Holy Brothers (and Sisters)

VERSE OF THE WEEK: Therefore, holy brothers, who share in the heavenly calling, fix your thoughts on Jesus, the apostle and high priest whom we confess. He was faithful to the one who appointed him, just as Moses was faithful in all God's house. Jesus has been found worthy of greater honor than Moses, just as the builder of a house has greater honor than the house itself. For every house is built by someone, but God is the builder of everything. Moses was faithful as a servant in all God's house, testifying to what would be said in the future. But Christ is faithful as a son over God's house. And we are his house, if we hold on to our courage and the hope of which we boast. (HEBREWS 3:1-6)

PASTOR TO PASTOR
The passage above speaks of Moses faithfulness, as well as the faithfulness of Jesus.
They both, according to this word, were faithful over the house of God. What a thought! We too are called as faithful servants over the house of God.

I don't think this means the building, but the collection of people and ministries that make up the church. It is an awesome and heavy responsibility. It is also a blessing.

The writer suggest a few things that we need to be reminded about.

1) Fix your eyes on Jesus. Faithfulness is a virtue of patience, persistence, and progress. None of these is possible in our own strength. Some of the enemies of faithfulness are weariness, criticism, lack of results, and frustration: to name a few. These war against our patience, persistence, and progress. The only way to stay faithful is to keep our eyes on Jesus. He is the One who called us. Our calling...his calling, must sustain us before the afore-mentioned enemy. I recently taught a seminar and was reminded of the number of preachers who quit or give up. In the CON we have 14,000 ministers and less than 6,000 churches. That's a lot who have given up. When days get tough keep your eyes on Jesus.

2) This is God's house. This verse is a reminder that for all we do for the church, and all that happens in the life of the church; the house is not more important than the One who built it. We can be tempted to worship the church, as opposed to the God of the church. We can worship the rituals, the traditions, the new stuff, even the preacher. But God is to be lifted up and worshipped. We can never believe that we or our work are more important than the Father.

He built this house. It is his. It is not mine. This congregation belongs to Him. This is not my assignment. It belongs to him.

3) Christ is faithful. I have been preaching a message lately asserting that God is in the building business. He wants to build us. Remember the kids song..."He's Still Working on Me". That's what he does. He is building us into a spiritual house.
Friends, Jesus is faithful. he will never forsake you or leave you. When ministry hurts, or when it is filled with joy, Christ Jesus Himself will be with you.

EXCELLENT ADVENTURES
Since our last blog we have preached at Blanchard (LA), Cleveland First (MS), Jackson Emmanuel (MS), McCoy (LA), and the NWIL District Camp Meeting. I have also attended the MS District Teen Camp at Table Rock Lake, the LA District Family Camp Meeting, the LA District Teen Camp, PALCON at SNU, and to LA District Children's Camp.

We look forward to visiting the following churches:
July 11 -- GraceWay (MS), Hazelhurst (MS) afternoon installation
June 18-- Baker (LA)
July 25 -- Fort Jessup Camp Meeting (LA)
August 1-- Available
August 8 -- DaySpring (MS)
August 15 -- GracePointe (LA)
August 22 -- Victory Praise and Worship (MS)
August 29 -- New Iberia (LA)
To schedule me please contact Pam. I would love to come to your church. (I am especially available on Sunday nights. If it looks like I am in your area on Sunday morning or might be passing through, and you would like me to come, please contact Pam)

SPECIAL NOTES

Rev. Kelvin Boone (wife, Rhonda) has accepted an appointment to pastor Hazelhurst(MS). Kelvin has most recently served as youth pastor at Bridgepoint and before that at Jackson Emmanuel. He has long served on the NYI Council in MS. The Boone's have two sons. We welcome them to this first pastoral assignment.

Rev. Jason Faminoff (wife, Melinda) have accepted and moved to Leesville to reopen the work there. The church will be called the Leesville Grace Community Church. Melinda is from Leesville. They have been pastoring in Kirbyville, TX. they have a daughter.

Rev. Robert (Bob) Lanier (wife, Carolyn) has moved from Meridian Fitkins to Jackson, MS to plant a new church in the South Jackson area. Re. Lanier has pastored in Alabama, Ohio, and Washington D.C., and feels led to start this church. His daughter, son-in-law, and two kids have moved here as well to help in planting the church. We are grateful for this church.

We are in the final stages of trying to get a Religious Workers Visa for Rev. Alberto Vidal to come and help us with our Hispanic work, particularly with the Vicksburg Hispanic. Please pray as we complete the necessary arrangements.

Rev. Gustavo Santos (wife, Susan) and their congregation have voted to join the Church of the Nazarene. They are located in Pascagoula and began working with Rev. Myron Hairston and most recently have been working with Rev. Rick Free.

Dr. David Smith has resigned as pastor of GraceWay (Summitt,MS). Dr. Smith started the church several years ago and has done an outstanding job establishing this new work. Pray that God will help us find a suitable replacement. He is available for pulpit supply. I have appointed Rev. Greg Beatty as the interim pastor.

Rev. Gary Houston as resigned Waynesboro Trinity(MS). Gary started this church many years ago and is completing his second term as pastor. He will continue to work for YET and for NCM. Pray for he and wife Kim as they seek God's future. He is available for pulpit supply.

Vicksburg First (MS) and pastor Chuck Parish have announced that they have put on staff Rev. Ron Ray and Rev. Kuhrman Cox. Both men will be unpaid associates. Rev. Cox has been given the title Pastor Emeritus. Congratulations.

GracePoint (LA) and Rev. Wayne Stallings have announced the hiring of Rev. Allen Kelly, Jr. as associate pastor in charge of discipleship and small groups.

Open Churches: (MS)Waynesboro Trinity, GraceWay
(LA) Kenner First and Bossier


Important Prayer Requests:
Rev. David Kelly (Crystal Springs, MS) has been diagnosed with what is believed to be cancer. It may be pancreatic. He was to have a biopsy today and will receive results on Thursday. Please pray for him.
Rev. Don Wedgeworth (Meridian Northside, MS) is in need of our prayers. He is suffering serious heart problems and is on oxygen.
Thanks for praying for Rev. Larry Ferris (pastor at Monroe. LA. First church) who had triple bypass surgery on June 3. He is recovering well.
Brenda Teston, (pastor's wife at Moss Bluff, LA) recently had gall bladder surgery. After some immediate complications she is doing better.
Linda Sherer's (pastor's wife at Sulphur, LA) mother had open heart surgery this past week.
Rev. Stephen Deese's (Gloster, MS) mother is battling cancer.
Continue to pray for Rev. Jerry Cole, McVay Memorial (LA), and Rev. Mike Howard (Westlake, LA)

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Fort Jessup Camp Meeting July 20-25 7 pm Each Evening Speaker: Rev. Bob Lothenore Music: Marcus Whitworth

Bring a van or a car load. Take the beautiful drive out to Fort Jessup. Have a great time at this century old campground.

BOARD LEADERSHIP SUMMITS 10am - 3 pm Cost $10 per person

Mississippi - August 7 at Bridgepoint Church in Brandon, MS Louisiana - August 14 at Rocky Creek Camp

Rev. Corey Jones, pastor of the Crossroads Tabernacle CON in Ft. Worth will be our guest speaker. His church is known for its very strong prayer ministry. He will be talking to us about prayer, a praying church, and the subsequent results of having a praying church. You will not want to miss this. Bring your church board and leadership team.

Everyone present will receive gifts, snacks, lunch, and materials. The whole district, one day, under one roof.

GracePointe (Shreveport, MS) is hosting a training seminar for any churches interested in implementing Dare To Care in your church. The dates are Friday, July 23 - Sunday, July 25th. This program has revolutionized the Pearson Chapel church (MS). You may want to send a lay person to get this information and bring it to your church. Cost is $10 per person. For more info call the church at 318-686-8802.

It is Nazarene Pastors night at the Mississippi Braves game on Friday night, August 27th in Pearl, MS. (Outside Jackson). Fireworks after the game. Tickets are $7. Call or email the District Resource Center to reserve your tickets. Your whole family is invited. Game starts at 7. Coming from a distance? We may be able to help if you want to stay overnight.

Book I am Recommending: "Who Stole My Church" by Gordon McDonald. This book is about the disconnect between two generations in today's typical church. It is written in a narrative style about a small New England church that is struggling with the generation gap. The younger folks want to make some changes that will attract new people to the church. The older folks, while wanting to reach new people, feel like their church is being taken from them. Pastor Gordon McDonald leads these groups, and the entire church, through a series of discussions to assess how both groups can be ministered too and find some common ground. The pages of this book are filled with the all to present reality that many pastors face today. Whiles some of it is unavoidably painful, it is also enlightening and helpful.

Book I Am Reading:
"Deep Church" by Jim Belcher. I bought this book because of all of the "controversy" over the traditional church and the Emergent, Emerging, PostModern Church. Unlike the book above that is largely about style, the battle between the traditional and the emergent is more theological and more ecclesiological. The venom that is often used by adherents to both groups borders on the absurd. This book, according to Belcher is for people like me who aren't quite sure what all the fuss is about. It is a textbook on the Emergent church but it also calls for a reconsidering of the traditional church. It is first and foremost a call for a third option..."Deep Church."

THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK: When God touches on person it is renewal. When he touches a group of people it is revival. When he touches the larger community it is an awakening. David Felter (Last Month's Holiness Today)

SUMMER RENEWAL AND REVIVAL

VERSE OF THE WEEK: For I have not hesitated to proclaim to you the whole will of God. Keep watch over yourselves and all the flock of which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers. Be shepherds of the church of God,which he bought with his own blood. I know that after I leave, savage wolves will come in among you and will not spare the flock. Acts 20:27-29 (New International Version)

PASTOR TO PASTOR
In the book "Crazy Love" (see review below) Francis Chan shares the brief stories of a number of Christians who live out "Crazy Love" for God. One's name is Nathan Barlow. Barlow is a doctor who chose to serve in Ethiopia for more than 60 years. He gave himself particularly to helping people with a debilitating foot disease that was similar to leprosy, especially socially.
The story is told that one time Nathan got a toothache, the pain of which was so intense that he had to fly away from the mission field to get it taken care of. He was so upset that he had to leave his work for this cause that he told the dentist he never wanted it to happen again. So he charged the dentist with pulling out all of is teeth so God's work would never again be slowed down by his teeth.

Jesus said we are to be His disciples. And He defined that as denying oneself, taking up a cross, and following Him. We all know that. But many of us draw a line somewhere that is more convenient, more normal, or makes more earthly sense.

Many Christians come to a place where sacrifice or submission interferes with their normal, commercial-minded, safe lives.

Let me ask you a question...What is one thing you would do to today, if safety, common sense, comfort weren't a deciding factor? When you decide what that is, you will discover that trusting God is the issue.

In every church I hear someone say, "They are a faithful bunch." "He is a faithful pastor." But there is a difference between being faithful and "faith-filled". Paul said, "I pray continually ... that by his power he may fulfill every good purpose of yours and every act prompted by your faith." II Thessalonians 1.

Acts prompted by faith...that's what Nathan Barlow did. May God bless our "acts prompted" by a deep and profound commitment to Him.

EXCELLENT ADVENTURES
It has been weeks since I sent out a blog. Two District Assemblies, Easter, and one Palcon have come and gone since my last report. Both District Assemblies were blessed. I was particularly moved by each of the Ordination services. 7 ministers in all were ordained and it was glorious.
We have had an incredible time worshipping with several of you.
I have visited at:
April 4 -- Science Hill, KY.
April 11 -- McVay Memorial (LA)
April 18 -- Crystal Springs (MS)
April 25 -- Vivian (LA) and Crosspointe (Ruston, LA)
May 2 -- DaySpring Community (Clinton, MS), and Vicksburg (MS)
May 9 -- Pineville (LA)
May 16 -- Way of the Cross (Calhoun City, MS)
May 23 -- Grenada (MS) Revival

We look forward to visiting the following churches:
May 30 -- Blanchard (LA)
June 6 -- Cleveland First (MS)
June 13 -- Family Camp Meeting (LA)
June 20 -- Available
June 27 -- Available
July 4 -- Family Camp Meeting (NWIL)
July 11 -- GraceWay (MS)
To schedule me please contact Pam. I would love to come to your church.

LOUISIANA FAMILY CAMP
June 8-13
Please fast and pray for this important time. Services at 10:30am 7:00 pm. Prayer time at 9 am each morning. SUNDAY 10:30am and 3:00pm

SATURDAY FAMILY FUN DAY
Including Wild Horse Ministries at 4 pm. See Paul Dailey train a Wild Horse and present the gospel while doing so.
Speakers: Rev. Norman Moore and Rev. Gary Bond
Musicians: The Gene Wells Family
Children's Worker: Rev. Pat Ulmet and Greeno
Youth Speaker: Rev. Greg Wells (Friday and Saturday Late Night)

Come one come all.


SPECIAL NOTES

Rev. David and Pam Garner have accepted a call to Jackson Emmanuel Church following a unanimous nomination by the church board. David has served on District Assignment on both he Louisiana and Mississippi districts for the past three plus years. Prior to that he pastored churches in Illinois, Indiana, and Kentucky. Pam is the District Administrative Assistant for Louisiana and Mississippi districts. We welcome them to this new assignment.

Rev. Wayne and Priscilla Stallings have accepted a one year appointment as Interim Pastors at Gracepoint (LA). Wayne has a rich background in Interim church ministry, as well as having served the church in a number of ways, including as a pastor and college administrator.

Open Churches: (MS) Union and Hazelhurst
(LA) Kenner First and Bossier

Important Prayer Requests:
Please pray for Rev. Larry Ferris (pastor at Monroe. LA. First church) who will have at least triple bypass surgery on June 3.
Please pray for Wanda Howard, pastor's wife at Westlake (LA). She had knee replacement surgery.
Dr. Charles Johnson (Meridian Fitkins) recently had rotator cuff surgery.

Pray for the brother of Rev. Nathan Middleton (Natchitoches, LA). He is near death and unsaved. Nathan has gone to him to try to comfort him and talk to him about the Lord.
Please pray for family of Angela Ching, pastor's wife at Houston Fellowship (MS). Her father had a mini-stroke, her aunt had a heart attack and her grandmother was taken to the hospital in an ambulance, all in about a day and a half.
Continue to pray for Rev. Jerry Cole, McVay Memorial (LA), and Rev. Mike Howard (Westlake, LA)

GOOD NEWS PRAISE REPORTS
Dustin and Laura McDavid welcomed home Silas Thane a few weeks early. I had the privilege of dedicating him on Mother's Day.

David and Phyllis Hoffpauir are the proud grandparents of a new baby boy. Jason Edward was born on March 23 and was 7 lbs. 10 oz., and 19 inches long.
Paul McCleese, pastor's husband at Gulfport First (MS) found a good job at a hospital in Gulfport. This is an answer to prayer.
Nine prisoners were baptized this past week at DaySpring (MS), and a baby was rescued at the abortion clinic in Jackson. Thanks God for this "Takin It To the Street' model ministry.

Congratulations to Rev. Gay Bosley, (Columbia, MS) who graduated from Wesley Biblical Seminary, and Rev. Debbie Morgan (McCoy. LA) who graduated from Nazarene Bible College.

Congrats to Christopher Rego (PK at Brookhaven, MS), Chelsey Hudson (PK at Hattiesburg, MS), and Brooke Hunt (PK at Friendship, LA) on their high school graduations. If there are any we missed please let us know.

IMPORTANT NOTE
Mississippi Pastors- the Southeast Region is looking into a Health Insurance program through Blue Cross Alabama. It looks like whoever wants to join will be able to. The cost for a family is a little over $1,200 per month, and for a single it is $560. There is a dental policy for $71 per month. The policy looks pretty good. If you are interested let me know and I will pass along the contact information.


PALCON at Trevecca (TNU) was outstanding. PALCON for Southern (SNU) Region is June 28-July 1. Register at www.palcon2010.org. I will be presenting one Seminar entitled "Halftime" - Practices that will help us avoid Burn-Out, Bail-Out, and Bomb-Out, and will be moderating another, A Discipleship Roundtable.
This should be an incredible event.

Book I am Recommending: "Crazy Love" by Francis Chan. This may be the best book I have read in 10-20 years. I know that sounds like an over hype, but I believe it is true. It is also one of the most challenging. This is no book for the casual or faint of heart. Pastor, if you think you are the only one who is serious about Godly things, wait till you read this book. I read most of it on a plane, and felt I should get out of my seat and make it an altar. I was convicted most by the incredible call of Christ to be a serious. loving, consecrated disciple and what that looks like.
While I am not sure whether Chan is Wesleyan or Calvin, he sounds familiar. His call is to live out every day the serious call to be Christlike.
At one point in the book Chan asks, "besides going to church, how is your life really different than that of an unbeliever?" The section on Lukewarm Christians is worth the price of the book.
How much do I think of this book...if you want to read it, and can't afford it, please drop me a note and I will have it mailed to you.

Books I Am Reading:
The Longview by Dr. Roger Parrott, president of Belhaven College. Good book on Leadership.
Crucified With Christ: The Life and Ministry of William Martin Greathouse by Dr. H. Ray Dunning and Dr. William Strickland. Great book about this wonderful man.
The Last Founding Father, James Monroe by Harlow Unger; I am reading Biographies of Presidents this year.

Thought For The Week: "Are we in love with God, or just His stuff?" Francis Chan

He Is Risen!

VERSE OF THE WEEK: While they were wondering about this, suddenly two men in clothes that gleamed like lightning stood beside them. In their fright the women bowed down with their faces to the ground, but the men said to them, "Why do you look for the living among the dead? He is not here; he has risen! Luke 24:4-6

PASTOR TO PASTOR
The women were downcast. They were afraid. They had been through the worst, and they could not conceive of it getting any better. Their faces reflected their mood. Their postures were instructive. They could only ask themselves, "When will this ever end. They have killed, Him, and now they have stolen His body."
They came out of respect and out of duty, but they could hardly believe that anything profitable would occur. And then the angels spoke. "Why do you seek the living in the land of the dead? He is not here. He has risen."

Well, Praise the Lord. It is true. And it is permanent. And the good news of the first Easter is the same today as it was then. Why do we hang our heads? Why to stoop at the shoulder? Why do we anticipate the the bad will get worse? Why do we swim in the muck of defeat, discouragement, and disillusionment? And death?

These ladies, faithful and good, went to the trouble of securing expensive and costly spices to dress the dead body of Jesus. They thought the Cross was the final word. Even thought they had seen Him raise others, they could hardly believe that He could raise himself. And don't forget, He was there last and best hope for victory over the oppression they had experienced all their lives. And now that hope was gone.

This Sunday you will preach to people just like these dear women. They are perplexed. They are absent of hope. Things are bad for them, and they expect them to get worse. And there will be some who are still searching for life, and for peace, and for joy. But....you already have seen it....they are looking amongst the dead.

And the God of heaven, Jesus' own Father, has selected you to tell these and others, "He is Risen." Hallelujah! Some are ignorant and don't know what this means. Others have forgotten. Don't assume that it is redundant. I am praying that all across Mississippi and Louisiana churches...we will hear people say, "today, I found what I have been looking for". He is Alive!

EXCELLENT ADVENTURES
On the 14th of March we were at Hattiesburg First (MS). What a thrill. Great time of worship. Enjoyed seeing lots of new faces at this church and visiting into the afternoon with Pastor Kermit Hudson, wife Wendy, and the girls.
On the 21st I preached at Vicksburg First (MS) both services. I took a vote on their new pastor in the morning service and was able to return that night and report that he had accepted.
Last Sunday, with a touch of the stomach crud, I preached at Prentiss (MS). This small group of dedicated folks were so kind to me. Enjoyed being with Pastor Pamela Epps.
This Sunday I will be preaching in Science Hill, Ky. where my daughter has just relocated. Looking forward to being there.

SCHEDULE
April 11 - McVay Memorial (LA) am
April 18 - Crystal Springs (MS) am
April 25 - Vivian (LA) am, Ruston (LA) afternoon
May 2 - AVAILABLE am, Vicksburg (MS) Installation Service afternoon
May 9 - Pineville First LA) am

SPECIAL NOTES

Rev. Charles (Chuck) and Renee Parish have accepted a call to Vicksburg First (MS). Chuck has served at the Global Ministry Center in NYI and Renee has served as Secretary in the General Secretary's office for a number of years. Prior to these assignments they were missionaries to Papau New Guinea. We welcome to the district. Their first Sunday is April 25 and installation is set for May 2 at 2:30.

Open Churches: (MS) Jackson Emmanuel and Union
(LA) Kenner First and GracePointe

Important Prayer Requests:
Please pray for Wanda Howard, pastor's wife at Westlake (LA). She had knee replacement surgery this past week.
Please pray for the Angela Ching, pastor's wife at Houston Fellowship (MS). Her father had a mini-stroke, her aunt had a heart attack and her grandmother was taken to the hospital in an ambulance, all in about a day and a half.
Pray for the mother of Pastor Keith MeGehee, who will have a heart cath this Friday. She has been very ill over the past several weeks.
Rev. Darwin Enicks (Baker, LA)is home recovering from hip surgery in Baton Rouge. Rev. Derek Catron, pastor at Lake Charles First (LA), continues to recover from staph infection.
Continue to pray for Rev. Scott Howell (West Monroe Faith Community)who has been suffering from kidney stones for months. He had a procedure to get rid of the final remnant that has caused so much trouble.
Rev. Diane Adams, (associate at Meridian Fitkins, MS) is recovering from surgery.
Continue to pray for Rev. Jerry Cole, McVay Memorial (LA), and Rev. Mike Howard (Westlake, LA)

GOOD NEWS PRAISE REPORTS
David and Phyllis Hoffpauir are the proud grandparents of a new baby boy. Jason Edward was born on March 23 and was 7 lbs. 10 oz., and 19 inches long.
Paul McCleese, pastor's husband at Gulfport First (MS) found a good job at a hospital in Gulfport. This is an answer to prayer.
Nine prisoners were baptized this past week at DaySpring (MS), and a baby was rescued at the abortion clinic in Jackson. Thanks God for this "Takin It To the Street' model ministry.
MS had an outstanding NYI Convention. congratulations to Rev. Michael Ford on his reelection as NYI President.

IMPORTANT NOTE
Mississippi Pastors- the Southeast Region is looking into a Health Insurance program through Blue Cross Alabama. It looks like whoever wants to join will be able to. The cost for a family is a little over $1,200 per month, and for a single it is $560. There is a dental policy for $71 per month. The policy looks pretty good. If you are interested let me know and I will pass along the contact information.


PALCONS are scheduled for Trevecca (TNU) Region May 11-14 and Southern (SNU) Region June 28-July 1. Register at www.palcon2010.org.
These are going to be incredible events and you are encouraged to start planning now to participate. As we enter a new year please put this in your budget. If one doesn't work in to your schedule try another. Dates of the other events are at www.palcon2010.org

DISTRICT ASSEMBLY DATES

Mississippi (at Emmanuel)Dr. Eugenio Duarte GS, Vance and Jeannie Sharp, worship
NMI Convention -- Tuesday, April 13, 7:00 pm - Wednesday, April 14, 5:00 pm
SDMI Convention -- Wednesday, April 14, 7:00 pm - Thursday, April 15, 5:00 pm
District Assembly -- Thursday, April 15, 7:00pm - Friday, April 16, 9:00 pm

LOUISIANA 100TH ANNIVERSARY DISTRICT ASSEMBLY
LOUISIANA (at Rocky Creek)Dr. Eugenio Duarte GS, Vance and Jeannie Sharp, worship
SDMI Convention -- Tuesday, May 4, 7:00 pm - Wednesday, May 5, 5:00 pm
NMI Convention -- Wednesday, May 5, 7:00 pm - Thursday, May 6, 5:00 pm
District Assembly -- Thursday, May 6, 7:00 pm - Friday, May 7, 9:00 pm

Book I am Recommending: "Forgotten God, Reversing Our Tragic Neglect of the Holy Spirit" by Francis Chan. I have just discovered this writer, a pastor in California, who seems to inspire me and encourage me. His first book of note was Crazy Love. This particular book is about the Holy Spirit, and how the church has largely neglected Him, not only in our speech and our polity, but in our practice. Chan says, "From my perspective, the Holy Spirit is tragically neglected and, for all practical purposes, forgotten. While no evangelical would deny His existence, I'm willing to bet there are millions of churchgoers across America who cannot confidently say they have experienced His presence or action in their lives over the past year. Wow. What a challenging thought. So far, well worth the read.

Thought For The Week: "If I were Satan and my ultimate goal was to thwart God's kingdom and purposes, one of my main strategies would be to get churchgoers to ignore the Holy Spirit." Francis Chan

Faithful, Fruitful, Fulfilled

VERSE OF THE WEEK:One generation will commend your works to another;
they will tell of your mighty acts.
They will speak of the glorious splendor of your majesty,
and I will meditate on your wonderful works.
They will tell of the power of your awesome works,
and I will proclaim your great deeds.
They will celebrate your abundant goodness
and joyfully sing of your righteousness.
The LORD is gracious and compassionate,
slow to anger and rich in love.
The LORD is good to all;
he has compassion on all he has made. Psalm 145:4-9

PASTOR TO PASTOR
I have often prayed for you that you would be Faithful; that you would be Fruitful; and that in ministry you would also be Fulfilled. I pray the same for our churches. I read yesterday of a an elder who has lost confidence in the viability and relativity of the local church. I of course, disagree completely. the church can be faithful, fruitful, and participation and dedication to it can be Fulfilling.
I recently heard General Superintendent Dr. Stan Toler preach a message entitled % Factors in Faithfulness. Here is the outline from Acts 2:
1. THE WORSHIP FACTOR: An openness to obey the Holy Spirit in worship and service to others. Casual worship is an oxymoron. You cannot sing Amazing Grace and be casual.
2. THE FIRE FACTOR: A passion to do the will of God regardless. The Holy Spirit always breeds a passionate fire in us and through us.
3. THE FELLOWSHIP FACTOR: An ability to give ourselves to deep, Christ-centered relationships. You can do somethings if you love one another. Love is the key. People are desperate for fellowship.
4. THE GENEROSITY FACTOR: A commitment to be generous with God through demonstrating His love locally and globally.
5. THE FAITH FACTOR: A definite, unswerving response of faith. A belief that God can do anything.

EXCELLENT ADVENTURES
Last Sunday Elaine and I visited the Prentiss (MS) church. We had never been here so we were looking forward to it. Heard a good message from Rev. Pamela Epps. Sunday night we visited Jackson Emmanuel. Each Sunday evening they have testimony time and the testimonies were fresh and exciting. Interim pastor Dave Garner preached a great message on Essentials of a Healthy church.
This weekend we are attending the Mississippi District NYI Convention in Hattiesburg and will be preaching at Hattiesburg First Sunday morning.

SPECIAL NOTES
Open Churches: (MS) Jackson Emmanuel, Vicksburg First (in process), and Union
(LA) Kenner First and GracePointe

Important Prayer Requests:
Rev. Darwin Enicks (Baker, LA)is recovering from hip surgery in Baton Rouge. Please pray for a complete and quick recovery.
Rev. Derek Catron, pastor at Lake Charles First (LA), had surgery this week to remove staph infection. He has five incisions that are now healing. He is home from the hospital.4 weeks recovery await him.
Rev. Ruby Walters, pastor of Lucedale, has suffered paralysis of her vocal chords due to some recent surgery.
Continue to pray for Rev. Scott Howell (West Monroe Faith Community)who has been suffering from kidney stones for months. Brenda Teston, pastors wife at Moss Bluff (LA) continues her recovery from foot surgery.
Rev. Diane Adams, (associate at Meridian Fitkins, MS) is recovering from surgery.
Continue to pray for Rev. Jerry Cole, McVay Memorial (LA), and Rev. Mike Howard (Westlake, LA)

Good News Reports
Louisiana had a good Winter Retreat. Thanks to all who contributed. Our speaker was very impressed with our district.

Kenner (LA) church is voting this week to build a new Fellowship/Family Life Center.

DaySpring Community (MS) is voting this week to purchase land for a relocation. They have outgrown their parking area.

Rev. Nathan Middleton (Natchitoches, LA) received a wonderful review.

PALCONS are scheduled for Trevecca (TNU) Region May 11-14 and Southern (SNU) Region June 28-July 1. Register at www.palcon2010.org.
These are going to be incredible events and you are encouraged to start planning now to participate. As we enter a new year please put this in your budget. If one doesn't work in to your schedule try another. Dates of the other events are at www.palcon2010.org

Book I am Recommending: "Real Time Connections" by Bob Roberts. This is a book for laypersons. It is a book about fulfilling the Great Commission in everyday life. It is full of suggests and insight in how "ordinary Christians" can reclaim their share in God's transforming work around the globe.

Book I am Reading: The Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin - It may seem unusual for me to write about this kind of book, but I learn a lot about our country, and often about early American religious leaders by reading these kinds of books. As many of you know B. Franklin was no enamored with religion or the church for much of his life, yet warmed to the gospel message under the preaching of George Whitfield. His own words give insight to the spiritual convictions of the American founders.


THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK: “No accountability: No change” Paul Borden

Living (and Working) in the Flat Land

VERSE OF THE WEEK: We always thank God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, when we pray for you, because we have heard of your faith in Christ Jesus and of the love you have for all the saints— the faith and love that spring from the hope that is stored up for you in heaven and that you have already heard about in the word of truth, the gospel that has come to you. All over the world this gospel is bearing fruit and growing,... Colossians 1:3-6a

PASTOR TO PASTOR
I have been reading the Torah as the new year as unfolded and been deeply touched by the relationship between God and His people, from Adam and Eve through Moses and Aaron. When I say deeply touched I mean deeply moved, deeply troubled, deeply confused, deeply thrilled...you get the picture.
I have been particularly enthralled by the relationship between God and Moses that begins in Exodus 3. I have been preaching from it some. I have called it Living on Flat Ground. The burning bush incident takes place at the base of the mountain. We all would like to live on the mountain...we hunger for and desire mountain top experiences. But the truth is most living is lived on flat ground...routine, ordinary, normal ground. It is where most of the birthin', breathin', workin', playin', bill payin', dien', and buryin'...takes place. Here are some things the Lord has shown me here:
1) This is holy ground. Just because it is ordinary and routine does not mean it is not to be treasured as special. The factory, the neighborhood, the grocery...holy ground.
2) It is holy because God is in the midst of it. We need to recognize him. He said to Moses, "I will be with you". Moses said, "Who are you?" He replied, "I Am". I don't need any other identifier, description, adjective, definition, or reference point. I Am
3) Faithful obedience in the flat land will breed an invitation to the mountain top. God said to Moses, "you will know that I have delivered you when you worship me on this mountain."

As pastors we often feel like we are stuck in the mundane, the ordinary, the common. We watch people repeat the same stuff over and over again. We feel like we are wading through sand. Yet it is in this land of the common and the ordinary, that God calls us to walk and work with Him, and as we are faithful He will enable us a few mountain top moments where we shall bask in the shadow of His shekinah glory.

EXCELLENT ADVENTURES

I have not published for a few weeks so here is a run down of where we have worshipped most recently:
Jan. 31 - Morning service at Slidell, LA where Pastor Eric Nelson was celebrating his 40th birthday with a number of friends who had gathered for the occasion. Lots of fun.
Afternoon rally of African American church in Hattiesburg (see below)
Feb. 7 - DS's Meeting in Florida. Morning service we listened to Dr. Eugenio Duarte and in the evening service we heard Dr. David Graves, two of our newest General Superintendents.
Feb. 14 - Got to preach in the morning Lake Charles First (LA) where Pastor Derek Catron was recovering from major surgery. Had a wonderful lunch with the Catrons and then preached Sunday night at Westlake (LA)and conducted the review of Pastor Mike Howard.
Feb. 21 - Preached at Ebenezer (LA)and conducted the review of Pastor Joe Talhelm. Had a wonderful dinner with the Talhelms. Sunday evening conducted the review for Pastor David Hoffpauir and preached at Trout (LA). Had a wonderful food fellowship afterwards.
Feb. 28 - Preached at Hazelhurst (MS) yesterday morning. Had a great dinner around the big round table and then met with the church board.

SPECIAL NOTES
Open Churches: (MS) Union, Vicksburg First, and Jackson Emmanuel
(LA) Kenner First and GracePointe


Important Prayer Requests:

Rev. Darwin Enicks (Baker, LA)is recovering from hip surgery in Baton Rouge. Please pray for a complete and quick recovery.
Rev. Derek Catron, pastor at Lake Charles First (LA), continues his recovery. He is now back to work.
Rev. Ruby Walters, pastor of Lucedale, has suffered paralysis of her vocal chords due to some recent surgery.
Continue to pray for Rev. Scott Howell (West Monroe Faith Community)who has been suffering from kidney stones for months. The Dr.s have tried many procedures and while some have given relief there is still much to be concerned about.
Brenda Teston, pastors wife at Moss Bluff (LA) continues her recovery from foot surgery.
Rev. Diane Adams, (associate at Meridian Fitkins, MS) is having surgery this week.
Continue to pray for Rev. Jerry Cole, McVay Memorial (LA), and Rev. Mike Howard (Westlake, LA)

Good News Reports

Congratulations to Rev. Dustin and Laura McDavid on the birth of a son, Silas Thane on Feb. 20. He was several weeks late and God was gracious in protecting baby and mother. The baby will be in the hospital for a few weeks. He joins brother Noah.

Congratulations to Rev. Sherrill Stiles (Vivian, LA) who was named Man of the Year in North Caddo. What a great honor.

Yesterday was a great day at Vicksburg First (MS). They took in a new member, had a new convert in the morning service, baptized 11 in the afternoon service, two were Hispanic, and elected a Hispanic member to the church board. Praise God.

Crossroads (MS) has seen over 50 people saved since May 27 of last year. Wow! PTL.

Wonderful reviews have been received by: Rev. Reggie Gilmore (NO First, LA), Rev. Joe Talhelm (Ebenezer, LA), Rev. David Hoffpauir (Trout, LA), Rev. Mike Howard (Westlake, LA).

On January 31, we enjoyed a wonderful celebration of our African American churches when all of our churches from MS and LA gathered together in Hattiesburg. Several from other churches came as well. Dr. Charles Johnson, our Assistant to the District Superintendent, coordinated the event and preached. Special music and mime performances were shared by the other churches. Each of our pastors attended. It was a glorious day in the Lord. We appreciate Rev. Kermit Hudson and the Hattiesburg church for hosting us.

PALCONS are scheduled for Trevecca (TNU) Region May 11-14 and Southern (SNU) Region June 28-July 1. These are going to be incredible events and you are encouraged to start planning now to participate. As we enter a new year please put this in your budget. If one doesn't work in to your schedule try another. Dates of the other events are at http://www.nazazrenepastor.org/

Book I am Recommending: "So Beautiful" by Leonard Sweet
Sweet is like a lot of preachers, he doesn't quite know when he has said enough. He will drill a point home again and again often jumping from one metaphor to another. That can make for a tough read. However, the points he does make are meaty and resounding. In this book (as I mentioned in an earlier blog) he describes the life God intends for us as a Missional Life, a Relational Life, and an Incarnational Life. There is a lot of truth here that can help us to not only define our own lives, but to know what to expect in others.

Website I am Recommending: http://www.sermonaudio.com/

One of the best ways to become a better preacher is to listen to others. Here is a good way to do it.

THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK: “Faith is the opposite of control” Leonard Sweet

Let's Trade Prayers,

Greg

WHO DAT?

I promised the Louisiana pastors (Specifically Reggie Gilmore of New Orleans First) that I would put WHO DAT? as my blog title this week if they won. They won, sending Mississippi icon Brett Farve back to Hattiesburg for a time.
I think Who Dat is a question. Who Dat gonna beat those Saints? It is brash, confident, and faith-filled. The fans are believers that their team can win. Perhaps it could be our theme as well. The Bible says, "I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength... Who Dat?

Verse of the Week: Trust in the LORD and do good; dwell in the land and enjoy safe pasture. Delight yourself in the LORD and he will give you the desires of your heart. Commit your way to the LORD; Psalm 37:3-5

Pastor to Pastor

I must confess that I have a hard time reading Leonard Sweet, a very meaningful and popular writer to the Christian church these days. In a little while he is going to be speaking to DS's and we were given the task of reading his newest book prior to our session. It is deep stuff for a simpleton like me. Good, but deep. In the book, entitled "So Beautiful", he introduces the concept of the MRI shaped church (Mission, Relationship, and Incar-national). (He also uses this in a book I recommended earlier entitled, "Postmodern and Wesleyan".) In this book he says the following:

"The crisis of the church today has little to do with dwindling numbers, aging congregations, outdated facilities, financial crises, and lace-by-day, leather-by-night priests. Today's church crisis stems from one thing: Jesus Deficit Disorder. The church's narrative is biblically, theologically, and spiritually bankrupt." The church has been busy telling stories other than God's story, dreaming other dreams than God's dream as revealed in Jesus."

Finally, he says, "Are we 'up to' what God's up to?"

What do you think he means by this? It really makes me think. It challenges me. I want to know what the crisis is, and how to fix it. The challenge is to know how to move our congregations, our districts, through this crisis.

I know this, it will take

• loving leadership: the people of your congregation are the people to whom God has called you to shepherd, and as difficult as they may make it for you, you can lovingly lead them to find a better way to live for and serve Jesus.
• patient persistence: it takes time. Habits are not formed over night and they are not changed overnight.
• masterful modeling: we are to set the example, not give the orders. We cannot expect our people to put Jesus first if we are not, to make disciples if we are not, to win people to Jesus if we are not. I can tell you this...until I get someone to come to church, I'm going to quit expecting my people to get someone to come. Until I am personally discipling someone, I am going to quit expecting my people to disciple someone. Until I start praying for, meeting, and engaging my neighbors for Jesus sake, I am going to quit expecting my congregation to.

We have a Jesus problem. What are we going to do about it?

Excellent Adventures

Last Sunday I had a terrible case of laryngitis. Haven't had it much during my life but after teaching all day at POPS in LA, I woke up horse in MS on Sunday. However, God helped us to push forward and the people were gracious enough to listen to our scratchy voice. We were at Bridgepoint in Brandon, MS in the morning where we helped to dedicate the new sanctuary and the remodeled facilities. It is lovely and Rev. Pocai and his team have done a wonderful job of turning a factory into a church. Following the service Elaine and I had wonderful fellowship with the Pocais, and staff members and wives, the Newmans and Boones.

Sunday evening I preached at Vicksburg First and followed the service with a meeting of the board.

This week we are at Slidell, LA in the morning (helping Rev. Eric Nelson celebrate his 40th birthday) and will be attending the African American church's rally in the afternoon at Hattiesburg First.

Special Notes

Open Churches: (MS) Union, Vicksburg First, and Jackson Emmanuel
(LA) Kenner First and GracePointe


Important Prayer Requests:

• Brother Kuhrman Cox's brother passed away this morning. He and his brother Norman will share the funeral duties in Florida. Pray for him as he travels and assists.
• Continue to pray for Lynn Witbeck (Starkeville, MS) who lost her father, Cheryl Bradley (Crowley, LA) who lost her mother, and Rev, Mike Whitten who lost his father.
• Rev. Derek Catron, pastor at Lake Charles First (LA), is recovering for surgery at home. Because of the extent of his surgery recovery will take some time.
• Rev. Ruby Walters, pastor of Lucedale, has suffered paralysis of her vocal chords due to some recent surgery. She cannot speak and obviously cannot pastor/preach. She is taking a leave and the Dr's. are hoping she will regain use of her voice in about 6 months. Please pray for this precious lady.
• Brenda Teston, pastors wife at Moss Bluff (LA) had surgery today. She is home recovering.
• Continue to pray for Rev. Jerry Cole, McVay Memorial.

Good News Reports

• Received good news reports from Rev. Wayne Williams at Laurel (MS) First, and Rob Pocai at Bridgepoint (Brandon, MS). Also from Reggie Gilmore at New Orleans First (LA) Praise the Lord for what He is doing in our midst.

• This Sunday, January 31, is the date for a wonderful time of celebration with all of our African American church from both district at Hattiesburg First at 3:00 pm. If you are within driving distance why not cancel your evening service and come to Hattiesburg to support this great service of inspiration and encouragement.
• PALCONS are scheduled for Trevecca (TNU) Region May 11-14 and Southern (SNU) Region June 28-July 1. These are going to be incredible events and you are encouraged to start planning now to participate. As we enter a new year please put this in your budget. If one doesn't work in to your schedule try another. Dates of the other events are at http://www.nazazrenepastor.org/

Book I am Recommending: "Making Disciples" by Sondra Higgins Matthaei
This book is a study of the writings of the Wesley's, including Charles and Susanna that reflect on the discipleship model established by John Wesley that served as a model for Methodism. One of the benefits of the book is that it reflects on helping someone "know they are a Christian." It also focuses on the community of faith and how it provides opportunities for accountability and responsibility and how both of those are marks of making and being disciples of Jesus. This book was recommended by Rev. David Ching. Very well worth the read.

Website I am Recommending: Pastor For Life www.pastorforlife.org I just discovered this site. It is more like a blog, but it has some helpful writing, some interesting resources and a section entitled, Pastors Gotta Laugh.

THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK: “Today, by the Spirit’s power, I’ll do the best I can with what I have out of love for Jesus. That’s my definition of success.” Rick Warren

Let's Trade Prayers

What Is Holiness of Heart and Life?

Verse of the Week: And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him. Colossians 3:17


Pastor to Pastor
I heard a lay person ask a pastor to explain the distinctive beliefs of the Church of the Nazarene in contrast to a Southern Baptist. How would you answer? Certainly we don't need to compare ourselves to others, but we do need to be able to articulate what we believe, and what is the central focus of our doctrine, which is to be sure the doctrine of holiness.

Could you explain holiness in an elevator? (In other words, in just a few seconds, when you may never see the person again.)
I found this explanation or definition in a little book that David Ching gave me to read entitled, Making Disciples by Sondra Higgins Matthaei. The quote came from another book entitled, Responsible Grace.

"Inward holiness involves total commitment to God, singleness of intention, centering one's life completely on God. It includes believing in, trusting, loving, worshipping, and obeying God. It consists of constant reliance on God's grace and using God's gifts to become what God intends us to be. (Charles Yrigoyen, Jr.)

That is simple, succinct, and powerful. Preaching and teaching this, the essence of the holy life, can be challenging, but it is an encouraging, helpful, and hopeful message.

Go for it!

Last Sunday was a full and fulfilling day. Elaine and I began by driving to Brookhaven First (MS) for the morning service where beside preaching I had the wonderful privilege of dedicating the newest addition to the parsonage, Lillian Marie Rego. what a precious time and beautiful family.
After a wonderful lunch in the parsonage we drove to LifePointe Community Church in McComb and were thrilled to participate in the installation of Rev. Keith Matthews as the new pastor. What a great service, and Keith wife Samantha sang and rocked the house. Wow!
Following the service I drove to Vicksburg First to guide a reception and interview for a pastoral candidate with the church board. All in all a long and rich day.

This Sunday: I will be conducting the dedication of the new sanctuary and improvements at BridgePoint (Brandon, MS) in the morning and preaching and holding a board meeting at Vicksburg First in the evening.

Special Notes

Open Churches: (MS) Union, Vicksburg First, and Jackson Emmanuel
(LA) Kenner First and GracePointe


Important Prayer Requests:
Continue to pray for Lynn Witbeck (Starkeville, MS) and Cheryl Bradley (Crowley, LA) who lost father and mother, respectfully.
Pray for Rev. Mike Whitten and family. Mike's father passed away this week and his funeral was Wednesday.
Rev. Derek Catron, pastor at Lake Charles First (LA), is recovering for surgery at home. Because of the extent of his surgery recovery will take some time.
Rev. Ruby Walters, pastor of Lucedale, has suffered paralysis of her vocal chords due to some recent surgery. She cannot speak and obviously cannot pastor/preach. She is taking a leave and the Dr's. are hoping she will regain use of her voice in about 6 months. Please pray for this precious lady. Brenda Teston, pastors wife at Moss Bluff (LA) will have surgery in the next couple of weeks on her foot. Please pray for her as she is just recovering from major surgery a few months ago. Continue to pray for Rev. Jerry Cole, McVay Memorial.

We had a good response to the POPS in MS and are looking forward to our time together in LA tomorrow at Rocky Creek Camp.

January 31 is the date for a wonderful time of celebration with all of our African American church from both district at Hattiesburg First at 3:00 pm. If you are within driving distance why not cancel your evening service and come to Hattiesburg to support this great service of inspiration and encouragement.

PALCONS are scheduled for Trevecca (TNU) Region May 11-14 and Southern (SNU) Region June 28-July 1. These are going to be incredible events and you are encouraged to start planning now to participate. As we enter a new year please put this in your budget. If one doesn't work in to your schedule try another. Dates of the other events are at http://www.nazazrenepastor.org/

THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK: No one should ever be appointed to a senior position (church board/district board?) unless top management (pastor/DS) is willing to have his or her character serve as a model for subordinates. Peter Drucker

Book I am Recommending: "Making Disciples" by Sondra Higgins Matthaei
This book is a study of the writings of the Wesley's, including Charles and Susanna that reflect on the discipleship model established by John Wesley that served as a model for Methodism. One of the benefits of the book is that it reflects on helping someone "know they are a Christian." It also focuses on the community of faith and how it provides opportunities for accountability and responsibility and how both of those are marks of making and being disciples of Jesus. This book was recommended by Rev. David Ching. Very well worth the read.

LET'S TRADE PRAYERS