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I have decided to keep focusing more on an average pastor's life, in the hope of encouraging others in ministry, and in churches of smaller and average size. My weekly articles and thoughts can be found now at the blog site: Average Church Pastor's Journey with Jesus , the web address is: http://averagechurchpastorsjourney.blogspot.com/

Living as a small church Pastor: What Is My Purpose

The age old question that anyone in any position in life has to ask at some point is most likely: “What is my purpose?” In ministry this is a crucial question that has to be addressed. The role that you play in ministry needs to be defined for many reasons, and in the case of most churches in America you will need to help define this role yourself.

One of the reasons that you have to define your role is so that there is understanding between you and the congregation you serve. We in ministry often hold tightly to the belief that we must do it all. Like Paul we hold to the standard that, “I have become all things to all men so that by all possible means I might save some.” (1 Co. 9:22 NIV) What does Paul really mean by this though? Does he mean that we are to become a “Jack of all trades” minister? Is it that we are the “chief cook and bottle washer” to the congregations we serve? This is why we must answer the question of our purpose and our role for ourselves, and for the congregations we serve.

The pressure of modern ministry weighs upon on us all, as Pierce Harris describes the expected role of today’s minister.
“The modern preacher has to make as many visits as the (old) country doctor, shake as many hands as a politician, prepare as many briefs as a lawyer, and see as many people as a specialist. He has to be as good an executive as the president of a university, as good a financier as a bank president; and in the midst of it all, he has to be so good a diplomat that he could umpire a baseball game between the Knights of Columbus and the Ku Klux Klan.” [1]

We do, especially in small churches really carry a load. In many ways we must be a “Jack of all Trades”, or as I say “Jack of All Trades, Master of None.” We are often the first one to church, and latter the last one out the door. We will often be called on to help or take on the work of janitor, repairman, postman, electrical engineer, sound technician, dishwasher, lawn and landscape expert, contractor, construction worker, teacher, preacher, counselor, and much more. It makes me tired just thinking about it. The fact is that everyone in small church life does double or triple duties at times and we as the pastor are no different. We may not even have a clue what we are doing in many of these areas, but we know that they must be done. We jump in to meet the need and finish the job. While the jobs may all get done, they may not be perfect, and thankfully most people are okay with imperfection in small church life. The reason they are more accepting may be that they understand that no one can do it all, or more likely they know that if they complain they may be called upon to pick up the slack next time.
I did not enter ministry years ago to become a sound technician, in fact I left a working in radio before becoming a minister. My basic understanding of sound, computers, and video has come in very handy at every church I have been called to pastor. I inevitably have had to help from time to time with the sound, setting up video projectors, and teaching others how to use the equipment. I had to learn how to use Power Point, so that we could add a video projector, and then pass on what I knew to others. In each ministry I have been blessed to work with I have mowed the lawn, weeded the flower beds, helped with minor repairs, and helped to clean for Sunday morning.
My brother told me one time of a friend, who grew up in a different background than we had. One day when my brother’s friend was young he and his father were driving past their country church and parsonage, and the pastor was outside mowing the lawn. The father stopped his pickup and told his son, ‘Get out there and finish mowing the lawn. I had better not ever see the pastor have to do this again. It the minister’s job to feed the flock not mow lawns.’ Wow, sign me up for that church. At least that is what went through my mind briefly. There are some churches where the pastor is to focus more on the ministry and administration, but most of us know we will not be as blessed to do this. Many churches feel that the pastor should just help in all the extra areas of church life; after all it is part of the unwritten job description of the church.
This brings us back to defining your job description. Many small churches operate more like families, and they have a hard time defining things in writing. This works well for a time, but when someone feels that the pastor or someone else isn’t doing their job it causes deep conflict. Writing things down will alleviate much of this. I have learned this, in not recommending a staff position to remain in our church. The church never wrote down expectations, and they really didn’t have any. I had struggled for a long time to make needed changes, but we never seriously nailed them down. In the end when I felt strongly that the position was not needed it brought division and separation.
I have learned that we need more written contracts in the church. In fact I only have a very basic written contract where I am at. I am working through this process with my church.
When I arrived the expectations were that I preach, teach, visit the sick and elderly, help direct the church for growth, care for the records well. The church had been let down severely by the former pastor in both moral and administrative ways. They actually had no strong expectations when I came. I have come to see that they are going through rebuilding and refocusing, which may take a couple of more years to complete. We have healed and made necessary changes, but we are only now getting to the point of deeper examination for a healthier future.
In the past year I have had to define my purpose in ministry, and in the work of the church I pastor. There were great ideas shared in my first year and a half here people had big dreams, and some wanted to put existing right now on hold for those dreams. Some desired a new building, new location, and more. However, I came to see that many are not ready for such a change. They have seen hurt and pain, and our recent division hasn’t helped. I have come to understand that my role is not necessarily to lead the church to a new location, or huge building project. We may take on smaller projects, which will continue to improve our facility. My role is not to be the physical changer of the building or facility. The purpose I have been called to is to bring people closer to Christ, and let Him direct them through the Holy Spirit.
I know some of you are saying, 'that’s just part of what we all do as ministers.' I would disagree. Before you can really minister in what you are called to you must understand your own calling and purpose in the Lord. The many little things, from mowing the lawn to painting the church, are things that may need done; however, they are not the most important things. There are ministers who are called to plant churches, ministers who are called to take churches through a building program, and ministers who are called to rebuild the people for their future corporate ministry in the community.

Look at the Old Testament and see the leaders God sent to lead or direct in the history of the Hebrews. Every prophet and leader had a purpose in God’s hand, but their purposes were not always the same. We are called to be who we are, and to minister with the gifts and abilities we have been given. It is when we are close to God, and hears His direction that we will understand best what our role and purpose for the Kingdom is. This purpose may change over time, as our own life and ministry grows. We may be called to minister in situations that take us through fire, but help churches reignite with passion for God. Then we may be called to repeat the same ministry with another congregation in need of refining. We can only know What God desires of us, if we get serious in our own lives to listen to him.

Take a moment and think about Moses. What was the purpose of Moses’ life? His mother sensed that there was something unique about him, and strived to save him. However, it isn’t until he is eighty that he receives the real call of his life. What was he called to do? We may say he was called to lead Israel to freedom and a promised land. Yet, is that really what Moses did?

Moses was called to the purpose of leading the Israelites out of oppression, and laying the foundation for a future in the Promised Land. It is true that God said they were to go to the Promised Land, but as we watch the story unfold it is easy to see Moses had a far deeper role than just showing them the Promised Land. Moses had to be God’s witness and the person to share the Law. He was not the conquering leader of the Promised Land, but he laid a foundation on which the nation would live and rule when it reached the Promised Land.

Joshua was the military leader who would lead the nation to victory and establish the nation in the Promised Land. His mission was far different than his predecessor, and he was able live on the promise, and just in hope of it coming one day. He had to challenge the people to hold to their faith, now that they were living in the land they had hoped for. Joshua building on what Moses had laid, and he was leading the people further in their hope and trust in the Lord.

When we look at our ministry we may have to determine whether we are a Moses, who is leading the people out of a past and possibly establishing the plan for the future. It may be that we are like Joshua, and we are building on a past that needs to be taken through the promise now before us. Again, it understanding our purpose that will help us to truly succeed in this call God has given.

Whether we are at the beginning, or building on the strength of others it will take courage. Both Moses and Joshua had to lead in courage that was far beyond their own capability. God likes to put us in a place where we must depend on Him to give us the courage to face the trial ahead. Remember though that He is with us, and in Him we are able to face the trial or decision at hand with real boldness. We need the courage and boldness to lead the way Christ wants us to lead.

What is our purpose then? With all of that needs done, what is it that we really should concentrate on?

To figure this out we must evaluate our ministry needs verses everything that needs done. We must realize that we will always have the less important tasks that need done, but what we have to do is focus in on the two or three things that we really have to do. Once we figure this out we should study, work, and focus toward doing these things well. The fact is we never can do everything well, but we can do a few things very well.

I must admit that some of what works for me comes from sorting through what I have learned by studying books and other leadership material, by many authors from John Maxwell, Gary McIntosh, Stan Toller, and more.

What I have learned is to List all of the things you now do in your church. Seriously ask yourself the tough question, ‘what jobs on this list can someone more qualified do?’ This is not as easy as it sounds for most ministers, as we don’t like to let jobs go. Some us struggle to delegate or let jobs go, because we know that the person who takes the job on will do it differently. We must realize that we do it differently than others do, but most jobs can be done in a variety of ways. We have to learn to trust people to do what we ask and expect. A second problem for many ministers has to do with pride, and we can’t let the job go because it really is an issue of having to do it ourselves. Pride is a dangerous animal that every minister has to watch out for.

The likely fact is that of the many, many jobs you now do; most can likely be done as well or better by someone else. Many times there is someone else who can and really wants to do the job, but no one has asked. To find this out you will need to get to know the people in your congregation well enough, so that you can pass on the work to others.

Another part of the process of determining your purpose for your ministry has do with a serious evaluation of your own ministry. The fact is that not all of us are called to lead like John Maxwell or Bill Hybles, nor are all of us high power evangelist like Billy Graham. We may not be tops in all areas of ministry, so we have to ask ourselves ‘what is it that I really have the gifts to do?’ We also have to ask, ‘what do I really have to do?’

I began to ask myself these tough questions about my purpose a little over a year ago. I have come to find that there are many things that I do that I need to pass on to others. I still help in many ways with the necessary things of the church, and mowing the lawn. However, I am learning more and more to let things go. This isn’t always easy, since there are many jobs that I know others can do, but I need to work with people to take those jobs.

I may still do many things that one day I hope to pass on to others, but my focus is more on what I need to do. After asking myself what my job as pastor and minister really entails I have found that I need more time in study. You see my role is to teach and build others so that they can come to know Christ and become a part of His ministry here on earth. To do this means that I must dig deeper to take them deeper, and it means I must set the direction and teach the roles of ministry to others. This may seem like work to many, but that is what a leader and pastor must do. I also have to visit and encourage the people of my church. While everyone should be helping to encourage and visit, a pastor must be an encourager of others. We have to set the tone and direction and we have to pass that on to others. If we focus on the most important things as often as possible, soon we may have more people with us on the journey of ministering to our church and community.


Keep on your journey wit
[1] A Conversation with Jesus, by Stephen Seamands, ©1994 Victor Books, page63

Living as a Small Church Pastor: Spreading News

What does it mean to you to spread news? What about advertising an event at your church? Does it mean going through the process of contacting two newspapers, several radio stations, or maybe buying advertising time on the local television station?

There are some legitimate ways to spread news about events; however, many of them will cost you far more than they really are worth. If you are new to the advertising game you need to know that there are several ways to advertise you church or church events that don’t cost anything at all.

Two great ways to push events for your church, especially in smaller towns and rural areas involve radio and newspapers. Most radio stations have daily community calendars, and they will promote these events for free. The stations often have a place on their web page to easily drop this information to their community calendar. The second is by sending a press release to your local newspaper. They will often place this short news article about your event on the church page, or some where near community events.

Many people may feel that media is worthless, but I would argue with that fact. In small towns and rural life local radio and a local newspaper are still very effective. The fact is that many people still stay connected to the smaller community through these two media. If you are in a large city these may not work so well, as your information will just be lost among the many different causes a larger city has going on.

In using media, there are a couple of things to always keep in mind. Keep the information simple. Say what you need to, and no more. People will only remember part of the message you are promoting, so keep it simple. Always include the place, time, and reason for the event. People are often more willing to come if they know the purpose of the event before hand. Another thing to remember is to get the information out three weeks ahead. Most newspapers and radio have a two week minimum on getting information to them for a specific day.

If I were asked what the best way to promote events for the small or rural church I would have to say it is word of mouth. Word of mouth has a far greater affect in the small or rural church than many people outside the small community may realize. One of the things every pastor and leader should realize early in coming to a church is who the mouth pieces are.

A lot of people look at the negative affects of the man or woman who likes to share with others around them. It is true that sometimes we have to be careful about sharing information discreetly in the church, especially with someone who likes to share a juicy story. The friendly gossip often is a trial and hindrance in a small church. However, the opposite is true too. A person who likes to talk, and share stories is often the very person you want to pass ideas or event information to.

The fact is that you may minister to a congregation of forty people, but those forty people are related and connected to six to ten people in the community. This is a fact in small and large churches or towns. The difference is that in a large city having 400 people connected to your church and event is only a drop in the bucket, but in a small or rural community this could be a quarter or more of the population. This means that with a small church you can cover a lot of ground in advertising and inviting people into an event. The secondary fact is that a person who likes to share with others will probably not share with only six to ten people, but with twenty or more people. When we share with people who like to talk we are in effect using the greatest advertisement possible.

I encourage you to use care, and learn who to trust with what type of information. While we may want the potluck dinner we host for the local fire department promoted to the world, we may not wish everyone to know if we have a person praying through a personal issue in their life. Some would say that you are using people, but I would say I am using the natural talent God gave someone in sharing for the good God intended it.

I am sure some will argue with me on this issue, but I am learning that in smaller communities people are far more willing to come to an event we host if they are personally invited. The media advertising usually is only reinforcement to the time of the event. So, spread the word and share your events in the ways that best help your efforts for the Kingdom of God.

-- Keep on your Journey with Jesus This Week

Living as a Small Church Pastor: The Dread of Monday

Sunday is not only the highlight of our week; it is when we must put our all out to the edge of burnout. We ride the Spiritual high of seeing God move in the lives of people, whom we are called to minister to. The build up of a week’s preparation has come to a fulfillment. We have put all our energy into this day of being a part of God’s movement among His people.

Yes, we have faced those who are not as excited with our message, or with what God is doing in the church where we are called to minister. We have weathered the critics, the cynics, and the complainers. We usually will have more stokes of accolade than scars of battle. Sunday is what every pastor hopes and prays will succeed on some level for the Lord. Our whole life is thrown into ministering to people, and worshiping along side them. The hopes and aspirations of our lives are thrown into Sunday.

Monday morning then comes along to sap the joy and energy of our lives into oblivion. It is the sudden stop at the end of a rollercoaster of the week. All of the perpetual energy, the ups, downs, and turns of a Sunday have come to an end. It is likely the hardest day for every minister to get out of bed and face the day ahead.

There are two ways to handle Monday hide from the fact, or face it with all the strength that the Lord can offer us. Many ministers find Monday to be the best day to take off, since they are extremely worn and tired. Others feel that they must work, and that using a down day for some good is a better way to handle Monday. There are many in small church life haven't the luxury of deciding this issue, because they work bi-vocationally. I will take some time to examine the bi-vocational issue at a later time. The reality is though that if you are bi-vocational, Monday may mean getting back to work at another job.

What if you decide Monday is the best time for a day off? How should you use the time? This question faces everyone, no matter what day they choose to have off. Since we are so drained on Monday it can be a danger to just cease to do anything. We need break from the normal activity, and from the work of ministry. However, we must use care about ignoring our spiritual regeneration. Many people make their day off a mockery of resting in the Lord. The issue is an issue of a Sabbath rest.

A Sabbath rest is not only a need, but a command of God. Some of you will argue with me that Monday is far from the Sabbath, but I will argue that we as ministers need to follow the rule of the Sabbath for our own lives too. The Sabbath is a day for ceasing from our usual labor, it is a day to focus upon God, and it is a day to be refreshed in our spirits. We can not take the people in our care into real worship, if we are not regularly in worship ourselves.

There are many ways we can find to worship. I know of some ministers who take time for in depth Bible reading. Some read through hymnals to be inspired and meditate upon the words of the writers of the hymnals. There are some who prefer to go into nature and pray and be alone with God. You will need to find your own way in what works best to revive your heart and soul. The real fact is to do it. Seek God out and be refreshed in His loving care.

Recently I was rereading A Conversation with Jesus by Stephen Seamands. He

references a conversation by Lyle Rader with Samuel Logan Brengle, an outstanding leader

in the Salvation Army in the early twentieth century.
One day Lyle Rader asked Brengle, “Sir, what has been your greatest temptation in

ministry?”
Brengle thought for a moment, then responded, “Actually, I have only one temptation in

ministry. If I win the battle with this temptation, everything else in my life and ministry

falls into place. But if I loose the battle, I soon find myself confronted with all sorts of other

temptations.”
“What is the temptation?” Rader asked.
“It’s the temptation to want to do something for God each day, before I’ve first spent

time with Him,” Brengle replied. [1]

We sometimes need to be reminded to feed our souls. Brengle was big enough to admit his need, and his own weakness. In ministry we often let the work of ministering to others rob our own personal time. To do something for God gives us satisfaction, adrenaline, and even a spiritual high. This makes sitting still with God alone for a while hard to do. It makes learning from others hard to do at times.

Making Monday, or part of Monday your day for Spiritual Renewal means marking it off in stone and ink on our day planners. Yes real emergencies will arise, but the normal routine of life is not an emergency. If we are to take others deeper, then we must get serious about the care of our own spiritual life. There is no guilt in spending time away from work, so that we can get to know the one who calls us in a deeper way.

Spiritual and emotional renewal can come in times alone, or in meeting with others who are in ministry. One of the greatest times of my early ministry came, as I was striving to plant a church in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. I was blessed with getting to know a group of local pastors very well. Eight to ten of us met weekly for coffee, prayer, and building one another up in the Lord. I came to need these weekly times of renewal. It was the spiritual recharge I needed.

I have had the opportunity to meet with other groups on a monthly basis and always feel stronger for our time together. Sometimes it’s over coffee, breakfast, lunch, or a round of golf. Always we set aside time to share our greatest concerns, and encourage each other in the daily life of ministry. Just like the parishner's who are revived by being with others in church, I am revived by being with others in ministry.

I have a friend and accountability partner who I still call just about every Monday, sometimes at other times too. We need others, because we are created to need others and not as ‘Lone Rangers’.

You may feel that working is the best thing to do on Monday. Maybe you need to see something accomplished just overcome the feeling of depression that wants to creep in on Monday. I tend to fall into this category. I do work Monday, but I do not work as hard as on some other days.
Generally I start most work days with a visit to our local gas station, or reading at home in personal study by seven in the morning. I use this time for personal growth, or to start my sermon for Sunday morning. Some have questioned my setting at a gas station, drinking coffee, and studying. However, I can see about seventy percent of my local village while sitting here. It makes for good contact as well as keeping me aware of the needs of my community, as I prepare to preach to people.

Monday I sometimes have the coffee, just to give me reason for getting going. However, I do not return to my office for work. I generally try to use my morning on Monday for reading, refocusing, or writing. Writing articles such as this are still ministry, but it is not the normal sermon preparation, visitation, and other duties I have in my church. It gives me time to do ministry with a different focus. I sometimes will take on special projects that need attention, such as an upcoming youth event. Again it is doing work, but not the usual office routine.

If I do any routine work, it generally doesn’t happen until after ten, and most likely not until afternoon. I try to do letters or follow up ministries on Monday afternoon. Sometimes I visit, especially those in need whom I couldn’t get to on Sunday. By doing follow up and visitation ministries on Monday I get the focus off of myself. By doing special ministries, or writing I get the focus off of myself. I have found that when I am lower in my spiritual take, and emotional tank I need to seek God. I have also found for myself that time alone when I am emotionally drained often leads to a more negative outcome. I don’t revive well if I am too tired, I actually run the risk of sinking further in toward a depressive attitude.

That is why I will not take a Monday off, at least in its entirety. I may at times only work a half a day, and go play golf with a member of the church or a ministerial colleague. I may work most of the day, but focus on other ministries outside the routine. But, I do not allow myself to take the whole day off, because I need to keep going, or be drawn in to the dread of Monday.

I do take a day off to do the things I mentioned earlier. In fact my district requires pastor’s to set this up yearly as part of our minister’s salary package. The problem is that like many other bi-vocational pastor’s my day is hard to lock down for a year at a time. I substitute teach, which is a blessing since it doesn’t require me to lock down a set time for work. It also doesn’t dominate my ministry schedule, although from October to May I average twenty to thirty hours of work at the school. My day off often moves around, since I may be scheduled at times on my day off.
I strive to take Friday as my day off, believing like many in ministry that refocusing my heart and soul before the big weekend is best. I also have found that there are fewer disturbances on Friday, since most people are getting ready for their weekend and families are focused on the children’s sporting events. I do go to community functions and sporting events, which is outreach in a small community. However, this is not work for me, because I enjoy being a part of the community in which I live.

When my schedule moves around from the normal plan I try to let the congregation know, as much as possible. I often list the best hours to contact me in the bulletin each week, right by the church phone number. This seems to help keep the communication lines open. Most people I have found respect the pastor’s need for time off, and even encourage them to get away.
That is my usual key to time off, getting away. I can not relax in my home next to the church, or at the church. I often visit friends for a round of golf and prayer. Sometimes I take a book and my fishing rod and head for a local river. I take a walk a nearby State Park and spend time just talking with the Lord. That is what I strive to do, spend time with Him.

I am not perfect. I like Paul say, ‘not that I have reached it yet.’ Yet I strive to focus my life on Christ, and take time for just the two of us. I know when I have missed this, because my spirit hungers to be with the Lord. I am a work in progress, but I encourage you to keep working in your own personal walk. Let your life be renewed in Him. If you miss your time away this week, then get back with Him next week. It is the only way we can ever hope to sustain for the long term in the Ministry journey God has called us to.

-- Keep on your Journey for Jesus this week.





[1] A Conversation with Jesus (Renewing Your Passion for Ministry, by Stephen Seamands, © 1994 Victor Books / SP Publications, Inc.; 1825 College Avenue, Wheaton, IL 60187 (page 18)

Good Bye Friend

I recently was with a group of people, and someone was telling us how to use FACEBOOK. While he explained the way to be open or closed while on-line he said, 'If you don't want to to talk with that contact, then just delete that friend.' I joked with him about how that really shows the shallowness of our society. "Just delete that friend."

I wonder how many people go through life, deleting relationships so quickly. Contacts on-line are deleated with a clik of the mouse. Some people stop talking with others in real life. We live in a throw away society, but we really should use care about deleting friendship.

- Keep on your journey with Jesus.

Living As A Small Church Pastor: I Relate to Small Town Life

Living as a Small Church Pastor: I Relate to Small Town Life


I grew up in rural small town America, like many with in our nation. My father was a deacon in the Baptist church we attended, while my grandmother attended the Wesleyan church just down the road. Growing up I attended the Baptist church, but often found myself going to children’s ministries at the church where my grandmother attended.
A couple of years after marrying my wife I accepted the call to ministry, and found myself as youth director of a church in the nearby city of five thousand. I helped the pastor and began to use my talents of preaching, teaching, and visitation with in the church. Two years later my family and I headed off for college.
While in college I continued to help out in assisting pastors. I spent one year helping a church in a city of over 50,000, and another in a city of 18,000. These experiences helped to develop my talents in ministry. I was given more opportunity to preach, and teach. These are to this day my strongest gifts and talents.
In 1997 I accepted my first solo-pastorate, while finishing up my last year of college. I felt called to start a new work in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, and made plans to help this small church out for two-years. It was a great place to cut my teeth on solo ministry. The church was located in a village of less than 500 people, in the middle of the corn and soy bean fields of central Indiana. This independent church ran most of its own business affairs, which freed me up to study, and begin new Bible studies. I was able to grow in my pastoral care.
I was working and learning through the 1990’s, as the church growth movement was reaching its explosive growth. Every where I looked were the teachings and encouragements of growing bigger, and bigger being better. The problem was that I had grown up in small town America. I felt called to pastor and reach people on the front lines of America where the heart of the revivals of the past had begun. Working in my first solo pastorate I knew deep in my heart that I related to farmers and small business men better than big city executives or inner city works. The problem was that everywhere I turned were the calls of leadership was to bigger and better things. Everyone was talking about big churches and big ministries being the answer to the future of ministry.
I recall one instance in college, during a worship class with Professor Keith Drury. We were to share the trends of what we saw as the future of American worship and church life. Going around the room it was like listening to cookie cutter answers to me. Everyone had their own ideas and twists, but the reality was that everyone in the class was focused big and mega church ministry. Everyone that is, but me. I could see the attitudes and fear of smaller churches toward mega churches. I also knew a few people who had left bigger churches, because they felt they were impersonal and a place to get lost. I predicted that for many families they would feel lost and impersonal in a mega-church, and that many would desire the familiar, family feel of smaller church life.
Since, leaving college and seeing the trends I find more people leaving the mega-church for a more intimate congregation. I also see many mega-churches changing strategy to create an intimate feel for those who need the personal side of church life. Some churches call it small groups, some cells, others church with in church. The fact is that church needs intimacy and small church sometimes is the best way to fill that need.
After college, when I was called to plant a church in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula I found myself in a city of 20,000. The fact was that I was in the largest city for hundreds of miles around. Some who know me may feel that my small town attitude may have kept this church plant from succeeding. I wouldn’t agree. The fact is that even though the city was bigger than my background, the people had an attitude of small town life. It was true there were more people, but they had the same fears, cares, worries, and attitude of most the rural areas of Northern Michigan. Sometimes they were even more rural than small rural in their close knit families than other rural settings I had been in before.
I took on a ministry in a rural setting of Michigan’s Northern Lower Peninsula near Traverse City, before finding myself in Central Illinois where I now minister. I have learned a lot about the lives of the people I have ministered to, and I know they have learned about me. The intimacy factor can have its draw backs, since we all are close and everyone in the community is close. It is true news will travel through community fast. This can be a good thing too, since you can promote events and do well in a quicker manner than in many large city settings.
I guess the heart of all that I am trying to say is that I must confess to liking small town ministry. There you go, it’s in the open. While many small town pastors struggle with jealousy and inferiority I am coming to see that small town, and small church life isn’t all that bad. In fact for a country boy from Northern Michigan it is a pretty good place to be called to.
The fact is that we who pastor small town churches should look to Jesus Christ for His guidance in our ministries. We need His love to permeate every part of us, so we can face the challenges of small town ministry. It is okay to like your ministry, even with all the frustrations. We have to believe God is with us, and know that He will help us through what ever He allows to come our way. Don’t give into the voice of Satan that creeps into our minds and says give up. There are times when we should move on, but Satan wishes we would move right out of ministry. Too many of our brothers and sisters have listened to his lies. Let us find ways to encourage each other, and seek Christ continually to be in His perfect will.
It is my hope that I can help to be one of the avenues of encouragement along the way. I am hoping to utilize my own life stories, as well as those of other small town and small church pastors who are on the front lines of ministry. We are supposed to encourage one another. Paul reminds us in Philippians 4 that we are to think on the good things. This is why we should encourage one another through the battles of life. I encourage you to seek out an accountability partner or at least a ministerial colleague to spur one another on. Never tire in your service, but instead let God guide you daily in your service to God’s kingdom.

I recently attended a small town pastor’s seminar offered in our denomination. I took a few pages of notes, but far more important was the reviving spirit that flowed out of the men and women who shared their needs. It became a place of prayer and care, with others in the same place. I have always felt called to be a pastor who helps, encourages, and trains other pastors in the journey of ministry. That is why I feel compelled to add this column to my Blog on a regular basis in the future. I hope to add another article of my own experience, and others who are in small church life. We need to encourage each other. I am opening up my Blog for comments as well, and hope that people will begin to encourage one another through issues of small town life.


My prayers are with you, as I hope yours will be with me. Let us spur one another on in our

Journey with Jesus in the small churches of America.

What a summer

Late spring and early summer started out tough for my ministry here. I made a decision of not recommending our youth pastor's postion in the coming church year. A fracture of our church family has hurt us all, but I see God begining to move again in our church.

We praise God for the 15 people who accepted Christ, during our week long VBS and Sunday Celebration July 14-20, 2008. We are excited to see what God is doing. He is anwering prayers that people have, and he continues to move in a mighty way.

Life may take us through struggles, but God can help us along the way. Priase the name of Jesus our Lord.

Leadership In the Crosshairs of Life

We loose respect as leaders. Sometimes by what we do, but more often just for being who we are. I recently heard a group of people cutting down their priests, and pastors. I being a pastor was hurt. It has been a rough time for me, and hearing the words reminded me that it isn't just me. No. In fact their is growing respect for leaders from our president to our local government officials. Ministers are fair game in the process of complaining about leaders.

It hurts, but it is a fact of leadership. When you are out in front people will take shots at you. There is little respect in our society, even in the area of religion.

I am reminded that there really never has been. Moses, was rejected by the people every time life got a little hard. The greatest leadership example of all was Christ, and He definitely was attacked by those whom he was leading.

We must trust God to hold our heart and protect our soul. We must find ways to trust and move forward through the hard times.

-- Keep on your journey with Jesus today.

Alone

Alone, I cry and am not heard
Why are you so far from me
I speak and pray yet not a word
Why is your hand against me

Is there an end to this pain
Why am I not understood
I strive to move, yet in vain
Why can't I run, oh that I could

Darkness fills my soul within

Why so downcast O my soul

Do I not bleed like mortal men

Stive again to be made whole

Alone I sit with out a word

My hope alone is in your hand

I speak my voice must be heard

Restore the plenty of my land.

-- DGS 5/7/08

Sunday Morning & The Battle is Before us

It is Sunday morning, and after my last week I see the battle before me. I remind myself that the prophets were rejected, but they still had to go to town when God said go. Their job was to deliver God's message. This is never an easy task. Even in the good weeks the Satan is there to try to trip us, as leaders and preachers up, as we strive to bring a message from God.

In my life during these days of "fighting the good fight" in ministry I am encouraged to hold on from God. Two verses keep coming to my heart from God.

• 2Co 12:9 But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.


• Jos 1:9 Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go."

I am reminded that first of all the battle is not mine, but His to fight. I am also reminded of God's strength, and that He will never give more than we can bear with His strength. I may feel at the end of my rope, but God is still there for me and my family.

A friend recently told me about an old football player who said: 'When you have given your all on the field, and men are hitting, pulling you down, and coming against you; when you feel you can't go one more yard; just go ten more yards.' We can't stop moving forward in the face of resistance, for in resistance we grow stronger.

Let God be your strength today in all that you face. Trust Him. He is always there.

-- Keep on your life's journey with Jesus today.

Why Moses Held On

I am starting to realize why Moses held on. I am starting to get why he kept interceding for the people that God had put under him.

I used to read Exodus and the travel of the Israelites and think, how many times do these people have to mess things up, before a leader agrees with God, and has them all killed. Moses had the offer more than once to let them die, and start over with himself. God could have done it that way.

God was developing Moses, and He chose Moses, because of his great love for the people. Moses had the call, and even when the people struck out against him Moses was led to intercede for their lives. People can't always comprehend the responsibility of their decisions or their actions, but as a leader we must first be led to intercede for the people of God.

I pray that God will help me to intercede even now. It hurts to be in the middle. That is what an intercede does though, they put themselves between God and humankind. We must pray, and not cease to pray, even for those who may lash out against us. Eternity is not built on the pain of the moment, but on the Grace of Forever.

-- Keep on Your Journey with Jesus today.

Stand in Your Faith

1Peter 2:19-23 (NIV) "For it is commendable if a man bears up under the pain of unjust suffering because he is conscious of God. But how is it to your credit if you receive a beating for doing wrong and endure it? But if you suffer for doing good and you endure it, this is commendable before God. To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his steps. "He committed no sin,
and no deceit was found in his mouth." When they hurled their insults at him, he did not retaliate; when he suffered, he made no threats. Instead, he entrusted himself to him who judges justly. "

Christ is not only our inspiration in doing good, He is our inspiration and stay when we are under attack. The world is a harsh place, and we should expect no less of a harsh treatment then the world dealt to our Lord. This is not an easy way, but I have watched spiritual leaders and spiritual people take blows for what God is leading them to do. I have seen some respond in love and patiently endure. I have seen others lash out and fight back. Christ prayed for those attacking Him. We must listen and we must pray for those who attack, for it is not they who are the enemy, but it is the work of the evil one to spread destruction.

People are not the enemy we fight, but as Paul reminds us in Ephesians 6:12-13:
"For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand."

I pray that no matter what God is doing in your life today, you will be able to stand. Be on your guard, and stand firm in Christ who gives you the ability to stand.

Keep on your journey with Jesus today

Move in God

I continue to study Joshua, and I see God preparing people to stand up and move in His direction. I also see Joshua, unwilling to be swayed in anyway from the directions that God was giving. When he told the people about going, it wasn't a time for discussion. Joshua said, get ready because in three days we are going to cross the Jordan.

I am realizing that moving forward isn't always easy, but we have to listen to God, and move.

Doing what's right, even if I'm wrong.

In my devotions this morning I was reminded that John Wesley often admitted his wrong. It is not easy, but it is right to admit when we are wrong. Sometimes we can be wrong in the approach, but right about what it is we are trying to accomplish. These times we need great patience, which comes only from God. We must admit that we are human, and that we may not have approached something completely right.

I recently have had to do this. Just the admission that there may have been other ways to handle the situation brought peace to my heart. In the end only time will tell if the situation really will change, but at least I am being changed as a person. God wants to change us and mold us for His work, not our glory.

-- Keep on the journey with Jesus

Leading Through the Brokeness of a Call

Standing alone is never easy. It is never easy to face a room of people, whom you think understand your position, yet begin to take sides on an issue. While God tells you in your heart and mind, "You are doing the right thing. I will take care of the hearts of people."

The scream with in me wants to shout to God, "But why is it always me who has to have the insight and stand alone in the pain."

"My Child, all are in pain. Just listen, and let me work through the pain with all of you," is the response the heart hears.

I know in these moments that I am not alone. I know that taking a stand before others, who can not see, or can not understand what God is leading in your own heart, is hard. I know that God is with me, and that He is leading me on this path. Is there pain? Yes, but there is pain when we undergo any procedure, no matter how small. The same is true in church, and emotional situations. There is, and there will be pain. Wounds will form, but we can poke and fester our wounds, or we can turn to the Great Physician and let Him heal our broken hearts.

--Keep on your journey with Jesus today

Thanking God for His Leadership

It has been a rough week this week. Some tough decisions are being made in ministry with in my church. I praise God. I argued with Him a bit yesterday I was reminded of the study I am doing about Joshua. God just seem to say, "Be strong and courageous." I said I would, but that God would have to prepare the heart of people. He gave me a peace, that He was already doing this.

It is wonderful to serve God, as He moves.

--Keep on your journey with Jesus Today

Courage to Stand Alone isn't Easy

Jesus had to do it, often in His ministry. Moses did it too. Joshua would have to put himself on the line, as well. It isn't easy to stand alone.

I have had to make one of the hardest decisions that I have ever had to make. In the past I have made decisions to move on to new locations, which were hard. I have had to make decisions to confront issues that have come up to my attention. Yet, a decisions that affects others so deeply is not easy to do. It's a lonely place, to stand in leadership and try to make the right choice for the whole group. It's even lonelier when no one else sees the concerns or needs that you face.

I know in my heart the tears of today, will one day turn to a stronger and far healthier tomorrow. It hurts right now to stand alone.

"I know whom I believe in, and He is able to help me through."

God doesn't always direct us away from needed conflict, but through it.

-- Keep on your journey with Jesus today

Follow the Leader of the Pack

I was really hit hard this past week with an illustration of who we should be as leaders. I was reminded of watching sled dog races through the down town streets of Marquette Michigan in the middle of February. The thought of a sled dog team, reminds me of the church. You see I am doing a study on Joshua, and I realized God didn't call everyone to be the leader. He only called one. The rest of the people were just a part of the team. There can only be one lead dog in a pack of dogs.

When a pack of dogs run they move when and where the lead dog directs them. The real difference between the lead dog and the rest of the pack, is really his concentration on listening to the Master's call. It is by voice commands that the Master gives commands to the team of dogs. The lead dog knows the Masters call, and how to set the pace for the team. We, who are leaders, must do the same thing. We must spend much time with the Master, Jesus, and lead the people forward in our churches.

I also came to realize something else about this leadership call. If you are going to move a sled, then you need sled dogs. I have had an Alaskan Malamute as a pet, and currently our family owns a Bird Dog, and a Beagle. I love the Beagle, and the Bird Dog is okay. However, you couldn't pull a team with a Beagle, because their nose leads them. They run with their nose to the ground and follow trails where ever they may go. A bird dog hunts and runs more by sight. When I walk the bird dog he runs from one side of the road to the other, because he turns almost every time he sees something that moves. Sled dogs, especially lead dogs, face forward into the direction the master has said to go.

Keep your focus. Listen to the Master's call and direction. Lead forward into the vision God is giving to you.

-- Keep on your Journey with Jesus today

It's why your paid the big bucks!

Being in leadership has it's good times and it's tough times. I have experienced great times of joy, and seeing lives chganged for the better. I have also seen decisions that had to be made, which I didn't want to make.

I recently was at a local school and there was a sign that said, "Doing the right thing, isn't usually the popular thing." That sums up some of the decisions a leader must make. Sometimes you have to be willing to consult others, but be willing to go alone into the right things. We aren't here to be popular, as leaders, we are here to lead people to a better place.

I follow the time honored advise of most leaders: Pray, talk with other wise people, Pray, and make a decision. I thank God for the people he brings alongside of me when the decions are hard.

I hope you will be able to make the tough decisions in your life, since ultimately you will have to make tough decisons sometime. Remember to let Christ be your guide in these tough times, and He will show you the way.

-- Keep on your journey with Jesus today

Our lives are a portrait

I am including a picture, a doodle, which my son Matt drew last night. If you look close there are 8 faces, hearts, dice, and a multitude of other items. I actually turned the paper around several times, as I sat studying it this morning. I amazed me at how many things appeared in the drawing.

Our lives are really like that. There are many parts to each one of us. Some of the things that make us who we are, may not seem important to us. Some things we would rather that other people never knew. There are the times when the pressures overwhelm us and we feel that we would just rather forget. We may feel our life really has no beauty at all.

In the hands of God this jumbled mess, begins to take shape as a beautiful portrait. He can see all the details, mistakes, and victories. In the end what God is looking for is the complete picture of who we are, and in His skilled hands we can shine brightly.

Let God take all the pieces of your life today. He can see the masterpiece within who you are, and He can mold your life into a beautiful thing.

- Keep on your journey with Jesus today.

Dale Freed Has Been Transfroming our Hearts this Week.

This week Rev. Dale Freed, of Dale Freed Ministries, has been speaking to our congregation here in Clifton. We have been encouraged to reexamine our lives, and to really listen to the purposes God has for us. I would encourage anyone looking for a good speaker to contact Dale, at his website, http://www.dalefreed.com/ . He has a wonderful way of mixing humor, and really minstering to the heart of people.

Click on this title to go directly to his web page.

Move Forward in the Lord's strength

Moving forward in our spiritual lives, takes courage. I am learning more and more to trust our Savior for strength and direction in my life. In the past four months I have had to make some decisions in regard to my future. Do I stay, or do I move on? Am I the right person to lead this congregation forward, or is there someone better suited to lead at this time? Can I make the needed changes in myself, and lead the needed changes with in this congreation to see a bright future here?

I would love to tell you that God revealed some great and wonderful vision, but that would not be true. What I have been given is encouragement that I can continue, and that He will be with me every step of the way. Challenges are not sent our way to destory us, but to make us stronger. I see challenges ahead to reach the goals that God is placing in my heart, both for the church and for my own life; however, my God is sufficiant to meet all my needs.

He can help you too.

-- Keep on your journey with Jesus today

Updates Since Christmas

Wow, what a long time it has been. I can't believe that Christmas was nearly 3 1/2 months ago. I have been so busy, but I think we are getting back to normal again.

I was voted to remain here in Clifton, for two more years. I praise God for what He is doing.

Happy Holidays?

The controversy over the wishing of happy holiday, or Merry Christmas still rages. We who are believers should wish a Merry Christmas. The reality is that both represent reference to religion and faith. Holiday comes from old English for Holy Day, which in history was the only times peasants and working men often were allowed off of work. In honor of Christian Holy days people would not work and celebrated with family and friends. The English still use the word holiday for special time off of work. Christmas of course means Christ Mass, or Christ worship if you will.

Whether you are Happy or Merry really doesn't matter, because our real joy doesn't come from the day off or from the big dinner. Real joy comes to our hearts when Jesus is there to take up residence. It is His coming to the world that we celebrate on Christmas. For those trying to push Him out we can see that it isn't so easy to dismiss the Christ, even in a holiday greeting.

I personally prefer Merry Christmas, since it keeps Christ at the center. I encourage us all to love others this holiday season, and to worry less about the technical terms we use. Our real concern should be in keeping Jesus Christ in our hearts forever.

-- Keep on your journey with Jesus today.

Give Thanks!

We are reminded in Scripture, to "Give thanks with a grateful heart." We are also told to praise in God in all circumstances. It is not always easy to praise with all our heart, when we are dealing with hard times at work, illness in our family, death of a loved one, or any number of other things that can pull the joy out of our hearts.

In Nehemiah, as they read the Scripture the people wept at the words. However, the leaders told the people not to weep, but to celebrate the joy of who God is. "The joy of the Lord is your strength." We must too give thanks, and realize in praising God we will be strengthened and renewed in our own heart.

Have a great Thanksgiving and praise God for His goodness.

-- Keep on your journey with Jesus this week.

Tony Dungy's Book is a great read

I have been reading QUIET STRENGTH, by Tony Dungy. I would recommend this book to anyone. It is filled with some great encouragement for leaders, and pastors. It has reminded me that God is the center of all that we do, and that success can not be measured by any standard of this world. Our greatest sucess is in how we live our lives in the everyday, and not in a worldly sucess here or there. Read the book, it's great.

Peace in the Losss of Life

People make a big difference. In creation God said, "It is not good for man to be alone," so he created woman. We are created to need others. In times of losss of loved ones it is the comfort and peace of others around us that really mean the most.

I have had the opportunity to meet people in some of the most difficult times of loss in their lives. Everyone repsonds to loss in their own way, but everyone needs the love and care of family and friends when those times come.

We are not there to give advice, or to make life better. We are there to help them have a shoulder to cry on, and an heart that will listen and help them bear the burdon. We need to be there for others, and one day they will be there for us in our own time of need.

-- Keep on the journey with Jesus today.

Don't Get Caught in Depression

Spiritual oppression can be a very serious thing. Sometimes life can get us down and push in upon us to the point where we almost feel alone and deserted. In the book of Job, chapter 11, we see Job reminded that hope is fully in God. Even in the toughest times God is there to help us along the way.

Depression and oppression are very similar and both affect the other. When we are depressed it opens us up for spiritual attack, and the opposite as well. However, if we learn to turn it around, by seeking Christ we will overcome.

I am not saying there are not times of sadness, even Solomon notes the seasons of life in Ecclesiastes 3 and some of those seasons are mourning. We just can not let ourselves become locked in this destructive place of loneliness.

A good friend recently shared the reminder that "the joy of the Lord is our strength." This means instead of sulking in destructive depression, we should find ways to celebrate and break the depressive hold on our hearts. I think he is really onto something there.

So, remember that if life has you down today you are never alone, because God is with you. God loves each of us very much, and our strength is in the joy He has for us every moment of every day.

- Keep on your journey with Jesus today.

A Stretch of our Faith

In Mark 9 Jesus comes off of the mountain top of transfiguration with James, Peter, and John. The other 9 disciples are arguing with scholars and people, over not being able to heal a boy. Jesus takes control of the situation and expands the faith of everyone there.

Sometimes we all face challenges, and individuals who really don’t want us to succeed at what God is calling us to do. They watch and wait for us to slip up in failure, or for our prayers to not be answered. Jesus is the answer to every need though. He was the answer to the boy’s needed healing. More importantly He was the answer to growing the faith of the boys father, and the disciples.

The father said, “I believe. Help me with my unbelief.”

This may be our feelings in asking for God’s help, especially if we feel we are praying as a witness to someone else. God will expand your faith, as you trust Him more and more with your needs.


Keep on your journey with Jesus today

Pass on your Heritage

The best thing in life that we have to pass on is ourselves. We pass on a bit of our self to everyone in our lives, but most important to our children. Our son Matt is in his Junior year in high school, and we recently visited the college I graduated from 10 years ago, Indiana Wesleyan University. While much about the physical structure has changed I was happy to see that the Christ centered values still remain.

Part of passing our heritage on is to help our children in making choices that will continue to build their faith for their entire life. Pass on in all that you do the values and faith you have learned in Jesus Christ.

-- Keep on the Journey

Listen to God

God wants to speak to you. That's right, the creator of the universe wants to spend time talking to you. The problem is that most of us don't take the time to listen. We really can only intently listen to one thing at a time and get something from what is said. I know, our young people multi-task with raido, TV, M-P3, and Computer. However, retention and change of life show that someone has listened intently. We must learn to hear God when he speaks, by taking time to really listen and put the word to work in our lives.

- Keep on your Journey with Jesus today

Rejuvinate Your Life

We all have times when we need to get revived. It may well be that we need revived emotionally, physically, or spiritually. Often it is very hard to revive alone.

Yesterday I went out to my van to drive across our village. When I turned the key nothing happened. The battery was dead. This is much what is like when we are in need of a rejuvenated power. Our battery is dead.

Maybe you have been through some emotional strain in your life. When we face difficult times such as a loss of job, strained relationships, or any tough decision we may well become emotionally drained from the experience. For many people, they just work themselves to the point of exhaustion. In our spiritual walk we can drain ourselves by giving, sharing, and witnessing, with out refreshing.

I did get my van to jumper cables and my other car. We had to wait for ten minutes for the charge to raise my battery power to the point of turning the engine on. It was just drained, and needed help getting started.

If it is physical weariness you suffer from, rest may be the answer. How much sleep do you get? Are you running with out resting? Sometimes we think that we can go and not stop. The reality is that God created us to be people who would stop for breaks and rest. Rest is a command of God in Genesis. God worked 6 days and the seventh he established as a day of rest. If you’re working too much, stop and rest.

If you are under too much emotional stress you may need more rest too. More important you must realize that you are part of the human race, and we often need the help of another. I couldn’t have started the van with out the second car providing its power. We must learn to accept the help from others in facing the trials of our lives. Solomon, in Proverbs, speaks of the “friend closer than a brother.” We all need people that we can trust to help us through the difficulties of life. We also must be willing to share in the trials of others, and be there to help them along this journey of life.

What about our spiritual lives? What do we do if we are spiritually tired? We must hook up to the power source, which is God Himself. We must take time to read our Bible, meditate upon its words, pray, and rest in the Lord. If we get too drained, it just may take a few days to really revive. This may mean that the five or ten minute daily devotion will not get you through. Give God time to rebuild, refresh, and renew your soul.

Take a break. Take a rest. Be revived.

-- Keep on the journey with Jesus today

Keep Up with Old Friends

It is great to hear from old friends. While I started this blog to give me an outlet for my writing. Recently I have found that old friends who have lost contact are finding me through this wonderful tool. I have had pastor's whom I have worked for and people whom I knew ten years ago contact me.

Too often our lives become so busy that we loose touch with each other, but this is far from the way it should be. We send cards at Christmas or Birthdays, and then one day the card is returned and we don't know where they went. We know that God is blessing them somewhere with his love, but really we should try to stay in better contact over time. With phones, internet, and much more to keep us connected to the world, don't forget to connect to friends. Let's not just hope to see them in heaven, when we can be an encouragement to one another right here.

(The above picture is my son Matt on the right, with his friend.)

In Your Examination, Be Ready To Stand In The Gap

Beware. A serious look at yourself, or you church may cause you to stand in the gap. After spending two weeks compiling, reviewing, and studying the past 13 years of our church here in Clifton Illinois I was struck with the need to go to prayer. Although I have only been here for just over a year, I am the leader.

We are given Godly examples of Daniel, Ezra, Nehemiah, and many others who were moved by their situations. The response of these men was not to ignore the past sins, mistakes, or missed opportunity of their people. It was instead to stand in the gap, as intercessors.

Some may argue that it wasn’t their fault. Others may say, “I am not responsible for what happened before my time.”

Yet, when Ezra arrives back in Jerusalem, and finds that people have intermarried he is driven to mourn. He tears his clothes in morning, and prays for the forgiveness of the people (Ezra 9). Daniel at the end of the 70 year exile reads the promise of God to Jeremiah about the 70 years. Instead of celebrating that people will return home, he is driven to pray for the sins of his people past and present.

We who are in leadership are the key. If our people will see ourselves humbled and moved by the situations, just maybe they will be moved to sincere repentance as well.

It is not easy to stand in the gap between God and humanity. We will get pinched, as people who resist God press upon our lives. We will be tested by Satan, as he tries to draw our attention away from where God is leading. However, if we will seek God with our whole heart, God will bless us with His strength, and help.

See your life in reality. Seek God wholly. Hear Him clearly.

-- Keep on your Journey with Jesus today.

Have You Had Your Church Health Check Lately

This past month I attended a course on the Multi-Generational Church, with Bob Whitesel. Professor Whitesel has a book by the same name, which I would encourage every pastor and church leader to take the time to read.

Part of my assignment in this class was to carefully examine the church, which I pastor. This was much like going to the doctor in my opinon.

You know how it is to go to the doctor when you are feeling fine, only to find that your overall prognosis could be much better. After a 13 year review of our church records I can see a real need for long term help here. I am calling our people to 40 days of prayer in September, so we can focus on God's guidance to a strong future.

The Simple Church will Simply your Ministry

I recently read Simple Church, by Thom S. Rainer and Eric Geiger. It was a very refreshing book. If you are running in ministry in dozens of direction and struggling to make your church reach focus, you need this book. Rainer has often struck homeruns in his writings, but this book is out of the park in my opinion.

It is very refreshing to read a book that doesn’t preach programs, strategies or a specific style. This book really reaches into ministry of any size. Beware though, as reading may alter your mind on issues of needing to stay busy. The book does just what the name says, it simplifies church life, and it helps modify your focus.

So I encourage everyone to read, and lighten up their load.


-- Keep on your journey with Jesus today.

July a month of Outreach in Clifton

July was an extremely busy month for the Clifton Wesleyan Church family, and I as pastor was no exception.

Our youth returned from Red Lake Minnesota, where they had worked with Group Works on helping to build porches, paint, and many other need areas. They went to help renovate homes, and renovated their own lives. I praise God for the way He is working in our youth and their leader, Brenda.

In the middle of the month was the Village of Clifton’s Sesquicentennial Celebration. We were all kept very busy all weekend. The whole churched pitched into the men’s & women’s Spaghetti Dinner fundraiser on Friday. We praise God for the $964 for missions that was raised, and for the opportunity to get into our community where everyone was.
Saturday brought the parade, the largest parade the community has ever had. We had a float, passed candy and labeled water bottles, and had a great time. We had people dressed in attire from various eras over the last 150 years. Many wanted to know what we would do for next years Village Homecoming.
Sunday I entered a BBQ contest in the park, and many of our church family came down to visit and support. I didn’t receive any award, but to me the greatest reward was just being there. They did announce who I was and what church I pastor.

All the out reach has helped keep the positive nature of our church in the foreground. I praise God for this most of all. People from 15 miles away came to the dinner, because they have heard positive things about the work our church does. I have lived in the area only one year, and people I don’t know came up and said, ‘hello, pastor Dan.’ I know we are not about works, but about faith. However, we as churches must always keep ourselves well involved and visible in our communities. First impressions often come long before a person even walks in the door of the church.
Keep reaching in your town with the love of Jesus.

- Keep on your journey with Jesus today.

July a Month of Outreach in Clifton

July was an extremely busy month for the Clifton Wesleyan Church family, and I as pastor was no exception.

Our youth returned from Red Lake Minnesota, where they had worked with Group Works on helping to build porches, paint, and many other need areas. They went to help renovate homes, and renovated their own lives. I praise God for the way He is working in our youth and their leader, Brenda.

In the middle of the month was the Village of Clifton’s Sesquicentennial Celebration. We were all kept very busy all weekend. The whole churched pitched into the men’s & women’s Spaghetti Dinner fundraiser on Friday. We praise God for the $964 for missions that was raised, and for the opportunity to get into our community where everyone was.
Saturday brought the parade, the largest parade the community has ever had. We had a float, passed candy and labeled water bottles, and had a great time. We had people dressed in attire from various eras over the last 150 years. Many wanted to know what we would do for next years Village Homecoming.
Sunday I entered a BBQ contest in the park, and many of our church family came down to visit and support. I didn’t receive any award, but to me the greatest reward was just being there. They did announce who I was and what church I pastor.

All the out reach has helped keep the positive nature of our church in the foreground. I praise God for this most of all. People from 15 miles away came to the dinner, because they have heard positive things about the work our church does. I have lived in the area only one year, and people I don’t know came up and said, ‘hello, pastor Dan.’ I know we are not about works, but about faith. However, we as churches must always keep ourselves well involved and visible in our communities. First impressions often come long before a person even walks in the door of the church.
Keep reaching in your town with the love of Jesus.

- Keep on your journey with Jesus today.

Giving Christ Authority With Your Faith

Matthew 8:5-13

Jesus is visited by a Roman centurian, who requests healing for his servant who is back home. In the conversation with Jesus the man says he is not worthy to have Jesus come to his home. He also states that as a commander, he has authority to tell his servants to do jobs, and they must do them. Then he compells Jesus to help him, by simply commanding it to be done.

Jesus is overwhelmed by the man's faith and states, "I say to you I have not found such great faith in Israel."

The centurians faith was based in the recognition of Jesus' authority and power over the need that he had. Being a leader himself he knew how authority works, and he knew that he personally did not have to be present for a job to be done. This Roman leader, who could have ordered Jesus to his home, instead comes recognizing Jesus' authority over his need.

Many people hold needs today, and they feel helpless. Yet, Christ still has authority in all situations, if we will trust Him. Two little letters, I F; seem to prevent us from letting our faith give Christ authority in our need.

I challenge you to give your need to Christ, and trust Him. You may be asked to streach and grow in your life through the process, but you will know the blessings of Jesus in your life.

-- Keep on your journey with Jesus today

Extraction Is Sometime Required

I use the term extraction, but you could also say cut away. Paul would say "die".

I had a tooth extracted today, which is a painful process, especially after the anesthetic wears off. However, this evening I know that this pain is much better than the pain I had in a tooth, which had broken. To remove the pain permanently I had to have the broken, and diseased tooth removed.

Paul tells us in some of his epistles to die to sin, in order to live. This is really a fact of removing the sinful attitudes and desires from our heart. We may remember them in our mind, but they do not have to have a hold on us. We should look at past sin as dead, diseased, and thrown away. Our desire should be to do good.

God help us all to put past sins behind us and to live in your direction and blessing every day.

-- Keep on your journey with Jesus

Welcome our Church Teens Home

The teens of our trip returned home last evening, to a welcome of several adults and parents and a taco dinner. We celebrated the great work, which they did during their week in Red Lake, Minnesota. Many stories of the work and fun they had are already being shared, and evidence of the affect on their lives is also starting to show.

Reach Out In All That You Do

The teens of our trip will be rising at the crack of dawn tomorrow, to hit the road by 6:00 a.m. They, their adult leaders, parents, many individuals of our church, and myself have worked hard. They have had fundraisers, tool training sessions, dinners, baby sitting services, and much more to reach the financial goal. Now is the time to pack up and head out. The mission work ahead of them is through Group Works, where they will join some 400 other teens and adults to help people in home repair in Red Lake Minnesota.

We pray God's blessing, as they use thier time and talents to bless others with the love that God has shown to them.

We all should find ways to reach out where ever we can. While many of our teens leave, many of the adults have been making a float for an upcoming parade. We are also begining to solidify plans for our VBS which will start in August. A Summer of Busy outreach always has great reward for the kingdom of God.

- Keep on your Journey with Jesus today

Living in Faith

I am being challenged in recent days to live more and more by faith. The longer I serve the Lord, the more I realize how important faith really is to my life. Paul talks about the struggles we face in daily life not being from this world, but a spiritual battle. I see a battle raging for the souls of people I am in contact with on a daily basis.

There are those who are heading to an eternal death in hell, and they refuse to listen to the hope given in front of them. No matter how often, or who comes to witness to them; they just refuse to hear the truth and hope about Jesus Christ.

Even more disturbing to me is the number of people making claims of being followers of Jesus Christ, and not really trusting Him with all their needs in life. I can understand this, because I have struggled to grasp how real the power of Jesus is in our lives. Every situation that Jesus Christ has given me strength to stand through helps me to face whatever is ahead of me.

Faith must be used, and strengthened in our heart in soul. It is not that the power of God grows in faith, but that our trust in His power grows. I pray that my family, and those whom I minister to will be able to do as Pauls says in Ephesians 6:13 T"herefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand."

Take a stand today, and do not be moved in your faith.

- Keep on your journey with Jesus today

Time is fleeting

This past week I watched my 17 year old son pass another step into his adulthood. He has his licence, and is free to drive alone. I must admit I prayed when he was being tested, and I am sure his mother and I will pray when he goes out on his own. However, growing up is a part of life.

As parents we can only do our best to instill in our children the right way to live, and the faith that we have. The hardest part is when they are growing, and we must let them go on their own. God does much the same with us, as he gives us all the tools we need to succeed in faith, but we have to grow in responsibility to use the Bible and make the right choices.

God help us make the right choices and follow your lead with our lives.

-- Keep on your journey with Jesus today.

Love Your Neighbor Daily

Scripture reminds us to “Love your neighbor, as yourself.” I find that many people in our world today are just loners. They do not desire, nor do they really reach out to their neighbor. Jesus also warns in the parable of the “Sheep and Goats” that “what we do for the least of these, you have done for me.” It is only appropriate to visit the sick, the shut-in, the widow, the orphan, or the imprisoned. Yet, how many of us truly do these things.

In past months we have had several who have taken ill in our church, and at least one person now resides in nursing home. I visit these people to pray with them and to offer encouragement. I often hear the same thing, ‘You’re the only person from the church I have seen.’

I recently visited one individual who told me those words. They told me how they had waved to someone from their porch, but that no one had ever stopped to say hello. Then the words which really hurt, “Pastor, I don’t think that is what Jesus had in mind when he said, ‘love your neighbor’.”

Ouch! What a strike on our busy modern society. What a blow to all of us, who are so wrapped up that we don’t even help those we call friends with-in our own churches.

In John 13:34-35 (NIV) “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”

How can we ever show the world God’s love, if we don’t show love to our own church family at their homes?

Find someone you can visit, encourage, or help this week.

-- Keep on the Journey with Jesus

Keep Reaching

Paul charges Timothy in 2 Timothy 4:2 to, "preach the word, be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort, with great patience, and instruction."

I was reminded again that we must continue to call people to Christ, and teach others no matter what. I was finishing a series on the Sermon on the Mount this week, and I felt the need to press for a call to hearts for salvation. No one responded. I trusted God to touch lives, and encourage believers to use the reminder to reach out. Part of me left the service discouraged, because there was no response. Yet, I left it in God's hands.

In our men's meeting last night I was reminded that God has other plans for our words and work at times. One man shared how he used some of what was shared in my sermon to try to reach another man in the afternoon. Another man shared how someone close to him was touched by the message, and spoke for quite some time with him about the message of the day. Others shared how the message inspired them to witness.

I never even brought the subject up, of the morning service. Yet, God sent a clear message. When we are faithful He will take our efforts and use it for His glory. Keep witnessing, teaching, preaching, and carrying on Christ's work in your world today.

Keep on the journey with Jesus today.

We Need to Keep Praying for Each Other

I have a very close friend who ministers in north-central Indiana. We have know one another for more than 10 years, and our friendship continues to grow. We often call one another and share our weekly ministry woes. God often brings to mind to pray or call, and when we call we find that there is a need.

Our God is wonderful and He knows that we all need friends, who we can turn to in times of need. For many in ministry finding a person we can truly be our selves and open up to often is difficult. A true friend, as David said, "is closer than a brother." They will pray for us and help to carry the load of life.

It is wonderful when we have a need to be able to call and know others are lifting our needs to God. It is also wonderful to lift the burdens of others up and help to carry the load of someone else in the prayer we may give for their need.

Pray with out ceasing, and keep lifting others in ministry where ever they may be. We are in a battle, which only can be fought in the prayers of God's people.

-- Keep on your journey with Jesus today.

The Need of Real Rest

I went away last Friday Night with my family to Indiana Beach. We had a very relaxing time, and I came back refreshed. I felt more relaxed this past Sunday morning at church than I have in weeks. We have visited family once since our arrival here in Illinois last April, and I took one Sunday off to attend an NFL game last fall. However, I rarely get away from the church or home. This was the closest thing to a real vacation we have had in a year and a half.

I know many ministers in the same position, who do not take the needed day off, or vacation at all. It is part of the nature of the job, that we feel everything will fall apart while we are gone. I can remember my first pastorate 10 years ago, where when we were gone for four or five days to visit family or friends, I literally thought daily that the church would burn down while I was away. My thought while away from my church often fluxuate between disaster of the physical nature, to a hostile take over in my absense. While I know these things can and do sometimes happen, I don't think that my being there will stop them.

I have experienced a painful return to a church after a vaction, in fact I realized this weekend that this is why I haven't taken time away in over a year. I returned to problems after a vaction, and those problems led me away from that church. The pain in my heart was real, but I am learning that God moves us to new places for His work and His benefit. Paul and Barnabas separated to continue God's work where they went. God still uses people today in much the same way. We do not always have to fear these encounters with dread, because God likely has a greater plan in mind.

Pain and hurt can be real, but worry will destroy us. We must not worry to the point of never taking time off. Rest and relaxation are gifts of God, and they are also His command. When was the last time you took some real time of rest for you and your family. It just might be the most valuable time you will spend for your family, your ministry, or your job. Live in God's peace and harmony in all that you do, and get some real rest.

Enjoy your journey with Jesus today

Thankful Always

We should strive to always be thankful. Paul reminded the Corinthians of this in 2 Corinthians 4:13-18. Paul who was often persecuted, to near death, always found ways to be thankful. He realized the bigger picture, and was thankfuyl for God's eternal work.

Sometimes we get so wrapped up in our daily trials that we forget to be thankful. I sit for a moment this day to be thankful. God did not choose to bless me with riches of human desires, but I am rich with His love and mercy. I am rich in the blessing of a caring family and close friends.

No one should ever consider themsleves with out reason to thank God, if they are saved from sin. We are part of God's family, and we should, like Paul, look to the greater blessings God is building each day.


-- Keep on the your Journey with Jesus Today

Memorial to The Servants on Memorial day

Today we pause to remember all of those who have served. When joining our military each soldier takes a vow to defend and protect the freedoms that we so openly enjoy. Each one makes this promise, as they vow to serve.

“I DO SOLEMNLY SWEAR (OR AFFIRM) THAT I WILL SUPPORT AND DEFEND THE CONSTITUTION OF THE UNITED STATES AGAINST ALL ENEMIES, FOREIGN AND DOMESTIC; THAT I WILL BEAR TRUE FAITH AND ALLEGIANCE TO THE SAME; AND THAT I WILL OBEY THE ORDERS OF THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES AND THE ORDERS OF THE OFFICERS APPOINTED OVER ME, ACCORDING TO REGULATIONS AND THE UNIFORM CODE OF MILITARY JUSTICE. SO HELP ME GOD.”

We see in this promise that these brave men and women all answer the call to step out from the everyday. They are willing to sacrifice their own freedoms to protect the freedom of us all. Although they may not take credit for themselves, they are heroes to those whom they have vowed to defend.

In the book of Isaiah God called His people to step out from the everyday world, and to step out from evil, and to take a stand.

(Isaiah 1:16-17)
Isa 1:17 learn to do right!
Seek justice,
encourage the oppressed.
Defend the cause of the fatherless,
plead the case of the widow.

To those who have come before us in this nation to defend the freedoms we have we come today to remember. They chose to step out from the everyday world around us. They chose to make a stand.

When they joined our military forces they made a choice to put personal desire, personal pleasure, and even everyday ease aside. They chose to protect our nation and constitution, which was made to give freedom from oppression to all people. These brave men and women served with a servant’s heart to protect those who are less able to protect themselves. Our nation was founded upon the principles of freedom, justice, and the defense of good people against the evil oppression of the world.

The brave men and women who served in our armed forces truly have the heart of a servant. Jesus himself said that there could be, “no greater love than for a man to lay down his life for another.” Many who served paid the ultimate price. They gave their life to defend that fatherless, the poor, the disadvantaged, the weak, and the defenseless from the evil of our world.

Today we remember the past of soldiers who have served and who have died. We think of our present where still men and women stand to protect our nation with pride. In our world of turmoil it is a comfort to know that still there are those who answer the call. In our remembrance let us lift those who serve today, and the families who have willingly let them leave to go.
We hold to a future hope of freedom and peace for our children, grandchildren, and beyond. Let us pass on to them the hope of freedom, peace, and security. Let us pass on to them the importance of remembering the gift given, by the sacrifice and service of all. We must never forget the service the brave men and women who have made our freedom secure. Let us honor them this weekend, and cherish the sacrifice they have made every day of our lives.

We can, as Nicholas Gordon penned, in his poem “Make my Death a Canticle for Peace writes, “mourn with morning in our hearts”. Though we stand in a place of death we can look to a future life, hope, and freedom for our nation thanks to their willing service. We can know that hope marches on through the ages, bringing strength and security to those who live in this blessed nation.
(To read Nicholas Gordon’s poem : http://www.poemsforfree.com/mempo.html )

Prayer:
Our Gracious Father,
We come to you today, as we stand here to remember. We ask you, Lord to bless our nation, whom these brave men and women have died to defend. We would pray that you would help us to always remember and be thankful for those who have went before us. Bless those who serve you today, and the families who they often leave behind. May your grace and mercy shine upon them, and upon us all. We pray this in Your Holy Name, Amen.



-- Keep on Your Journey with Jesus today

An Epic Pirate Adventure

Last night we took our family and four other teens to see "Pirates of the Carribean: At Worlds End". It was a truly good epic, with a few twists. I would also say it lives up to some of the wierd of Johnny Depp's other movies, which made the movie very good.

The night was an epic adventure for us as well. Due to school activities we decied to attend a late showing of the movie. We started out by having a flat tire, getting out of school activities latter than expected, and arriving to a latter showing than we planned. Living like teens again, my wife and I took these young adults and we had a lot of fun with them. The 2:30 a.m. arrival home is something I a less accustomed to these days, but seeing the joy and fun of the young people really made the time worth it.

We can take epic adventures with our family and friends many times with out leaving our own home town. We forget that most of the fun of a trip is just getting there. Next week our family is supposed to go away for a couple of days, and I am sure it will be an adventure. It may not compare to a voyage or battle on the high seas, but we will be filled with the joy of building memories for our family.

Spend some quality time with your family today.

-- Keep on your jouney with Jesus today.

The Joy and Woe of Computers

A little over a week ago my computer crashed and destoryed 2 years worth of files. (I know many would say why didn't you back it up?) Well the thing is I thought it was backed up. I have spent nearly two weeks building up my work that was lost, including address books and other important information.

Our church now has added broadband, so I can try to keep up with the world. Although I sometimes get frustrated with computers, the work we can do with them is amazing. I can now upload audio sermons to my web page, so shut-ins, friends, family, and virtually the whole world can hear the messages God has given me. I pray God will bless my words, and this technology to reach souls for His glory.

If you want to hear check out my web page http://www.danielshipton.faithweb.com

Keep on your journey with Jesus

I'm Back again

I am back on and hope I can keep up with this blogger. I have had a lot of computer trouble this past month, and I can now get back to blogging. God bless everyone.

-- Keep on your Journey with Jesus

Spring Rain

The rain dances outside my window pane
Creating ripples where waters stand
Lush green blades now reach skyward
Breaking loose the grip of winter’s hand.

As winter’s brown begins to wane
Spring birds are singing like a band
The days are longer moving forward
While flowers boldly begin to stand.

-- D.G. Shipton


Enjoy the season God has given us, and remember to see joy in all of the blessings of God.

-- Keep on your journey with Jesus today

The Strength of Trusting Christ

Philippians 4:13 " I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."

Paul penned these words, while writing to the Philippians to thank them for their support of him. They had been with him in support, in both the good and bad times. Paul said prior to this verse that he was content in any circumstance. His contentment seems to be built upon the fact that he knew where real strength resides. Real strength is in Christ.

I have learned over time that we must rely upon God fully at all times. A year ago my family and I were in between ministries. I had left our former church in January, and God had placed three opportunities before me. One opportunity was a small rural town in Ohio, one a church plant, and one a rural community in Illinois. Each church had it's own reason to go. The fact was that God told my wife, Becky, and I to pursue meeting with only one church, here in Illinois.
Prior to meeting with this church we had three months of wondering how we would pay the bills, where we would go, and what the future would hold? In general we were in a time of waiting and concern. Yet, we trusted God to care for all our needs. We were content with saying no to the first church offered, because we felt in our hearts that God was telling us not to go. When His time and place was right we came to visit and candidate at the Clifton Wesleyan Church.
Learning to be content is never easy. The times we are in waiting can often be most frustrating in human terms, but we must learn to trust God. The plans of God are worth waiting on, and we can trust that He is in full control. Know that no matter what you face today. You can do it in God's Strength.

-- Keep on your journey with Jesus today

Life is Fragile

Life is so very fragile. I visit through out my week with many different people, who have various roles in life. There are some people who are just joining together to form a family, and others who are approaching the end of life. I have become a good observer of people and the driving spirit that keeps them going. Family seems to be a big key for many people. They feel that they will be able to face anything, as long as their family stands beside them. There are others who have little or no family, and they rely upon the church family to be their family support in times of need.

People need God, of that we must all be sure. However, we all need to feel the presence of others in our lives. We may feel that sitting and visiting for some time in a nursing home, hospital, or at someone’s home really will not matter. That is far from the truth. Time matters to the youngest and oldest in our communities. People may know God cares and is in control, but they need to know they are cared about from other people too.

Make time this week to share some time with others who may not have loved ones near by.

- Keep on Your Journey with Jesus

Jesus Found?

Jesus found? The news this week is everywhere about the finding of a tomb with the name Jesus, Mary, and other names inside. I am not sure what the host of this upcoming movie really hopes to prove? First of all, the most common woman’s name during the time of Jesus was Mary. The name Jesus, which in the Hebrew is Joshua, was also a very common name. Many families were hoping that God would send the Messiah to save their people and Joshua means God is my help or God is my Savior.

This newest in a line of documentaries and so called discoveries is not new at all. Stories against the resurrection and life of Jesus came out even at the beginning of the Christian Church. The Bible itself says that guards were bribed to say that someone stole the body. The truth is that Jesus Christ lived, died and rose again. In fact even this discovery is not new, as it is said to have come from over twenty years ago. It falls after a two year period of the Da Vinci Code fade, which promoted very similar tales.

The fact is that Satan has always been at war with the truth of God. He has tried to discredit our faith since it began. We must remember, as the Apostle Paul warns in Ephesians, that our war is not against the people of this world, but against the powers of the Spiritual world. We must be in the full armor of God to stand firm on the faith we have been given in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior of our World.

We must remember too, that over five hundred eyewitness are said to have seen Jesus in the New Testament . These eyewitnesses heard Him speaking, ate with Him, touched Him, and lived with Him for a time, after the crucifixion and resurrection. We must keep going back to the Bible and holding on to the truth give to us there. This is our only standard and guard against the lies of the world.

- Keep holding on in your Journey with Jesus

Hopeful for the future

Spring may soon come. Sometimes I get excited to see the warming of our days. Monday I started some seeds for planting this spring. Some people may laugh, but I know in those little seeds there is life.

Just like in each one of us there is a great potential. If we will open our lives up to Jesus Christ and let Him mold us we can become something woderful.

Keep striving to become what God see's in you.

-Keep on the Journey with Jesus

Spring Fever Sets in

This month has had a lot of cold and wintery weather. When we moved to central Illinois we were told that they hadn't had any significant snow in more than 15 years. We were also told that the past six winters were fairly warm. We were surpirsed with a month of near zero tempratures and the nearly two foot of snow we had last week.

Although it reminded me of home, I see signs of warming this week. Praise the Lord. I know I am from the North and should love the snow, but when you live south and get it, it is harder to take. After all I left my snow blower in Michigan when I moved here. O well signs of spring may come during the current warming spell. We can hope.

-- Keep on your Journey with Jesus today

Jesus Loves All

Jesus, while eating at Matthew's home, told the pharasee's that He had not come for the well but the sick. Jesus spent most of His time with the sick, the poor, the spiritually lost, and the outcast of society. He not only spoke to people who were ignored by society, but He touched them physically.

I think of those with leporsy who Jesus reached out and touched. These people were not only cast out of normal society, but they had to tell others to stay away, for fear of contracting the disease. Yet, Jesus reached out and touched these people. It must have been wonderful to feel the touch of anothers hand for the first time in possibly years. Just to be made to feel worthy by Jesus. The the miracle of being healed only added to the blessing.

Jesus loves everyone, and He reaches across all societial barriers to touch us all with that love. We are equal in the eyes and hands of Christ. All people need His love and His salvation. We who know this love should reach out to those in need around us and break barriers to knowing Jesus in our society. Let Jesus guide you to love others, with the love He gives to you.

-- Keep on the Journey with Jesus today.

Barren Fruit

I sit and watch the tree in our back yard. The wind blows through the barren limbs, as they wave over the snow covered ground. Winter's death grip holds the tree in a suspension of life. There are no green leaves, no buds of life, and no fruit hanging from the tree.

Not long ago the black walnuts of the tree fell to the ground, where they gathered in a hard rock like pile. The squirrels took most of the nuts to bury and hide for this wintry time of year. The fruit is gone. The limbs are bare, and life seems far away.

Many people live their lives in a state like our black walnut is in now. The are spiritually dead, with no sign of life at all. They live their life going through daily motions that appear to be life, but there is no fruit. The Bible tells us that just as a tree is known by it's fruit, so to is a persons life know by the spiritual fruit they show.

Spring will come soon and bring new life to the tree, and it will again bear the fruit of the walnuts to feed the squirrels. In our lives we can be brought to new life as well. Jesus Christ came to the earth from heaven to die on a cross and pay the penalty of sin for everyone who would believe. In Jesus Christ we have new life waiting for us. In our new life in Christ we can bear spiritual fruit that last an enternity.

Are you alive today? If not stop right now and ask Jesus to forgive your sins. Ask Jesus to come into your heart and help you walk on in New Life. Then find a good Church of Christians who read and believe the Bible, and let them help you to grow. Feel free to contact me by e-mail and I will pray for you in your Journey with Jesus.

-- Enjoy your Journey with Jesus today