Michael Vick Finds Jesus

Earlier in the week I watched Mike Vick speak following his hearing. He said many things about being sorry for his immature actions. He spoke without a prepared text and sounded genuine. Toward the end of his statement he said, "I have found Jesus...turned my life over to God." (Maybe not an exact quote but close)

Of course my first thought, being the sarcastic Christian that I am, was 'I didn't know Jesus was lost.' I quickly confessed my critical thoughts and began to ponder these words from this troubled man. After a few minutes, my reaction has changed. My opinion on this statement by Vick is this: I hope he has, found Jesus I mean. At the end of the day that's his only hope. Mine too.

Time and time again we see that the fame and fortune of this world will not ultimately satisfy. More than that, it is not the satisfaction of this life that is of utmost importance. Clearly this life with all its trappings is fleeting. You might say it is like a vapor.

We must get an eternal perspective on things. I hope Mr. Vick is on the right path.

An Education for the Homemaker

Brian has weighed in on the issue of a new degree program being offered in Homemaking. As this has become a hot topic with much being said that is negative, Brian's insights are quite helpful.

What do you think?

Unconverted Sinners

It is clear that everyone is a sinner. Scripture points this out. Moreover, look around. What a messed up place this world is. Unconverted sinners are those that have not experienced the work of God in their hearts. This may include even those who are religious.

I ran across the following quote by Ichabod Spencer d. 1854. Spencer was a pastor with exceptional gifts for ministry and evangelism. His was a different era. But, while things have changed, the hearts of men have not. So, read and reflect on the words of an evangelist of days gone by.

"It is important for convicted sinners to know, that the cause for their irreligion is not, that Christ is not willing to receive them, but that they are not willing to trust in him." Spencer, A Pastor's Sketches:Conversations with Anxious Souls Concerning the Way of Salvation, pg. 66

How does conviction come? What makes them willing? While these questions are worth discussing, it would be better for us to spend our energy seeking unconverted sinners and sharing with them the matchless grace of God. Did someone share with you?

TV Programs and Sponsors

A follow up to my previous post. I did receive an email response from an executive with Kohls. They are a sponsor for ABC Family and are prominently displayed as such on the ABC Family web page. According to this individual: "Kohls has no involvement with the comments made during ABC Family programs." That is likely code for: "It's not our fault, we're just trying to sell clothing and household goods." [In all fairness, note I have provided links for all parties.]

While I am certain Kohls has nothing to do with programming, they are able too influence a network with dollars. If Kohls and other major sponsors began to pull back from certain networks/or programs there would be changes made (see any recent news article concerning Don Imus).

I'm not really about boycotts and things like that. I believe Christians have a responsibility to engage the culture and there is no bigger force in our culture than the media.

Please note the very clever cartoon by Roy Nixon! I don't know Mr. Nixon but I liked the sentiment of his work in this case.

TV Programs

Should Christians care about what's on TV? Maybe some would say we shouldn't watch TV or even have a set in the house. I won't go that far. I'll be the first to admit I watch too much. I make an effort to avoid many programs that have little real value or are just simply offensive. Unfortunately my choices are becoming fewer and fewer.

But another question is, should Christians (or anyone else for that matter) stand up and say "that program is just plain trash!" when we have the chance?

Will Hall thinks it's time to do just that. His recent editorial suggests that ABC Family is not really about the family. Two new programs, "Greek" and "Slacker Cats" have gotten Hall all stirred up. He suggests that we should contact the network as well as their sponsors. Well, I did just that. I sent out a little email and spoke my piece. Then, to get really nuts, I emailed a bunch of my friends and family suggesting they do the same. Am I wacko or what?

What do you think about such things?

Build on the Rock

Great insight coming out of New Orleans via Brian Bridges' blog. Check out this post. It will challenge you for sure. Have you built on the Rock?

The Mystery of Providence

There are no coincidences. God is sovereign and he has ordered all things according to his will, his plan and his purposes. All of this factors into the doctrine of divine providence.

Wayne Grudem has defined providence this way: "God is continually involved with all created things in such a way that he 1) keeps them existing and maintaining the properties with which he created them; 2) cooperates with created things in every action, directing their distinctive properties to cause them to act as they do; and 3) directs them to fulfill his purposes." Systematic Theology pg. 315

I will admit this is a tremendously deep aspect of God that I do not pretend to understand comprehensively. However, I see the truth of it all around me.

John Flavel (d. 1691) has a very good work entitled The Mystery of Providence. What I have read in this short volume has been a blessing. Flavel provides a great Puritan perspective on this topic.

The recent traffic on my blog has led me to ponder this subject and the various aspects of God's providence. I have noticed an increase in recent visitors. The little map at the bottom left corner reveals that folks in other parts of the world have been guests here "Under the Steeple." Most often I don't know who they are or why they surfed in. This much I know for sure, God is ordering all things. This means it is not simply by chance that you are reading these words.

One of my goals in this blog is to share the message and truth of God's grace in Christ Jesus. That is what has transformed my life. God in his providence led me and drew me to see the truth. It is an awesome mystery.

Quotable

"You have to be highly suspicious of a Baptist church that doesn't have a high water bill."

I'm not certain who said this originally. I have heard Fred Christian say it often. He is pastor at my home church just outside of Charleston, WV. This comes to mind as I am preparing for a baptism this Sunday.

Facing Death

My friend Mike Ervin has posted some comments on his blog about the last conversation he had with his grandfather. Several days later he stood to preach his grandpa's funeral. Ironically the last time I visited with Mike (week before last) I had travelled to WV to preach my great aunt's funeral.

At some point we will all face death. I commend to you Mike's comments. Well said Brother.

The Game of Baseball

I have always loved the game of baseball. I played, albeit not well, for most of my childhood. However, I never hit a home run. I think I had an inside the park home run that included at least one throwing error. Nonetheless, for those who enjoy the "great American pastime" there is nothing like a shot into the outfield seats.

The major league home run title has changed hands. Even most casual fans feel a bit unnerved by this given the controversies surrounding the game in recent years. Let's face it, there are many differences between today's game and the one played by Honas Wagner (pictured), Ty Cobb and Babe Ruth. Even Hank Aaron and Pete Rose played the game in a different era. Just about the only things that have remained the same are the dimensions of the diamond and the wooden bat. Players today are all finely tuned, and sometimes enhanced, athletes. The baseball itself has evolved so as to produce a more lively game. There are designated hitters, inter league play, sky boxes, multimillion dollar shoe contracts, gourmet concessions and outrageous salaries.

For someone to hit over 756 home runs, regardless of the era, we must acknowledge the enormity of this accomplishment. However, as fans we must also be honest about what draws us to the game. It is not the flash and popularity of celebrity athletes. It is the simplicity and joy that happens at the ball park. After all, it is a simple game. We must not forget, it is a game.

The Genuine Article

Many today cry for "diversity." I suppose it has its place. However, when it comes to Christians, while there are many shapes, colors and ages, there is only one type of genuine believer. Those who have embraced the cross of Jesus Christ by faith as their only hope of salvation. Have you noticed though that there does seem to be some diversity among folks that attend our churches?

I'll share with you some insight on this topic I gained from Richard Bewes. He has penned a handy little volume entitled "150 Pocket Thoughts: Let The Bible Reinvigorate Your Day." Here's what he says:

"There are different kinds of believers found in every church. Some people are Mis-believers. They've picked up various bits of Christianity along the way, but it's all a jumble, and they would never be able to make a clear explanation of what they believe...Some among us are Make-believers. They may have joined the church, but they are deluded as to what a real Christian is...others are Half-believers. When things are going well, you will see them in church...we even find Fake-believers in the church. They are there for what they can get out of it...their faith is only a con." pg. 124 (I have edited this piece, but only for brevity. The content and message has not been altered.)

Look around your church. What do you see? Better yet, check that guy in the mirror. It is right for each of us to examine our faith. See if yours is the genuine article.

Irish Eyes a Smiling

I have added a new link (left column) that you should visit. It is the new blog of my friends who are missionaries to Ireland, Scott & LeAnn Bandy.

Here's a picture (borrowed from their page). Click on the picture to see a full sized version, the details are amazing.

The Lord is at work in Ireland. Praise His name!

More Mission Project Photos

This little guy was hilarious and quite an addition to the group. His name is Rashad

Our time spent on hot afternoons was nothing more than organized chaos. But, that's all part of it. The temps were pushing 90 by the end of the week.

Bridge in MN - John Piper blogs about it

John Piper, who ministers in Minneapolis, has posted his thoughts about yesterday's tragic events in that city.

Worth reading.

Missions - Our Jeruselum

Our church spent five days last week working with about 25 inner-city kids on the west side of Louisville. It was an awesome experience. At the end of the week everyone was wiped out, but also wonderfully blessed.

We spent our time at the Baptist Fellowship Center. This organization does a lot of hands on ministry with folks in need. During the summer they have a six week day camp type program for school aged kids. They sent requests for help to over 300 churches in the Louisville area. They received one response, from our church. I say that only to point out that often we overlook great opportunities to serve and minister. I am so glad that we decided to partner with this ministry and reach out to these kids.

The pictures don't do justice to this project. We did much of our Vacation Bible School stuff with them. This included Bible stories, games, crafts, music and missions. The theme of "Game Day Central" is all about being real heroes and following God's game plan. The children we met were in many respects like all other children. They are bombarded with the messages of the world and drawn towards the traps of our culture. I pray that seeds were planted that will bring forth fruit that leads to faith and repentance toward God. The kids were rambunctious, loud, loving, fun, energetic and so sweet. After just a few hours I grew to love these little kids. Please pray for them and for the ministry that is continuing in this part of our city. May God be glorified!