During the summer of 2008 we are encountering waves of opportunity for growing in faith and having fun. This Sunday is Outrigger Island Sunday as we prepare for a great church-wide adventure in Vacation Bible School scheduled for June 16-20. The theme for worship on Sunday is Catch A Wave from Psalm 86:11 as we explore the five waves of truth that our students will learn on Outrigger Island.
In the spirit of Outrigger Island, you are invited to join our staff and our VBS leaders in wearing island attire or island colors to worship and Bible study. I plan to wear a colorful Aloha shirt and khakis in each of our worship services.
Remember that we have community and faith-building events and concerts scheduled on Sunday evenings during the summer. On two or three Sunday evenings we have intentionally scheduled no activities on campus so that you can spend quality time with family and neighbors nurturing relationships.
This Sunday evening we meet at 7:00 o’clock in the sanctuary for the home concert of our Chapel Choir as we prepare to send them on Europe Tour 2008. After the concert we will gather for a church-wide fellowship in Chipley Hall.
On Wednesday nights during the summer, we are “Growing in Wisdom” as we focus on the Proverbs. We are covering an intriguing list of topics on Wednesdays this month:
June 4 Only Your Hairdresser Knows for Sure Proverbs 16:31
June 11 Kissed by the Enemy, Wounded by a Friend Proverbs 27:6
June 18 VBS Family Night
June 25 Red-Hot Sins Proverbs 29:22
Summer is a great time to invite a friend or new neighbor to join you as we gather for worship and Bible study.
Wednesday, June 04, 2008
Worship This Summer, Wherever You Are
As we begin the summer of 2008, I hope you will make a firm commitment to participate in worship every week whether you are at home or on the road. Of course, I hope that you will be an active participant in worship at First Baptist every Sunday that you are in town. But when you are on the road, there are many ways to participate in worship.
When Amanda and I were away for a few days of vacation last month, we enjoyed attending a Community Worship Service on the Beach. Our vacation experience was more positive because we gathered with about 400 persons from several states and a variety of faith backgrounds for worship.
We are planning for a great summer of services and activities at First Baptist, but I hope you and your family get a refreshing break at some point during the summer. When you are on the road, whether visiting friends or going on a vacation, seize the opportunity to participate in services of worship wherever you travel.
There are many different options for participating in worship while on the road:
- Attend another church.
- Attend a campground service.
- Attend a beach service.
- Attend a chapel service at your resort.
- Tune in to a worship service on the radio, television, or internet.
- Plan a worship service for your own family at your vacation spot.
- Join in worship through “live streaming” or web-based simulcast. (We hope this option is available through our church web site soon.)
Participating in worship while on the road can enrich both your trip and strengthen your personal faith. Skipping worship just because you’re on vacation or a business trip can rob you of meeting new friends and meeting God in new places.
On those weekends you are traveling this summer, I urge you to participate in worship wherever you travel, and bring a worship bulletin back to me or our staff so we can And on all of those other weekends when you are home, we will look forward to great experiences in worship here at First Baptist.
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
Introduction to the New Testament: Application and Interpretation
Here are a few general guidelines that I find helpful in Bible study, especially in the New Testament:
1. Read and interpret the Bible in light of the Jesus Christ.
2. Read a variety of translations, comparatively.
3. Give appropriate attention to literary genre.
4. Observe the progressive revelation we are given in scripture and in life.
5. Begin discerning between descriptive and prescriptive texts.
6. Avoid “prooftexting.”
7. Appreciate the importance of word studies, historical chronology, and biblical geography.
8. Discern the texts that are for local application and the texts that are for universal application.
9. Live by the light you are given and more light will come.
10. Respect the insights and opinions of others.
1. Read and interpret the Bible in light of the Jesus Christ.
2. Read a variety of translations, comparatively.
3. Give appropriate attention to literary genre.
4. Observe the progressive revelation we are given in scripture and in life.
5. Begin discerning between descriptive and prescriptive texts.
6. Avoid “prooftexting.”
7. Appreciate the importance of word studies, historical chronology, and biblical geography.
8. Discern the texts that are for local application and the texts that are for universal application.
9. Live by the light you are given and more light will come.
10. Respect the insights and opinions of others.
Thursday, April 17, 2008
Dollars and Sense: God's Economic Plan for All Seasons
Christian stewardship is a spiritual and practical discipline…a management responsibility which applies to every facet of life. As believers and worshippers, we are accountable to God for how we exercise that managerial responsibility over all of our resources, especially our time, our spiritual gifts, our opportunities, and our finances.
In recent weeks on Wednesday evenings, I have been sharing a series of life application messages about Ethics for the 21st Century. This past Wednesday evening, we focused on Dollars and Sense: God’s Economic Plan for All Seasons. Although economic trends in Florida were adversely affected by the sequential series of devastating storms in 2004-2005, the negative trends in Florida have been compounded by nationwide trends indicating higher unemployment, a depressed housing market, and higher fuel costs. Recession conditions exist in Florida and around the nation. And although we do not know how long the recession conditions will last, we do know that God’s economic guidelines are good for all seasons, including seasons of feasting and seasons of famine.
God’s plan for economics begins by calling us to a positive and proactive attitude toward working, managing, and giving. The prophet Malachi probably has the most emphatic words to say about giving: Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this," says the LORD Almighty, "and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that you will not have room enough for it Malachi 3:8-10 NIV0.
In his book, Full Disclosure: Everything the Bible Says about Financial Giving, Dave Bell writes that "Stewardship is not just an opportunity to enter into God's service but an opportunity for God to enter into you.” I believe that for those who dare to practice biblical stewardship, giving becomes a fun part of our management responsibility. Paul gives us a vivid description of a believer’s attitude toward God’s economic plan when he writes, Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver ( II Corinthians 9:7 NIV).
Herb Mather, author of Don’t Shoot the Horse (Until You Know How to Drive the Tractor), contends that "The vertical relationship to God and the horizontal relationship to neighbor come together in the act of giving.” In other words, that cheerful spirit of managing and appropriating our resources for kingdom purposes cultivates within us a passion for mission and ministry.
Here is a brief summary of the life application points we discussed last Wednesday evening:
*Understand that all resources are a trust from God.
*Prioritize your tithes and offerings.
*Do your work with integrity.
*Provide for your family through a carefully managed budget.
*Be ethical and honest in all transactions.
*Limit credit liability and strive to eliminate debt.
*Invest in the future through a savings plan.
As you put God’s economic plan into practice, you may discover that plan provides spiritual and tangible stability for all seasons.
In recent weeks on Wednesday evenings, I have been sharing a series of life application messages about Ethics for the 21st Century. This past Wednesday evening, we focused on Dollars and Sense: God’s Economic Plan for All Seasons. Although economic trends in Florida were adversely affected by the sequential series of devastating storms in 2004-2005, the negative trends in Florida have been compounded by nationwide trends indicating higher unemployment, a depressed housing market, and higher fuel costs. Recession conditions exist in Florida and around the nation. And although we do not know how long the recession conditions will last, we do know that God’s economic guidelines are good for all seasons, including seasons of feasting and seasons of famine.
God’s plan for economics begins by calling us to a positive and proactive attitude toward working, managing, and giving. The prophet Malachi probably has the most emphatic words to say about giving: Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this," says the LORD Almighty, "and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that you will not have room enough for it Malachi 3:8-10 NIV0.
In his book, Full Disclosure: Everything the Bible Says about Financial Giving, Dave Bell writes that "Stewardship is not just an opportunity to enter into God's service but an opportunity for God to enter into you.” I believe that for those who dare to practice biblical stewardship, giving becomes a fun part of our management responsibility. Paul gives us a vivid description of a believer’s attitude toward God’s economic plan when he writes, Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver ( II Corinthians 9:7 NIV).
Herb Mather, author of Don’t Shoot the Horse (Until You Know How to Drive the Tractor), contends that "The vertical relationship to God and the horizontal relationship to neighbor come together in the act of giving.” In other words, that cheerful spirit of managing and appropriating our resources for kingdom purposes cultivates within us a passion for mission and ministry.
Here is a brief summary of the life application points we discussed last Wednesday evening:
*Understand that all resources are a trust from God.
*Prioritize your tithes and offerings.
*Do your work with integrity.
*Provide for your family through a carefully managed budget.
*Be ethical and honest in all transactions.
*Limit credit liability and strive to eliminate debt.
*Invest in the future through a savings plan.
As you put God’s economic plan into practice, you may discover that plan provides spiritual and tangible stability for all seasons.
Friday, April 11, 2008
Clyde Bizzell: A Man Who Walked Humbly with God
Last Saturday morning, April 5, in Louisville, Kentucky, a dear servant of God went to his eternal home. Rev. Clyde Bizzell, who served as associate minister at First Baptist Pensacola from 1954-1978, is fondly remembered as one of the most influential ministers in our church’s history. As we give thanks for Rev. Bizzell’s life and ministry, I have asked a few of those who knew Clyde to share some of their treasured memories of this spiritual giant:
In contrasting the personalities of Pleitz, Bizzell, and Royal, it has come to mind that I never saw Clyde get mad, never saw him lift anything much heavier than the pocket notebook he carried around to write visitors names... yet he was one of the strongest men I ever knew. - Barry Royal
One of the things I admired about Clyde was that he had absolutely no agenda of his own. His sole and only concern was the will of the Lord. Everyone had a good laugh when he locked his keys in his car in the church parking lot with the engine running. He was a man who truly walked humbly with God. - T. A. Shell
Clyde was the person who seemed to know everyone at FBCP and know what was going on any and all the time. He and Dr. Pleitz were the first people to our house when my father died. Clyde helped me to work through what I wanted to study in seminary and was very instrumental in helping me to get to my first place of service after seminary, First Baptist Church in Crestview, Florida. – Don Minton
Clyde was the real rock. He was the stabilizer. He made the church run smoothly. He knew every person and he knew every event and what was needed and he knew every nook and cranny of the church. He could recite the calendar for weeks to come and enhanced the churches' effectiveness beyond measure. All preachers should be so fortunate as ours was in having a "Clyde." - Toni Clevenger
Clyde Bizzell was a dedicated Christian minister with a heart for people. He served with an unselfish spirit and an humble demeanor. His ministry reminded us of the Lord Jesus that he served. -Alton Butler
Clyde was one of the most dedicated, genuine and hard working servants on this earth, but his office (or cubby as it was) was the most organized mess you’d ever seen. Clyde was the stabilizing factor always maintaining order and could pinch-hit to fill any need at FBC (except singing we didn’t let him sing). The FBC doors were never opened without Clyde’s presence and the only vacations he had were church trips for the most part. - Scott Bell
Clyde Bizzell was truly a servant. Even though I was only in middle school when he left Pensacola for Park Cities he had a profound impact on my life and ministry. When I was a student at Southern and he was in Louisville visiting his sister we would get together for a meal and fellowship. My first day on the job at FBC, Hartwell, GA -- I got a phone call and heard that distinctive voice, "Charlie, my friend, best wishes to you on your new ministry." I don't think I am the only FBCP crew that went into the ministry that got letters, calls, and encouragement from Bro. Clyde. He was a Modern Day Barnabas. The naming of the Pleitz Chapel is appropriate as well as the ROC bearing Paul Royal's name, however the "naming rights" for Clyde Bizzell at FBCP are imprinted in the lives and hearts of all those he touched with Christ's love. - Charlie Wilson
In September 1977 I was elected Chairman of Deacons at FBC. A few days later Dr. Pleitz announced that he was accepting the pastorate at Park Cities in Dallas. Needless to say I was overwhelmed with the thought of him leaving and the responsibilities I had as Chairman. I was looking forward to working under his leadership the year I was Chairman. This was not to be. I believe God places individuals in our paths at just the right time to lead and guide us as we work for Him. Clyde Bizzell was that man for me. Clyde became my mentor that year as we planned and led FBC in a year without a Pastor. We decided that we would not recommend an Interim, but would hear the great preachers in the SBC that year. Clyde knew most of them personally or knew about them. He arranged for them to be here from Sunday to Sunday. Clyde and I met each evening after I got off work and discussed and planned the work of the Church. Although we missed Dr Pleitz and his leadership we were able to make progress. I don 't know how I would have functioned as Chairman without the friendship and assistance of Clyde Bizzell. I also remember that Clyde loved banna pudding. Many ladies in the Church knew that and would bring him a bowl. When he finished he would return the empty bowl with a lb of banna's and a box of vanilla wafers. The implication was clear: "that was good, make me another one." Clyde was a gaint of a man and will be missed. I thank God for the memories. - Charles Griffin
Clyde was a great example of one who worked tirelessly to follow God's calling in his life while at the same time being an example of what it means to truly live life abundantly. Very few have influenced my life as he did. I thank God for Clyde and for his great Godly example. - Nix Daniel
I was a “young” person during Mr. Bizzell’s ministry here at FBCP. As I look back on that time what I can say about Mr. Bizzell’s ministry is he was the absolute best #2 man any Pastor or church could have. Dr. Pleitz and Mr. Royal were the faces of our church and congregation and Mr. Bizzell was the guy that held everything together and put feet too many of the visions that those two had. He was the quite behind the scenes guy making it happen and was very comfortable in his role. - Kemp Wilson
My memory has lost most of the past, and I am having trouble with the present. The Deacon’s did not have a rotation system at that time. I was on the Building and Grounds committee and spent much time with Clyde on everything from dust on the pews to Sanctuary temperature. The war was over, the community was growing and so was F.B.C.P. Our staff was small and so many of the tasks were handled by church volunteers. We had no position called “Minister”, except the Pastor. Dr. Nathan Brooks was now our Pastor. The membership was growing. Dr. Brooks knew a young man at a church in Louisiana that could be a good fit for F.B.C.P. Clyde came to serve as Director of Education. (I do not think that he ever saw the last 2 pages of the description of his job, he just did it.) As the church attendance and membership grew, so did the responsibilities of Clyde. He was very adequate for everything He was asked to do. With the arrival of Dr. Pleitz and Paul Royal, the three of them made the All-Star team of Church Ministers. - Joe Ladner
It gives me pause again to celebrate Clyde Bizzell’s wonderful life of service and friendship to so many, of which I am just one grateful heart. I recall so fondly how faithful he was as a partner at Park Cities when I first arrived, prior to his retirement after a few years. He knew all the secret stories, all the best restaurants, and all the ways to get things done in that church. But his imprint is large at FBC Pensacola, of course, and I know that he remembered those years with Dr. Pleitz as some of his favorite years in ministry. - Allen Walworth
Mr. Bizzell was the consummate servant of Christ. He embodied the concept of "servant leadership" long before it became popular. He modeled for us all how a minister should stake his claim of God's love on a person in need. And, what a generous man! How many of us were treated to a meal at the Boarding House by Clyde Bizzell? God has called one of his most dedicated saints home. - Charlie Johnson
Bizzell was my right hand. From day one he was indispensable to my work in Pensacola. I felt something was missing in my ministry in Dallas until I persuaded him to move. Everywhere he served, the people loved Clyde dearly. What a man! What a friend! - Jim Pleitz
In contrasting the personalities of Pleitz, Bizzell, and Royal, it has come to mind that I never saw Clyde get mad, never saw him lift anything much heavier than the pocket notebook he carried around to write visitors names... yet he was one of the strongest men I ever knew. - Barry Royal
One of the things I admired about Clyde was that he had absolutely no agenda of his own. His sole and only concern was the will of the Lord. Everyone had a good laugh when he locked his keys in his car in the church parking lot with the engine running. He was a man who truly walked humbly with God. - T. A. Shell
Clyde was the person who seemed to know everyone at FBCP and know what was going on any and all the time. He and Dr. Pleitz were the first people to our house when my father died. Clyde helped me to work through what I wanted to study in seminary and was very instrumental in helping me to get to my first place of service after seminary, First Baptist Church in Crestview, Florida. – Don Minton
Clyde was the real rock. He was the stabilizer. He made the church run smoothly. He knew every person and he knew every event and what was needed and he knew every nook and cranny of the church. He could recite the calendar for weeks to come and enhanced the churches' effectiveness beyond measure. All preachers should be so fortunate as ours was in having a "Clyde." - Toni Clevenger
Clyde Bizzell was a dedicated Christian minister with a heart for people. He served with an unselfish spirit and an humble demeanor. His ministry reminded us of the Lord Jesus that he served. -Alton Butler
Clyde was one of the most dedicated, genuine and hard working servants on this earth, but his office (or cubby as it was) was the most organized mess you’d ever seen. Clyde was the stabilizing factor always maintaining order and could pinch-hit to fill any need at FBC (except singing we didn’t let him sing). The FBC doors were never opened without Clyde’s presence and the only vacations he had were church trips for the most part. - Scott Bell
Clyde Bizzell was truly a servant. Even though I was only in middle school when he left Pensacola for Park Cities he had a profound impact on my life and ministry. When I was a student at Southern and he was in Louisville visiting his sister we would get together for a meal and fellowship. My first day on the job at FBC, Hartwell, GA -- I got a phone call and heard that distinctive voice, "Charlie, my friend, best wishes to you on your new ministry." I don't think I am the only FBCP crew that went into the ministry that got letters, calls, and encouragement from Bro. Clyde. He was a Modern Day Barnabas. The naming of the Pleitz Chapel is appropriate as well as the ROC bearing Paul Royal's name, however the "naming rights" for Clyde Bizzell at FBCP are imprinted in the lives and hearts of all those he touched with Christ's love. - Charlie Wilson
In September 1977 I was elected Chairman of Deacons at FBC. A few days later Dr. Pleitz announced that he was accepting the pastorate at Park Cities in Dallas. Needless to say I was overwhelmed with the thought of him leaving and the responsibilities I had as Chairman. I was looking forward to working under his leadership the year I was Chairman. This was not to be. I believe God places individuals in our paths at just the right time to lead and guide us as we work for Him. Clyde Bizzell was that man for me. Clyde became my mentor that year as we planned and led FBC in a year without a Pastor. We decided that we would not recommend an Interim, but would hear the great preachers in the SBC that year. Clyde knew most of them personally or knew about them. He arranged for them to be here from Sunday to Sunday. Clyde and I met each evening after I got off work and discussed and planned the work of the Church. Although we missed Dr Pleitz and his leadership we were able to make progress. I don 't know how I would have functioned as Chairman without the friendship and assistance of Clyde Bizzell. I also remember that Clyde loved banna pudding. Many ladies in the Church knew that and would bring him a bowl. When he finished he would return the empty bowl with a lb of banna's and a box of vanilla wafers. The implication was clear: "that was good, make me another one." Clyde was a gaint of a man and will be missed. I thank God for the memories. - Charles Griffin
Clyde was a great example of one who worked tirelessly to follow God's calling in his life while at the same time being an example of what it means to truly live life abundantly. Very few have influenced my life as he did. I thank God for Clyde and for his great Godly example. - Nix Daniel
I was a “young” person during Mr. Bizzell’s ministry here at FBCP. As I look back on that time what I can say about Mr. Bizzell’s ministry is he was the absolute best #2 man any Pastor or church could have. Dr. Pleitz and Mr. Royal were the faces of our church and congregation and Mr. Bizzell was the guy that held everything together and put feet too many of the visions that those two had. He was the quite behind the scenes guy making it happen and was very comfortable in his role. - Kemp Wilson
My memory has lost most of the past, and I am having trouble with the present. The Deacon’s did not have a rotation system at that time. I was on the Building and Grounds committee and spent much time with Clyde on everything from dust on the pews to Sanctuary temperature. The war was over, the community was growing and so was F.B.C.P. Our staff was small and so many of the tasks were handled by church volunteers. We had no position called “Minister”, except the Pastor. Dr. Nathan Brooks was now our Pastor. The membership was growing. Dr. Brooks knew a young man at a church in Louisiana that could be a good fit for F.B.C.P. Clyde came to serve as Director of Education. (I do not think that he ever saw the last 2 pages of the description of his job, he just did it.) As the church attendance and membership grew, so did the responsibilities of Clyde. He was very adequate for everything He was asked to do. With the arrival of Dr. Pleitz and Paul Royal, the three of them made the All-Star team of Church Ministers. - Joe Ladner
It gives me pause again to celebrate Clyde Bizzell’s wonderful life of service and friendship to so many, of which I am just one grateful heart. I recall so fondly how faithful he was as a partner at Park Cities when I first arrived, prior to his retirement after a few years. He knew all the secret stories, all the best restaurants, and all the ways to get things done in that church. But his imprint is large at FBC Pensacola, of course, and I know that he remembered those years with Dr. Pleitz as some of his favorite years in ministry. - Allen Walworth
Mr. Bizzell was the consummate servant of Christ. He embodied the concept of "servant leadership" long before it became popular. He modeled for us all how a minister should stake his claim of God's love on a person in need. And, what a generous man! How many of us were treated to a meal at the Boarding House by Clyde Bizzell? God has called one of his most dedicated saints home. - Charlie Johnson
Bizzell was my right hand. From day one he was indispensable to my work in Pensacola. I felt something was missing in my ministry in Dallas until I persuaded him to move. Everywhere he served, the people loved Clyde dearly. What a man! What a friend! - Jim Pleitz
Friday, April 04, 2008
The Birds and Bees of the 21st Century
On Wednesday evenings during our Midweek Worship Gathering we are discussing Ethics for the 21st Century. We began on March 26 with the topic "You Only Die Once: A Christian Ethic About the End of Life." On April 16, we will continue the series as we talk about "Using Dollars and Sense: God's Plan for the Economy." On April 23, we plan to talk about "Sleeping with the Enemy: Sexual Morality in the 21st Century." And on April 30 we will ask, "Is God's Favorite Color Green?" as we think about our Christian responsibility for the environment.
Tonight we are discussing bioethics and genetics under the topic "The Birds and Bees of the 21st Century." Let's begin by considering a text from Genesis 1:26-30 as translated in The Message God spoke: "Let us make human beings in our image, make them reflecting our nature So they can be responsible for the fish in the sea, the birds in the air, the cattle, And, yes, earth itself, and every animal that moves on the face of Earth." God created human beings; he created them godlike, Reflecting God's nature. He created them male and female. God blessed them: "Prosper! Reproduce! Fill Earth! Take charge! Be responsible for fish in the sea and birds in the air, for every living thing that moves on the face of Earth." Then God said, "I've given you every sort of seed-bearing plant on Earth And every kind of fruit-bearing tree, given them to you for food. To all animals and all birds, everything that moves and breathes, I give whatever grows out of the ground for food." And there it was.
What are the ethical issues related to procreation and genetics?
1. Gene Therapy: Inserting corrected versions of defective genes to make them function properly.
2. Germline Therapy: Inserting corrected versions of defective genes into sperm or eggs so that these genetic modifications are passed on to one’s offspring.
3. In-Vitro Fertilization (IVF): A technique used to help infertile couples conceive. Sperm and eggs are mixed together in a Petri dish and the resulting embryo is implanted into the woman to complete development.
4. Sex Selection: Using techniques such as pre-implantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) to determine the sex of an embryo conceived via IVF. Only those embryos with the desired sex are implanted in the woman to complete development.
5. Designer Babies: Using PGD to determine the presence of absence of certain genes in embryos conceived via IVF. Only those embryos with the desired genes are implanted into the woman to complete development.
6. Sperm, Egg and Embryo Banking: Freezing donated eggs, sperm or fertilized embryos in liquid nitrogen for later use.
7. Nuclear Tranfer: Removing the nucleus from one egg and inserting it into another egg. This technology can be used to ‘rejuvenate’ older eggs or potentially to create fertilized embryos by fusing two nuclei together in a single egg without the need for a sperm.
8. Reproductive Cloning: A type of nuclear transfer, where the nucleus from a body cell is injected into an egg that has had its nucleus removed. This cell can then develop into an embryo and be implanted into the woman to complete development. Babies produced by this technology would be genetically identical to the person from whom the cell nucleus was taken.
9. Embryo cloning: Similar to reproductive cloning, but cells are extracted from the resulting embryo and used for research purposes. The embryo is not allowed to complete development.
10. Embryonic Stem Cell Therapy: Cells are extracted from cloned embryos and grown in culture in the lab to create a line of cells. These cells can then be injected into patients to cure disease by regenerating damaged cells, tissues or organs.
Who does it effect? Everyone of us. At some point in the not too distant future, many of these issues will effect our friends and our families.
What are the ethical considerations?
1. Creation of living cells (genes, cells, and tissues) vs creating a human life.
2. Curative vs consumerist.
3. Common good vs personal interests.
4. Spiritual vs secular
5. Personal autonomy vs corporate ownership.
As a community of faith, we are somewhat behind the curve in being prepared to deal with such issues. However, it is unthinkable that we leave this conversation to those in our world who have no faith-based frame of reference. Let's begin the conversation. Let's search the scriptures. Let's pray for spiritual discernment.
Tonight we are discussing bioethics and genetics under the topic "The Birds and Bees of the 21st Century." Let's begin by considering a text from Genesis 1:26-30 as translated in The Message God spoke: "Let us make human beings in our image, make them reflecting our nature So they can be responsible for the fish in the sea, the birds in the air, the cattle, And, yes, earth itself, and every animal that moves on the face of Earth." God created human beings; he created them godlike, Reflecting God's nature. He created them male and female. God blessed them: "Prosper! Reproduce! Fill Earth! Take charge! Be responsible for fish in the sea and birds in the air, for every living thing that moves on the face of Earth." Then God said, "I've given you every sort of seed-bearing plant on Earth And every kind of fruit-bearing tree, given them to you for food. To all animals and all birds, everything that moves and breathes, I give whatever grows out of the ground for food." And there it was.
What are the ethical issues related to procreation and genetics?
1. Gene Therapy: Inserting corrected versions of defective genes to make them function properly.
2. Germline Therapy: Inserting corrected versions of defective genes into sperm or eggs so that these genetic modifications are passed on to one’s offspring.
3. In-Vitro Fertilization (IVF): A technique used to help infertile couples conceive. Sperm and eggs are mixed together in a Petri dish and the resulting embryo is implanted into the woman to complete development.
4. Sex Selection: Using techniques such as pre-implantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) to determine the sex of an embryo conceived via IVF. Only those embryos with the desired sex are implanted in the woman to complete development.
5. Designer Babies: Using PGD to determine the presence of absence of certain genes in embryos conceived via IVF. Only those embryos with the desired genes are implanted into the woman to complete development.
6. Sperm, Egg and Embryo Banking: Freezing donated eggs, sperm or fertilized embryos in liquid nitrogen for later use.
7. Nuclear Tranfer: Removing the nucleus from one egg and inserting it into another egg. This technology can be used to ‘rejuvenate’ older eggs or potentially to create fertilized embryos by fusing two nuclei together in a single egg without the need for a sperm.
8. Reproductive Cloning: A type of nuclear transfer, where the nucleus from a body cell is injected into an egg that has had its nucleus removed. This cell can then develop into an embryo and be implanted into the woman to complete development. Babies produced by this technology would be genetically identical to the person from whom the cell nucleus was taken.
9. Embryo cloning: Similar to reproductive cloning, but cells are extracted from the resulting embryo and used for research purposes. The embryo is not allowed to complete development.
10. Embryonic Stem Cell Therapy: Cells are extracted from cloned embryos and grown in culture in the lab to create a line of cells. These cells can then be injected into patients to cure disease by regenerating damaged cells, tissues or organs.
Who does it effect? Everyone of us. At some point in the not too distant future, many of these issues will effect our friends and our families.
What are the ethical considerations?
1. Creation of living cells (genes, cells, and tissues) vs creating a human life.
2. Curative vs consumerist.
3. Common good vs personal interests.
4. Spiritual vs secular
5. Personal autonomy vs corporate ownership.
As a community of faith, we are somewhat behind the curve in being prepared to deal with such issues. However, it is unthinkable that we leave this conversation to those in our world who have no faith-based frame of reference. Let's begin the conversation. Let's search the scriptures. Let's pray for spiritual discernment.
Reaching Those on the Far Side
We have an opportunity to creatively and proactively share the good news of Jesus with those who live on the far side of life. Who are those we think of as living on the far side of life? And how do we share the good news with them? This Sunday we will look at the description of the early church in Acts 2:36-42 as we explore ways of Reaching Those on the Far Side.
On Sunday evening we will meet at six o’clock in the sanctuary as we continue our Introduction to the New Testament and zero in on the Pauline Correspondence. During our evening gathering, we will also celebrate the baptism of new believers and new members.
For the past several months we have been praying for God’s leadership as we have searched for a Minister of Students. On Wednesday, April 9, during our Midweek Worship Gathering, we will introduce our prospective Minister of Students and his spouse. You will hear a report from our interview team, a team composed of students and teachers from our middle school, high school, and college departments. Then some of our students will join me in interviewing the candidate. Afterward, we will vote on a recommendation to call this candidate to be our new Minister of Students. Continue to pray for God’s guidance as we prepare for these strategic moments of decision-making.
Join us as we gather for worship and Bible study this Sunday. You may discover nourishing Food for the Soul.
On Sunday evening we will meet at six o’clock in the sanctuary as we continue our Introduction to the New Testament and zero in on the Pauline Correspondence. During our evening gathering, we will also celebrate the baptism of new believers and new members.
For the past several months we have been praying for God’s leadership as we have searched for a Minister of Students. On Wednesday, April 9, during our Midweek Worship Gathering, we will introduce our prospective Minister of Students and his spouse. You will hear a report from our interview team, a team composed of students and teachers from our middle school, high school, and college departments. Then some of our students will join me in interviewing the candidate. Afterward, we will vote on a recommendation to call this candidate to be our new Minister of Students. Continue to pray for God’s guidance as we prepare for these strategic moments of decision-making.
Join us as we gather for worship and Bible study this Sunday. You may discover nourishing Food for the Soul.
Monday, March 17, 2008
When God Calls, Will You Let It Go To Voicemail? Genesis 12:1-8
If you own a cell phone, you probably have voicemail. And if you have voicemail, you probably have a voicemail greeting. You have the option of using the default voicemail greeting that is offered by your service provider, a generic message that simply says, “The person you have called is unavailable. To page this person, press one. To leave a message, press 2.”
If you wish to provide a more personal or pleasant greeting for those who call when you are unavailable, you can set up a message of your choosing. You may opt to personally record a standard voicemail greeting, perhaps stating your name and pledging to return the call. Or, you may design a customized greeting that accents your creative genius or your unique personality.
I have discovered that some who are in my network of friends have visited web sites and selected a greeting from a list of stock messages. These messages can range in tone from humorous to silly. One popular message says, “Hi. I'm probably home. I'm just avoiding someone I don't like. Leave me a message, and if I don't call back, it's you.” Another message is a little too blunt for me: “I'm unable to take your call now, so deal with it!” For those who are weary of telemarketers there’s a message that states, “Hello. You are talking to a machine. I am capable of receiving messages. My owners do not need siding, windows, or a hot tub, and their carpets are clean. They give to charity through the office and don't need their picture taken. If you're still with me, leave your name and number and they will get back to you.” Or, if you prefer a witty message, you might try, “This is you-know who. We are you-know-where. Leave your you-know-what you-know-when.”
The reason you need voicemail is because you will probably not be available to answer every phone call immediately. You might be prohibited from receiving calls while at work or in the classroom. You could be busy with chores at home. You could be in the middle of an important conversation with one friend, when your “call waiting” beep alerts you to another incoming call, and you are not in a position to end the first conversation in order to begin the second. Or, like many, you could use voicemail to screen your calls, determining who you want to talk to and when. Because I have “caller ID” on my cell phone and my home phone, I do not answer calls from “unknown callers,” “out of area,” or habitual grumblers.
What if you knew that God was calling you? What if you looked at the “caller ID” on the screen of your soul, and detected that God was calling? Would you answer, or would you let it go to voicemail?
In Genesis 12:1-8, we learn that Abram, who was later called Abraham, a resident of Ur, a city in southern Mesopotamia, now modern day Iraq, responded to the call of God and his life quite literally changed the world. And although it has been a few thousand years since God called Abraham, I believe that God is still calling men and women of all ages to particular vocations and locations to live and serve in sync with God’s purpose.
In fact, Abraham was seventy-five years old when he heard and responded to God’s call to change gears and head in a new direction. You are never too young or too old to notice that God is reformatting your inner compass. Studying the call of God in the lives of Bible personalities and observing the call of God in the lives of my contemporaries leads me to believe that God invites every person to take up a meaningful vocation and to live with a uniquely missional purpose.
Often I have been asked by others, “How can I recognize the call of God?” My usual response seems a little simplistic, but I believe it is accurate: “When God calls, you will know it,” I say with confidence. Because the call of God is deeply personal, I think we can overcomplicate the call of God by trying to explain it or defend it. God may call us in a still small voice heard only with the ears of an attentive soul. Or, God may call us with an emerging flame of passion that was described by one prophet as “a fire in my bones.” God may even call us through the voice of a friend or the endorsement of a congregation who affirms the gifts of God they observe in us. God seems to employ a unique way of calling each of us. Usually, our human struggle with spiritual direction does not result from missing the call but from ignoring it.
If your call resembles the summons given to Abraham, you may be asked to leave something or somebody important to fully answer God’s call. In Genesis 12:1, The LORD had said to Abram, "Leave your country, your people and your father's household and go to the land I will show you.” You may feel called to a professional career or to a ministry that requires you to relocate quite a distance from your family of origin. Or, you may be called to serve on a mission field or in a parish in an underserved region of the world. Most likely, you will be called upon to discard a few megapixels of your personal dreams in order to pursue your spiritual passion. At a minimum, when you respond to the call of God, you will need to be prepared to move outside your comfort zone.
Several years after God called Abraham, Jesus of Nazareth invited men and women from multiple vocations and backgrounds to follow him and become his students, referred to in the Bible as disciples. And Jesus didn’t sugarcoat the kind of commitment required to accept his invitation: "If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me.” (Luke 9:23)
Does that mean that when God calls, I will need to become a priest or a pastor? Definitely not! In Genesis we learn that Abraham served God through his relationships, his travels, and his business transactions. Abraham’s management of his assets and his estate, including his employees, his flocks, his herds, and other possessions, became his primary arena for serving God. And though his conduct was not perfect (actually, at times it was conveniently deceitful), the overall narrative of his life gave birth to a new promise and a new kind of hope.
In the postmodern world, God is calling most persons of faith to claim their primary occupation as their spiritual vocation. Educators, accountants, physicians, and attorneys, just to name a few, are being called by God to demonstrate the adventuresome faith, the radical stewardship, and the extraordinary leadership that we learn from the God of Abraham. Therefore, God may grant you an opportunity to engage in unannounced and inconspicuous ministry within the context of your current or future career.
With that said, may I also encourage you to consider the possibility that God may be calling you to be a pastor or teacher or missionary? God may be calling you to a spiritual vocation that could become your primary occupation. When I was sixteen years old, I experienced a clear and defined sense of calling to Christian ministry. With a mixture of obedience and naïveté, I shared this sense of calling with my pastor and with my home church, and with their strong affirmation and blessing, I began preparing for my spiritual vocational to become my career. Now, thirty-one years later, I am living out the mystery and magnetism of that calling as I serve as the pastor of a local congregation. And a part of my joy is to journey alongside men and women of all ages who are experiencing a new awareness of the call of God.
Why does God call us to participate in the unfolding of God’s mission and the proclamation of God’s initiatives of love and grace? I am convinced that God does not call us to make us popular or wealthy, and I know firsthand that God does not call us because we know all of the right answers to life’s most perplexing questions. Perhaps, just as God called Abraham in order to make Abraham and his descendants a blessing to the world, God calls us intending for us to live proactive lives that bless the world.
Simply put, God is calling you because God intends to make you a blessing. God wants to bless the world through you by the way you live ethically. God wants to bless the world through you by the way you love unconditionally. God wants to bless the world through you by the way you communicate faith, hope, and grace in your conundrum of circumstances and through your concentric circles of relationships.
When God calls you, will you let God’s call go to voicemail? Or will you answer, and let God bless the world through your life?
If you wish to provide a more personal or pleasant greeting for those who call when you are unavailable, you can set up a message of your choosing. You may opt to personally record a standard voicemail greeting, perhaps stating your name and pledging to return the call. Or, you may design a customized greeting that accents your creative genius or your unique personality.
I have discovered that some who are in my network of friends have visited web sites and selected a greeting from a list of stock messages. These messages can range in tone from humorous to silly. One popular message says, “Hi. I'm probably home. I'm just avoiding someone I don't like. Leave me a message, and if I don't call back, it's you.” Another message is a little too blunt for me: “I'm unable to take your call now, so deal with it!” For those who are weary of telemarketers there’s a message that states, “Hello. You are talking to a machine. I am capable of receiving messages. My owners do not need siding, windows, or a hot tub, and their carpets are clean. They give to charity through the office and don't need their picture taken. If you're still with me, leave your name and number and they will get back to you.” Or, if you prefer a witty message, you might try, “This is you-know who. We are you-know-where. Leave your you-know-what you-know-when.”
The reason you need voicemail is because you will probably not be available to answer every phone call immediately. You might be prohibited from receiving calls while at work or in the classroom. You could be busy with chores at home. You could be in the middle of an important conversation with one friend, when your “call waiting” beep alerts you to another incoming call, and you are not in a position to end the first conversation in order to begin the second. Or, like many, you could use voicemail to screen your calls, determining who you want to talk to and when. Because I have “caller ID” on my cell phone and my home phone, I do not answer calls from “unknown callers,” “out of area,” or habitual grumblers.
What if you knew that God was calling you? What if you looked at the “caller ID” on the screen of your soul, and detected that God was calling? Would you answer, or would you let it go to voicemail?
In Genesis 12:1-8, we learn that Abram, who was later called Abraham, a resident of Ur, a city in southern Mesopotamia, now modern day Iraq, responded to the call of God and his life quite literally changed the world. And although it has been a few thousand years since God called Abraham, I believe that God is still calling men and women of all ages to particular vocations and locations to live and serve in sync with God’s purpose.
In fact, Abraham was seventy-five years old when he heard and responded to God’s call to change gears and head in a new direction. You are never too young or too old to notice that God is reformatting your inner compass. Studying the call of God in the lives of Bible personalities and observing the call of God in the lives of my contemporaries leads me to believe that God invites every person to take up a meaningful vocation and to live with a uniquely missional purpose.
Often I have been asked by others, “How can I recognize the call of God?” My usual response seems a little simplistic, but I believe it is accurate: “When God calls, you will know it,” I say with confidence. Because the call of God is deeply personal, I think we can overcomplicate the call of God by trying to explain it or defend it. God may call us in a still small voice heard only with the ears of an attentive soul. Or, God may call us with an emerging flame of passion that was described by one prophet as “a fire in my bones.” God may even call us through the voice of a friend or the endorsement of a congregation who affirms the gifts of God they observe in us. God seems to employ a unique way of calling each of us. Usually, our human struggle with spiritual direction does not result from missing the call but from ignoring it.
If your call resembles the summons given to Abraham, you may be asked to leave something or somebody important to fully answer God’s call. In Genesis 12:1, The LORD had said to Abram, "Leave your country, your people and your father's household and go to the land I will show you.” You may feel called to a professional career or to a ministry that requires you to relocate quite a distance from your family of origin. Or, you may be called to serve on a mission field or in a parish in an underserved region of the world. Most likely, you will be called upon to discard a few megapixels of your personal dreams in order to pursue your spiritual passion. At a minimum, when you respond to the call of God, you will need to be prepared to move outside your comfort zone.
Several years after God called Abraham, Jesus of Nazareth invited men and women from multiple vocations and backgrounds to follow him and become his students, referred to in the Bible as disciples. And Jesus didn’t sugarcoat the kind of commitment required to accept his invitation: "If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me.” (Luke 9:23)
Does that mean that when God calls, I will need to become a priest or a pastor? Definitely not! In Genesis we learn that Abraham served God through his relationships, his travels, and his business transactions. Abraham’s management of his assets and his estate, including his employees, his flocks, his herds, and other possessions, became his primary arena for serving God. And though his conduct was not perfect (actually, at times it was conveniently deceitful), the overall narrative of his life gave birth to a new promise and a new kind of hope.
In the postmodern world, God is calling most persons of faith to claim their primary occupation as their spiritual vocation. Educators, accountants, physicians, and attorneys, just to name a few, are being called by God to demonstrate the adventuresome faith, the radical stewardship, and the extraordinary leadership that we learn from the God of Abraham. Therefore, God may grant you an opportunity to engage in unannounced and inconspicuous ministry within the context of your current or future career.
With that said, may I also encourage you to consider the possibility that God may be calling you to be a pastor or teacher or missionary? God may be calling you to a spiritual vocation that could become your primary occupation. When I was sixteen years old, I experienced a clear and defined sense of calling to Christian ministry. With a mixture of obedience and naïveté, I shared this sense of calling with my pastor and with my home church, and with their strong affirmation and blessing, I began preparing for my spiritual vocational to become my career. Now, thirty-one years later, I am living out the mystery and magnetism of that calling as I serve as the pastor of a local congregation. And a part of my joy is to journey alongside men and women of all ages who are experiencing a new awareness of the call of God.
Why does God call us to participate in the unfolding of God’s mission and the proclamation of God’s initiatives of love and grace? I am convinced that God does not call us to make us popular or wealthy, and I know firsthand that God does not call us because we know all of the right answers to life’s most perplexing questions. Perhaps, just as God called Abraham in order to make Abraham and his descendants a blessing to the world, God calls us intending for us to live proactive lives that bless the world.
Simply put, God is calling you because God intends to make you a blessing. God wants to bless the world through you by the way you live ethically. God wants to bless the world through you by the way you love unconditionally. God wants to bless the world through you by the way you communicate faith, hope, and grace in your conundrum of circumstances and through your concentric circles of relationships.
When God calls you, will you let God’s call go to voicemail? Or will you answer, and let God bless the world through your life?
Holy Week: A Time for Refocus and Reflection
Last week, our cruise crew enjoyed a safe and pleasant adventure to Honduras, Guatemala, Belize, and Mexico. Last weekend, 102 of our students were energized during a RADICAL Disciple Now. And last Sunday in our combined worship service, we were blessed by the inspirational music offered by multiple musicians and the timely message from Dr. Ross Lankford entitled “Off with the Old, On with the New.”
Next week is Holy Week, the seven-day journey culminating on Easter Sunday. More than any other holiday, or holy day, Holy Week is an intentional season calling Christians to focus and reflect on the passion of Christ. During this week, I encourage you to join Christians around the world in re-visiting the biblical events and experiences leading up to the death, burial and resurrection of Christ.
Each day of Holy Week is important but at least four days call for intentional and insightful reflection. Palm Sunday is a day to recall the royal welcome and the chorus of praise extended to Jesus as he entered Jerusalem. Maundy Thursday commemorates the washing of disciples’ feet by Jesus as he gave them a new mandate to love and serve. Good Friday is a day to revisit the sacrifice and suffering of Christ on the cross. And Resurrection Sunday, or Easter, is a festive day to celebrate and proclaim that “Christ is risen; Christ is risen indeed.”
This year, as you journey through Holy Week, focus and reflect on the whole story of the experiences of Jesus. Take time to meditate on the actions of Jesus and the injustice of the cross. And on Easter Sunday, let us marvel again at the mystery of the resurrection.
Next week is Holy Week, the seven-day journey culminating on Easter Sunday. More than any other holiday, or holy day, Holy Week is an intentional season calling Christians to focus and reflect on the passion of Christ. During this week, I encourage you to join Christians around the world in re-visiting the biblical events and experiences leading up to the death, burial and resurrection of Christ.
Each day of Holy Week is important but at least four days call for intentional and insightful reflection. Palm Sunday is a day to recall the royal welcome and the chorus of praise extended to Jesus as he entered Jerusalem. Maundy Thursday commemorates the washing of disciples’ feet by Jesus as he gave them a new mandate to love and serve. Good Friday is a day to revisit the sacrifice and suffering of Christ on the cross. And Resurrection Sunday, or Easter, is a festive day to celebrate and proclaim that “Christ is risen; Christ is risen indeed.”
This year, as you journey through Holy Week, focus and reflect on the whole story of the experiences of Jesus. Take time to meditate on the actions of Jesus and the injustice of the cross. And on Easter Sunday, let us marvel again at the mystery of the resurrection.
Thursday, February 07, 2008
Get Re-Connected!
Last Sunday we began a new series about Re-Connecting with God. We focused on the importance of “Re-Discovering the Word of God” as we examined the reforms of Josiah in II Kings 22-23.
This Sunday we will look at Genesis 3:1-7 and Romans 5:12-19 as we consider Re-Connecting with God by exploring questions pertaining to what it means to have a right relationship with God. What is “righteousness” in the Bible? How can a person who is subject to temptation and liable to sin live “righteously”? What does it mean to “get right with God”?
On Sunday evening we start a series on Introduction to the Old Testament. How was the Old Testament put together? What does the Old Testament reveal to us about God? Are we responsible for living according to all Levitical and Deuteronomic laws? During our study we will discuss the various literary types, the considerations for interpretation, and the relevancy of the Old Testament message. We will meet in Pleitz Chapel at six o’clock.
Have you visited First Cup, the new coffee shop in the ROC? First Cup is currently open Monday through Friday from 7:00 a.m. until 10:00 a.m. It’s a great place to meet your friends and neighbors for coffee, latte, cappuccino, hot tea, a smoothie, and conversation.
As we grow in faith and friendship during 2008, we are encouraging each person in our First Baptist Family to connect by….
* Actively participating in worship and a Bible study
* Getting involved in a mission and a ministry.
* Bringing a tithe and an offering.
* Building a relationship with a friend and a stranger.
There’s no better time than now to get Re-Connected!
This Sunday we will look at Genesis 3:1-7 and Romans 5:12-19 as we consider Re-Connecting with God by exploring questions pertaining to what it means to have a right relationship with God. What is “righteousness” in the Bible? How can a person who is subject to temptation and liable to sin live “righteously”? What does it mean to “get right with God”?
On Sunday evening we start a series on Introduction to the Old Testament. How was the Old Testament put together? What does the Old Testament reveal to us about God? Are we responsible for living according to all Levitical and Deuteronomic laws? During our study we will discuss the various literary types, the considerations for interpretation, and the relevancy of the Old Testament message. We will meet in Pleitz Chapel at six o’clock.
Have you visited First Cup, the new coffee shop in the ROC? First Cup is currently open Monday through Friday from 7:00 a.m. until 10:00 a.m. It’s a great place to meet your friends and neighbors for coffee, latte, cappuccino, hot tea, a smoothie, and conversation.
As we grow in faith and friendship during 2008, we are encouraging each person in our First Baptist Family to connect by….
* Actively participating in worship and a Bible study
* Getting involved in a mission and a ministry.
* Bringing a tithe and an offering.
* Building a relationship with a friend and a stranger.
There’s no better time than now to get Re-Connected!
Friday, February 01, 2008
Pray It Up, Pay It Up, and Fill It Up!
The Paul Royal Recreation and Outreach Center is now open for ministries and activities. Our students began having Sunday morning Bible Study on January 27. Upward Basketball games begin this Saturday. As with any new facility, there will be wrinkles to iron out in the scheduling process. We appreciate your patience and cooperation in working with our staff and group leaders to progressively enhance the recreation and outreach activities at the ROC.
The ROC is complete, but funding for this great facility is not yet complete. Now that this new addition to our campus is open for ministry, let us continue to bring generous and sacrificial financial gifts as we exercise faithful stewardship and complete the funding during the next few months.
In partnership with the ROC project, we are in the process of completing a mini-renovation project of the area formerly used by Student Ministries on the 3rd floor of the education building. This area will provide much needed additional space for Adult Bible study groups and for our Vietnamese Fellowship. The renovated space should be available in early February.
As we embrace the new opportunities for ministry provided by the ROC and all other spaces on our campus, let’s pray for it, pay for it, and fill it with people who need to experience the love of God.
By the way, we concluded our Winter Bible Study in Job by hearing Job’s confession to God that “I admit I once lived by rumors of you; I have it all firsthand—from my own eyes and ears! I'm sorry—forgive me. I'll never do that again, I promise! I'll never again live on crusts of hearsay, crumbs of rumor" (Job 42:5-6 TM).
Many of us could make the same confession, that we have lived more on hearsay and rumors about God than we have on biblical or experiential knowledge of God. In February, we begin a new and challenging series aimed at “Re-Connecting with God.” Each Sunday during this two month series we will consider a combination of Old and New Testament texts as we upgrade our knowledge of God and God’s purpose for us.
One really good way to broaden and upgrade our biblical knowledge is to take the 366 Challenge, a commitment to read all 69 books of the Bible in the 366 days of Leap Year. Although many in our FBC family started their reading plan on January 1, it is not too late for you to begin. You can start with today’s date and read through today’s date of next year. Planning guides to assist you in reading through the Bible are available through the church office and online at www.fbcp.org.
Two simple things will help us fill the space on our campus:
You commit to be a faithful participant in worship and Bible study.
You commit to bring a friend who doesn’t currently have a connection to a church or a personal walk with the Lord.
Together we can be a part of one of the greatest spiritual movements in the history of First Baptist Church.
The ROC is complete, but funding for this great facility is not yet complete. Now that this new addition to our campus is open for ministry, let us continue to bring generous and sacrificial financial gifts as we exercise faithful stewardship and complete the funding during the next few months.
In partnership with the ROC project, we are in the process of completing a mini-renovation project of the area formerly used by Student Ministries on the 3rd floor of the education building. This area will provide much needed additional space for Adult Bible study groups and for our Vietnamese Fellowship. The renovated space should be available in early February.
As we embrace the new opportunities for ministry provided by the ROC and all other spaces on our campus, let’s pray for it, pay for it, and fill it with people who need to experience the love of God.
By the way, we concluded our Winter Bible Study in Job by hearing Job’s confession to God that “I admit I once lived by rumors of you; I have it all firsthand—from my own eyes and ears! I'm sorry—forgive me. I'll never do that again, I promise! I'll never again live on crusts of hearsay, crumbs of rumor" (Job 42:5-6 TM).
Many of us could make the same confession, that we have lived more on hearsay and rumors about God than we have on biblical or experiential knowledge of God. In February, we begin a new and challenging series aimed at “Re-Connecting with God.” Each Sunday during this two month series we will consider a combination of Old and New Testament texts as we upgrade our knowledge of God and God’s purpose for us.
One really good way to broaden and upgrade our biblical knowledge is to take the 366 Challenge, a commitment to read all 69 books of the Bible in the 366 days of Leap Year. Although many in our FBC family started their reading plan on January 1, it is not too late for you to begin. You can start with today’s date and read through today’s date of next year. Planning guides to assist you in reading through the Bible are available through the church office and online at www.fbcp.org.
Two simple things will help us fill the space on our campus:
You commit to be a faithful participant in worship and Bible study.
You commit to bring a friend who doesn’t currently have a connection to a church or a personal walk with the Lord.
Together we can be a part of one of the greatest spiritual movements in the history of First Baptist Church.
Friday, January 25, 2008
Memories of Coach Paul "Bear" Bryant, 25 Years Later
As a child growing up in Alabama, I knew firsthand that legendary Alabama football coach, Paul “Bear” Bryant, was larger than life. Twenty-five years after Coach Bryant’s death, his name still invokes awe and respect. Known for his trademark Hound’s-tooth hat and his low rumbling growl, Coach Bryant is remembered as one of college football’s winningest coaches and one of Alabama’s most memorable citizens.
Although he did not have a degree in the subject, Coach Bryant employed sound psychology in his coaching strategy. As he urged ordinary young men to become champions, Coach Bryant taught perseverance and endurance: Never quit. It is the easiest cop-out in the world. Set a goal and don't quit until you attain it. When you do attain it, set another goal, and don't quit until you reach it. Never quit.
Coach Bryant retired at the end of the 1982 season with a record of 323 wins, 85 losses and 17 ties. He died on January 26, 1983.
Coach Jet Rogers, now an active member in our church, served as an assistant coach on Coach Bryant’s staff at the University of Alabama from June 1966 through July 1971. I took the opportunity recently to ask Coach Rogers about his memories of Coach Bryant:
Question: When Coach Bryant stepped onto the field, he was respected by his players, the fans, and his opponents. How would you describe Coach Bryant off the field?
Coach Rogers: He was a business man, reserved. One-on-one he would listen to what I had to say, then try to give me good advice.
Coach was not critical of others and kept a positive attitude. He would not allow us to use the word “can’t.” Beginning on Thursday, he had on his “game face” through Saturday, and we coaches would steer clear of him.
Question: What was Coach Bryant’s attitude toward his players and staff members?
Coach Rogers: He believed we all were part of his family. He loved us!! He would worry a great deal about our traveling so much in automobiles as we recruited prospects. We truly felt he was like a father to us, because he pushed us to do more and to be better in every possible way.
Question: What are some of your most significant memories from working with Coach Bryant?
Coach Rogers: I learned a lot about life and sports.
WINNING: Coach had us believing that we were going to win, regardless of who we played.
HELPING: I needed some financial help and asked Coach Bryant to call the bank for me and set up a loan. He proceeded to give me a father-son talk and wrote me a personal check to meet the need. Also, one year, my wife and children were in a car wreck. Coach Bryant visited our daughter in the hospital and presented her a gift which thrilled her to death.
COMPASSION: My dad passed away right after the 1967 Sugar Bowl game. Following the funeral, we returned to Tuscaloosa, and Coach Bryant walked down the hall to my office. He closed the door and told me, “A man’s daddy is the most important person he has because when you’re down and out, maybe broke, or your wife is leaving you, or things get out of control, you can always go to your dad and ask for advice. He is the one person that will help you. Jet, I know how you feel, now with your dad gone. I want to be a father figure for you.” This meant so much to me.
Question: In recent weeks the ethics and sportsmanship of some athletes and coaches have been called into question. In your opinion, did Coach Bryant practice good ethics and sportsmanship?
Coach Rogers: Yes. Coach informed parents that he would lead and teach their sons the ethics and rules of the game. He also had his own rules---some were written down and the main one, in my thinking, was: “Don’t embarrass your family; don’t embarrass yourself, the coaching staff or the University.” Coach Bryant told his players if they got an unsportsmanship penalty, they would not play anymore in that game. Further, if the player blatantly caused a penalty, he would not play in the next game. This happened to one of our best defensive players in one game, prior to our game against Auburn. Consequently, he was taken from the game and disallowed to play Auburn.
Coach stressed “respect for self and respect for authority.” His players wore a coat and tie to all the games. Also, they were to be mindful of the fact that when their coach stood up to speak to them after finishing a meal together, everyone was to stop eating and “listen up.” We were at a Bowl game and Coach finished eating, stood up, and tapped his watch a couple of times, then faced the team. One player continued eating his meal, and Coach Bryant said to him, “I want you to get up from the table, go to your room, get your suitcase, and head back to Tuscaloosa.”
Question: Do you still have contact with some of the players who played for you and Coach Bryant?
Coach Rogers: Yes. While at Pensacola High School, I hired three former players: Alec Pittman, Steve Root, and Robin Cary. I have been in a position to help one or two Bama boys in their search for coaching jobs.
About two years ago (2006), the University of Alabama honored the 1966 football team. This team went undefeated, plus a Sugar Bowl win against Nebraska. This 1966 team is known as the team without a ring, because we were the only Division I team without a loss or a tie. We all were so excited to be together again, everybody was hugging each other’s necks! These ex-players were thanking us for helping them accomplish so much. We should have been thanking them. Players and coaches are family—Coach Bryant instilled this in us.
Question: Are there any players who stand out as having demonstrated exceptional character during or since their playing years?
Coach Rogers: I can think of many players. John Croyle, Leroy Jordan, Jeremiah Castille, Ray Perkins, Woodrow Lowe, Joe LaBue, and Eddie Morgan are a few I shall mention. Coach Bryant expected us to be of good character. In his words, “If you don’t have character, you better get it soon or you will be gone.”
Question: How would you want others to remember Coach Bryant?
Coach Rogers: I honestly believe that most all of the players under Coach Bryant loved, respected, and honored him. I certainly did. I still miss chatting with him over the phone after we moved away from Tuscaloosa. If you were not fortunate to have known Coach Bryant, please read about him. I have heard comments concerning Coach that are untrue. It really upsets me when I hear people say that he drank too much. I was in his company many times, and I never witnessed him drinking excessively. I don’t think he would exhibit poor judgment. He meant so much too many—more than anyone I have ever known. People need to know that he molded lives.
Question: How do you hope your players remember you?
Coach Rogers: I loved each of them and tried to give them Christian leadership. I tried to help mold their lives. Two of my players became ordained ministers. I attended a funeral in which an ex-player preached. He shared with me that I had a strong influence on him. I appreciated this more than if he had said I was a great coach. I hope each of these men remember me as a coach who respected them, cared for them, and gave them something to lead toward productive lifestyles.
Question: What advice would you give to young high school and college athletes concerning sports and life?
Coach Rogers: I would emphasize these four areas…
ATTITUDE – Always have a good attitude. If you are on the 3rd or 4th team, don’t pout; just convince the coach that you are going to get better. Take your sport serious and use it to help mold your life for the future.
PUNCTUALITY – Always be on time for practice, meetings, meals, classes, etc.
EGO – Never get the big head. Be humble, be thankful for the ability you have and opportunities that you make happen. Always give your best; nothing less than your best.
SPIRITUAL LIFE– Go to the church of your choice. Try to live close to God and let Him guide you daily. If you do this, you will accomplish much and be a happier individual.
Although he did not have a degree in the subject, Coach Bryant employed sound psychology in his coaching strategy. As he urged ordinary young men to become champions, Coach Bryant taught perseverance and endurance: Never quit. It is the easiest cop-out in the world. Set a goal and don't quit until you attain it. When you do attain it, set another goal, and don't quit until you reach it. Never quit.
Coach Bryant retired at the end of the 1982 season with a record of 323 wins, 85 losses and 17 ties. He died on January 26, 1983.
Coach Jet Rogers, now an active member in our church, served as an assistant coach on Coach Bryant’s staff at the University of Alabama from June 1966 through July 1971. I took the opportunity recently to ask Coach Rogers about his memories of Coach Bryant:
Question: When Coach Bryant stepped onto the field, he was respected by his players, the fans, and his opponents. How would you describe Coach Bryant off the field?
Coach Rogers: He was a business man, reserved. One-on-one he would listen to what I had to say, then try to give me good advice.
Coach was not critical of others and kept a positive attitude. He would not allow us to use the word “can’t.” Beginning on Thursday, he had on his “game face” through Saturday, and we coaches would steer clear of him.
Question: What was Coach Bryant’s attitude toward his players and staff members?
Coach Rogers: He believed we all were part of his family. He loved us!! He would worry a great deal about our traveling so much in automobiles as we recruited prospects. We truly felt he was like a father to us, because he pushed us to do more and to be better in every possible way.
Question: What are some of your most significant memories from working with Coach Bryant?
Coach Rogers: I learned a lot about life and sports.
WINNING: Coach had us believing that we were going to win, regardless of who we played.
HELPING: I needed some financial help and asked Coach Bryant to call the bank for me and set up a loan. He proceeded to give me a father-son talk and wrote me a personal check to meet the need. Also, one year, my wife and children were in a car wreck. Coach Bryant visited our daughter in the hospital and presented her a gift which thrilled her to death.
COMPASSION: My dad passed away right after the 1967 Sugar Bowl game. Following the funeral, we returned to Tuscaloosa, and Coach Bryant walked down the hall to my office. He closed the door and told me, “A man’s daddy is the most important person he has because when you’re down and out, maybe broke, or your wife is leaving you, or things get out of control, you can always go to your dad and ask for advice. He is the one person that will help you. Jet, I know how you feel, now with your dad gone. I want to be a father figure for you.” This meant so much to me.
Question: In recent weeks the ethics and sportsmanship of some athletes and coaches have been called into question. In your opinion, did Coach Bryant practice good ethics and sportsmanship?
Coach Rogers: Yes. Coach informed parents that he would lead and teach their sons the ethics and rules of the game. He also had his own rules---some were written down and the main one, in my thinking, was: “Don’t embarrass your family; don’t embarrass yourself, the coaching staff or the University.” Coach Bryant told his players if they got an unsportsmanship penalty, they would not play anymore in that game. Further, if the player blatantly caused a penalty, he would not play in the next game. This happened to one of our best defensive players in one game, prior to our game against Auburn. Consequently, he was taken from the game and disallowed to play Auburn.
Coach stressed “respect for self and respect for authority.” His players wore a coat and tie to all the games. Also, they were to be mindful of the fact that when their coach stood up to speak to them after finishing a meal together, everyone was to stop eating and “listen up.” We were at a Bowl game and Coach finished eating, stood up, and tapped his watch a couple of times, then faced the team. One player continued eating his meal, and Coach Bryant said to him, “I want you to get up from the table, go to your room, get your suitcase, and head back to Tuscaloosa.”
Question: Do you still have contact with some of the players who played for you and Coach Bryant?
Coach Rogers: Yes. While at Pensacola High School, I hired three former players: Alec Pittman, Steve Root, and Robin Cary. I have been in a position to help one or two Bama boys in their search for coaching jobs.
About two years ago (2006), the University of Alabama honored the 1966 football team. This team went undefeated, plus a Sugar Bowl win against Nebraska. This 1966 team is known as the team without a ring, because we were the only Division I team without a loss or a tie. We all were so excited to be together again, everybody was hugging each other’s necks! These ex-players were thanking us for helping them accomplish so much. We should have been thanking them. Players and coaches are family—Coach Bryant instilled this in us.
Question: Are there any players who stand out as having demonstrated exceptional character during or since their playing years?
Coach Rogers: I can think of many players. John Croyle, Leroy Jordan, Jeremiah Castille, Ray Perkins, Woodrow Lowe, Joe LaBue, and Eddie Morgan are a few I shall mention. Coach Bryant expected us to be of good character. In his words, “If you don’t have character, you better get it soon or you will be gone.”
Question: How would you want others to remember Coach Bryant?
Coach Rogers: I honestly believe that most all of the players under Coach Bryant loved, respected, and honored him. I certainly did. I still miss chatting with him over the phone after we moved away from Tuscaloosa. If you were not fortunate to have known Coach Bryant, please read about him. I have heard comments concerning Coach that are untrue. It really upsets me when I hear people say that he drank too much. I was in his company many times, and I never witnessed him drinking excessively. I don’t think he would exhibit poor judgment. He meant so much too many—more than anyone I have ever known. People need to know that he molded lives.
Question: How do you hope your players remember you?
Coach Rogers: I loved each of them and tried to give them Christian leadership. I tried to help mold their lives. Two of my players became ordained ministers. I attended a funeral in which an ex-player preached. He shared with me that I had a strong influence on him. I appreciated this more than if he had said I was a great coach. I hope each of these men remember me as a coach who respected them, cared for them, and gave them something to lead toward productive lifestyles.
Question: What advice would you give to young high school and college athletes concerning sports and life?
Coach Rogers: I would emphasize these four areas…
ATTITUDE – Always have a good attitude. If you are on the 3rd or 4th team, don’t pout; just convince the coach that you are going to get better. Take your sport serious and use it to help mold your life for the future.
PUNCTUALITY – Always be on time for practice, meetings, meals, classes, etc.
EGO – Never get the big head. Be humble, be thankful for the ability you have and opportunities that you make happen. Always give your best; nothing less than your best.
SPIRITUAL LIFE– Go to the church of your choice. Try to live close to God and let Him guide you daily. If you do this, you will accomplish much and be a happier individual.
A ROC-Solid Dream Comes True
In the mid-1970’s, Dr. Pleitz, Paul Royal and other leaders led First Baptist Church to purchase the old Pensacola Technical School and convert it to the Christian Activities Center. Almost thirty years later, their vision led to another dream: the renovation and expansion of the CAC into a new multi-generational multi-purpose facility that includes an UPWARD-friendly gymnasium, enlarged restroom/shower facilities, two large multi-function meetings rooms, two classroom/conference rooms, state of the art audio/visual equipment, expanded storage space, handicap accessibility, a coffee shop, office suite, and external disaster relief trailer connections.
Dedication of the Paul Royal Recreation and Outreach Center is scheduled for this Sunday afternoon, January 27, at four o’clock. After the dedication, the ROC will be open for tours and a reception. The dedication is planned for outdoors at the entrance of the ROC, but in the event of inclement weather, the dedication will occur in the gymnasium.
Throughout January we have been exploring The Epic Adventures of Job as our Winter Bible Study for 2008. Last Sunday morning we talked about what to do “When the Darkness Deepens.” We highlighted Job’s response to his season of darkness:
*Job continued to worship.
*Job continued to dialogue with his friends.
*Job continued to dialogue with God.
*Job determined not to be overcome by the darkness.
This Sunday morning, we look at Job 42 which describes “Things Too Wonderful for Me to Know.” Invite a friend to join you are we gather for worship and Bible study.
Then Job replied to the LORD : "I know that you can do all things; no plan of yours can be thwarted. You asked, 'Who is this that obscures my counsel without knowledge?' Surely I spoke of things I did not understand, things too wonderful for me to know.” Job 42:1-3 NIV
Dedication of the Paul Royal Recreation and Outreach Center is scheduled for this Sunday afternoon, January 27, at four o’clock. After the dedication, the ROC will be open for tours and a reception. The dedication is planned for outdoors at the entrance of the ROC, but in the event of inclement weather, the dedication will occur in the gymnasium.
Throughout January we have been exploring The Epic Adventures of Job as our Winter Bible Study for 2008. Last Sunday morning we talked about what to do “When the Darkness Deepens.” We highlighted Job’s response to his season of darkness:
*Job continued to worship.
*Job continued to dialogue with his friends.
*Job continued to dialogue with God.
*Job determined not to be overcome by the darkness.
This Sunday morning, we look at Job 42 which describes “Things Too Wonderful for Me to Know.” Invite a friend to join you are we gather for worship and Bible study.
Then Job replied to the LORD : "I know that you can do all things; no plan of yours can be thwarted. You asked, 'Who is this that obscures my counsel without knowledge?' Surely I spoke of things I did not understand, things too wonderful for me to know.” Job 42:1-3 NIV
Friday, December 28, 2007
As We Leap into 2008, Our Church ROCKS!
On behalf our staff and leadership team, thank you for your participation and cooperation in making 2007 a memorable year of mission and ministry. Also, thank you for the Christmas cards, notes, goodies, and other gifts presented to our ministers and support staff during the holiday season.
.
As we begin 2008, we are building our ministries and activities on Our Church ROCKS: Recreation, Outreach, Commitment, Knowledge, and Stewardship.
To solidify our commitment to Christ and to broaden our biblical knowledge, we are inviting and encouraging all ages to take the 366 Challenge, a commitment to read all 69 books of the Bible in the 366 days of Leap Year. Planning guides to assist you in reading through the Bible are available through the church office and online on our web site at www.fbcp.org.
During our Winter Bible Study on Sunday evenings and Wednesday evenings in January, we will explore “The Epic Adventures of Job,” a study which will prepare us to deal with life’s diverse circumstances with an eye of faith.
The Dedication of the Paul Royal Recreation and Outreach Center is scheduled for Sunday afternoon January 27. Our students will move into the ROC on Sunday January 13, and other activities, including Upward and Body Recall will begin during the week following the dedication.
On Sunday December 30 you are invited to meet for Fellowship in the Atrium at 9:15. Worship begins in Chipley Hall at 10:00. During our worship service this Sunday we will be asking “Which Gifts Will You Return?” as we look into Isaiah 63: 7-9.
Remember that our Wednesday Family Dinners, Prayer Service, and Activities will resume on January 9.
Also as the New Year begins, watch for our new “promotional spot” on Channel 3 WEAR, our local ABC affiliate.
The beginning of the New Year presents great opportunities for us to reach people and strengthen believers. Leap into 2008 with radical faithfulness to the Lord!
.
As we begin 2008, we are building our ministries and activities on Our Church ROCKS: Recreation, Outreach, Commitment, Knowledge, and Stewardship.
To solidify our commitment to Christ and to broaden our biblical knowledge, we are inviting and encouraging all ages to take the 366 Challenge, a commitment to read all 69 books of the Bible in the 366 days of Leap Year. Planning guides to assist you in reading through the Bible are available through the church office and online on our web site at www.fbcp.org.
During our Winter Bible Study on Sunday evenings and Wednesday evenings in January, we will explore “The Epic Adventures of Job,” a study which will prepare us to deal with life’s diverse circumstances with an eye of faith.
The Dedication of the Paul Royal Recreation and Outreach Center is scheduled for Sunday afternoon January 27. Our students will move into the ROC on Sunday January 13, and other activities, including Upward and Body Recall will begin during the week following the dedication.
On Sunday December 30 you are invited to meet for Fellowship in the Atrium at 9:15. Worship begins in Chipley Hall at 10:00. During our worship service this Sunday we will be asking “Which Gifts Will You Return?” as we look into Isaiah 63: 7-9.
Remember that our Wednesday Family Dinners, Prayer Service, and Activities will resume on January 9.
Also as the New Year begins, watch for our new “promotional spot” on Channel 3 WEAR, our local ABC affiliate.
The beginning of the New Year presents great opportunities for us to reach people and strengthen believers. Leap into 2008 with radical faithfulness to the Lord!
Tuesday, December 25, 2007
There's 'Joy' in the Manger
Through the years I have enjoyed observing countless living nativity scenes during the holiday season. Most of these scenes are staged on the lawns of church campuses or they are incorporated into annual Christmas pageants. Many of the scenes include both human characterization and a menagerie of live animals.
The cast of animals varies according to the size of the production and the geographic placement of the scene. A small production in a rural church, for example, could include Mrs. Smith’s dairy cow and Mr. Jones’ Billy goat. A larger production could feature animals of Middle Eastern origin that are on loan from a local zoo.
I have to admit, it’s quite intriguing to see peculiar characters like a caravan of live camels traversing the aisles of a church. It could make one wonder why we do not see more peculiar characters walking the aisles and hallways of the church all year long.
However, the most fascinating thing to me about living nativity portrayals is the casting of human characters. Most of us actually know very little about the apparel of first century Palestine. Therefore, costuming can range from a professional wardrobe obtained through a local drama department or theatre, to a more amateurish wardrobe hastily formed from the closets, attics, and garages of the participants. I have seen boy angels and girl angels dressed in white baptismal robes, tinseled halos, and decorative wings that were created by carefully re-shaped coat hangers wrapped in butcher paper. I have marveled at cleanly shaven shepherds, accompanied by an occasional shepherdess, adorned in multicolored bathrobes and wearing headdresses made from leftover rope from the garage and towels purchased from the clearance table at a local department store. The shepherds are strategically placed across from gift-bearing wise men who are dressed like kings in royal regalia. According to the Bible the wise men arrived many months later, but in our “willing suspension of disbelief” we have grown comfortable with wise men showing up prematurely at the living nativity for a Kodak moment.
But the central feature of every living nativity is the manger, usually a rough-hewn wooden trough or a wicker clothesbasket containing the Christ child who is positioned in the spotlight gaze of the adoring parents. The roles of Mary and Joseph are usually portrayed by a teen couple, or a young husband and wife, or the occasional father daughter combination. And the role of baby Jesus is usually assigned to one or more of the freshest newborns in the church.
Through the years I have seen blond Marys and brunette Marys, hippy Josephs and balding Josephs, and both cooing babies and crying babies cast as the infant king. Interestingly, this year at our church, in our Preschool’s living nativity, baby Jesus was exceptionally… beautiful. She really was. She was beautiful. Her name was Joy. You see, in our church it doesn’t matter whether a boy baby or a girl baby plays the part of Jesus. Because we want all of our boys and girls to grow up to be more like Jesus, we tend to start them out on this journey early. So this year, there was literally “Joy” in the manger.
Maybe one of the reasons Jesus came into the world in the first place was so that all of us, the peculiar and ordinary, the young and the old, and the boys and the girls could find Joy in the manger. After all, the Joy in the manger is intended to be Joy for the whole world.
And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. Luke 2:10 KJV
The cast of animals varies according to the size of the production and the geographic placement of the scene. A small production in a rural church, for example, could include Mrs. Smith’s dairy cow and Mr. Jones’ Billy goat. A larger production could feature animals of Middle Eastern origin that are on loan from a local zoo.
I have to admit, it’s quite intriguing to see peculiar characters like a caravan of live camels traversing the aisles of a church. It could make one wonder why we do not see more peculiar characters walking the aisles and hallways of the church all year long.
However, the most fascinating thing to me about living nativity portrayals is the casting of human characters. Most of us actually know very little about the apparel of first century Palestine. Therefore, costuming can range from a professional wardrobe obtained through a local drama department or theatre, to a more amateurish wardrobe hastily formed from the closets, attics, and garages of the participants. I have seen boy angels and girl angels dressed in white baptismal robes, tinseled halos, and decorative wings that were created by carefully re-shaped coat hangers wrapped in butcher paper. I have marveled at cleanly shaven shepherds, accompanied by an occasional shepherdess, adorned in multicolored bathrobes and wearing headdresses made from leftover rope from the garage and towels purchased from the clearance table at a local department store. The shepherds are strategically placed across from gift-bearing wise men who are dressed like kings in royal regalia. According to the Bible the wise men arrived many months later, but in our “willing suspension of disbelief” we have grown comfortable with wise men showing up prematurely at the living nativity for a Kodak moment.
But the central feature of every living nativity is the manger, usually a rough-hewn wooden trough or a wicker clothesbasket containing the Christ child who is positioned in the spotlight gaze of the adoring parents. The roles of Mary and Joseph are usually portrayed by a teen couple, or a young husband and wife, or the occasional father daughter combination. And the role of baby Jesus is usually assigned to one or more of the freshest newborns in the church.
Through the years I have seen blond Marys and brunette Marys, hippy Josephs and balding Josephs, and both cooing babies and crying babies cast as the infant king. Interestingly, this year at our church, in our Preschool’s living nativity, baby Jesus was exceptionally… beautiful. She really was. She was beautiful. Her name was Joy. You see, in our church it doesn’t matter whether a boy baby or a girl baby plays the part of Jesus. Because we want all of our boys and girls to grow up to be more like Jesus, we tend to start them out on this journey early. So this year, there was literally “Joy” in the manger.
Maybe one of the reasons Jesus came into the world in the first place was so that all of us, the peculiar and ordinary, the young and the old, and the boys and the girls could find Joy in the manger. After all, the Joy in the manger is intended to be Joy for the whole world.
And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. Luke 2:10 KJV
Friday, December 07, 2007
Advent Devotional: Discovering the Prince of Peace
For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Isaiah 9:6
Of all the names in the Bible that refer to the promised messiah, during the past two or three years the title Prince of Peace has taken on new meaning for our family. Through our years of marriage, we have been blessed with good health, supportive congregations, and encouraging friends. However, during the past few years, we have been smitten with barrage of health issues on both sides of our family.
When a family member is being treated for a catastrophic illness, you learn to be extremely flexible. You learn to pray in deeper ways than you have prayed before. You learn not to panic when the phone rings in the middle of the night. You strive to keep all of your family members on the same page regarding care and treatment. You take time to treasure your phone calls and visits with them because you are more aware of the uncertainty of the future. Such circumstances tend to intensify your stress level and keep your emotions on edge.
God has promised never to leave us but to give us strength in times of adversity. The prophet Isaiah told of a coming messiah who would be an insightful counselor, a proactive God, an ever-present father, and an ambassador of peace. As Christians, we believe that these attributes describe the life and ministry of Jesus.
The Apostle Paul encouraged believers to look to the Prince of Peace in every season and every circumstance: Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:6-7)
When unexpected difficulties and challenges come your way, invite the Prince of Peace to guard your emotions and guide your decisions.
Prayer: God of peace, thank you for promising to be with us in all of the seasons of life. Whether we are on the highest mountain or in the lowest valley, grant us inner peace through our companionship with Christ. Amen.
Of all the names in the Bible that refer to the promised messiah, during the past two or three years the title Prince of Peace has taken on new meaning for our family. Through our years of marriage, we have been blessed with good health, supportive congregations, and encouraging friends. However, during the past few years, we have been smitten with barrage of health issues on both sides of our family.
When a family member is being treated for a catastrophic illness, you learn to be extremely flexible. You learn to pray in deeper ways than you have prayed before. You learn not to panic when the phone rings in the middle of the night. You strive to keep all of your family members on the same page regarding care and treatment. You take time to treasure your phone calls and visits with them because you are more aware of the uncertainty of the future. Such circumstances tend to intensify your stress level and keep your emotions on edge.
God has promised never to leave us but to give us strength in times of adversity. The prophet Isaiah told of a coming messiah who would be an insightful counselor, a proactive God, an ever-present father, and an ambassador of peace. As Christians, we believe that these attributes describe the life and ministry of Jesus.
The Apostle Paul encouraged believers to look to the Prince of Peace in every season and every circumstance: Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:6-7)
When unexpected difficulties and challenges come your way, invite the Prince of Peace to guard your emotions and guide your decisions.
Prayer: God of peace, thank you for promising to be with us in all of the seasons of life. Whether we are on the highest mountain or in the lowest valley, grant us inner peace through our companionship with Christ. Amen.
Listening for the Voice of the Angel
As we journey through Advent, the season comes alive with candles and carols, prophecies and promises, food and festivities. Last Sunday in worship we lit the Prophecy Candle, reminding us of the messianic promises rendered by prophets long ago.
During each of our worship services this Sunday we will light the Angels Candle, highlighting the angelic announcements to Elizabeth and Zechariah, to Joseph and Mary, and to Shepherds watching their flocks by night. As we continue our countdown to Christmas, we will sing the carols of the season and we will explore an unusual passage from Isaiah 11:1-10 as we ask, “Would You Let Your Child Pet a Snake?” Isaiah poetically and prophetically envisions a day when the Messiah will establish peace among all of God’s creation.
On Sunday evening, we will gather at six o’clock for The Sounds of Christmas, a concert of seasonal music presented by the Acapella Singers, the Sanctuary Bells, and the Worship Team.
On Wednesday December 12 we will gather for the ROCking Christmas Buffet. In addition to enjoying the annual feast prepared by Gloria and our kitchen staff, we will hear updates and reports on The Paul Royal Recreation and Outreach Center. The ROC will be open for tours from 4:00-5:30 p.m.
The 2007 Advent Devotional Book written by our members and published by our Children’s Ministry Department is outstanding. Also, check out the “Advent Devotional” link on our church web site where you can access the booklet online.
Invite a friend or family member to join you as we gather for worship and Bible study during Advent.
Holiday Worship Schedule:
Dec 23 8:45 Bible Study
10:00 Worship (sanctuary)
Dec 24 5:00 Candles and Carols (sanctuary)
Dec 30 9:15 Fellowship in the Atrium
10:00 Worship (Chipley Hall)
During each of our worship services this Sunday we will light the Angels Candle, highlighting the angelic announcements to Elizabeth and Zechariah, to Joseph and Mary, and to Shepherds watching their flocks by night. As we continue our countdown to Christmas, we will sing the carols of the season and we will explore an unusual passage from Isaiah 11:1-10 as we ask, “Would You Let Your Child Pet a Snake?” Isaiah poetically and prophetically envisions a day when the Messiah will establish peace among all of God’s creation.
On Sunday evening, we will gather at six o’clock for The Sounds of Christmas, a concert of seasonal music presented by the Acapella Singers, the Sanctuary Bells, and the Worship Team.
On Wednesday December 12 we will gather for the ROCking Christmas Buffet. In addition to enjoying the annual feast prepared by Gloria and our kitchen staff, we will hear updates and reports on The Paul Royal Recreation and Outreach Center. The ROC will be open for tours from 4:00-5:30 p.m.
The 2007 Advent Devotional Book written by our members and published by our Children’s Ministry Department is outstanding. Also, check out the “Advent Devotional” link on our church web site where you can access the booklet online.
Invite a friend or family member to join you as we gather for worship and Bible study during Advent.
Holiday Worship Schedule:
Dec 23 8:45 Bible Study
10:00 Worship (sanctuary)
Dec 24 5:00 Candles and Carols (sanctuary)
Dec 30 9:15 Fellowship in the Atrium
10:00 Worship (Chipley Hall)
Wednesday, November 28, 2007
Navigating Your Advent Journey
Our journey from Advent to Christmas can be one of the most spiritually enriching seasons of the year. As we steadily pace ourselves toward our celebration of Christmas, we have an opportunity to listen to prophetic promises with fresh ears, to hear the angels sing as if for the first time, and to imagine the nativity with eyes wide open.
During this festive season, our occasions for worship will be filled with the sounds and symbols of Advent. Voices from multiple generations will lead us in singing the expectant hymns and hope-filled songs that announce, “Joy to the world, the Lord is come.” From the lighting of the Advent candles, to the singing of the carols, to the messianic prophecies and nativity stories, our worship opportunities during December will deepen your faith and nourish your soul.
To navigate your Advent journey, I encourage you to utilize an Advent Devotional Guide for your daily quiet time. Our Children’s Ministry has prepared a booklet of devotionals written by families in our church, a booklet which will be distributed on Sunday December 2. Several other devotional resources are available online and at local bookstores.
During Advent, let us ROC with generous giving. First, your tithes will support our missions and ministries through the church budget. Second, again this year we invite your participation in seasonal missions such as Angel Tree, the World Mission Offering in honor of Lottie Moon, and other local holiday projects. Finally, we encourage your end-of-the-year gifts toward the ROC which is scheduled to open in January.
Devote primetime to family and friends. During the holiday blitz your calendar can quickly become overcrowded with activities sponsored by the church, school, and office. Protect your calendar from holiday overload and designate some primetime to be with family and friends.
Don’t let the holiday rush dictate your pace. Like the wise ones of preceding years, take time to intentionally navigate your way toward the star in Bethlehem.
As we progress through our Advent journey, may we be filled with the hope, peace, love, and joy of Christ.
During this festive season, our occasions for worship will be filled with the sounds and symbols of Advent. Voices from multiple generations will lead us in singing the expectant hymns and hope-filled songs that announce, “Joy to the world, the Lord is come.” From the lighting of the Advent candles, to the singing of the carols, to the messianic prophecies and nativity stories, our worship opportunities during December will deepen your faith and nourish your soul.
To navigate your Advent journey, I encourage you to utilize an Advent Devotional Guide for your daily quiet time. Our Children’s Ministry has prepared a booklet of devotionals written by families in our church, a booklet which will be distributed on Sunday December 2. Several other devotional resources are available online and at local bookstores.
During Advent, let us ROC with generous giving. First, your tithes will support our missions and ministries through the church budget. Second, again this year we invite your participation in seasonal missions such as Angel Tree, the World Mission Offering in honor of Lottie Moon, and other local holiday projects. Finally, we encourage your end-of-the-year gifts toward the ROC which is scheduled to open in January.
Devote primetime to family and friends. During the holiday blitz your calendar can quickly become overcrowded with activities sponsored by the church, school, and office. Protect your calendar from holiday overload and designate some primetime to be with family and friends.
Don’t let the holiday rush dictate your pace. Like the wise ones of preceding years, take time to intentionally navigate your way toward the star in Bethlehem.
As we progress through our Advent journey, may we be filled with the hope, peace, love, and joy of Christ.
Progressing Toward Christmas...One Candle at a Time
Advent is a progressive journey. Much like a progressive dinner, where a group travels sequentially from one residence to the next, partaking of a multi-course meal along the way, so it is with Advent. We begin with the messianic promises of the prophets and journey toward the birth of the Christ child, with scenic stops along the way. This seasonal pilgrimage allows us to sense the anxiety and the anticipation of those who have traveled these roads before us.
This Sunday in worship, we begin our Advent journey by lighting the Prophecy Candle. We will focus on Isaiah 2:1-5 as we rediscover the promise of peace. Also on Sunday morning, we will witness the parade of flags as we focus on global missions and we will hear from our children’s choirs as a preview of their Christmas concert on this Sunday evening.
In the Sundays to come we will progressively light the Bethlehem Candle, the Angel’s Candle, and the Shepherd’s Candle, leading up to the lighting of the Christ Candle on Christmas Eve.
Pray for the Challenger Award Banquet which is scheduled for Monday, December 3 at the Civic Center. In addition to a great meal and awards presentations, each athlete and guest will hear former NFL great Danny Buggs share his testimony and a clear invitation to the Christian life.
Next week, December 2-9, is the Week of Prayer for Global Missions. On Wednesday, December 5 we will hear from two of the missionaries we have supported during the past year. Andrea Burks will share highlights from her experiences in Indonesia and Mark Davis will share about ongoing work in Russia and points beyond.
This season of the year presents multiple opportunities to invite disconnected friends and family members to join you in worship. Who can you invite to join you for worship and Bible study this Sunday?
This Sunday in worship, we begin our Advent journey by lighting the Prophecy Candle. We will focus on Isaiah 2:1-5 as we rediscover the promise of peace. Also on Sunday morning, we will witness the parade of flags as we focus on global missions and we will hear from our children’s choirs as a preview of their Christmas concert on this Sunday evening.
In the Sundays to come we will progressively light the Bethlehem Candle, the Angel’s Candle, and the Shepherd’s Candle, leading up to the lighting of the Christ Candle on Christmas Eve.
Pray for the Challenger Award Banquet which is scheduled for Monday, December 3 at the Civic Center. In addition to a great meal and awards presentations, each athlete and guest will hear former NFL great Danny Buggs share his testimony and a clear invitation to the Christian life.
Next week, December 2-9, is the Week of Prayer for Global Missions. On Wednesday, December 5 we will hear from two of the missionaries we have supported during the past year. Andrea Burks will share highlights from her experiences in Indonesia and Mark Davis will share about ongoing work in Russia and points beyond.
This season of the year presents multiple opportunities to invite disconnected friends and family members to join you in worship. Who can you invite to join you for worship and Bible study this Sunday?
Tuesday, November 06, 2007
Are You Ready to Take Your Walk Across the Room?
On Sunday evenings during October, we have been talking about casual ways to share our faith as we have been studying key passages of scripture alongside Bill Hybels' book, Just Walk Across the Room.
As we begin the month of November, are you ready to take your walk across the room?
As you prepare to be more proactive in sharing the good news, remember the following highlights from our conversations in October:
1. A few of us may have the spiritual gift of evangelism, but all of us have the responsibility to evangelize.
2. Your everyday experiences on familiar and unfamiliar turf will present unlimited opportunities for you to walk across the room to initiate contact and conversation with others.
3. Your conversation may plant a seed that bears fruit years later or immediately.
4. Taking the initiative to walk across the room requires discipline and commitment. You must do it several times before it becomes a way of life.
5. Discover how many ways you can talk about God, abundant life, faith, church, and Jesus without using religious words. Consider how many times Jesus talked with individuals about life concerns before they learned his identity.
How do you take your first steps? For many of us, walking across the room begins with baby steps:
1. Welcome someone to church that you do not yet know.
2. Make a list of "starter questions" to assist you with starting a conversation.
3. Be sure to notice the person in any crowd who is alone.
4. Have a goal of initiating a conversation with a stranger at least once a week.
5. Without sounding overtly religious, share the good news casually and conversationally.
God wants to work through you, your personality, your contacts, and your calendar to invite others into God's family.
As we begin the month of November, are you ready to take your walk across the room?
As you prepare to be more proactive in sharing the good news, remember the following highlights from our conversations in October:
1. A few of us may have the spiritual gift of evangelism, but all of us have the responsibility to evangelize.
2. Your everyday experiences on familiar and unfamiliar turf will present unlimited opportunities for you to walk across the room to initiate contact and conversation with others.
3. Your conversation may plant a seed that bears fruit years later or immediately.
4. Taking the initiative to walk across the room requires discipline and commitment. You must do it several times before it becomes a way of life.
5. Discover how many ways you can talk about God, abundant life, faith, church, and Jesus without using religious words. Consider how many times Jesus talked with individuals about life concerns before they learned his identity.
How do you take your first steps? For many of us, walking across the room begins with baby steps:
1. Welcome someone to church that you do not yet know.
2. Make a list of "starter questions" to assist you with starting a conversation.
3. Be sure to notice the person in any crowd who is alone.
4. Have a goal of initiating a conversation with a stranger at least once a week.
5. Without sounding overtly religious, share the good news casually and conversationally.
God wants to work through you, your personality, your contacts, and your calendar to invite others into God's family.
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