todd's blog...

What If They Shut Down the Churches?

2011-03-10T09:14:00.002-05:00

Whenever I read 1 Peter, I'm reminded that things haven't historically gone well for Christians. Marginalization. Martyrdom. All sorts of mayhem from the hands of humans, inspired by the "roaring lion looking for someone to devour" (1 Peter 5:8). I can't help but sense in my gut that the times, they are a changing back. It's not easy being a Christian today. I'm not going to lay blame at the media. Nor am I going to over blow the failures of Christians and Christian leaders. The biblical fact remains, all of history leads to times getting bad for everyone...including Christians. Such lack of exemption shouldn't surprise us or paralyze us with discouragement. It should embolden us knowing that as things get worse, Christ's return is getting closer.

In the meantime, we are to embrace our hope in Christ and move about this earth as "God's chosen people, a royal priesthood, a people belonging to God..." (1 Peter 2:9). We are "strangers in this world" (1 Peter 2:11).

If you need some encouragement in light of the times, read the lyrics from "A Cathedral Made of People" by Downhere. It's a great song that speaks honestly about Christian marginalization and persecution. What makes is great is that it reminds every Christian that "They can't touch you!" (I've also posted the link to a live video of Downhere's performance of the song).

Cathedral Made of People

If they shut down the churches,
Where would you go?
If they melted all the stained-glass windows
Replaced every sanctuary with a condo
Where would you go?
Where would you go?

We are a cathedral made of people
In a kingdom that the eye can't see
We're a house, we are the bride
Where God's Spirit lives inside
And nothing ever could stand against her

If they burned every Bible
What would you know?
If they tore your marked-up pages
How would you grow?
And declared your devotion to be criminal
What would you know?
What would you know?

When they throw you in prison
What will you do?
When they hate you for the things that you know are true
They can tear down this temple,
But they can't touch you.

An Every-Day Prayer for Every Leader

2010-11-08T16:28:00.003-05:00

"O God, you know how foolish I am; my sins cannot be hidden from you. Don't let those who trust in you stumble because of me, O sovereign Lord Almighty. Don't le me cause them to be humiliated, O God of Israel."

(Psalm 69:5-6)

Leadership is tough enough without considering the fact that every leader is a human being with the full potential of being human...prone to sin and sin big. If you are in a position of influence or leadership, you should be able to identify with King David's prayer.

Husbands, if you love your wife, this is a good prayer for you everyday.

Fathers, if you love your children, this is a good prayer for you to pray every day.

Pastors, if you love your congregation, this is an good prayer for you to pray every day.

Leaders of all kinds, if you love and care about the people who follow you, this is a good prayer for you to pray every day.

Let's pray...

Don't Make God Laugh

2010-09-10T10:13:00.003-04:00

Did you ever wonder what makes God laugh? Psalm 37:13 tells us one thing that makes God laugh..."The wicked plot against the godly; they snarl at them in defiance. But the Lord just laughs, for he sees their day of judgment."

I have two takeaways from this verse. First, I don't want to make God laugh this way. It spells my doom and demise. Second, I take comfort, and so can you, knowing that whatever evil you face in your day that God will bring it to account someday in the future.

He sees all and some of it makes Him laugh.

Riverbank Baptisms

2010-07-19T11:58:00.003-04:00

A crowd of over a hundred strong gathered last evening on the banks of the Juniata River to witness the baptisms of Emily Foltz, Susan Bailey, Meaghan Mills, and Maggi Bailey. With only minor prompting from me, the crowd cheered wildly and loudly every time Derek and I lifted one from beneath the waters. The sounds rivaled those heard at sporting events.

I woke up early yesterday morning with one thought, "I get to baptize people today!" Baptism never get old. It's one way I know the church is succeeding in its efforts to connect the Gospel with people. All heaven had to be stoked last night as each lady shared her story of the difference Christ has made in her life. Maggie acknowledged a new peace in her life. Susan has realized God's real companionship despite real loss. Meaghan championed God's help as she overcame some significant problems.

Eight-year old Emily had this to say,

"Throughout my life, I have learned about God at church, during Sunday school and at home with my parents. I believe there is only one God and he sent his son, Jesus, to earth. I have read how wonderful he is in the Bible. Because he died for me to get rid of my sins, I have decided to follow him. I decided to get baptized today because Jesus is my Lord and I want to trust him with the rest of my life!"

Attagirl, Emily! And, congratulations to Susan, Meaghan, and Maggi. Your decisions to follow Christ will never be a disappointment. Devonshire is so proud to be part of your lives and grateful that God has used our lives to encourage you in some significant way.

Stay tuned to DevonshireDiaries as a pictures will be posted soon.

Champs...Again!

2010-07-14T09:40:00.008-04:00

For the second year in a row, Devonshire Church has won the Capital Area Church Softball League (CACSL) championship. It took three close, nail-biting games against Christ the Savior to determine the winner. After losing the first game, we came from behind with bottom of the seventh inning heroics to win the second game. We only hoisted the trophy after a triple and a homerun in the top of the seventh gave us a slight 3-2 lead. But, that one run is all we needed. Once again, our solid defense proved enough to prevail in the end. (For more on the narrative of this game, along with pictures, check out DevonshireDiaries).

This trip to the league championship was our fifth straight. Our name has been engraved on the trophy three times in that span of time. Very impressive for a group of men who truly play with a competitive drive that shows respect for the game, it's fellows competitors, and those who officiate. I'm so proud to be part of this group. Their comradery and their encouragement means the world to me. What a privilege we have to play hard and bring pleasure to the God who made us and watches over us.

Wanted: Dead but Alive

2010-04-12T08:47:00.005-04:00

"In the same way, count yourselves DEAD to sin

BUT ALIVE to God in Christ Jesus."

(Romans 6:11)

I've been privilege to baptize Christ-followers for 22 years. And, the experience never gets old. Chills run down my spine every time I hear a believer say, "I want people to know that Jesus is my Lord and I will follow Him for the rest of my life." Four individuals were baptized yesterday at Devonshire Church. It was so encouraging!

Yet, it was also very challenging. Every time a believer is baptized it reminds me of my baptism. I made the same profession. And, there's the challenge. Every baptism I witness, I'm forced to ask the question,

"Am I living up to my baptism?"

You've heard the old slogan, "Wanted: Dead or Alive." But Saint Paul offers a different slogan for all of us who used to be spiritual outlaws, "Wanted: Dead BUT Alive!" In Christ, we can be both dead and alive. It's mysterious and it's real. When we were baptized into Christ, Saint Paul says we "were baptized into [Christ's] death" (Romans 6:3). He goes on to explain the mysterious benefit, "We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life" (Romans 6:4).

Today, let me encourage you to live up to your baptism. "Count yourself dead to sin but alive to God in Christ Jesus" (Romans 6:11). Say "no" to wickedness and "yes" to righteousness (Romans 6:11-14).

Pitch...Puff...Pitch...Puff

2010-03-08T08:51:00.011-05:00

"Grass, Dirt, and Smoke: The Reflections of A Little Leaguer." This would be the title I would give my childhood memoirs.

Baseball was my life as a kid. I loved everything about it, especially the smells. Pine tar on my black Louisville Slugger. Oil on my blonde leather glove (Rawlings, of course). Dirt on the leather ball (again, Rawlings). Sweat in my cap. Freshly cut grass. And, the cherry-scented smoke aromatically rising up from my coach's pipe.

Dave Finton was my favorite coach ever. Today, I learned that he passed away. My heart sank for his family. And then it soared as I reflected on his life. Dave was a common man who worked hard for my home state's Department of Transportation. The tall southpaw seemed to have supernatural endurance when throwing batting practice to his "boys of summer" who donned the maroon and white pinstripe uniform of Bob's Finer Foods. As impressed as I was with Coach Finton's pitching stamina, I was even more impressed with his ability to simultaneously puff on his pipe, which stuck out from the right side of his mouth, clenched firmly between his teeth.

It was all so rhythmic and aromatic...Pitch...Puff...Pitch...Puff...Pitch...Puff...like music and incense.

RIP Coach Finton. You stood tall in my life. You gave me confidence at an early age that I could face challenges and rise above my limitations with hard work. With your even temper, you taught me that patience and kindness wear well with people of all ages. I drew upon your example when called upon to coach my own little leaguers. You made my summers, Dave. And, those summers helped to make me much of the man that I am today.

Get Primal

2009-12-16T08:54:00.005-05:00

Just got my hands on a new book by Mark Batterson. Those who know me know that I devour anything that has to do with the great commandment--"Love God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength."

In the past, Mark's been "In A Pit with A Lion on A Snowy Day" and on a "Wild Goose Chase." Now, He's gone Primal. His point? "The church has a perception problem." That problem is a lack of compassion, which is the result on not being great at the Great Commandment. According to Batterson, the church will do well to quit making things so complicated and get back to the simple things like loving God more and loving others better. I like that. You will too.

So, get your copy. Heck! Why not make it the first book you read in the New Year. Go Primal in 2010!

God and Man In the Wild

2009-10-22T07:00:00.000-04:00

I love great quotes. Yesterday, while attending a conference in Orlando, a special guest spoke. You may know him as the "Man vs Wild" guy. His name is Bear Grylls. He is a survivalist, showing his watchers how to difficult places, navigate terrible terrain and eat just about anything. He is in the Guinness Book of World Records for being the youngest British climber (and one of only 30 British climbers) that made it to the peak and survived Mt. Everest.

In a comment about his faith and what it means to him while out adventuring, he said something very, very, very cool: "What a pleasure it is to climb the mountain with the Person who made the mountain."

Those who know me know that I'm not a great nature-guy. But, Bear's comments have given me a new vision for the great outdoors, whether at the beach, or looking down from a plane, or simply standing on the deck looking at the changes leaves on the trees that line my yard, "It's nice to be with the One who made everything I can see around me."

"The earth is the Lord's and all that is in it..." (Psalm 24:1).

Your Bible Has Eyes!

2009-10-09T11:03:00.001-04:00

"For the word of God is full of living power. It is sharper than the sharpest knife, cutting deep into our innermost thoughts and desires. It exposes us for what we realy are. Nothing in all creation can hide from him. Everything is nake and exposed before his eyes. This is the God to whom we must explain all that we have done."
(from the Bible, Hebrews 4:12-13)

"I always feel like, somebody's watching me...and I have no privacy"
(from the song, "Somebody's Watching Me")

Give in today to your Bible's magnetic pull and read something from it.

IT'S ALIVE !

Life...It's All About the Shoes

2009-10-01T12:25:00.004-04:00

I officiated a funeral the other day. Troy was 44 and larger than life, both in his big 6'3"/300+ lbs frame and his heart. God gave him a large body to house his huge heart for people. Many great things were said about Troy. Funny things. Sad things. Memorable things. But it was the funeral director's words that have stuck with me. Here's what she said (my paraphrase, except for the last line) as she came to the podium to close the service.

"You all came here today to celebrate the life of a man who lived only a short time on this earth. He is home now. It serves to remind us and make us think that life is short. None of us are promised another moment. We never know when our next moment might be our last. So, if you need to tell someone that you love them, then do it. If you need to forgive someone, then go forgive them. If you need to thank someone, then when you leave here today, go thank them. Because when you put your shoes on in the morning, you never know who might take them off at night."

I loved her sentiments. So, take her advice. Go live them in light of the fact that tomorrow might be too late. As a good friend of mine said to me today, "Go out with your boots on."

Let Someone Do Good For You

2009-07-15T09:29:00.008-04:00

Why is it so hard to let someone do good for us?

Maybe this isn't a problem for you, but I was confronted by it yesterday as I stood at a register in a sporting goods store, two cents short of what the clerk expected.

From somehere over my right shoulder, I heard very pleasant voice say, "Oh, I have two cents!" A woman that I didn't even know was quick to the draw, digging into her purse to pull out her two copper coins needed for my purchase. I became extremely reluctant to accept her act of kindness and embarrased that I was unprepared. She was all smiles and felt good about "doing my good deed for the day."

I know that feeling. I prefer to have that feeling. You see, I would rather be the one giving two cents than receiving it. Helping people usually brings a rush of good feelings. Being helped is just way too awkward. The $0.02 might as well have been $20. My reaction would've been the same.

It bothers me to think that I would've much rather been on the side of giving away two cents than receiving it. Why should I hog all the good feelings. And, why should I want to deny someone the simple joy of knowing that they've done something to help another. Because I'm a proud human being! But, that's no excuse.

Today, I'm glad I didn't have the two cents. What is more, I'm glad that I didn't have the sense to come up with a way to keep this very nice lady from doing good.

Let someone do good for you. It'll make them smile...and God too!

Champs!

2009-07-13T10:57:00.007-04:00

For the fourth year in a row, Devonshire Church made it to the championship game of the Capital Area Church Softball League.

Last night, in front of about 150 "fans" (between the two teams) Devonshire secured the trophy for the second time in a 16-14 thriller against a very good Clark's Valley EC Church. We also finished with a best-ever 18 & 3 record.

Sports has so shaped my life. I love the competition. And, as I've gotten older, I love the camraderie that I share with my teammates and the members from the other teams. Last night was no different.

Even though there were winners and losers in last night's outcome, I think the way the two teams handled their attitudes and actions made God smile.

And, that's really all that matters!

Can You Hear Me Now?

2009-07-10T15:10:00.005-04:00

Wouldn't it be great if each of us had a direct phone line to God? So much frustration from the unknown could be avoided if we could just hear God clearly, without any interferences.

Beginning this Sunday, I'm starting a sermon series called, Can You Hear Me Now? This set of four sermons is designed to encourage everyone to listen for God admidst the interferences of daily life. If you're like me, you have lots of clutter and clamor, noisy-ing up your life. Interferences like anxiety, sin, and doubt make it hard for us to hear God. But, it's in these moments that God can and does speak. And, trust me, what he has to say is worth hearing.

From personal experience, I will bring three convictions to these messages.

Conviction #1: God wants to speak to me.

Conviction #2: My life is improved when I hear what God has to say.

Conviction #3: There is competitive "noise" that needs to be turned off so I can hear God .

Please feel free to join us at Devonshire for worship at 10:30am or listen to our sermon podcasts.

Lyrics I Like

2009-06-26T07:00:00.002-04:00

I've been listening a lot to Coldplay, Collective Soul, and Kutless recently. Each group has thought-provoking lyrics.

From the CD--Viva la Vida--Coldplay's "42" has this memorable line: "You didn't get to heaven but you made it close."

Makes me wonder if someone should be congratulated on "making it close" to heaven. Probably not...given the terrible consolation prize.

From the CD--To Know That You're Alive--Kutless's "The Disease and The Cure" asks, "Is there way to clean the sin off of me. Is there anyone with a vaccine?"

Obviously, sin is a human problem. Wouldn't it be cool if there was a vaccine? Wait! There is...Jesus Christ!! Check out Romans 5 & 6.

From the CD--Afterwords--Collective Soul's "Never Here Alone"makes me laugh with this line: "I had a thought but it hurt. So, I let it go."

Ever thought so much that it made your head...and your heart hurt? I guess that's what they are talking about. Reminds me, though, of Saint Paul's words--"...and we take captive every thought and make it obedient to Christ" (2 Corinthians 10:5b).

Billboards for God

2009-06-23T07:00:00.001-04:00

"Hear, O Israel: the Lord our God, the Lord is one. Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your souls and with all your strength. These commandments that I give you today are to be upon your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. Tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads..." (The Shema, Deuteronomy 6:4-9).

When Moses spoke these words, he was talking to the men of his day. Loving God and reminding others to love God by obeying his commandments was the father's job.

Well, it's not my forehead, but now my hairless head has another use: Billboard for God!

There are 364 days until Father's Day 2010. Live these days for God. Then, see what God does in your family. I think you'll be amazed at how satisfied you'll be with the gift of children who love God. It will be God's perfect gift to you.

So, be a billboard for God

"Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows" (James 1:17).

Dad In The Stands

2009-06-19T07:00:00.003-04:00

That's me. Number 16. Playing first base for the Huntington North High School Vikings on a cold, blustery, spring day in Indiana.

And, just off my right shoulder, that's my dad. He's the one in the French beret next to the pretty lady I call, "Mom."

Dad in the stands.

This scene, captured in our local hometown newspaper, was a normal sight for Brooks, Luke, and me as we were growing up "Fetters."

Our dad, Paul R. Fetters, is a great encourager.

One of the words most associated with him is "attaboy." Over the years, he's said it so much to his three sons and to others that he made up postcards with the word printed on it. He gives attaboys generously and religiously, constantly looking for the littlest achievement that deserves recognition. I still have most, if not all of the attaboys he ever gave me. I've received attaboys for good grades, for learning to drive, for helping mom clean the house, for preaching my first sermon, and the list goes on and on. I even scored an attaboy for baking a batch of chocolate chip cookies.

Looking back, it really didn't take much to get an attaboy from dad. Whether it came in the form of his hard-to-read handwriting or as words from his mouth, Pop's never been stingy about dolling out encouragment. It flows like water from a faucet. And, yes, it sometimes causes a bit of blushing.

One of Pop's most infamous "attaboys" was blurted out at a High school track and field event. My oldest brother, Brooks, was entered in the 100 yard dash against an in-school rival whom he had never beaten. As he came to the last 10 yards, Brooks was leading the field of runners. When he was about to bust through the tape for the win, Pop announced at the top of his lungs, "Atsa my boy!" (Not sure why he chose the Italian version, but his burst of pride was as awesome as it was memorable).

You see, whether it was a sporting event, a band or choir concert, or a theatrical performance; if we were playing in it, performing in it, or otherwise participating in it, Pop was in the stands or in the seats ready to cheer on the sons he sired.

For that, I thank you Pop, and give you a robust "ATTABOY!" on this Father's Day.

Who's Responsible?

2009-06-17T07:00:00.001-04:00

I recently heard a statistic that certainly concerns me as a pastor. But, to be honest, it scares me as a parent. Brace yourself.

When children reach 18 and leave home, more than 80% leave an active Christian faith.

Ever since our sons took their first breaths, we’ve understood that God expected Lisa and me to help Jordan and Quinn “grow in wisdom (mentally), in stature (physically), in favor with God (spiritually), and other people (socially).” It’s the model of Mary and Joseph, Jesus’ parents (Luke 2:52).

We chose Jesus’ parents as role models, not because we perceive Jordan or Quinn to be messianic gifts to the world, but because we believe each boy is primarily God’s son, given specifically to us to raise for His glory and the earthly good of others.

So please, get my point: It is every parent’s responsibility to steward the holistic growth of his/her children.

With every advancing year, I am grateful to parents who didn’t discount their influence on me nor shirk their God-given responsibility to be the most influential people in my holistic growth. It was in the home of Paul and Barbara Fetters that I learned what it looked like for a Christian to respect authority, to develop a productive work ethic, to relate respectfully with girls/women, to live with personal integrity, to relate with God.

While the local church was an important part of their strategy, they knew it was their responsibility to introduce their three sons to Jesus, help us investigate the teachings and claims of Christ through the scriptures, integrate those teachings into lifestyles that reflect the character of Christ, and intercede for us every day. What I learned and received every week from the church’s preachers, Sundays school teachers, and ministry workers was simply a reinforcement of what I was learning everyday in the House of Paul and Barbara.

Deep within my heart resides an earnest prayer that every child of Christian parents will grow to be a spiritual giant because of the direct investments of his or her father and/or mother. Our church, Devonshire, is committed to assisting parents lead their sons and daughters to love Jesus and reflect His character in every one of their social venues. That means we can help parents. We can supplement what parents are personal living and teaching. But in just one or two short hours per week, a church cannot replace a mom or dad's influence nor assume their responsibilities. Simply put, the scriptures are clear—every parent is responsible for the holistic (which includes spiritual) development of their children.

My gut and my experience suggest that the above statistic is accurate. However, the statistic does not mean that our sons and daughters have to give up an active faith. With your living example and tireless attention to your child's complete growth, I imagine with great enthusiasm that God will raise up a new generation of missionaries, pastors, doctors, nurses, teachers, musicians, actors/actresses, lawyers, public servants, actors, and business entrepreneurs who know Jesus and live for Him every day.

If you are a parent or a grandparent, won’t you join me in my prayer for your children? It’s actually my prayer for you to actively seek God’s best for those you love!

You Just Can't Shut Up

2009-06-15T07:00:00.000-04:00

One of the things that truly invigorates me as I read the Gospels is the way people respond to their moments with Jesus. In one instance, Jesus’ steps intersected with a man with leprosy (Mark 1:40-45). The leper had heard of Jesus’ ability to heal people of their diseases. He knew if the Lord wanted to heal him, Jesus would. So, he asked. Jesus wanted to. The man was healed. After healing the man, Jesus told him to go straight to the priest and let him examine him. The Lord gave one other command, “Don’t talk to anyone along the way.”

What do you think this man did? “He spread the news, telling everyone what had happened to him” (Mark 1:45). He simply couldn’t shut up. He was a new man. His sores were gone. His posture was straight and tall. His disfigurement was erased. He couldn’t shut up. And, who could blame Him?

It’s the simple knee-jerk response of anyone who spends time with Jesus—you just can’t shut up! It’s true in my life. I’ve seen it in the lives of others, too. When we spend time with Jesus, we can’t shut up. Our hearts are lighter. Our lips are looser. And, that’s a good thing. We as Christians have every reason to speak out with joy to everyone around us. Our sin is forgiven. Our shame is gone. Jesus died for us and was raised from the grave, guaranteeing once and for all, our good standing with God on earth and in heaven. Because of his amazing touch, we stand tall…no longer slunched over by the heavy, depressing weight of our sin and guilt. Our countenance has softened because our face no longer wears the marring stress of past regret. We’ve been touched by Jesus. We can’t…we shouldn’t…shut up.

If you find yourself too quiet these days about your faith, do yourself a favor. Read the Gospels. You will come to find out again…or maybe for the first time…the secret to unlocking your tongue. It’s Jesus!

Attaboy, Jordan Fetters!

2009-06-12T07:00:00.001-04:00

The Fetters recognized a family milestone on June 2. Our oldest son, Jordan, graduated from Central Dauphin Highschool. It was a wonderful night as we sat with family and friends in the Giant Center (Hershey, PA) to watch his class of 480 students turn their tassles and grab their diplomas. He appeared more than happy to say "Goodbye" to this phase of their lives. He admitted to me later that it was the "moment he looked most forward to in high school."

It's hard for me to wrap my brain around the fact that Jordan has reached this point in his life. It came so fast. (I was warned about the breakneck speed of a child's development). As the graduates were called name-by-name, I was flooded with memories. I coached some of them in soccer, baseball, and basketball. I watched some compete in the athletic arenas. Some I watched on the theatrical stages. Many others I simply recalled traveling grade-by-grade with Jordan since Kindergarten. I was especially proud of the four students that have known me as "Pastor Todd" since they were three years old. What a night!

Attaboy Jordan! I'm very proud of you!! I can't wait to see what God is going to do in and through your life.

Jordan with best friend, Ian Isaac

Standing with classmates

Getting his hands on the diploma

Wonderfully Made, Terribly Fallen

2009-06-11T14:39:00.003-04:00

As a pastor, I am reminded nearly every day that I work with people who are not perfect. They are Christians, but they are not perfect. I call them "brother" and "sister," but they are far from perfect. What is more, I am reminded every day that I'm not perfect.

In a sense, this is bad news...and, good news.

I came across a quote I received while doing some graduate work that really solidified in my mind who I am...who we are as Christians: We are wonderfully made, yet terribly fallen.

Do you ever wonder why you do things that you don't want to do? It's because you are wonderfully made, yet terribly fallen. Do you ever wonder why you don't do things that you desperately want to do? It's because you are wonderfully made, yet terribly fallen. Don't worry. You're in good company with Saint Paul (Romans 7) and a host of saints that have gone before you and now exist in heaven as a "great cloud of witnesses" (Hebrews 12:1) to cheer you on.

Listen, as Christians, each of us has the potential for for greatness within us. We also have the potential for rotteness. The difference is found in your humility to obey the Spirit of God who resides within you. You see, as my friend Gary Thomas says, "Our life is not meant to be perfect, but we are meant to trust the One who is" (Authentic Faith, Zondervan). The greatness I recommend to you is the greatness that God brings out in and through you to the world around you.

What do you need to submit to God in order to realize greatness today?

Relax. I Took the Sting!

2009-04-12T07:00:00.001-04:00

There is a story about a father and son who were traveling down a country road one afternoon in the springtime when all of a sudden a bee flew in the window. Being deathly allergic to bee stings, the boy began to panic as the bee buzzed all around inside the car. Seeing the horror on his child’s face, the father reached out and caught the bee in his hand. Soon, he opened his hand and the bee began to buzz around once again. Again…the boy began to panic. The father reached over to his son, and opened his hand showing him the stinger still in his palm. “Relax, son,” the father said, “I took the sting. The bee can’t hurt you.”

Now I don’t know if this story is true or not, but I like it just the same. It reminds me of a another tale that I know is true. That story of Easter.

I will not take the time to recount the events of Easter except to say that Jesus Christ, the Son of God was crucified for the sins of humanity and buried. Three days later, He was raised from the dead and the tomb in which he was lain was empty.

The empty tomb is the truth of the resurrection of Jesus Christ. It is also the promise that every individual who finds Jesus and follows Him will be raised to eternal life.

I pray that you are confident of the Easter hope.

Every Christian knows that Jesus took the sting out of death. Saint Paul even sarcastically taunts death, "Death is swallowed up in victory. O death, where is your victory? O death, where is your sting?" (1 Corinthians 15:54-55). Death is no longer something to be feared because God took the sting when Jesus was raised.

So, what do you really have to fear? One day, you will be raised also to live forever with God in Heaven?

Celebrate Easter every day.

New Book: Clutter-Free Christianity

2009-04-01T07:00:00.000-04:00

Received an advance copy of Robert Jeffress new book, "Clutter-Free Christianity: What God Really Desires for Your Life." Over the past couple of years, I've been challenged to cut through the religious and moral crap that tends to hedge in my spirituality. Really, I'm a mystic at heart. I truly believe that if I strive everyday to "love God with all my heart, mind, soul, and strength, and love my neighbor as myself," then I will live a deeply spiritual and moral life. I don't need a bunch of extra-biblical requirements to add on to an already difficult task of staying focussed on loving God and others better.

Jeffries book is in the category of helping anyone who wants less religious requirements and more God. Here's a description from the book's back cover:

Your greatest desire is to please God, but with each passing week, your spiritual to-do list grows longer. As you strive to fulfill a never-ending inventory of requirements for being a godly parent, spouse, voter, employee, and more, you feel increasingly disconnected from the God you’re trying to serve.

When did the Christian life become so complicated?

It’s time to cut through the clutter and get to the heart of what it means to please God. In this liberating look at the core principles of faith, Dr. Robert Jeffress reveals the truth about what God really wants from you–and what He wants to do for you.

Through solid biblical teaching and practical insights, Dr. Jeffress points you toward a revitalized faith centered on becoming more like Jesus in action, attitude, and affection. You’ll learn how to partner with God in the process of spiritual transformation as you choose to follow Christ in forgiveness, obedience, trust, contentment, service, and prayer. Through a renewed focus on experiencing the kingdom of God right now, you’ll find your to-do list shrinking and your spiritual life deepening. It all comes with embracing Clutter-Free Christianity. Includes a Bible study guide for personal growth and group discussion

Tooting Devonshire Church's Horn

2009-03-31T07:00:00.001-04:00

Today, I'm going to toot my horn for the church that I am privileged to pastor.

Devonshire Church launched a new initiative this year to generate material, financial, and volunteer support for others who are in great need locally and around the world. We call it Project Generosity.

Our Missions Team picks a local or worldwide ministry every month and promotes specific ways for our folks to be generous with their stuff, their money, and/or their time.

First quarter results are extremely positive. Devonshire has openhandedly supported three very different ministries: Morning Star Pregnancy (Harrisburg), Joshua & Natalie Kegg (missionaries to the Rejang people of Indonesia), and the Shalom House (Harrisburg).

In just three months, at God’s prompting, the good folks at Devonshire have given...

1) 510 pounds of stuff, i.e. baby clothing, diapers, formula, children’s books, cleaning supplies, etc.;

2) money totaling $2,838 to help fund an ultrasound machine (for help with expectant mothers), to purchase training curricula for Indonesian pastors, and to buy grocery gifts cards for mothers and children in crisis situations;

3) time in that we’ve assembled a Rejang vision team that will travel to Indonesia in July and we have three individuals volunteering regularly at Morning Star.

All this is further proof to me that when the world becomes tightfisted because of uncertain economic times, the Church stands poised, ready for the call to be generous.

The Awe Factor of God

2009-01-05T07:00:00.000-05:00

Would you like to gain perspective on how big God is and how small you are? Check out Francis Chan's video teaching on "The Awe Factor of God." Chan is the author of the book, Crazy Love, which is a wonderful book that challenge the depths of your faith and your commitment to become like the One who made you.

Throughout the month, I will be blogging on Crazy Love (get a copy) as a way of helping folks from Devonshire Church who are participating in our monthly reading challenge, "Book of the Month." So, go ahead, check out the video. Then read Psalm 8 and consider with King David, "When I consider Your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars, which you have set in place, what is man that You are mindful of him? The son of man that You care for him?" (Psalm 8:4).

Isn't it good to know that in the vast, spacious universe, God knows exactly where you are? He's great enough to create the world...and good enough to care for you.

"Thanks For Holding It Together"

2008-12-17T10:19:00.008-05:00

Lisa and I are celebrating our 20th wedding anniversary today. "Happy Anniversary, Lisa."

Earlier today, I received congratulatory text messages from my brothers, Brooks and Luke. Their anniversaries are this week too. Luke and Audrey will celebrate 26 years tomorrow (December 18). Brooks and Barb will be married 28 years on December 20.

I like what Luke's text said today, "Thanks for holding it together."

His five words got me thinking. In a day and age when couples call it quits way too much, I am thankful for a wife that is committed to "holding it together." I'm also thankful for...

1. My parents who've modeled "holding it together" for 53 years.
2. My father and mother-in-law who've modeled "holding it together" for nearly 50 years.
3. Brothers who've modeled "holding it together" for over 25 years.
4. Sons who need and expect their parents to "hold it together" during their lifetimes.
5. Friends who encourage us during seasons where it's challenging to "hold it together."
6. A congregation that prays for us to "hold it together.

7. A wife that is worth every effort to "hold it together" everyday of our lives together.

And mostly,

8. A God who is the faithful Third Strand that "holds Lisa and I together."

"Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken."

(Ecclesiastes 4:12)

(Mom & Pop)

(Luke & Audrey)

(Brooks & Barb)

The Splendor of Simple Things

2008-12-17T07:00:00.000-05:00

A dog. A fresh snowfall. A walk in the woods. Christmas songs coming from my coat pocket. That was my experience this evening. It was very nice. Very inspirational. Very pleasant. Very simple.

Colonial Park received a nice snowfall of one and a half inches. The fresh white powder was Jazzmine and I out to walk, run, and play. It was the simplicity of this night that reminds me that God is great and God is good. Great enough to create the world [snow]...good enough to care for me by sharing the snow with me.

I do hope that you find God very good this Advent season.

Thanks for Praying

2008-12-15T15:51:00.001-05:00

Had a great time at the Fetters' Family Farmhouse. Safe travel. Snow fell. Got some rest. Did some planning. Most of all, God showed up. Thanks for praying.

Headed for the Hills

2008-12-10T15:24:00.003-05:00

This evening I will lay my head down on a pillow in Mariasville, PA. You may not know where Mariasville is, but God does. And that is all that I am counting on. (Actually, it's just about 2 miles off of I-80). Several years ago, I took a two-day break to just get alone with God to pray, do some spiritual reading, and plan for the upcoming ministry year. That's is my purpose this time. My Goals:

1. Rest
2. Be alone with God
3. Read the Gospels
4. Put finishing touches on Devonnshire's Ministry Plan for '09
5. Prepare the sermon plan for the next six months

I would appreciate your prayers for these goals as well as for my traveling safety. (I am very excited about the prospects of snowfall on Friday. It's always cool to be somewhere with snow and no responsibility for its removal or replacement).

Waiting & Peeking

2008-12-01T07:00:00.000-05:00

“Behold, I am coming soon! My reward is with me, and I will give to everyone according to what he has done.I am the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last, the Beginning and the End…Yes, I am coming soon.”
—Jesus, Revelation 22:12-13, 20 (NIV)

I don’t wait well. Anticipation usually gets the better of me. This is especially true at Christmastime.

Case in point: All I wanted for Christmas in 1971 was a Hot Wheels race track. Since my wait couldn’t outlast my wonder I started snooping two weeks before Christmas Day. Mom and Pop weren’t particularly creative in hiding our presents. So, I went to the first place I could think of…under their bed. I found a thin, long, rectangular box that was already wrapped. I wasn’t certain that the box contained what I wanted, so I had to peel back one corner to confirm the gift. Sure enough, I got it!

Now, you’d think verifying the toy would’ve pacified my waiting. Nope. Seeing the gift served only to pique my wonder, “What would it be like to experience this gift now?” Nearly every day until Christmas, I’d retrieve the box from underneath the bed, peel back a corner of the box, pull out some track pieces, and race my cars. Then, when I was done (or when I heard a noise in the hallway) I’d stuff the pieces back in the box, reapply the tape, and carefully place the box back in its exact location.

Did I mention that I don’t wait well?

The calendar has turned to Advent…a season of quiet waiting and joyful expectancy. For there to be anticipation, something or someone must be coming. During Advent, Christians everywhere live in anticipation of the final coming of Christ, which brings these “heavenly” benefits along with His mighty presence: “There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away" (Revelation 21:4).

“There will be no more...,” gives me reason to wait in joyful expectation of an eternity where there will be no more death and pain and sorrow and crying and mourning. Yet, I must admit that I can’t wait for the days of “no more.” I ache for an eternity of “no more”… no more sin, no more sickness, no more war, no more violence, no more abuse, no more addiction, no more divorce, no more poverty, no more cynicism and hopelessness, no more hatred, no more, No More, NO MORE!

So what is an impatient 42-year old suppose to do in the meantime? I will start peeking, of course. I will look for the momentary “no mores” that bear evidence that God’s will is at work on earth as it is in heaven. I will peek to find moments where God has chosen to heal the sick. I will peek to spot God meeting the needs of the poor through the generosity of His Church. I will peek to catch sight of God bringing reconciliation to the estranged husband and wife. I will peek to set eyes on God delivering those men and women, boys and girls caught in the trap of addiction. I will peek to observe the cessation of war and cheer God for His victory.

This Advent, let’s wait together for the days of “no more,” when Christ will return as promised. But, if you start peeking without me, let me know what you find. It’s the kind of encouragement that helps us wait a little bit longer.

Top 15 Christmas Songs

2008-11-30T08:00:00.004-05:00

I love Christmas music. It seems to me that the holiday sounds make people happier and more fun to be around. That's important with the shoulder-to-shoulder shopping and bumper-to-bumper driving that we do together in just 25 days.

Here are my top 15 Christmas/holiday songs. When I hear these songs, I'm a happier shopper and more jovial driver. Compare these to your top songs. (Actually, there aren't many Christmas songs to choose from. The cache is quite small. But, if you're like me, you like particular renditions. So, my list consists of my favorite songs as performed by various artists).

1. "Winter Wonderland (Eurythmics)

2. "This Christmas Day" (Trans-Siberian Orchestra)

3. "We Need A Little Christmas" (Johnny Mathis)

4. "A Holly Jolly Christmas" (Burl Ives)

5. "O Holy Night (Connie Scott)

6. "The Little Drummer Boy" (Chicago)

7. "Do You Hear What I Hear" (Whitney Houston) & (Connie Scott's rendition is awesome!)

8. "You're A Mean One, Mr. Grinch" (Newsong)

9. "Baby, It's Cold Outside" (Dean Martin)
10. "The Christmas Song" (Nat King Cole)
11. "A Star to Follow" (Trans-Siberian Orchestra)
12. "Deck the Halls" (Manheim Steamroller)
13. "The Chipmunk Song--Christmas Don't Be Late" (Unknown)
14. "Heat Miser/Snow Miser" (From the video, A Year Without Santa Claus)
15. "White Christmas" (Bing Crosby)

Turn On The Christmas Music

2008-11-28T07:00:00.001-05:00

Today is the day I begin listening to Christmas music. (Actually, I've been sampling some Christmas sounds for the past two weeks...to Lisa's disapproval). But, now the holiday sounds become my default music in my computer playlists, my mp3 player, my satellite radio (Sirius 81), and the cd player in my Civic. I'm all in!

So, here are my top five Christmas albums/cd's:

1. Trans-Siberian Orchestra (TSO): Christmas Eve and Other Stories

2. Connie Scott: Christmas In Your Heart

3. Chicago 25: The Christmas Album (Best version ever of "Little Drummer Boy").

4. Trans-Siberian Orchestra (TSO): The Christmas Attic

5. Newsong: The Christmas Shoes (all except the song, "The Christmas Shoes." The words escape me so as to express how much I can't stand it).

That's my top five Christmas albums. Future blogposts will feature my favorite Christmas songs and movies. In the meantime, happy listening.

Happy Thanksgiving

2008-11-26T07:00:00.000-05:00

It's been nearly a month since my last post. Oh well...been pretty busy. But, I wanted to take time to wish one and all a very Happy Thanksgiving. As for me, I plan to eat, watch football, sleep, watch football, eat, and watch more football. Happy Thanksgiving.

Prayer for A Friend

2008-10-29T07:00:00.000-04:00

Hey folks, would you be in prayer for a friend of mine today. Doug Foltz is going in for ankle surgery and I know he would benefit from knowing that people are pausing throughout the day to ask God to guide the hands of the doctor. Thank you.

Photo-op With Senator McCain

2008-10-28T18:15:00.001-04:00

Well, here it is...the long awaited group photo of the motorcade drivers with Senator and Cindy McCain. I am in the back row, far right.

Birthday Shout-Outs!

2008-10-28T11:07:00.000-04:00

October 28 is a birthday to many people, including Bill Gates (Microsoft CEO), Julia Roberts (actess, Pretty Woman), Dennis Franz (actor, NYPD Blue), Joaquin Phoenix (actor, Gladiator), and Bruce Jenner (Olympic gold medalist). I don't know if these folks are regular readers of Todd's Blog, but if they are, I want to wish them "Happy Birthday."

There are two people, however, that do check out the blog every once in a while and I want to recognize them both on their birthday. My niece, Melissa Fetters (20-something) and my friend, Tod Whitman (40 or 50 or 60-something...who knows?). Both of you make October 28 a special day for the many people who have the privilege of knowing you and doing life with you.

Have a great day.

Mistaken Identity

2008-10-28T09:42:00.005-04:00

“…for all of you were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ.” (Galatians 3:26-27)

Sometimes it’s fun to be considered something or someone that you’re not. While serving as a driver for Senator McCain's motorcade last week, I was mistaken on several occassions for secret service. As stated in a previous post, it was humorous to be perceived other than I actually was. And, when your own son is gets your identity wrong...that's really funny. I'll explain.

Once the drivers' photo-op with Senator McCain was done, three of us immediately followed a staffer out of the venue. We had to hurry up and get back to our vans...and wait. (The rhythm of the day). As we exited the Forum, we emerged quickly from behind the hedges onto the lawn, seemingly popping up to the public out of nowhere.

We were walking like blazes to our vans. Janis Creason (who was key to me having this opportunity), her daughter, Sandy, and my son, Jordan had found our vans, hoping to see us in action. (Jordan was a "Student-for-McCain" volunteer inside the Forum). Later, Janis told me that while they were waiting beside our vans, Jordan suddenly commented, “Senator McCain must be on his way because here come four secret service agents.” Janis got all excited, looking for the camera she forgot. Then my son said, “Oh...no he isn’t. That’s just my dad.”

As fun as it was to assume the mistaken identity of a secret service agent, there is, however, only one identity for whom I want to and should be mistaken: Jesus!

When I was baptized, I donned the "clothes of Christ." I stripped off my vices (Galatians 5:19-21) and put on Jesus' virtues (Galatians 5:22-23). So, what does that mean to me? In simplest terms it means that when people see me, they should mistake me for Jesus. Such a mistaken identity is a good thing. I can't think of anything more disappointing than hearing, "O look! Here comes Jesus! Oh, wait. No. It's just Todd."

If you've been baptized as a Christ-follower, let me encourage you to putting on the "clothes of Christ."

(Click here to listen to the message I shared with the folks at Devonshire. I think you'll be encouraged...and challenged).

It's Your Birthday!

2008-10-24T06:30:00.001-04:00

Happy Birthday, Lisa. I hope the day is special for you.

McCain Motorcade

2008-10-21T20:16:00.013-04:00

Big day today...got to be a driver in the McCain motorcade as the Senator was stumping in Harrisburg. My job was to drive a van for some of the press. There were also drivers for campaign staffers. Understandably, Senator McCain was in a protective SUV, not driven by some yahoo like me.

It was interesting to see things up close and personal. So many details. Background checks. Bomb-sniffing dogs. Secret service agents. It was also pretty cool to be assumed as secret service as I stood stoicly by my van outside the rally venue. One lady even thanked me for "all you do for Senator McCain and our country." (Since I couldn't accept her appreciation for heroic acts of vigilance and courage, I accepted her kind words as a response to Pastor Appreciation Month).

Once the event was over, a staffer invited the drivers inside the Forum for a photo-op with Senator and Mrs. McCain. I can now say that I have spoken to, been spoken to by, and shaken the hand of a presidential candidate. Senator McCain even bought me lunch. Well, actually the campaign provided subs and chips and soda for everyone involved in the motorcade, volunteers, press, and staffers. At least I got to each lunch with them...if you consider it eating together when they are in the plane and I am in my van some 300 yards away.

Here are some pics from my big day.

A Great Time Had By All

2008-10-03T07:00:00.000-04:00

Here are some pictures from the Loft Student Retreat in Ocean City, NJ.

Here is the equation I want to define my life: "JESUS > me"

Quinn and Staci unfolding a frozen t-shirt.
Out on the beach

Greater Than

2008-10-02T14:28:00.006-04:00

"[Christ] must become greater and greater, and I must become less and less"

--(John the Baptist in John 3:30, NLT)

I was recently a part of a youth retreat at Ocean City, NJ. Eighteen students and 9 adults attended. I spoke 4 times on the theme, "Jesus Is Greater Than..." John the Baptist's life and words were the motivating message. My specific challenge was for everyone to commit to a life that makes Jesus famous.

So, following Saturday night's message, about a dozen students and adults came forward to commit something in their lives that they were making greater than Jesus. A relationship? Their iPod? Their Facebook or MySpace pages? Their career? Anything. The challenge just kept coming at them, "Who are you making famous with your life? Is it Jesus or you?"

I shared personally with them that my life has been a series of moments where I had to make Jesus greater than something in my life, i.e. my music, my relationships, my career, etc. I even shared that the purpose of this blog was to make Jesus famous. (That's why I have stopped blogging about my beloved Bengals...it just makes me too angry and negative when I think about their below-than mediocrity level to which they have sunk).

Well, the moments of their commitments were powerful as each student and/or adult came to the front of the room to physically turn a makeshift "greater-than" sign (>) that stood beside the hanging letters, J-E-S-U-S. With "lesser-than" pointing at "Jesus," each individual turned the sign so that "lesser-than" was aimed at them and "greater-than" was directed at J-E-S-U-S.

As a result of this retreat, I've heard students say that they needed to take a closer look at their Myspace & Facebook pages to make changes that will bring less attention to themselves and more on Jesus. Others are going to read a chapter a day from the Gospels and meet weekly to talk about what they are reading. Some were convicted about their movie/entertainment choices and are putting greater time into deciding if the movie is something that helps them honor God.

It was a great experience to be with Devonshire students. And we've got great adult-leaders who care about these students enough to join them publically in making Jesus greater than. Join me in praying for our students as they make the changes that God has prompted in them so that Jesus might become famous to those people around them.

Celebrating God on the 911 Anniversary

2008-09-11T07:48:00.006-04:00

Ever had trouble seeing God at work amidst the chaos of evil activity? Certainly, the horrible events of September 11, 2001 were perpetrated by the most heinous evil. It had Satan’s fingerprints all over it.

However, amidst the smoke, if you look closely enough you can see God’s hand at work.

The following thoughts I share with you are not those of my own. However, they have provided me with a credible and compassionate answer to the question, “Where was your God on September 11, 2001?” I trust you will be encouraged as well.

...I know where my GOD was the morning of September 11, 2001, and He was very busy! He was trying to discourage anyone from taking these flights. Those four flights together held over 1000 passengers and there were only 266 aboard. He was on 4 commercial flights giving terrified passengers the ability to stay calm. Not one of the family members who were called by a loved one on one of the highjacked planes said that passengers were screaming in the background. On one of the flights He was giving strength to passengers to try to overtake the highjackers.

He was busy trying to create obstacles for employees at the World Trade Center. After all, only around 20,000 were at the towers when the first jet hit. Since the buildings held over 50,000 workers, this was a Miracle in itself. How many of the people who were employed at the World Trade Center told the media that they were late for work or they had traffic delays.

He was holding up 2-110 story buildings so that 2/3 of the workers could get out. I was so amazed that the top of the towers didn’t topple when the jets impacted. And when they did fall, they fell inward. GOD didn’t allow them to topple over, as many more lives would have been lost. And when the buildings went down, my GOD picked up almost 6,000 of His children and carried them home with Him. Reassuring His frightened children that the worst was over and the best was yet to come. He sat down and cried that 19 of His children could have so much hate in their hearts. That they didn’t choose Him, but another god that doesn’t exist, and now they are lost forever. He sent His children that are best trained for this disaster and had them save the few that were still alive, but unable to help themselves. And then sent many others to help in anyway they were needed.

He still isn’t finished though, He held the love ones that were left behind in His arms. He comforts them daily. His other children are given the strength to reach out to them and help them in any way they can. And I believe He will continue to help us in what is to come. He will give the people in charge of this great nation the strength and the wisdom to do the right thing. He would never leave us in our time of need.

So when anyone asks, “Where was your GOD on September 11”, you can say “everywhere”! And yes, although this is without doubt the worst thing I have seen in my life, I see God’s miracles in every bit of it. I keep praying for those who don’t believe in GOD, every chance I have. I can’t imagine going through such a difficult time and not believing in GOD. Life would be hopeless.

We always do well to look for the hand of God when the fingerprints of Satan are all over the place.

Prayer Request

2008-09-09T09:20:00.003-04:00

I am going to be the guest speaker for Devonshire's Loft Student Retreat, September 26-28. This is going to be a great time to hang out with our students and challenge them to discover the relevance of Christ in their daily lives. I am really concerned about our young people. Most come from Christian homes and need the fresh challenge that it's not their pedigree or heritage that makes them one with God. It's their own relationship with him that matters.

Would you pray for me as I prepare my heart and my thoughts for this time with our young people. The them of my talks will be, "Greater Than." John the Baptist will be the featured example. He's the one who said, "He must become greater, I must become less and less.

A New Season...A New Team?

2008-09-06T11:27:00.004-04:00

Well, Notre Dame kicks off the 2008-2009 season in just about 4 hours. After last year's necessary, but disappointing 2-9 season, the hopes are high that Charlie Weis has built a winner. Here's to hoping that he has. Go Irish!

Jesus Loves the Father More Than I Do

2008-09-05T10:41:00.007-04:00

This confession may not be so shocking. In fact, you might be thinking, "duh!" But I had to admit it nonetheless.

Jesus does love the Father more than me. His words (and His example) tell me so: "I don't have much more time to talk to you [disciples], because the [devil] approaches. He has no power over me, but I will do what the Father requires of me, so that the world will know that I love the Father" (John 16:30-31).

To be honest, I'm usually motivated to obey God so that things will go well for me. Self-advancement, self-protection, self-promotion are my typical goals. But not so with Jesus. Obeying His Father meant self-denial, self-abasement, and self-destruction. Death would be the ultimate outcome for His obedience.

I believe that I'm called to become a mirror-image of Jesus. Every day that I live I am called to put aside my selfish ambition, shoulder my cross, and follow Jesus (Luke 9:23). That means that every day gives me more and more opportunities to show the world how much I love God. Pray that I recognize and seize these moments. Pray that you will too.

How Are You Quenching Your God-Thirst?

2008-09-04T11:32:00.009-04:00

I woke up last night to the sound of slurp, slurp, slurp.

This unusual, but recognizable sound belongs to my dog, Jazzmine. She was in our master bathroom drinking from the toilet...again. Her choice could only mean one thing. Her water dish was empty. It just amazes me that she would choose the water from a toilet. (It's this fact alone that makes Lisa scoff at the notion that a dog's mouth is cleaner than a human's). But, when Jazz is thirsty, she'll go anywhere to quench that thirst.

You know, I've been around long enough to see humans do the same thing; metaphorically, of course. I believe God has put in every human being a thirst-pocket that can only be quenched by Him and the righteousness of His Spirit. Yet, instead of seeking God to quench those life-thirsts, people choose to drink out of some unseemly places.

I've seen a frustrated husband drink out of the pornography-toilet instead of communicating and drawing closer to his wife. I've seen the lonely wife drink from the adultery-toilet instead of working things out with her husband. I've seen neighbors drink out of the gossip-toilet instead of showing compassion to parents who are hurting over their child's bad decision. I've seen insecure students drink from the alcohol and drug toilets instead of coming to terms with who God made them to be.

Jesus told us to "hunger and thirst for righteousness." Jesus is our righteousness. So, we are to hunger and thirst for Him. Anything else and it will be a disatisfying and disappointing slurp.

So, I guess the question today is: How are you quenching your God-thirst?

NFL Picks

2008-09-03T09:29:00.004-04:00

How good do you think you are at picking the winners and losers for the the weekly NFL games? If you think your good, why don't you try the pool that I join every year. My friend Tod (that's right, only one "d") Whitman has a Weekly Pick 'Em contest that runs through the entire 17 week-season, which begins this Thursday. This week's picks need to be done by 7:00PM on Thursday. Otherwise, you can join any time. There is no fee to join. We don't play for money. There is some opportunity for talking trash. But overall, we just play for pride...or, in my case, weekly humiliation. Join the pool. You'll find me under the moniker, "WhoDey?." Here's the link: http://www.elsiewhitman.com/pick/

An Unlikely Prescription for Breaking My Spiritual Rut

2008-08-28T11:14:00.016-04:00

The longest spiritual rut of my life has been broken! God did it with the most unlikely prescription...Diet Dr. Pepper.

If you've ever been in a spiritual slump, you know that your prayer life is stagnant. Worship is dry and stale. When you try to read the Bible, every page you turn feels like lifting 10,000 lbs, and every syllable sounds like Charlie Brown’s teacher. No matter how creative or willful I tried to be, I just couldn't break the many-months-long slump.

But that all changed in May when I sensed God saying, “If you want to get out of your spiritual rut, you need to team up with Me and do something that will shock your system and disrupt your routine.” He had my attention. So, I listened for the usual, “Get up early, while it is still dark, and read the Bible and pray.” But, that’s not what I sensed God wanted. Instead, I got a directive to give up caffeine from June 1 to June 30.

God knew something that I would only realize later. Caffeine, my default thirst-quencher and energy-booster, had taken complete control of my system. I’d get awake in the morning with coffee by 7:00AM. By 10:00AM, I’d begin a day-long routine of cracking open cans of Diet Dr. Pepper. All this caffeine was making me thirstier and more tired. It was a vicious cycle that needed broken.

Traditionally, when you fast, you devote time to prayer. Usual mealtimes are your prayer-time prompts. I didn't quite understand how I was going to be reminded to draw near to God with a caffeine-fast. That's when the old Dr. Pepper slogan came to mind: Drink a bite to eat at 10, 2, and 4.

Here’s what that meant for me. During the month of June, instead of grabbing a Diet Dr. Pepper, I would open the Bible and read at 10, 2, and…you guessed it…4!

It worked. Stopping for fifteen minutes at 10, 2, and 4 to read portions of the Gospels was the prescription for my spiritual ills. I’m happy to say that the rut has been broken. All summerlong, I read the Gospels...three times through. The discipline and desire stayed with me.

I'm convinced the caffeine was symbolic for my actual spiritual thirst. I simply hadn't realized how “thirsty” I had become for God. As a result of doing something odd at God's prompting, He shocked my system, broke my slump, and helped me know Christ better.

So, if you are slumping, I encourage you to quit trying to break free on your own. Instead, ask God to suggest something that will completely shock your system. Cuz, if he asks you to do it, He'll give you the power to see it through.

Wild Goose Chase (5 of 5)

2008-08-22T16:44:00.007-04:00

The Johari Window. Ever heard of it? It's a fascinating matrix on human personality.

According to Batterson, it's made up of four quadrants: the arena quadrant, the blindspost quadrant, the facade quadrant, and the unknown quadrant. His spiritual application is absolutely mind-popping.

Here's Mark summary: "The arena quadrant consists of those things you know about your and other know about you. It's your public persona. The blind-spot quadrant consists of those things others know about you but you don't know about you. This is where you need friends who have the courage to confront. The facade quadrant consist of those things you know about you but others' don't know about you. This is where you hide who you really are. The unknown quadrant consists of those things you don't know about you and oterh don't know about you. This is where the Holy Spirit plays a pivotal role in your life."

We kid ourselves when we think that we know ourselves better than God knows us. Batterson rightly concludes: "So if you really want to know who you are, you've got to get to know God."

You Oughta Know

2008-08-22T07:49:00.002-04:00

Just thought the world should know today that...I LOVE MY WIFE!

Have a great day, Lisa.

Bold (But Sad) Prediction

2008-08-21T10:08:00.010-04:00

Ok. I am ready to make my Bengals season-record prediction. I was hoping to wait until after the 4th preseason game, but the events of re-signing the felony-prone Chris Henry (whom they cut in April due to his 5 arrests since '05) this week and this article have convinced me that it is going to be a long, sad, lackluster season. Are you ready?

6-10

That's 6 wins and 10 losses. And, I think I might be too optimistic. Other factors include an insanely tough schedule, injuries to key players already, no clear team leader, and the fact that the players tend to turn against each other and fold under adversity. Trust me, there is going to be a lot of adversity.

Here's the most non-inspiring, disparaging two paragraphs of the aformentioned article:

Owner Mike Brown gave Henry a two-year contract on Tuesday, undercutting his head coach and undermining his own crackdown on repeat offenders. Brown released Henry after his fifth arrest in the offseason, saying the team was finished with him. Then, he brought him back despite the objections of coach Marvin Lewis, who had no interest in giving Henry another chance.

The move reminded players who's in charge of the Bengals. "It's the organization's team," quarterback Carson Palmer said after practice Wednesday. "It's their team. They're going to make decisions that they think are best, and Marvin and the players and all the coaches do the best with what we've got."

Oh yeah...one other thing about Henry: he's suspended for the first four games of the season! How does a team rally around that move?

The Bengals mediocrity is and always will be an ownership issue. I think Coach Lewis will be the standup guy that he is and coach the season with energy and integrity. But then I would advise him to bolt. Run, Marvin, Run! Save yourself.

I might just run too.

Wild Goose Chase (4 of 5)

2008-08-20T07:00:00.004-04:00

"Jesus said to another man, 'Follow me.' But the man replied, 'Lord, first let me go and bury my father.' Jesus said to him, 'Let the dead bury their own dead, but you go and proclaim the kingdom of God'" (Luke 9:59-60).

Warning! Batterson's next comments could mess you up. Ready?

"It seems innocent enough, doesn't it? The poor man wanted to bury his father. But Jesus saw right through the spiritual smokescreen. This man was turning a responsibility into an excuse. Burying his father was a delay tactic. He was allowing a less important responsibility to get in the way of the greatest responsibility and opportunity of his life: following Christ."

Wait. There is more. Brace yourself...

"We do the same thing. We turn our reponsibilities into excuses. And that is when our responsibilities actually become a form of irresponsibility. Our responsibilities become the cage that keeps us from shasing the Wild Goose. And the only way out is responsbile irresponsibility. Sometimes the will of God feels downright irresponsible."

I guess the question is this: What, if any, "responsibilities" have you been using to excuse you from "irresponsibly" following Christ?

Told you this post could mess you up. Have a great day.

Wild Goose Chase (3 of 5)

2008-08-19T09:20:00.009-04:00

"Many, if not most, Christians are bored with their faith."

Wow. That's a bold assertion. I'd argue with Mark Batterson...IF I DIDN'T COMPLETELY AGREE WITH HIM! Personally...my life speaks of recent boredom. As a pastor...I interact with bored Christians.

Batterson posits that the Holy Spirit is the key to our spiritual adventure. As the Celtic Christians called Him, An Geadh-Glas, The Wild Goose, God's Spirit is untamed, unpredictable, and flying free. "Add him into the equation of your life, and anything can happen." Without him we start to live an "inverted Christianity." Mark explains, "Instead of following the Spirit, we invite the Spirit to follow us. Instead of serving God's purposes, we want Him to serve our purposes...the result of this inverted relationship with God is not just a self-absorbed spirituality that leaves us feeling empty, it's also the difference between spiritual boredom and spiritual adventure."

Very true. I am convinced Batterson has punched the ticket on what ails suburban spirituality. We tend to like our religion as sanitized and predictable and managed as possible. No real surprizes, PLEASE! After all, now pardon my tongue-in-cheekness, we're busy. We're over-extended on time, money, work, etc. Certainly, there is no time for Goose chasing. Why can't God just respect our western sense of overextendedness and work within the limits of our resources and schedules? Surely, He can accept that we'll carve out a little time for Him...and be happy with that.

Batterson is right, if we want to live for God's glory, we have no other option that to resist "inverted Christianity." Since we live in the time where God relates with us primarily through His Spirit, we must quit trying to make God change. Let God be God, sovereing and completely other. Let His Spirit be His Spirit, completely untamed, unpredictable, and free to fly about. Instead, change your posture. Quit sitting and start chasing the Wild Goose.

Here's something to consider: Are you bored with your faith? Do your angels yawn (Batterson's thought), hoping for a little more adventure?

Wild Goose Chase (2 of 5)

2008-08-18T07:00:00.007-04:00

Wild Goose Chase hits stores August 19 (tomorrow). I'd encourage you to go buy it. In fact, here's the link. It's that good. Today's blog is a followup to yesterday's summary. I thought I'd give you some important specifics before I walk through a couple of themes from the book.

Length: The book is 173 pages long. There are seven chapters. At first glance, the chapters appear long. But, Batterson's writing style is such that you can read at a quick pace. I had no trouble moving through the book in a weekend. So, if getting through a book quickly is what you want to do, it's possible. However, it's worth taking your time for maximum personal impact. Each chapter concludes with questions to help you further think through and apply key points from the reading.

Style: Mark's style is entertaining, insightful, and motivating. Through stories of real people from the Bible, church history, his local church, and in the world, Mark has a message that is essentially, "Don't let fear keep you from acting on your faith." Besides the use of story, Mark does an excellent job of taking some principles from human psychology and learning that show us how we are sometimes conditioned to move or not act in faith. (The only negative I would post about the book is that there are frequent similarities between this book and Batterson's previous, In A Pit With A Lion On A Snowy Day).

Structure: Throughout the seven chapters, the reader will be encouraged to exit one's faith-stunting "cage" and begin to live adventurously for God. Six "cages" are identified: responsibility, routine, assumptions, guilt, failure, and fear. A biblical character is tagged with each of these "cages," showing us that God has helped people in the past come out of their "cages." These characters include: Nehemiah, Moses, Abraham, Peter, Paul, and Jonathon.

Recommended Readers: I think timing is the key to making any book a "great" book for the reader. It's not the timing of the book's publishing, but the moment it intersects with our lives. Batterson's books crossed my path at just the right time. (I had In a Pit with A Lion on A Snowy Day for 18 months before I sat down to read it. I read it at a time when I was ready to admit some not-so-good things about my leadership). Wild Goose Chase is a dynamic book for people in transition, looking for God's leading amidst the myriad of options available to them in their moment of impending change. So, thinking pastorally, of course, here's a list of people I think will benefit from this book:

1. The high school student (Junior or Senior) headed for college, but uncertain as to what God might be calling them in to;

2. The college student who is struggling with his course direction and wnating to hear from God;

3. The guy who is bored with his career yet, fearfully senses that a career change is in his future;

4. The left-brain thinker who is overly analytical and needs to be challenged to use his right-brain skills of adventure for the sake of his family, work, and his God;

5. The man who is five years away from retirement, envisioning what life is going to be like without getting up everyday for work.

Do yourself a favor...go get the book for yourself or for one of these people in your life.

Wild Goose Chase (1 of 5)

2008-08-17T08:00:00.003-04:00

Starting tomorrow, I will be sharing some stuff from Mark Batterson's book, Wild Goose Chase. To get us started, I'll share with you a summary of the book as well as a little bit about the author.

A Summary (from the introduction): “Celtic Christians had a name for the Holy Spirit–An Geadh-Glas, or ‘the Wild Goose.’ The name hints at mystery. Much like a wild goose, the Spirit of God cannot be tracked or tamed. An element of danger, an air of unpredictability surround Him. And while the name may sound a little sacrilegious, I cannot think of a better description of what it’s like to follow the Spirit through life. I think the Celtic Christians were on to something….Most of us will have no idea where we are going most of the time. And I know that is unsettling. But circumstantial uncertainty also goes by another name: Adventure.”

The Author:Mark Batterson is the lead pastor of Washington, DC’s National Community Church, widely recognized as one of America’s most innovative churches. NCC meets in movie theaters at metro stops throughout the city, as well as in a church-owned coffee house near Union Station. More than seventy percent of NCC’ers are single twentysomethings who live or work on Capitol Hill. Mark is the author of the best-selling In a Pit with a Lion on a Snowy Day and a widely read blogger (http://www.markbatterson.com/). He lives on Capitol Hill with his wife, Lora, and their three children.

Website: For more, including a Life Goals download (pdf) and a chapter download (pdf) check out: http://www.chasethegoose.com/.

The Quarterback I Really Admire

2008-08-17T07:00:00.004-04:00

Tonight, the Bengals play the Lions in their second preseason game.

You might think that my sights will be set on Carson Palmer. Nope. I will be watching the Lion's starting quarterback, Jon Kitna.

Without a doubt, Kit is my favorite active athlete. He is a committed Christian. Football simply is the stage for him to display his passionate commitment for Christ. Jon says, “My mission is to do whatever I can to be obedient to Christ and further His Gospel; tell people about the things He’s done in my life and the things He can do in their life.”

Since Kitna joined the Lions in '06 (after four years with Cincinnati Bengals) one blogger has noted that 20 players have given their lives to Christ. Last year, I actually heard Jon in an interview celebrate the fact that the marriages of teammates were being healed. I love what makes this athlete tick.

A blogger from http://jcsuperstars.wordpress.com/ did a really good job of capturing the heart and mind of Jon. Check out this, Christ turns Kitna's Life Around and this, Jesus Is My Coach. One of my great privileges was to meet Jon when he was with the Bengals. He was gracious enough to be pictured with me.

Carson Palmer and Jon Kitna are close Christian brothers. The Battle of the Big Cats (Lions and Bengals) will be fun to watch.

I Knew It!

2008-08-16T08:00:00.005-04:00

Just proof once again that you can find anything on the internet.

A Few Things to End the Week

2008-08-15T11:47:00.006-04:00

I really appreciate dad carrying the blog load this week. It was nice for me to have him share his Fetterisms that have shaped my life and my world. Hoped you enjoyed it. Thanks, Pop.

Next week, I will be blogging on a new book by Mark Batterson called, Wild Goose Chase. Batterson is the same author who wrote In A Pit With A Lion on A Snowy Day. Wild Goose Chase is about living a life of spiritual adventure ... particularly through the Holy Spirit. Or, as the Celtic Christians called Him, An Geadh-Glas--"the Wild Goose."

This book is soon to be released. So, I look forward to sharing some thoughts with you about it. But first...I have to read it over the weekend.

Wish me luck.

Fetterisms (5 of 5)

2008-08-15T07:00:00.001-04:00

"The Human Mind Cannot Conceive of A Thing

That Can’t Be Done."
(Guest Blogger: Paul "Papa" Fetters)

On two occasions this summer, I wanted a tool or a gadget that I was going to make. One was a long handled dandelion digger and the other was a splicer-connection to repair a garden hose.

Both were great “original” thoughts…or so I thought. But I became realistic and determined that if I could conceive of the ideas, then probably someone else had already made them. I purchased them at the local hardware. Cursed is the one who thinks my “original” thoughts before I think my original thoughts.

Often the concept is fantasy before it becomes reality. Buck Rogers was the first to explore space travel in the comic strips years and years ago. Now space travel is a common fare in the daily news.

Hmmm. I wonder. Perhaps, the reason we can conceive of God is because God exists. That seems to be the assumption in the first four words of Genesis. “In the beginning God. . .”

Fetterisms (4 of 5)

2008-08-14T07:00:00.005-04:00

"The Fun Is in The Planning."
(Guest Blogger: Paul "Papa" Fetters)

I have discovered that if you want support in a project, be sure to include others in the planning. The fun is in the planning. Individuals who help in the planning of a project psychologically buy into the plan and they take ownership of the plan and will participate in its completion.

It is always more fun to plan than to do the task. How many good and excellent projects have you started that are still half finished and waiting in the basement? How about the wooden chess board you started 20 years ago? It has probably been three years since you planned to clean and paint the work room. It is still a mess. It is not because of the excitement of the planning, but the frustration of the work.

The Bible is filled with events such as the rebuilding of the wall at the half-way-point in Nehemiah’s day. There was no lack of interest in the planning. There was frustration in the middle of the project but there was satisfaction in the completion. Why? Because the people who made the plans had a mind to work.

Fetterisms (3 of 5)

2008-08-13T07:00:00.004-04:00

"I’m your Father. I am not going to quit. I am not going to retire. And, you can’t fire me."
(Guest Blogger: Paul "Papa" Fetters)

At times I have felt, " I don’t like this aspect of being a father."

On one occasion, I was told by my oldest son, "Pop you are blowing it as a father." On that particular day, he probably had good reasons for the way he felt about my parenting skills.

That little confrontation was a chin stroker, a real head scratcher, or as the "King of Siam" mused, "a puzzlement."

After reflecting, I realized that it was my first time around raising three teenage sons. But they were also on their first time around as teenagers. Boy were they blowing it.

We concluded that in a few years they would have opportunity for blowing it as first-time fathers. Their children would be blowing it as teens. I would again be blowing it as my first time grandfathering. But until then, "I am the adult around here. I am the one called, ‘Father.’ I am not going to retire, I am not going to quit, and they could not fire me."

NFL Preseason

2008-08-12T09:06:00.004-04:00

It was good to see the Bengals win something last night...even if it was a pre-season game against the Packers. After a woeful 1st quarter, down 10-0, the Bengals showed their teeth in the second quarter, going on a 17-0 run. They won on a forced fumble with less than a minute to play. If I were to score their play, I'd give them a C+. The offense is still suspect...possibly overrated. The defense still has a lot to prove. Next up...the Lions. I'll call it the "Battle of the Big Cats."

Fetterisms (2 of 5)

2008-08-12T07:00:00.005-04:00

"Pretty Is As Pretty Does"
(Guest Blogger: Paul "Papa" Fetters)

Over the years, I have learned to be cautious in employing, assigning, selecting, or recommending potential.

Often, when I have bought into one’s "potential" at 20, they still were showing "potential" at 40...and still waiting for performance.

The recommendations of leaders are often based on one’s potential or what one hopes the person will some day become. Those who are some day “gonna be” when this happens or that happens will remain a “gonna be.”

Potential and promise of an elite thorough bred hound will look pretty on paper and sound great in speech, but the performance of a ordinary beagle, whose mother comes from good stock and whose father is unknown, will get the job done.

Fetterisms (1 of 5)

2008-08-11T07:00:00.003-04:00

"Everyone's A Theologian"
(Guest Blogger: Paul "Papa" Fetters)

Theology is the study of God. It comes from two Greek words, Theos (God) and Logos (rational thinking). Thus, theology is one’s rational thinking about God and those things pertaining to God.

Everyone is a theologian is a fact I learned as a boy in Charlie's Inn, the local “Beer Joint” in Willshire, Ohio. I grew up a Pagan Protestant. In the 1930, 40s, and 50, you were Protestant, Catholic, or Jew. You were baptized a Catholic, or born a Jew, or a Protestant by choice, or as in my case, by default.

Although my family did not cast their shadows in the door way of a church, my theological training was not ignored by the mentors at Charlie’s. Most of the men had seen better days spiritually--some had been baptized, others confirmed, and a few had experienced an earlier conversion crisis.

There was not one subject on which my mentors at Charlie’s did not share their rational thinking. Even the atheist and agnostic are given to moments in which they share there thinking about the concept of “God.” It seems that individuals can not leave God alone.

Perhaps it is because God will not leave them alone.

Back from the Beach

2008-08-11T06:30:00.000-04:00

Vacation was awesome. A week at the beach was a blast...unplugged and all! Finished two books that I was trying to read this summer. Played Tiger Woods Golf (PlayStation)with Jordan and Quinn. Read lots from the Gospels. Ate tons of pizza and seafood and donuts. Had great visits with the Whitmans...doing the Ocean City beach, golfing at Ocean Pines, shopping the outlets, playing miniature golf at Shell We Golf. Some pictures show a few highlights of what amounted to a week in the sun, surf, and sand. Oh yeah, in case you're wondering...that's me with the shaved head. Special props to Elsie Whitman for her shot of me trying to part the Atlantic Ocean. I was unsuccessful.

(by Elsie Whitman)

Some Advice for Handling Our Worries

2008-08-10T07:00:00.000-04:00

Why do we worry? Why do we fret over things that probably will never happen to us? Sometimes, we just need someone to say to us, "Stop It!"

Jesus said, "Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear...but seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well...do not worry about tomorrow, tomorrow will worry about itself" (Matthew 6:25,33-34).

Live today like you believe Him.

Guest Blogger: Paul R. Fetters

2008-08-08T07:00:00.004-04:00

I'm really excited about next week's series of blogs. My dad, Paul , will carry the blogging load all week in a series called, "Fetterisms."

Let me tell you a little bit about my dad.

To the three boys who call him "Pop," our father is one of those larger-than-life figures. While he started his career as a local church minister, the largest portion of his dosier shows accomplishments in higher education.

For 25 years, Pop was the academic dean for the Huntington University Graduate School for Christian Ministries. He took a dying graduate program in 1972 and turned it around with innovative strategies. In 1997, he rejoined the faculty ranks at the University, teaching courses in Bible and religion. At 74, dad is still at HU, enjoying his many teaching and mentoring opportunities to students who call him "Papa Fetters." Pop has written and/or edited 5 books (one in history and theology) and wrote countless articles. He's been honored many times over by churches, a denomination, and a university. This fall, Dad will have a chapel named after him on the Huntington University campus.

But, with all his academic professionalism, my brother Brooks says, "Dad is as common as a clod." Pop is an everyday theologian, not an ivory tower thinker. His brand of theology is incredibly practical. It's for everyday living. It has personality and wit. And, it has shaped his sons' work ethic, respect for authority, relationships with God, respect for women, and maintainence of personal integrity.

Dad's wisdom is shared with memorable one-liners that stick. Things like, "You don't have to like liver to eat it," remind me to persist with a situation or endeavor that is necessary whether I enjoy it or not. It's Pop's wit and wisdom that I want to share with you next week. I hope you enjoy.

Welcome to blogging, Pop!

How To Pray for Your Pastor

2008-08-07T07:00:00.002-04:00

Your pastor needs prayer. I forgot where I got this list from, but it has served me well to have people praying for me along seven daily themes. Maybe this list will help you pray for your pastor.

Monday: Pray for Your Pastor's Family

Tuesday: Pray for Wisdom for Your Pastor

Wednesday: Pray for Your Pastor’s Ministry Focus

Thursday: Pray for Your Pastor’s Health

Friday: Pray for Your Pastor’s Spiritual Growth

Saturday: Pray for Your Pastor’s Purity

Sunday: Pray for God’s Anointing On Your Pastor

A Leader's Prayer-"Lord, Disturb Us"

2008-08-06T07:00:00.001-04:00

Came across this prayer:

"Disturb us, Lord, when we are too well pleased with ourselves, when our dreams have come true because we have dreamed too little, when we arrived safely because we sailed too close to the shore."

How are you sailing too close to the shore in your life, ministry, etc? Are you taking risks that will increase your faith and trust and reliance upon God?

A Leadership Pep Talk from Rocky Balboa

2008-08-05T07:00:00.003-04:00

Look, I'm not afraid to admit it...I love Rocky! I love Rock's common-man wisdom and draw strenght from it.

In the past year, I've drawn strength from one scene in Rocky Balboa (a.k.a. Rocky VI). Rocky challenges his son to get some courage and quit being rapt in what others think about him or his dad's desire to fight at 60 years of age. With a father's perception, Rocky understands his son's heart--he's insecure. You've got to check it out!

God also understands how insecurity paralyzes leaders. Knowing that Joshua needed a boost of courage after the death of Moses, his mentor, God spoke into his young, inexperienced heart. "Be strong and courageous, because you will lead these people to inherit the land I swore to their forefathers to give them. Be strong and very courageous. Be careful to obey all the law my servant Moses gave you; do not turn from it to teh right or to the left, that you may be successful whereever you go" (Joshua 1:6-8).

If you are fighting some insecurities, draw some strength from God...and, if necessary, from Rocky too.

Thoughts on Leadership

2008-08-04T07:00:00.003-04:00

I found this excellent post from Perry Noble dot com. He asks the question: Are you an initiator or a reponder? As a recovering "responder," I thought his insights were right on. Enjoy.

-An initiator spends their time trying to think big and extinguish the fires of hell…a responder spends their time trying to figure out how to keep people happy and tries to extinguish the fires of small minded people.

-An initiator spends their time asking God to lead them to take huge risks…a responder spends their time asking God to keep them safe.

-An initiator takes God led risks…a responder will call a business meeting.

-An initiator spends all of their time trying to please God…a responder spends all of their time trying to please people.

-An initiator will preach what he feels that God has told him to preach and not fear the consequences…a responder will preach what makes people happy so he can receive a paycheck.

-An initiator spends all of their time trying to figure out what’s next…and a responder spends all their time trying to figure out how to guard the past and the present.

-An initiator prays huge prayers and asks God for impossible things…a responder doesn’t really think God is in the miracle business anymore & will pray prayers that doesn’t require God’s help to accomplish so that “God doesn’t look bad!”

-An initiator will surround himself with leaders who will speak their minds…a responder want people around him who will say, “Your poop doesn’t stink!”

-An initiator wants to meet with people who do not think like him…a responder is threatened by people who aren’t just like him.

I'm Gone...But, Blogging Continues

2008-08-03T07:00:00.000-04:00

While on vacation this week, I will be "unplugged." We'll see how I do without a cell phone and a computer. Knowing me as I do, there will be enough other gadgets to play like my mp3 player, my satellite radio, and a friend's portable DVD player.

But, even though I am gone from the blog world, I do have some blogs scheduled for posting. I am excited about what's coming...some advice from Rocky Balboa, a leadership prayer, and how to pray for your pastor. But most fun for me is Friday's blog when I will be introducing my dad who will be guest blogging for Todd's Blog the week of August 11. So, come on back to this blog. It's gonna be good.

Vacation Time...AHHHHH!

2008-08-02T07:00:00.001-04:00

All next week, the Fetters' family is headed to the beach. Rehoboth, to be exact. It's our family favorite. Gonna do some reading. Alot of sun-soaking. Eat more-than-I-should Grotto's Pizza. Golfing with Jordan and my friend, Tod (poor guy got cheated out of a "d" when he was named). Go to the Candy Kitchen Ocean City (Md) with the Fetters boys and the Whitman girls. Watch movies. Do a bit of shopping at the outlets. But, I am most looking forward to just hanging out on the beach with Lisa and the boys. It's been three years since we've had this type of vacation. Word to the wise...don't wait that long for this kind of get-away. Here are some pix from our last beach vacation.

Attaboys & Attagirls

2008-08-01T15:02:00.003-04:00

This week, I give kudos to the following:

Attaboy, Jonathan Miller for winning "Grand Champ" in the Holstein Show at the Lebanon County Fair.

Attagirl, Emily Miller for your 1st Place in the 4H competition. Congratulations for the other 2 blue ribbons at the Lebanon County Fair.

Attaboy, Jordan Fetters, Ian Isaac, Reese Judge, Kyle Jackson, Danny Kehler, & Dante Hobbs for winning the championship of the Brightbill basketball league. It's been a blast watching you guys grow up together on the court. What a way to finish!

Attaboy, Coach Tyrone Isaac, for leading these young men in basketball and life for the past five years. You are indeed a man to admire!

Attaboy, Luke Fetters, for toughing it out enough in China to lead the mission team and to teach after needing an I.V. because of stomach sickness and a virus to your inner ear. Dude, you are one of the gutsiest guys I know. Whenever you get knocked down, you get up again! Always.

In A Pit...(4 of 4)

2008-08-01T10:13:00.004-04:00

"The Fear of Foolishness"

"God deliberately chose things the world considers foolish in order to

shame those who think they are wise"

(1 Corinthians 1:27)

"Lion chasers choose fear." Huh? Are you kidding me?!

Mark talks about fear in terms of "fun." That's odd. At the same time, it's quite true. If I'm honest with myself, I'll admit that the moments in my life worth telling stories about involved me facing some gigantic fear. Riding in the front seat of rollercoasters that flip. Petting a skunk. Defending the goal line on a penalty kick. Preaching in front of 500 people at 16 years of age. Asking Lisa out on a date. Getting married. Moving to Pennsylvania, far from my family. Leading a capital campaign. Confessing a sin to someone. And, the list goes on.

Facing fears...or at least the moment after success...is fun. So, why don't I/we tackle more daring things?

"The fear of foolishness," Batterson adds. None of us likes to look foolish. It's why we don't raise our hand when the teacher calls for a volunteer. It's why we don't ask the cheerleader out on a date. It's why we don't want the ball as time is running out on the clock. It's why we as pastors settle for status quo instead of dreaming crazy dreams.

"Here's the deal," Mark admonishes, "If you aren't willing to look foolish, you're foolish. In fact, faith is the willingness to look foolish."

Great stories come from people who risked looking foolish to do the great things God asked them to do. Batterson notes, "Noah built an ark in the desert, and was saved from a flood...Sarah bought maternity clothes at 90, but she gave birth to Isaac...the Israelites looked foolish marched around Jericho, but the walls came down...David looked foolish attacking a giant with a slingshot, but Goliath died...Jesus looked foolish hanging half-naked on the cross, but He rose from the dead."

What awesome stories. Now Mark asks all of us who are afraid of looking foolish, "Are you living your life in a way that is worth telling stories about?" What "crazy" thing is God asking you to do?

In A Pit...(3 of 4)

2008-07-31T07:10:00.003-04:00

"Life is infinitely uncertain."

I like simple and predictable. In my marriage. In my ministry. In my life. That's a problem when you factor in the truth of Batterson's best statement of his book ("best" according to me, that is): "Life is infinitely uncertain and God is infinitely complex."

Here's the problem with guys like me. In our attempts to make things simple, we tend to reduce life to what we can "figure" out. What is worse, when we try to reduce life's uncertainty, we consequently reduce our understanding of God. That's when we stunt our spiritual growth and that of those who follow us. Our marriages suffer. Our families suffer. Our congregations suffer.

For far too long, I've mistakenly thought, as a pastor, that if I just employed the right techniques of ministry then success would result. If I just created the right orginazational machine then God could predictably work in our midst. WRONG! God calls us to live by faith. And if you think that is cop out, or something easy, or lacks messiness, then chew on this: "Faith," Batterson states, "doesn't reduce uncertainty. Faith embraces uncertainty."

When God's complexity comingles with life's uncertainty, serious complications result. And Batterson explains the necessity of complications: "A relationship with God will complicate your life, but it will complicate your life in ways it should be complicated. Sin will complicate your life in ways that it shouldn't be complicate. One way or the other, life is complicated. Good complications or bad complications--it's your choice."

Great stories are born out of life's uncertainty and God's complexity. I don't imagine that Benaiah was anticipating that a lion would intersect his path on that fateful snowy day. But it did. And, for whatever reason, he acted on faith and consequently, the usual prey became the unusual predator. So, be like Benaiah and embrace uncertainty as it wanders across your path.

What uncertainties do you need to embrace right now, trusting that God, though complex, is sufficient to help you thrive in your circumstances?

Championship Game!

2008-07-30T07:00:00.001-04:00

Jordan's summer basketball team won their second championship in three years. In a spirited battle with the boys from McDevitt, the guys from Central Dauphin won by 15-plus. That makes two Rec-Team Championship for Jordan this year...winter and summer. Attaboy, Jordan!

Personal Goal: Realized!

2008-07-29T12:00:00.000-04:00

July 28 was a big day for me. It was "maximum lift" day at the House of Pain (the name of the home gym where I work out). So, there I was under the bar ready to benchpress 225 lbs. One lift to realize a personal best. With serious struggle and strain and alot of groaning, the bar went up...all the way! Not bad for the skinny kid from Huntington, Indiana. By the way, the real stud of the day was my House of Pain host, trainer, and lifting partner, Doug Foltz, who hoisted a staggering 280 lbs. Attaboy, Doug!

Jazzmine, the Wonder Dog

2008-07-29T11:36:00.006-04:00

Jazzmine is our family dog. Today, she is lucky to be alive! Just a few moments ago, Jazzmine took a van-shot to the side of the head.

Here's the unfortunate scenario.

While I was out on the patio doing some reading, she quietly escaped her lead. I had no clue until Lisa came running out to the deck with an urgent, "Jazzmine is over at the park!" Apparently, one of the parks and rec workers got hold of Jazz and called the number on her tag.

The park is behind our house and through the small woods. So, Lisa and Quinn went running. I chose the Civic. When I got there, Jazz was in the hands of the workers who were entertaining 30 kids. How scary for them. The worker mistakenly thought Jazz would run right to me and let her go. She did run, but not to me.

Instead, she ran through some yards and across another street. So, Quinn and I went after her. We saw her on the opposite side of the street. I called for her to come back. Mistake. I didn't see a van coming. She timed (or mis-timed) her run perfectly to...thump...take a glancing blow to the left side of the face and shoulder from the van she didn't see either. After she shook her head and collected her senses, she came right to me. We both walked home quietly, probably thinking the same thing, "Didn't YOU see that van?!"

She's fine...as normal as Jazz is. Nothing seems to be hurting or painful to touch. No vet visit in our future, we hope.

Oh...life with Jazz.

In A Pit...(2 of 4)

2008-07-29T08:35:00.011-04:00

"Unlearning Your Fears"

Fear is something we all face. Batterson notes that "Lion chasers experience the same fears as everyone else." But, the difference is that "they have unlearned the fears that kept them captive."

I've spent too much time in life hiding from what I am afraid of. Looking back over my athletic years, I was motivated too often by fear of failure. Fear of losing didn't plague me like the fear of failure...failure to hit the ball, failure to block the goal, failure to make the shot. Fear of failure is an awful thing because it usually led to looking for ways to not be in the key situation. But that's not living. You know you're alive when the adrenaline is pumping. And, nothing gets it pumping like standing at the plate with a full count, bases loaded, and two outs!

Acquiesing to fear results in a stunted faith, a stalled leadership, and slight treasury of great God-stories. As "I make the turn" (a phrase I've adopted to describe the mental and behavior and emotional changes I'm making in ministry at 42) that is going to change. I am committed to unlearning my fear of failure. And, Benaiah, the "lion-chaser" can help me.

Unlearn your fears. That's Batterson's point: "The cure for the fear of failure is not success. It's failure. The cure for fear of rejection is not acceptance. It's rejection. You've got to be exposed to small quantities of whatever you're afraid of. That's how you build up immunity"...and, I might add, grow your faith.

So, what fear do you need to face today?

In A Pit...(1 of 4)

2008-07-28T08:05:00.007-04:00

"Impossible Odds"

Mark Batterson calls those who act courageously on their opportunity-instincts like Benaiah, "lion-chasers."

For the 42 years of life that I have lived life, I have never embraced such an identity. My modus operanda has always been to take low, calculated risks...to play the safe odds. That's where Batterson's thoughts are particularly challenging. "Sometimes God won't intervene until something is humanly impossible. And he usually does it in the nick of time. I think that pattern reveals one dimension of God's personality: God loves impossible odds."

When we believe that God love impossible odds...and encourages us to be in situations like that, it will change the way we pray: "Too often our prayers revolve around asking God to reduce the odds in our lives. We want everyting in our favor. But maybe God wants to stack the odds against us so we can experience a miracle of divine proportion. Maybe our impossible situations are opportunities to experience a new dimension of God's glory."

How are you living out your faith? Playing it all safe? Or, taking a chance on lion-chasing? How are you praying? For a reducing of the odds? Or, for an increase of the risk?

What "lion" is God asking you to chase today? Go chase it!

NFL Fever...I Think I'm Catching It

2008-07-27T22:10:00.004-04:00

OK...the Bengals have reported. I am starting to get excited about the season. Carson's back. Chad's happy, healthy, and ready to play. Whitworth is now worth $30 mil. And, I tried on my jersey and I still look good. Are you ready for some football? I am.

(The picture is from last year's Bengal Weekend. It's Quinn and Jordan with me at Paul Brown Stadium just prior to the Monday Night kick-off against the Ravens).

A Mom's Story of Letting Go

2008-07-27T18:00:00.002-04:00

Laurie Jorgenson is a mother of two daughters that are active in missions. Letting Leslie and Leah go to far away places has never been easy for her. But, Laurie understands that if she were to interfere with her daughters' desires to serve God, she would be messing with God's call on their lives. Currently, Leslie serves in Darfur with World Relief. Darfur is a volatile and violent place. Today in our worship service, Laurie shared her struggle with God's will for her daughter's life. Listen.

This Week..."In A Pit With A Lion"

2008-07-27T12:00:00.000-04:00

All this week, I will be blogging on my gleanings from Mark Batterson's book, In A Pit With A Lion On A Snowy Day.

If you haven't heard of this book, you need to get familiar with it. (I described the book in a previous blog). The book, based on the amazing biblical story of Benaiah, is about overcoming fear when seizing opportunities in life.

Check out how God immortalized Benaiah's courage: "Benaiah chased a lion down into a pit. Then, despite the snow and slippery ground, he caught the lion and killed it" (2 Samuel 23:20).

Heck. What more needs to be said? The dude chased a lion like some superhero stud. I think we can learn alot of stuff from this guy...stuff about life, about courage, about overcoming fear, about seizing moments, about facing potential failure in the teeth.

C'mon. Chase a lion with me this week. We can learn together.

Hoping for A Roar!

2008-07-26T09:00:00.002-04:00

Training Camp begins tomorrow for my beloved Cincinnati Bengals.

For the first time in 6 years, I stuggle to get excited about the upcoming season. Last year was to be a great year. Super Bowl talk started early. But, with a 1-5 start, it became pretty obvious that that dream was dead.

Instead of a great season, it was awful. Just awful. The Bengals went 7-9. What is more, after the first preseason game, I predicted that sad outcome, hoping every week thereafter to be wrong. It was just an awful season.

There were crippling injuries. There were competing egos. Civic crimes were committed, which brought on season-long suspensions. I shall say it again...the season was just awful.

I was hoping to be excited by now, but I am not. In fact, as a new season dawns, I wonder if my current emotional numbness will persist.

Here's hoping for Bengals that ROAR...not cubs that meow.

Help Desired: Prayer Requests for Local Community

2008-07-25T07:00:00.001-04:00

Christians are called to pray. That's one of the benefits of having local churches in the community. I have an idea that I want to turn into reality and I need as much help as people can give me. I would like to develop a list of 31 "things" that Devonshire can pray about for our community. The end result will be a 31-day prayer guide for October.

Imagine a church that is praying hard for God's Kingdom to come right in the midst of where we live. Imagine children, students, adults all coming together to ask God to take hold of the parts of our county that represent another kingdom.

It might help you to think of ways in which Satan is really taking hold of organization, institutions, people, etc. I realize that such a focus is negative, but really, that's the kind of intensity we need to have. Be as specific as possible. I for one am sick of Satan destroying marriages and families.

What would you pray for in Colonial Park/Dauphin County?

Grave Robber

2008-07-24T07:00:00.002-04:00

My favorite contemporary Christian band is Petra. They were the pioneers in Christian rock. Their classic, "Grave Robber," is all about the hope every Christian has after he or she dies. The lyrics are built off of 1 Corinthians 15:54--"Death is swallowed up in victory. O death, where is your victory? O death, where is your sting?" Don't you just love Paul's sarcastic jab at death? It has no hold over those of us in Christ Jesus. Check out the lyrics as you watch the video of Petra's final performance after 33 years of ministry.

Grave Robber
There's a step that we all have to take alone
An appointment we have with the great unknown
Like a vapor this life is just waiting to pass
Like the flowers that fade like the withering grass

But life seems so long and death so complete
And the grave an impossible portion to cheat
But there's One who has been there and still lived to tell
There is One who has been through both heaven and hell
And the Grave will come up empty handed that day
Jesus will come and steal us away

Where is the sting tell me where is the bite
When the grave robber comes like a thief in the night
Where is the victory where is the prize
When the grave robber comes
And death finally dies

Many still mourn and many still weep
For those that they love who have fallen asleep
But we have this hope though our hearts may still ache
Just one shout from above and they all will awake
(And) in the reunion of joy we will see
Death will be swallowed in sweet victory

When the last enemy is gone from the dust will come a song
Those asleep will be awakened - not a one will be forsakened
He shall wipe away our tears - He will steal away our fears
There will be no sad tomorrow - there will be no pain or sorrow

My "Recent Reads"

2008-07-23T07:00:00.001-04:00

FYI...if you want to check out the books under "Recent Reads," I've made it easy for you to read excerpts. Just click on the title and you'll be taken to the sample reader from Amazon.

For what it's worth, I really recommend to you Mark Batterson's book, "In A Pit With A Lion On A Snowy Day." It's built on 2 Samuel 23:20--"Benaiah chased a lion down into a pit. Then, despite the snow and slippery ground, he caught the lion and killed it."

Did you catch that? The dude actually chased down a lion! This book deals with topics like defying odds, overcoming fears, overcoming anxiety, embracing uncertainty, taking risks, seizing opportunities, looking foolish.

Every chapter in this book makes me ask, "What have I chased lately besides my tail?"

Church Softball Highlights from 2008

2008-07-22T10:44:00.006-04:00

Unfortunately, Devonshire Church could not defend its 2007 Championship. We'll have to settle on the fact that we were runnersup in 2008. What is more, we made it to the Championship Game for the third straight year.

We had a great time. And, we have pictures to prove it.

An Urgent Message for Men Who Have Influence

2008-07-21T07:00:00.003-04:00

You've got to take 5 1/2 minutes of your life and watch "Slow Fade"... a music video by Casting Crowns. It's impact could be life changing for you and those you care about.

Slow Fade is not about male-patterned baldness. It's about thinking through our choices before we make them. The song will remind you that the choices we make at any given moment have consequences, both short-term and long-term, that can either bring blessing or tragedy upon us and those we care about.

Watch it for the wife who calls you "husband," the children who call you "dad," the athletes who call you "coach," the parents who call you "son" or "daughter," the congregation who calls you "pastor," the employees who call you "boss," and the host of others who call you "friend."

Satan is out to destroy every one of us, including those around us. Hey, I'm not paranoid. I am just realistic.

So check this out. If it strikes a chord in you and you would like to talk, I'd be honored to connect asap. I'll listen and I'll pray.

Awful News!

2008-07-20T10:00:00.003-04:00

Last week, there was a shock heard around my world. Starbucks , Inc. announced it was closing 600 stores. With the shakes resonating throughout my body like a triple shot latte, I waited to hear what the impact would be closest to my home. Well, on Friday the news hit. Two stores in the Harrisburg area are closing. The one that impacts me most is the store located in downtown Harrisburg. What a great store. Sorry to see it go. Hope to see no more! My wife says that I'm "addicted." I disagree. I am just committed.

What's going on in Starbucksland around you? I'd love to know.

Quote of the Week: "Tough to Be An Atheist"

2008-07-19T08:00:00.003-04:00

Rick Reilly, former writer for Sports Illustrated and current writer for ESPN, is credited by me with the best quote of the week.

While chronicaling the comeback story of baseball's, Josh Hamilton, i.e. from "baseball phenom" to "drug and alcohol addict" to "down-and-out baseball player" to "confessing sinner and committed Christian" to "restored Major League baseball player" to "All-Star" to "Home Run Derby record holder," Reilly said, "It's a tough night to be an athiest."

Honestly, every day is tough to be an athiest.

OOO-LA-LA! Look What Just Arrived in Stores

2008-07-19T08:00:00.002-04:00

Isn't it just beautiful? Check out the new Bengals sideline cap for 2008-2009. It's the must-have for my upcoming NFL season. Honestly, can you think of any color scheme that is cooler than black, white, and orange? And...with a ferocious tiger on the front, you simply can't beat it...the hat, that is. The team...well, that's another story. Go Bengals!

Attaboys & Attagirls

2008-07-18T10:00:00.004-04:00

Here are the Attaboys & Attagirls for this week!

Attaboy, Lucas McClintock for turning 1 year-old last week.

Attaboy, Brooks Fetters for completing over one half of your goal to ride 2000 miles between May 1 and October 1 in support of the United Way Fundraiser in Huntington. At $5.995/mile pledged from some very generous folks, you are on pace to do something amazing for needy people in our hometown. Proud of you. (To check out Brooks' progress, check out Ride, Brooks, Ride).

Attagirl, Nichole Foltz for leading Vacation Bible School this week at Devonshire. Thanks for a great week.

Attaboy, Bob Barner for getting the job at Yellow!

Attaboy, Tod Whitman for coaching the winning team at last weekend's softball tournament in the Pocono's. Does anybody know the sport quite like you? I think not.

Attagirl, Erin Whitman for contributing to the Krunch's tournament win last weekend. Way to go! Good luck this weekend in Carlisle.

Attaboy, Warwick Fuller for passing your National Conference exam to receive your ministerial license in the Church of the United Brethren in Christ.

Attaboy, Jordan Fetters for getting the job with Finish Line. Good luck Tuesday at training. Proud of you.

Choosing the Right Bible

2008-07-18T07:00:00.006-04:00

Have you ever tried to have a conversation with someone who spoke in a language different than you? It's pretty tough to get traction. How about trying to talk with someone who insists on using words that you don't understand? Now, that's downright exasperating!

When you are having a conversation with God, via the Bible, it is important to have a version that you can easily understand. Years ago, your options were few, i.e. King James Version (KJV), Revised Standard Version (RSV), New American Standard (NAS), New International Version (NIV), etc. Yet, in recent years, new and reliable translations have popped to the surface, which utilize language and style that is comfortable to read and easily understood, i.e. English Standard Version (ESV), Contemporary English Version (CEV), Today's New International Version (TNIV), New Living Translation (NLT), etc.

I prefer the New Living Translation for "conversational reading" (see an earlier post for an explanation for the term). To see a sample of the difference, let's compare three versions of Proverbs 5:15-16.

KJV
15 Drink waters out of thine own cistern, and running waters out of thine own well.
16 Let thy fountains be dispersed abroad, and rivers of waters in the streets.

NIV
15 Drink water from your own cistern, running water from your own well.
16 Should your springs overflow in the streets, your streams of water in the public squares?

NLT
15 Drink water from your own well—share your love only with your wife.
16 Why spill the water of your springs in the streets, having sex with just anyone?

For me, the NLT (and for others, the ESV) utilizes the language, style, and flow that helps me understand the author, as well as sustain longer reading periods.

There may be a better one for you. Just don't miss this fact: God wants to talk with you. So, choose a version that makes it possible for you to listen.

Jordan Goes to Work!

2008-07-17T21:44:00.003-04:00

We got a huge praise today. Jordan got a job with Finish Line...a sportswear store (like Foot Locker) in the mall. I'm proud of my boy. He hadn't heard anything since his interview 10 days ago. So, he called today as followup. The cool thing was that they were going to call him later. He starts Tuesday with four hours of training. Thanks for praying.

Five Questions to Ask God

2008-07-17T07:00:00.005-04:00

On my sixteenth birthday, my mom and dad gave me the Christian Worker's New Testament. I was so excited to get this little black book. It was just like my dad's.

Inside the front cover, Pop wrote this brief message:

To Todd: One of God's son's by new birth! The Word of God contains facts to be believed, warnings to be heeded, promises to be received, commands to be obeyed! May you find pleasant and not impossible to follow. Pop and Mom

Little did I know it at 16, but Pop's little inscription was a classic outline-aid for studying the Bible, used by many Christians, including scholars and pastors.

With some adaptation to the outline, I try to keep five questions in mind whenever I'm reading a Bible passage. The questions I ask God are:

Question 1: Are there any facts to be understood and believed?

Question 2: Are there any warnings to be considered and followed?

Question 3: Are there any promises to be anticipated and received?

Question 4: Are there any commands to be acknowledged and obeyed?

Question 5: Are there any examples to be imitated or avoided?

The five-question model is a simple, yet powerful, way to draw meaning from any biblical text. Try it for yourself with 1 Corinthians 10:6-14

The Scriptures Help Us Fight Satan

2008-07-16T07:00:00.009-04:00

Did you watch the Home Run Derby Monday night? What a treat. Josh Hamilton blasted 28 homeruns in the first round. A record! Even though he lost the event to Justin Morneau, Hamilton won the hearts of many.

Hamilton is an unlikely All-Star. With all the potential in the world, Josh was the first pick in the '99 draft, signing a $4 million bonus that he would blow over 5 years on alcohol and drugs. He hit the rock bottom of his addiction in 2005. He was out of baseball for three years, having never made it out of the minor leagues. Now, three years later, he is having an incredible season in the Major Leagues. What an amazing comeback!

What's more amazing is how the grace of God has changed his life. Hamilton surrendered himself to Jesus Christ and says, "What I did was simple. I put God first in my life."

Today, Josh finds help from the Bible to withstand the temptations of his past addiction. A Houston Chronicle article explains, "Hamilton doesn't socialize with teammates if there's going to be alcohol. During a trip to San Francisco, he encountered several teammates in a steakhouse. He stopped by their table, said hello and returned to his hotel room. During trying times, he recites James 4:7, one of dozens of scriptures he says has helped. 'Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.' 'I've found if I remember Scripture, things go away.'" For more on Josh's story, watch his interview with Jim Rome.

We memorize a lot of things. Phone numbers to our favorite restaurants. Website addresses. Sports statistics of our favorite teams and players. Hamilton reinforces the positive value of memorizing Scripture. King David was empowered by this discipline. He says, "I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you" (Psalm 119:11).

If scripture memorization is good for a king, then it is good for you and me. To get started, try Mark 12:29-30. It will help you to remember to love God more everyday and to love others a little bit better.

A Sit-Down Conversation with God

2008-07-15T07:00:00.006-04:00

I think it's important to read the Bible (or any book for that matter) like I'm actually engaged in a conversation with the author.

Think of how you interact conversationally with someone. Your eyes are alert. You move around in your chair in positions showing comfort, excitment, agitation, etc. Depending on your perspective on the person's ideas or opinions, your head nods gently up and down. Or, it could emphatically shake right to left. You make sounds like "mmmhmmm" when you agree, and "huh uh" when you don't. Having a conversation is quite dynamic.

Whenever I open my Bible, I believe that I am having a conversation with God. Four conversational responses (or sounds) not only show my interest as a listener, but also serve to help me categorize what I hear God saying.

1. "Wow!" -- God says some stuff that is absolutely captivating. These things might be ideas, promises, facts, truths that you've never heard before.

2. "Aha!" -- God says some stuff that clarifies something that may have been confusing or previously misunderstood.

3. "Grrr!" -- God says some stuff that I don't like. Stuff that conflicts with my attitudes, values, priorities, behavior, and/or worldview. And, since He is always right, I'd better listen and begin the tough process of figuring it out and doing life-application.

4. "Hmm." -- God says some stuff that I need to further consider, i.e. hard truths never considered, negative attitudes rooted deeply in my DNA, positive traits about His character, etc. It's important to reflect on this kind of stuff because it is potentially life-changing.

Maybe this approach will help you engage the Bible as a sit-down conversation with God.

If you want to give it a try, just get a piece of paper and divide it into four sections. Label each section with one of the words/sounds above. Then grab your Bible, start reading/listening and write key phrases and thoughts in the appropriate section for you. Start with my text for Sunday: "The Parable of the Weeds," Matthew 13:24-30, 36-43.

Happy conversing!

Let God Just Talk

2008-07-14T10:00:00.006-04:00

It has been said that Christians are "a people of one book." That book is the Bible.

Certainly, the Bible is not just an ordinary book. It is a powerful book. By God’s own admission, "The word of God is full of living power" (Hebrews 4:12a, NLT). What is more, the Bible can transform and shape our lives. "It is sharper than the sharpest knife, cutting deeper into our innermost through and desires. It exposes us for what we really are" (Hebrews 4:12b,c, NLT).

I've read a lot of books and I will say, none of them has had the kind of impact on my life like the Bible. It has extraordinary power...if you read it.

I am a huge proponent of Bible reading. More to the point, I am an advocate of listening to God. That is what you do when you open the Bible. You listen to God as He speaks. When you open your Bible, you engage the living God and listen to what He has to say about Himself…about love…about life...about relationships with others...about raising kids...about sex...about money...about sin…about righteousness…about His hopes…about His plans…about YOU!

If you're a Christian, the Bible is our book. We must read it. Don't read it strictly motivated "to get something out of it." Instead, read the Bible so that God can get into you…into your head and your heart. So, go ahead, grab your Bible and let God just talk. Trust me, it will help you love Him more.

This week we'll talk practically about Bible reading, i.e. versions, strategies, resources, etc. To get things started, I'd love to know what your favorite verse is in the Bible? Why do you like it so much.