I have.

You may find the FOTFD online here.

Now join me as we “Focus on the First Day.”

God bless,
Mike

One song quickly jumped into my head as I was hiking this week, responding to the beauty of God’s creation in praise to Him. The song is called “I Choose Now” by Anthony Evans, who is one of my favorite artists. It talks about how we can choose to worship God immediately, no matter the circumstances. Let the lyrics and music touch you. Both are available below.

I don’t want tragedy to be the only
Thing that leads me to your throne
With every moment of my life
With pain or joy I will cry
You are God alone
You’ve given me the choice to kneel or walk away
I’ve struggled with surrender long enough to say

I choose now
To be humbled in your presence
I choose now
To fall on my face
Cause one day
Every knee will bow but Jesus
I choose now.

 - I Choose Now – Anthony Evans

Sermon

“Action & Agony” (Bob Chisholm)
Mark 14:1-71; Luke 23:32-43

If the story of Jesus’ final week were a TV show, Thursday and Friday would be the part before the last set of commercials where the main character faces the greatest trials and challenges. Obviously, this is no show; and Jesus truly faced the trials in this story we all know so well. Join us to look again at something greater than has ever taken place on TV as Jesus faces the hardest part of His road to Grace and he faces the cross in “Action & Agony.” We will remember His sacrifice and share in our regular memorial of Him in the communion meal.

Go here for more about this series.

Prayer Time

Luke 22:39-44

Jesus’ prayer in the garden is an amazing example of honest communication with God in prayer. Jesus shared the true desire of his heart with his father. He did not want to die on the cross and was planned and he asked God to spare him that experience. If Jesus can share a desire with God that differs from God’s plan, can’t we share anything with God as well? Do so during Prayer Time on Sunday. Then, like Jesus did, surrender your life to God and His will.

Sunday Night

“A New Spirit of Growth” (Bob Chisholm)
Matthew 5:7-8

Bob is leading us through a process taught by Jesus in the Beatitudes. This week, we will build upon the Spirit of Openness that we learned about last week to find “A New Spirit of Growth.” Join us this Sunday evening and experience the New Spirit that awaits you.

Go here for more about this series.

We are encouraged to be a family of believers that choose to come together each week in worship. Come this Sunday with a desire to not just come to church, but come to truly be the church.

March 9, 2008

I love when it snows. I know it causes problems with traffic, closes schools and offices, and just messes up our plans. But as I look outside this morning and see snow everywhere, I feel a special type of peace. Perhaps it takes me back to when I used to live in Colorado, perhaps it is a reminder of the greatness of the seasons (even here in Texas, where it will quickly pass.) But I think that most of all, it reminds me of the greatness and power of God.

Think about what DFW was like last night and was it is like early this morning. It amazes me when snow can do to a big city. Doesn’t everything seem a little quieter and calmer when we have snow? (At least once you make it back home through the traffic?) It absorbs sound, it covers everything in white. My daughter, Nicole, called me when she got out of school yesterday shouting, “It’s snowing, it’s snowing!” They came home and went directly outside to play in the snow and build a snowman.

That is where I see God here. As adults, we tend to focus on the problems that snow brings: bad traffic, school and work closures, heating bills and such. But what do kids think when it snows? “Let’s go play outside.” They see the blessing that God sent and want to go out immediately and experience it.

So this morning after you have had to scrap ice from your car, fought bad roads, slow traffic, arrived to work late, dealt with kids who just want to go play in the snow instead of getting ready for school; try to see what the kids see, God’s presence and blessing to us. After all, he is always with us. Is this what it takes for us to pause and notice Him?

As always, I love to hear you feedback and comments. How has God used the weather to get your attention? Email me back with your stories or add you comments online below.

You may find the FOTFD online here.

Now join me as we “Focus on the First Day.”

God bless,
Mike

I found an amazing video this week that features footage from a Casting Crowns concert. They share the story behind the song “Praise You in This Storm” where they found someone able to praise God powerfully in the mist of crisis in their own life. Watch it below. I hope it touches you like it did me.

And I’ll praise You in this storm
And I will lift my hands
For You are who You are
No matter where I am
And every tear I’ve cried
You hold in Your hand
You never left my side
And though my heart is torn
I will praise You in this storm
 - Praise You in This Storm – Casting Crowns

Communion

Luke 23:44-46

Keeping the theme of storms, I think back to Jesus in His time of greatest struggle and pain, His death on the cross. Even at the very end, Jesus remained faithful to God, giving up control, control of both the situation as well as control of His life. During the Lord’s Supper, give control back to God and praise Him.

Sermon

“Argument & Asylum” (Bob Chisholm)
Mark 12:1-27; 14:1-11

This week, we continue on the path towards Easter as we walk with Jesus on “the Road to Grace” and look at Jesus on Tuesday and Wednesday of his last week. How does Jesus deal with the attacks of the religious leaders and prepare himself for the physical, mental, and spiritual trials that still await him later in the week? Find out Sunday as we walk with Jesus on his days of “Argument & Asylum.

Go here for more about this series.

Prayer Time

1 Samuel 2:1-10

Hannah brought praise to God, even as she gave her son, Samuel, to God to serve Him full-time for all of his life. I think that is why God blessed Hannah with a son, He knew her heart. God knows our hearts as well and wants us to share our hearts with Him. Do that this week during Prayertime. Bring Him everything in your life, the good along with the bad.

Sunday Night

“A New Spirit of Openness” (Bob Chisholm)
Matthew 5:5-6

Bob is leading us through a process taught by Jesus in the Beatitudes. This week, we will build upon the Spirit of Admission that we learned about last week to find “A New Spirit of Openness.” Join us this Sunday evening and experience the New Spirit that awaits you.

Go here for more about this series.

We are encouraged to be a family of believers that choose to come together each week in worship. Come this Sunday with a desire to not just come to church, but come to truly be the church.

March 2, 2008

This has been a roller coaster week. I went to bed two times this week very discouraged and beaten down by life. You know those days when nothing goes right, it feel like the world is against you, and you are just fighting Satan with everything you’ve got. That’s the kind of days I had. Each of those slammed me to my knees turning to God to ask for His help, to seek His guidance, and to request relief. But our God is good! Both times, on the very next day, He lifted me up by blessing me with fantastic days full of blessings and successes.

It continually blows me away to see and feel God’s love in my life. He never lets me fall far and always takes care of me. Why do those roller coaster weeks happen? I really don’t know. Perhaps it is God’s way of reminding me that I am not in control. Perhaps Satan is really pressing in on me with his attacks. Or maybe, I just had a bad day, made some poor choices, or was just in a funk that day. But I do know this: our God is an awesome God and His love is amazing. My joy comes from him and I can only try to thank him with my devotion and obedience.

Praise God whose love endures forever!

As always, I love to hear you feedback and comments. How has God lifted you from the dumps? Email me back with your stories or add you comments online below.

You may find the FOTFD online here.

Now join me as we “Focus on the First Day.”

God bless,
Mike

Amazing love, how can it be
That You, my King, would die for me?
Amazing love, I know it’s true
It’s my joy to honor You.
 - You Are My King – Billy James Foote

Communion

Mark 15:25-30

It is easy, for me at least, to focus on the paid and suffering that Jesus experienced in his approach toward and death on the cross. That is usually my primary focus during communion. But remember, the purpose of death by crucifixion went beyond the paid. It was about shame and humiliation. The cross was the Roman billboard that said “don’t mess with us.” As we share the feast of remembrance, think not only about how Jesus suffered physically, but also that he was willing to endure the mental torture, shame, and humiliation to came with the trip to the cross; and that he did it for you.

Sermon

“Acclaim & Authority” (Bob Chisholm)
Matthew 11:1-19

March truly begins the season of spring. The weather improves, nature comes alive again, full of color. This year, March also is when Easter takes place. As we approach Easter in 2008, on Sunday mornings, we will also approach the “first” Easter Sunday. Bob Chisholm will be looking at “The Road to Grace,” the final week of Jesus as he approached the crucifixion, burial, and resurrection. So join us this Sunday as we begin a look into the true core of our faith and share the “Final Days with Jesus.”

Go here for more about this new series.

Prayer Time

Deuteronomy 4:5-8

Moses continually reminded the Israelites that God was near, even though they could see cloud/pillar of fire with them as they traveled. It is good for us to also be reminded that God is always near, even though we can see him everywhere around us if we look for him. Consider that on Sunday during Prayertime when we approach our Father, who is always with us, in prayer. Do it alone, do it with you family, do it with others at church. God is always there calling us to him.

Sunday Night

“A New Spirit of Admission” (Bob Chisholm)
Matthew 5:3-4

On Sunday nights in March, we begin a new study of perhaps the most famous portion of Jesus’ most famous teachings, the Beatitudes from the Sermon on the Mount. Join us Sunday night as we begin a look at “A New Spirit,” a study of the Beatitudes like you’ve never experiences before. Experience the New Spirit that awaits you in “A New Spirit of Admission.”

Go here for more about this new series.

We are encouraged to be a family of believers that choose to come together each week in worship. Come this Sunday with a desire to not just come to church, but come to truly be the church.