HCC for the World

You Only Get One Time Around! 33 miles

2010-08-16T09:15:00.000-07:00

He never thought he cared so much about the minute hand
Until he started praying for, a second chance
If he could only do it all again
He'd trade the long nights that he spent behind his desk
For all he missed

He tells his wife "I wish that this moment in this room was not me dying, but just spending a little time with you."

You only get just one time around
You only get one shot at this
One chance, to find out
The one thing that you don't wanna miss
One day when it's all said and done
I hope you see that it was enough, this
One ride, one try, one life...
To love....

She never thought she cared so much about those little hands
That held on tight the day she left
Til she was scared to death
Sitting all alone on a hotel bed, the end of the road
The sun had set on her big plans
To feel young again

She picks up the phone, dials the number, hears that little voice
That's haunted every single mile, since she made that choice

You only get just one time around
You only get one shot at this
One chance, to find out
The one thing that you don't wanna miss
One day when it's all said and done
I hope you see that it was enough, this
One ride, one try, one life...
To love............

You only get just one time around
Only get one shot at this
One chance, to find out
The one thing that you don't wanna miss
One day when it's all said and done
I hope you see that it was enough, this
One ride, one try, one life........
One ride, one try, one life........
To love....
To love....

The Most Popular Religion in America By: John Ortberg

2010-07-15T18:18:00.000-07:00

What do you think is the number one most popular religion in America?
I’ll give you a hint: its not Christianity.
Its also not Islam, Judiasm, Buddhism, Taoism, or the Home Shopping Network.
According to Christian Smith, a sociologist at Notre Dame, the primary expression of faith in our day–at least for young adults–is what he calls “Moral Therapeutic Deism.”
This religion is characterized by five beliefs:
–There is a God who created earth and watches over it
–God wants people to be nice, fair and good (as it taught in the Bible and most other religions)
–The central goal of life is to be happy and feel good about yourself
–God doesn’t need to be involved in your life except when there’s a problem that needs Celestial Performance Enhancement
–Good people go to heaven when they die.
This is a religion that is far more about comfort, individualism and conformity that it is about meaning, calling, and sacrifice. What makes it particularly challenging is that it is not offered through a new MTD movement or denomination. It is actually catching on and being practiced in churches where we leaders think of ourselves as historically Christian.
It cannot sustain a life.
It cannot build a community.
It cannot call people to take up a cross.
We want something more.
One other piece of bad news has to do with where young adults learn MTD.
I’ll give you a hint. Its mostly from older adults. These are themes that have captured our culture in such deep ways that we’re hardly aware of them.
The good news is that God is much bigger than Moral Therapeutic Deism. He has a way of showing us what we idolize.
–when someone goes through a crisis or pain;
–when someone is inspired to devote their life to a cause greater than themselves;
–when someone is called to sacrifice their own comfort or success for a hurting world;
–when someone engages in the intense study of the God revealed by the writers of the Scriptures;
–when someone grows bored with a faith that is nice and comfortable and distant–
then God is once more breaking through.
MTD is just one more on a long list of idols.
But, somewhere deep down, the human heart keeps hungering for the real deal.

Wise Words

2010-02-20T17:23:00.000-08:00

Compliment three people each day.
Watch a sunrise at least once a year:
Overtip breakfast waitresses.
Look people in the eye.
Say "thank you" a lot.
Say "please" a lot.
Live beneath your means.
Buy whatever kids are
selling on card tables in
their front yards.
Treat everyone you meet as
you want to be treated.
Donate two pints
of blood every year.
Make new friends but
cherish the old ones.
Keep secrets.
Don't waste time learning
the "tricks of the trade."
Instead, learn the trade.
Admit your mistakes.
Be brave. Even if you're not,
pretend to be.
No one can tell the difference.
Choose a charity in your
community and support it
generously with your
time and money.
Read the Bill of Rights.
Use credit cards only for
convenience, never for credit.
Never cheat.
Give yourself a year and read
the Bible cover to cover.
Learn to listen. Opportunity
sometimes knocks very softly.
Never deprive someone of hope;
it might be all he or she has.
Pray not for things, but for
wisdom and courage.
Never take action when
you're angry.
Have good posture.
Enter a room with purpose
and confidence.
Don't discuss business in elevators.
You never know who
may overhear you.
Never pay for work before
it's completed.
Be willing to lose a battle
in order to win the war.
Don't gossip.
Beware of the person who
has nothing to lose.
When facing a difficult task,
act as though it is
impossible to fail. If you're
going after Moby Dick,
take along the tartar sauce.
Don't spread yourself too thin.
Learn to say no
politely and quickly.
Don't expect life to be fair.
Never underestimate the
power of forgiveness.
Instead of using the word
problem, try substituting
the word opportunity.
Never walk out on
a quarrel with your wife.
Regarding furniture and clothes:
if you think you'll be using them
five years or longer, buy the best
you can afford.
Be bold and courageous.
When you look back
on your fife, you'll regret
the things, you didn't do
more than the ones you did.
Forget committees. New, noble,
world-changing ideas always come
from one person working alone.
Street musicians are a treasure.
Stop for a moment and listen;
then leave a small donation.
When faced with a serious
health problem, get at least three
medical opinions.
Wage war against littering.
After encountering inferior
service, food or products,
bring it to the attention
of the person in charge.
Good managers will
appreciate knowing.
Don't procrastinate.
Do what needs doing when
it needs to be done.
Get your priorities straight.
No one ever said on his
deathbed, "Gee, if I'd only spent
more time at the office."
Don't be afraid to say
"I don't know."
Don't be afraid to say
"I'm sorry."
Make a list of 25 things
you want to experience before
you die. Carry it in your
wallet and refer to it often.
Call your mother.

How to Know if You are from Tennessee.

2009-12-11T07:15:00.000-08:00

You know you’re from Tennessee if:
01. You measure distance in minutes.
02. You’ve ever had to switch from “heat” to “A/C” in the same day.
03. You use “fix” as a verb. Example: “I’m fixing to go to the store
04. All the festivals across the state are named after a fruit, vegetable, grain, insect or animal.
05. You install security lights on your house and garage and leave both unlocked.
06. You know what a “VOL” is.
07. You carry jumper cables in your car…for your OWN car.
08. You think that the first day of deer season is a national holiday
09. You find 100 degrees fahrenheit “a little warm”.
10. You know all four seasons: Almost Summer, Summer, still Summer and Christmas.
11. You know whether another Tennessean is from east, west or middle Tennessee as soon as they open their mouth.
12. Going to Wal-mart is a favorite past time known as”goin’ Wal-martin” or off to “Wally World”.
13. You describe the first cool snap (below 70 degrees) as good pinto-bean weather.
14. A carbonated soft drink isn’t a soda, cola or pop…it’s a Coke, regardless of brand or flavor. Example: “What kinda coke you want?”
15. Fried catfish is the other white meat.

Thankfulness of Hope Community Church

2009-11-25T06:14:00.000-08:00

Last Sunday I asked my family at Hope to list the things that they were thankful for and I was excited by the response of my brothers and sisters at Hope. I had to make a summary of everyone's list because of my two finger typing skills. Here are some of the things Hope Community Church are thankful for:

1. Many were thankful for their family in Christ (Hope) and for their immediate family which gives them the opportunity to serve Christ.
2. Many were thankful for their jobs especially in this tight economy.
3. Health also made the list many times,many were thankful for their health and their families health as well as living in a nation that has the best health care available. (especially those just returning from Africa)
4. Many were thankful to have a roof over their head and food in their house.
5. Many were thankful for the freedom we have even though there seems to be change in the wind.
6. A few were thankful for their pets and I can understand that, but not cats.
7. The one that everyone was so thankful for was the the greatest sacrifice that was ever made, Jesus that gave it all so that we could have a relationship with God and life and thankfulness.

I wanted to stop at seven the perfect number and I hope I have included everyone's list that I received. I to will agree with with everything on this list but I wanted to add one personal thanks and that is to You that make up Hope Community Church. You are part of the Body of Christ and I am thankful for your dedication to first God and then to Hope. You have been such a blessing in my life and my family's life and I hope that you know how much I truly appreciate you. This day I pray that God would bless you Hope Community Church and prepare us for the great things that He has in store for us. I Love You Guys, byron

Just thoughts from a sinner on his way home,

peace, byron

Lessons from a Cookie!

2009-11-10T08:36:00.000-08:00

Just made it back home and what a trip. Still trying to process all that took place, but there was one experience that my room mate had that will sum up the people in Africa we serve. My Roomy (Jeff Kidd) was experiencing all the great wonders of Africa for the first time being his first visit. He had already told me that he really did not know what to expect, he just knew that God was going to do something special. We had a long day in the medical and we had taken a break to have something eat to get the energy level back, meaning chapati bread, peanut butter, and banana. (Some refer to this lunch as the white African burrito.) No matter it is really good. Jeff had finished his lunch and was having an Oreo cookie when he noticed a little girl standing close by. He offered her a cookie to which she took and then she did something he totally did not expect. She took the cookie over to 7 other children and broke the cookie into 8 pieces and then proceeded to give each child a piece of the cookie. Jesus said that we can be taught and led by a little child and after hearing and seeing the stories from the children of Africa I know what Jesus was talking about.Look around God may be wanting to teach you something today.

Just thoughts from a sinner on his way home,
peace, byron

To All Leaders!!!!!!!!!!!!

2009-09-11T01:49:00.001-07:00

The Way of God
TGIF Today God Is First by Os Hillman
Wednesday, September 09 2009

"If My people would but listen to Me.... Psalm 81:13

God has a specific training ground for leaders. There are three patterns of preparation that have been common among most of God's leaders. First, there is a time when the leader is separated from his old life. Consider Moses, Joseph, Abraham, and Paul. In order for God to mold and shape them into His nature, it appears that He had to remove them from the life of comfort. A teacher once said, "You cannot go with God and remain where you are."

Next, there is usually a time of solitude. God often brings leaders into a time of solitude in order to speak to them without other distractions. Hosea 2:14b says, "I will lead her into the desert and speak tenderly to her." Paul was sent to Arabia for two years for a time of solitude. Joseph spent years in the solitude of prison. Moses spent 40 years in the desert herding sheep.

The third characteristic of God's preparation for leaders is discomfort. The setting in which the preparation takes place usually is not a place of comfort. Abraham traveled through the difficult deserts. David lived in caves fleeing Saul. Paul was frequently persecuted.

Are you ready for the classroom of leadership preparation? If God chooses to bring you into this class, you may have one of three reactions to the events. First, you may say, "I don't need it." Perhaps you know intellectually that you do need this, but God wants you to know it in your heart. Pride prevents us from entering this classroom. The second reaction may be, "I'm tired of it." You decide you've had enough. If so, this will disqualify you from leadership. Finally, God's desired response from us in this preparation is, "I accept it." To accept it with joy is the place of maturity in Christ. God often keeps us in these places until we come to accept and agree that Jesus is enough. Is He all you need?

Like the people of Israel, I think we have something to do with the timetable of our education. "If My people would but listen to Me, if Israel would follow My ways, how quickly would I subdue their enemies and turn My hand against their foes!" (Ps. 81:13-14)

Are you ready for the process required for being a godly leader? Ask for His grace to willingly embrace these times of preparation.

25 Ways to make sure you enjoy life!

2009-09-11T01:22:00.000-07:00

1. Take a 10-30 minute walk every day. And while you walk, smile. It is
the ultimate anti-depressant.

2. Sit in silence for at least 10 minutes each day. Talk to God about
what is going on in your life. Buy a lock if you have to.

3. When you wake up in the morning complete the following statement, ‘My
purpose is to__________ today. I am thankful for______________’

4. Eat more foods that grow on trees and plants and eat less food that
is manufactured in plants.

5. Drink green tea and plenty of water. Eat blueberries, wild Alaskan
salmon, broccoli , almonds & walnuts.

6. Try to make at least three people smile each day.

7. Don’t waste your precious energy on gossip, energy vampires, issues
of the past, negative thoughts or things you cannot control. Instead
invest your energy in the positive present moment.

8. Eat breakfast like a king, lunch like a prince and dinner like a
college kid with a maxed out charge card.

9.. Life isn’t fair, but it’s still good.

10. Life is too short to waste time hating anyone.

11 Don’t take yourself so seriously. No one else does.

12. You are not so important that you have to win every argument.
Agree to disagree.

13. Make peace with your past so it won’t spoil the present.

14. Don’t compare your life to others. You have no idea what their
journey is all about.

15. No one is in charge of your happiness except you.

16. Frame every so-called disaster with these words: ‘In five years,
will this matter?’

17. Forgive everyone for everything.

18. What other people think of you is none of your business.

19. GOD heals everything – but you have to ask Him.

20. However good or bad a situation is, it will change.

21. Your job won’t take care of you when you are sick. Your friends
will. Stay in touch!!!

22. Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need.

23. Each night before you go to bed complete the following statements:
I am thankful for__________. Today I accomplished_________.

24. Remember that you are too blessed to be stressed.

25. When you are feeling down, start listing your many blessings.
You’ll be smiling before you know it.

Taken from Joey Dehnert's Internet Website

A Lesson on Socialism

2009-08-21T06:26:00.001-07:00

An economics professor said he had never failed a single student before but had, once, failed an entire class. The class had insisted that socialism worked - and that no one would be poor and no one would be rich, a great equalizer for all, for society. The professor then said ok, we will have an experiment in this class on socialism.

He said that all grades would be averaged and everyone would receive the same grade so no one would fail and no one would receive an A. After the first test the grades were averaged and everyone was given a B. The students who studied hard were upset, and the students who studied little were happy. But, as the second test rolled around, the students who hadn't studied much for the first test had studied even less, and the ones who studied hard weren't motivated to study hard again, and they decided they wanted a free ride too; so they studied little. The second Test average was a D! No one was happy. When the 3rd test rolled around the average was an F.

The scores never increased as bickering, blame, name calling all resulted in hard feelings and no one would study for anyone else. All failed .... and the professor told them that the socialism they wanted would ultimately fail, as they had, because the reward of success normally goes to those that work harder, but when government takes the reward away; few will try so no one will succeed.

Why?

2009-07-31T07:13:00.000-07:00

Just finished a great VBS at Hope and it has inspired me to pen some thoughts. I was playing the character of Paul, so for the duration of VBS I was chained to a roman guard. This really got me thinking of the courage of the Apostle Paul that was chained to a new guard and every six hours. And while he was awaiting his sentencing from the Emperor he was sharing the Good News of Jesus Christ, so if we really believe the way Paul did then why aren't we living that way? Why aren't we living in such a sacrificial way that the world will ask WHY? I think it is because we are not living the true meaning of the Gospel, we are living an American way of not experiencing the full power of God moving and working in our lives, families, jobs, and even our churches. We are caught in the here and now that we have forgotten what our lives as followers of Christ are all about. We are to be a living, breathing, example of the Christ. This is hard for believers to do, because of the high expectation that is placed upon us, not from God, but from others and even our selves. So today, I will live my life in such a way that maybe someone will come and ask me, Why?

Just thoughts from a sinner on his way home.

peace, byron

From TGIF Devotion.

2009-05-30T07:32:00.000-07:00

"He brought me out into a spacious place; He rescued me because He delighted in me." - 2 Samuel 22:20

Questioning someone's motives for their activities can become an overriding response to those to whom we relate. Wrong motives can result in broken relationships, poor business decisions, and falling out of God's will. Sometimes we do not know the motive of another person. It is wrong for us to assume what their motive is until we have confidence that we know their intentions. When we respond or react prematurely, we become judge and jury over them.

God has a motive for every one of His children. His desire is to bring us into a spacious place. He wants us to go beyond our borders of safety and security so that we might experience life at a level that goes beyond ourselves. What do you think of when you think of a "spacious place"? No limitations? A large, grassy field? Open air? These are positive images. Sometimes these spacious places encourage us to step out in faith into areas where we've never ventured. Sometimes we need to be rescued by the Lord. When Peter walked on the water, God was inviting him to a spacious place. He went beyond the borders of his boat and ventured into a whole new world. He didn't have complete success in his venturing out, but it was a process that would lead him to the next victory in his faith walk with Jesus. Sometimes failure is what is needed in order to move us to the next level of faith with God. However, we must be willing to fail and let God rescue us.

The Lord delights in this process. His motive for His children is always love. It is always to bring us to a new level of trust and dependence on Him.

The WAY

2009-04-01T04:36:00.001-07:00

There has been a great deal going on not only in our country, but in our world. There is a verse of Scripture that reminds me of how we are to live and the example we are to set, even through times of crisis.

“1But Saul, still breathing threats and murder against the disciples of the Lord, went to the high priest 2and asked him for letters to the synagogues at Damascus, so that if he found any belonging to the Way, men or women, he might bring them bound to Jerusalem. (Acts 9: 1,2)

Before Christians were ever known as Christians we were known as people of “The Way”. I really like this title more than Christian, because it states something about your life and what really matters to you. The Way says no matter what I face I know that God is in control and I prove that by living a certain “WAY”! I don’t put my emphasis on this life, but the life that is to come. A life that is reflective in my worship to a living God not to things made with human hands. For example, right now there is a great excitement over the college teams that are moving forward to the final four, but can the same excitement be seen in what God is doing, or what He is going to do? I haven’t seen one person paint themselves up and go into a time of worship and yell their excitement for the King of Kings, (that would be kind of weird), but you get my point. I truly believe we would see many supernatural events happen if we, Gods people, would start living in such a WAY, that the world would see a people of God living the way and not just another group of religious, denominational, church people doing, but being so in Love, so in Worship, and bringing so much glory to God that there would be a movement that cannot be explained by human terms only by supernatural movement of the Holy Spirit. Who’s with me?

Just thoughts from a sinner on his way home,

Peace, byron

“Jesus is Enough”

2009-02-04T06:51:00.000-08:00

For the last few weeks it has been a blur for me. I have been working a lot and also trying to maintain all the goals established the first of the year. I must confess I have blown a few, but I have stayed steady with others; as I am sure some of you would agree. I say that to share with you an event that happened this week. I finally got the opportunity to get my hair cut, although it was nice to receive some monetary gain for my long hair by those having compassion on me and throwing a few bucks my way thinking I was in need but couldn’t find a sign. But when I finally made it to the shop that cuts my hair I entered into a conversation that seems to be going on around our community and I would say in our country; that is the state of our economy and the state of our world. One comment that was made was that “God would never put more on a person than they can handle.” Another statement was “God blesses those that bless Him.” Now I know there are some truths to these statements and I know where these statements come but many times they are sadly misused. When asked what I thought as a preacher I kindly shared with them the life of John the Baptist, Peter, Job, and Paul. Although they did exactly what was asked of them by God, their life on this earth would not be what we would consider a blessing in our life time. Think about it everything taken away, beaten, imprisoned, stoned, left for dead, ship wrecked, crucified, or beheaded. To me that doesn’t sound like a blessing, or more than they could handle. But I did let them know as I would like to say to you, what they did experience and what they did learned is that “Jesus is Enough” No matter what comes our way Jesus is enough, no matter what life, or the economy, or our government throws our way Jesus is and will be enough. You have to ask yourself and then answer do you believe that. Because that is the only hope we have and that hope will carry you into eternity. What these men had in common was that they were looking and longing for a new day, a day when all things will be restored to what God intended. A day I long for as well and I believe you do too.

List for New Year.

2008-12-27T11:07:00.000-08:00

I got this from my friend Bob Roberts blog. I plan on making it available for the people at Hope.

Excerpt from Asking to Win
by Bobb Biehl

Focusing ... or refocusing your life

This page holds some of my very favorite questions, collected over the past 20 years. Each has proven very trustworthy. These questions are best asked in the order presented.

1. GOD: What three changes in me would be most pleasing to God?

2. DREAM/PURPOSE: What can I do to make the most significant difference for God in my lifetime? Why am I on the earth? What is the very best organizational context for my dream?

3. PRIMARY RESULT: What is the single best measurable indicator that I am making progress toward my dream?

4. LIFE PRIORITIES: If I could accomplish only three measurable priorities (goals reached - or problems solved) before I die, what would I accomplish?

5. TEN YEAR FOCUS: If I could accomplish only three measurable priorities in the next ten years, that would make a 50% difference in my life-long contribution, what would I accomplish?

6. ANNUAL FOCUS:

SINGLE WORD FOCUS

What single word best captures the focus of my next year?

OPPORTUNITY

Where was my greatest unexpected success last year? Why was this

area so successful? What three steps could I take now to take full

advantage of this "Window of Opportunity" next year?

LAND MINES

What three land mines or roadblocks need my immediate attention?

What three changes could reduce my "risk" by 50%?

3/10/50%

If I could only accomplish three measurable priorities in the next 12

months that would make a 50% difference in my contribution over the

next 10 years, which three things would I most want to accomplish?

7. QUARTERLY FOCUS: What three measurable priorities could I accomplish in the next 90 days to make a 50% difference in the results I see by the end of the year?

8. ORGANIZATION: What three changes could I make to see a 50% difference in our morale as a family or team?

9. CASH: If I had to cut my budget 20% (or some other significant percentage), what would be the first three things to go? If I got a surprise gift of 20% of my budget, what three things would I do immediately?

10. QUALITY: What three changes could improve the quality of my work by 50% in the next 12 months?

"BIG PICTURE" PRIORITIES SHEET

(Expand to any size you like)

Priority

90 Days

One Year

Ten Years

Life
1.
2.
3.

Do you think of only self?

2008-12-09T13:04:00.001-08:00

Pretty Sad But Somehow Enlightening

Two men, both seriously ill, occupied the same hospital room. One man was allowed to sit up in his bed for an hour each afternoon to help drain the fluid from his lungs. His bed was next to the room's only window. The other man had to spend all his time flat on his back. The men talked for hours on end. They spoke of their wives and families, their homes, their jobs, their involvement in the military service, where they had been on vacation. And every afternoon when the man in the bed by the window could sit up, he would pass the time by describing to his roommate all the things he could see outside the window.

The man in the other bed began to live for those one-hour periods where his world would be broadened and enlivened by all the activity and color of the world outside. The window overlooked a park with a lovely lake. Ducks and swans played on the water while children sailed their model boats. Young lovers walked arm in arm amidst flowers of every color of the rainbow. Grand old trees graced the landscape, and a fine view of the city skyline could be seen in the distance.

As the man by the window described all this in exquisite detail, the man on the other side of the room would close his eyes and imagine the picturesque scene. One warm afternoon the man by the window described a parade passing by. Although the other man couldn't hear the band he could see it in his mind's eye as the gentleman by the window portrayed it with descriptive words.

Then unexpectedly, a sinister thought entered his mind. Why should the other man alone experience all the pleasures of seeing everything while he himself never got to see anything? It didn't seem fair. At first thought the man felt ashamed. But as the days passed and he missed seeing more sights, his envy eroded into resentment and soon turned him sour. He began to brood and he found himself unable to sleep. He should be by that window -- that thought, and only that thought now controlled his life.

Late one night as he lay staring at the ceiling, the man by the window began to cough. He was choking on the fluid in his lungs. The other man watched in the dimly lit room as the struggling man by the window groped for the button to call for help. Listening from across the room he never moved, never pushed his own button which would have brought the nurse running in. In less than five minutes the coughing and choking stopped, along with that the sound of breathing.

Now there was only silence-deathly silence. The following morning the day nurse arrived to bring water for their baths. When she found the lifeless body of the man by the window, she was saddened and called the hospital attendants to take it away. As soon as it seemed appropriate, the other man asked if he could be moved next to the window. The nurse was happy to make the switch, and after making sure he was comfortable, she left him alone.

Slowly, painfully, he propped himself up on one elbow to take his first look at the world outside. Finally, he would have the joy of seeing it all himself. He strained to slowly turn to look out the window beside the bed. It faced a blank wall.

The man asked the nurse what could have compelled his deceased roommate since he had described such wonderful things outside this window. The nurse responded that the man was blind and could not even see the wall. She said, "Perhaps he just wanted to encourage you."

Epilogue. . . .

You can interpret the story in any way you like. But one moral stands out: There is tremendous happiness in making others happy, despite our own situations. Shared grief is half the sorrow, but happiness when shared, is doubled. If you want to feel rich, just count all of the things you have that money can't buy.

Author Unknown

Home from Africa

2008-11-21T07:15:00.000-08:00

Hey Guys, just wanted to drop a line and give a big thanks to all that prayed for some pretty tough battles we had while we were in Africa. We had a grueling schedule of 13 that consisted of driving through 2 different countries 7 different stops over 500 to 650 miles of very rough roads to do the work. The mission trip was a huge success and we saw God do some amazing things. Quick picture of the trip, we saw medically over 650 people visited 3 orphanages was apart of opening a new orphanage in Nairobi Kenya, may be some pic coming up with the Associated Press in USA today. We saw at last count 80 to 90 people give there lives to Christ. We helped and are looking at being instrumental with a feeding program that feeds 450 street kids daily in Tororo Uganda. There were so many other things that have happened in these last two weeks that I am sure I will remember later, but I wanted to give you kinda of a quick over view of what happened while we were away. The 08 trip in Africa was a huge success and also came with some huge battles that God and His sovereign will accomplished. The work was very hard and very tiring and very, very, very rewarding regardless of all the obstacles that were faced. God is so Awesome and so sovereign in the work He did with 14 ragamuffins, we can only stand in amazement of what HE did not us! Next year Mount Kilimanjaro get your passports now.

I Love you Guys, byron

Just thoughts from a sinner on his way home.

peace, byron

Headed to Africa!

2008-11-01T07:46:00.000-07:00

Hey Guys, been a while since I have blogged anything. That is what happens when you get to busy. A group of 15 (I included) are headed to Africa to do medical mission and to start some new works, we will also be meeting with key people of new areas. Keep us and our fammilies in your prayers.

Also check out this video I got from Sam Shaw and comment on what you think about what John Piper says. I really like the last part!

Just thoughts from a sinner on his way home,

peaces, byron

Pastors Beware!

2008-09-02T12:21:00.000-07:00

Pastors, before you use your wife as an illustration. Got this from My friend Bob R site.

Stop It!!!!!!!

2008-08-19T12:14:00.000-07:00

For those of you that struggle with different things in your life, Bob Newhart has this advise.

God is Enough!

2008-08-18T02:38:00.000-07:00

Hopes Newsletter Buzz

2008-08-01T06:19:00.000-07:00

August is now here and hopefully we are now moving toward weather that is less than 100 degrees, or at least feels like 100 degrees. August is also a time when school starts back, something I am sure the kids are not excited about, but come to think of it most of them say they are ready to head back to school. August well is also a time for a new small group to begin. You have heard me talk about it, if you attend Hope Community Church, if not; the group is called “Celebrate Recovery”. This group will be an ongoing group that helps individuals deal with addictions they may have, and lets face it, I think all of us have some kind of hang ups that control our lives and enslave us. In a recent brochure I listed questions to ask yourself if this group would be for you, so here are those questions again:

Do you have trouble setting limits for yourself?

Do you sacrifice your identity, desires or needs to make others feel good about themselves or to keep the peace?

Do you struggle feeling safe when you aren’t in control?

Do you raise your voice to get your way?

Do you act kind on the outside, but feel bitter on the inside?

Do you use food, sex/pornography, relationships, alcohol or drugs to cope with life’s problems?

Do you struggle with your body image?

Do you love someone struggling with destructive behaviors, such as pornography, drugs or alcohol?

Do you live with someone who abuses you physically, sexually or emotionally or feel the continued effects from past traumas and abuse?
Don’t give up! There is Hope…

And there is Hope and I truly believe that Celebrate Recovery can help you take the steps needed for spiritual and physical healing. Group starts August 5th at 6:30 pm.

At the time of the news letter we are just finishing up our summer activities and are now looking forward to what we will do through the fall and winter. You know there is always something going on at Hope. One activity that I am sure you will want to be part of is the signing of the deed to our land over to Hope Community Church. We are trying to schedule this event in October look for more developing information for this event. I hope it will be cool enough then.

I ask that you please be in prayer for those in our community that are being affected by our struggling economy, and for the important elections that are coming up. We have those that now having to make difficult decision of weather to move and relocate, because of job situation, to those that cannot find gainful employment. Please be in prayer for our brothers and sisters that are facing these tough decisions. I know that God is sovereign and in control and that anything that comes in our lives are for His glory. At the writing of this news letter some of the group from Hope went to hear a Muslim converted to Christianity give his testimony, and through his hardships that he went through resulted in him being able to say thank you and bless you to his enemies. This is something very hard for us to understand, but as a result of his suffering many Church’s are in existence and Christian schools are now in Pakistan. What a great testimony of what the enemy meant for evil God used for good. (Romans 8:28)

I Love you Guys, byron

Do you want to be a Church Planter?

2008-07-26T19:36:00.000-07:00

Here are twenty questions to ask yourself if you think you want to be a Church Planter: The questions came from Act 29 ministry. They were voiced by Scott Thomas.

Before we begin, as one of my asides, I want to remind you that there are lots of other ways you can serve God in an established church or a church plant apart from being the senior leader. Some very good pastors would make bad church plant leaders. That call from God you have to do church planting might be a call to go join a team led by another man to help plant a church, or it might actually be a call to stay so others can go. Please pray as you work through this list that God will either confirm your call or show you that you are not meant to lead a church plant after all.

1. Am I a Christian? — This is a good place to start! Integrity is critical!

2. Am I passionately in love with Jesus, and is he the Lord of my life in every area? Don't skip these! People plant churches who never open the Bible or pray. Some big churches are led by people who may not even be Christians! Jesus must be the most important thing in your life. Your life must be built on Jesus only such that nothing else is enough, and even if family and possessions are taken away, you will still have the grace of God resting on your life, you will have hope, and you will be able to say “That’s enough.” IF Jesus is in you and you love and follow him, people will be drawn to you.

3. Do I believe his Word, and does it affect my life deeply? It's not enough to just have good sermon material; it has to flow from your heart. The Word needs to speak to you, and you need to talk out of the abundance of his Word.

4. Am I Spirit-filled, Spirit-led, Spirit-directed, and Spirit-controlled? We want to be witnesses, but we have tendencies to lean on our own ideas and abilities. He will give you all you need, and give you the place and the way to go about it. The church planter needs to be an empowered man. The Spirit needs to be working in and through you and be dripping out. That’s the Holy Spirit I want!

5. Am I qualified as an elder? Timothy and Titus talk about these things. Study them carefully, assess yourself. They both say that to be above reproach is the over-arching thing — you have to be above reproach. There isn’t an exhaustive list of things, they overlap, but the key is to be above reproach. Here are some "for instances" of how to be above reproach: the husband of one wife, no one else in your head, your heart, your eyes, on that screen—none. Totally focused and satisfied in that one woman God has brought to him. Marriage can be a struggle. But you cannot stray, even an inch. Forgiveness is required for marriage. Children should be in submission. Need to be a pastor-dad.

6. Do I love the local church as an expression of a gospel community on a mission? The church brings hope, forgiveness, and community, etc. This is an expression of the gospel. Stop dating the church as Josh Harris said. It's not an institution, but Christ's body.

7. Am I a missionary to the city? Am I sent for the advancement of the gospel in the city? If you are a church planter, you have to be a missionary. Every pastor needs to see themselves as a missionary. For the glory of God and the good of the city. Don't be someone who wants to start something because of "me" and my desire to be recognized. It's not about me, or success. It's about exalting the grace of Jesus.

8. Do I have a clear vision for this new work? Nehemiah had to have a vision of a complete wall. Not take a survey. The city is in ruins, It's time to build. You know you have a vision when people around you say, “Let's do that.” People need to be following you.

9. Am I wiling to pour myself out in obedience to the vision?

10. Am I healthy physically, emotionally, financially, spiritually, relationally, maritally, mentally?

11. Am I the kind of leader many people will follow? Have I served as some form of church leader successfully?

12. Can I preach effectively? You don't have to hit it out of the ball park every time. But you do have to hit singles pretty regularly. The pulpit is the rudder that steers the church.

13. Can I guard the doctrinal door with biblical clarity and tenacious confidence? When you start a church, you'll have new people with new ideas for which they got kicked out of their old church. You have to be able to guard the doctrinal door, squash doctrinal error—not arrogantly, but being sure of what the Word of God says and being able to articulate that in a winsome way.

14. Can I architect a new work with entrepreneurial skill? What have you started successfully? Some men can't see the vision of what is to come, and some—even if they see the vision—can't find the steps towards the vision. If you can't be the architect, then you are in trouble. As an example, some very pastoral people are NOT the best people to start a church, or at least not as the main team leader. Be clear about who you are. If you're a shepherd, counselor, care-giver, and you could be a success doing those things in an established church or as part of a team, then that is where you should be. Someone who is called to plant a church is frustrated if they don't do it. Number two guys don't always make good number one guys. As an aside, for my English readers, the example that struck me was this (and blame me for this one, not Scott) — Gordon Brown was perceived widely to be a good chancellor, but when he became Prime Minister he has been widely perceived to be a bad one.

15. Am I called to plant a church at this time and in this place? Calling is a top issue. Not called when things are going badly. The call of God usually comes when things are going really well. It needs to be a ministry to God, not to anyone or anything else. 2 Corinthians 7:6-8, 7:13; 2 Corinthians 8:6, 8:16-17. You need to be someone who says because of your own personal calling, I need to do this.

16. Have my church leaders commended me for this calling? What do they think of you? Are they recommending you?

17. Am I a hard worker? Am I persevering?

18. Am I adaptable to new people, places, and concepts? If you don't like change, you don't like church planting! If you are the kind of person who goes into the fetal position, you're probably not a church planter

19. Can I raise the funds required for my family's needs? Can I still be there for my family? Anyone who won't provide for his family is worse than the ungodly. You also need to be there for your family. Your children need a father more than the city needs a church.

20. Am I humble enough to learn from others — particularly from those who have gone ahead of me in different areas? This is one of the issues we call "stallers" and "stoppers." You need to be coachable, teachable. If you're not teachable, your church will stay stunted in its growth. The local church makes the audible gospel visible. It's a glorious thing.

What if I'm called? What if I'm not sure? What do I do?

1 Timothy 4:12. “Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith, and in purity.” Right now, no matter where you are, what you're doing, begin to build that into your life, begin to look into your own life, and set the believers an example in these areas. Don't neglect your gift. Practice these things. Devote yourself to them. Make it evident that Jesus Christ is the most important thing in your life. Listen to the calling of God. Examine your life. Examine your family. Then obey, and get ready for the ride of your life!

Revelation

2008-07-23T12:43:00.000-07:00

This week I am sending you some info I received from a friend at Southwestern. It is a link to some great seminar by Dr. G. K. Beale on the book of Revelation, and it’s much more than that. Dr. Beale takes a considerable amount of time to interpret elements that set up some major steps in Revelation, such as the temple, mankind as image bearers of God, and the mantle of Adam as figured by Noah, Abraham and the patriarchs. He also shows how the Jewish Temple is a picture of Eden, and a prefiguration of Christ and the Holy Spirit in believers. Just go to this link and get your Bibles and pens out. http://www.desertspringschurch.org/beale/

Thoughts from a sinner on his way home.

Peace, byron

Hope for Africa

2008-07-13T13:44:00.001-07:00

We had our first golf scramble for our African mission work. We raised about 7500.oo dollars! Not bad for our first! We are going to make this an annual event. Thanks to everyone that had a hand in the scramble and please be praying for the work this will fund in November.

Love you Guys, byron

Mind, Matter, Spirit

2008-06-29T20:15:00.001-07:00

For the last few months these subjects have been on my heart and my thinking. There is a real dimension that I long to be with my Christian walk. That is the life of totally living with the Holt Spirit guiding my every step. Let me give you what I have been given so far. My mind and matter is very easy to walk in, because every thing that happens in my life is approached in one of these realms; but not the spirit. This is the hardest for me to walk in and if you were honest it is for you too. If you really study the life of Jesus you find that His life was lived totally lead by the spirit and the proof is in what He did. Have you ever wondered why Jesus did not just wave His hand and heal every person with a physical problem, but only healed the ones that asked of Him healing? Could it be that Jesus knew that the power and the truth and happiness is found in the Spiritual and not in the Mind and Matter? Helen Keller said: “The most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or touched; they must be felt with your heart.” What Helen Keller experienced and what Jesus wants for you and I is to experience the truth that this world cannot offer. The truth I am referring to is a spiritual reality that exists through living and walking in the Kingdom of God here and now. Jesus said we are to seek first the Kingdom of God and the physical will be added, or will be taken care of itself. The apostle Paul puts it this way,
“17For momentary, light affliction is producing for us an eternal weight of glory far beyond all comparison, 18while we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen; for the things which are seen are temporal, but the things which are not seen are eternal. 2 Corinthians 4:17-18
I say all of this to say, don’t get so worked up about what we face in this life, about the uncertainty of what will take place in the mind, and matter. Instead we should make it a priority to focus on the spiritual that will free us and allow us to really experience the truths of the living God. I mean it was Jesus that said, and you will know the TRUTH and the TRUTH will set you free. Are you Free?

Vacation!!!

2008-06-22T06:28:00.000-07:00

Going on a much needed vacation! One of the reasons I haven't been able to blog. Because of the busyness of life. I really feel that I could be on the point of frying. Just keep me and my family in your prayers as we head out. I will for sure come back re-energized and ready to go. Love you Guys, byron

Thoughts from a sinner on his way home.

peace, byron

Kingdom of God!

2008-05-30T06:42:00.000-07:00

Luke 17: 20 -21Jesus, grilled by the Pharisees on when the kingdom of God would come, answered, "The kingdom of God doesn't come by counting the days on the calendar. Nor when someone says, 'Look here!' or, 'There it is!' And why? Because God's kingdom is already among you."

Have you every thought what Jesus meant when He said the Kingdom of God is already among you, or as some translation state "in you". This week as I have been struggling through this thing called life, I was reminded of this verse. With the problems of the world the chaos happening throughout the world, earthquakes, cyclones, tornadoes, our economy out of control, gas 4 bucks a gallon and still climbing, food prices on an increase, people left and right losing their homes. And the question I have as all of you have is why? Why are we in the place we are as a nation and as a world? I really think the answer comes from the Kingdom of God in you. In my last post I blog about the importance and the reality of Repenting. Not to sound like a broken record, but repent (“metanioa” which is the greek word for repent, that means a change of mind),
is the key to experiencing the Kingdom of God in you. It is a changing of the mind and operating the way God operates, through love, joy, peace, grace, goodness, compassion, and freedom. When you change your mind you switch over to Christ operating system. Let me speak to you about the down fall of America and how I believe we came to where we are today.

President of the United States Bill Clinton was impeached by the House of Representatives on December 19, 1998, and acquitted by the Senate on February 12, 1999. The charges, perjury and obstruction of justice, arose from the Monica Lewinsky scandal and the Paula Jones law suit. The trial proceedings were largely party-line, with no Democratic Senators voting for conviction and only five Democratic Representatives voting to impeach. In all, 50 senators voted "not guilty," and 50 voted "guilty" on the obstruction charge. The Senate also acquitted on the charge of perjury with 55 votes cast as "not guilty," and 45 votes as "guilty."

I am truly not trying to make a political statement about what happened in 1999, but I am stating as a nation because we placed a man above the law we have placed ourselves above God, because there is no one above the law but God (Hebrews 7). And why did we as a nation agree with the decision that was made? Mainly because we in our own sad state agree with the fact that if we can get away with wrong actions we will. Our only Hope is to take on the mind of Christ. Transferring what our heart thinks into our mind and not the other way around, because our mind has been programmed by this world. One of the reasons I struggle through this thing called life. When Christ becomes real in our heart there is a freeing that takes place and a life that is free to experience the Kingdom of God here and now. It is then we walk by faith and not by sight. But it all begins with a changing of the mind!

Just thoughts from a sinner on his way home.

Peace, byron

Repent!!!!!

2008-05-14T05:47:00.001-07:00

John the Baptist preached "Repent for the Kingdom of God is at hand". Jesus preached "Repent for the Kingdom of God is here". Through out the New Testament the message has been Repent, which is the Good News of the gospel. So why when you saw the opening caption of this blog you were hit with negativity in your mind. Not just you but I thought the same thing. It is because we have this idea that repent is met with the screaming, red face preacher yelling REPENT OR DIE. Especially here in the south, but the Good News from the New Testament is actually "Repent and Live" When we hear the word Repent it should be understood as a positive part of being freed from the things of this world, the only reason we see repenting as negative is because we are not willing to let go and turn from the things we think is giving us life. And as a result we continue to stay in bondage to what keeps us enslaved, the world! What would happen if you took the first step of repenting of what is keeping you enslaved, allowing God through the power of His Spirit to set you free from whatever has gotten a hold in your life and then walking toward Him and not away from Him. I believe you will find a peace that you may have not experienced before. So try this "Repent and Live" and I know you will experience that Kingdom of God now.

Just thoughts from a sinner on his way home.

peace, byron

I can resist anything except temptation!

2008-04-26T02:29:00.000-07:00

Hebrew 4: 14Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession. 15For we do not have a high priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but One who has been tempted in all things as we are, yet without sin. 16Therefore let us draw near with confidence to the throne of grace, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.

Isn't it great to know that we have a Savior that has went through this life yet He did not sin. That's because He experienced temptation and did not give into it, that we can hold fast to His faith, and not get pulled to the dark side.

So why do I find myself so enticed by the things of this world? Why can't I resist everything except temptation? Why do I find it hard to say Jesus loves me? Think about it when you get around people and you start talking about Jesus, how many times do you utter those words? "Jesus loves me! Or do we, as I often do, say "Jesus loves us" I have no trouble with saying Jesus loves all of us, but when it comes to me I find it hard to say Jesus loves me. I guess it is because I know myself so well and I know if Jesus knew me like I knew me, He wouldn't want to love me. But here is the crazy thing about that, He does! He does know me! He knows all the dark and hideous things about me and still chooses to love me. Crazy isn't it? And here is really what is crazy about that He loves you and me right now even with all of the struggles we are going through, He loves us and He does not want us to be alone. That is why He came to be our High Priest. He now sits by God and says I love you and I hear you. Let My grace wash over you and give you rest from this world. Quit trying to do it on your on. Lean on Me and not on your own understanding of this life. Jesus tells you and I to come to His throne of Grace and Mercy and find comfort and just hang out. I think that is just what I am going to do, just hang out at the feet of my High Priest and know that Jesus Loves ME!

Just thoughts from a sinner on his way home,

Peace, byron

Waiting

2008-03-31T08:35:00.000-07:00

Today I am in Tupelo Ms. my father is haveing open heart surgery. What I am finding out is that when you are not on the go and you are forced you can actually slow down and find time to do things, (if you have a computer) Waiting for me is not a strong point in my life the thing that I am learning is to take time and really relax in the greatness of God. We at Hope are going through a new series of the Bible. We are going through Hebrews and I am learning a great deal about the greatness of God and the Passion of our King and Preist. As I was stating this Sunday that Hebrews is a great message of Love,, Hope and Freesom. The Love that was expressed to all on the cross. The Hope that we have through our relationship with Jesus. And the freedom we have to over the addictions that can plauge our life. I hope that all of you have a great day and that if you are at Hope Church, you will face the challenge of spending time with God each day this week. That you will look at your walk with Jesus as a relationship and not some religious ritual you think you have to go throuh.

I Love you Guys,

Just thoughts from a sinner on his way home,

peace, byron

“Life make it Count" From our church newsletter

2008-03-13T04:33:00.000-07:00

We just met for our upcoming youth/children camp that will take place during our kid’s spring break and we came up with our theme for the camp. It’s Life: Make it Count. I think it is a great theme for our kids and for us as well. Our kids are just beginning and they have the rest of their life to make a difference. We on the other hand have been given a very important duty to live out the life we have been granted no matter how long it is. It would be a great shame to abuse, or to ignore the great gift we have been given and we have an obligation to God and to those around us to make a difference. The people we admire the most are the ones that used their life to make a difference from the ones that sacrificed it all to those that are willing to make a difference behind the scenes. The ones that are willing to make a difference behind the scenes are the ones that are willing to watch and serve children, clean up and serve, pray without being prompted, to putting the ramblings of a pastor together in newsletter form. Do not think that your service and your dedicated lives go unnoticed.

“42 And if you give even a cup of cold water to one of the least of my followers, you will surely be rewarded.” Matthew 10: 42

We are being observed as we go about our life and as we serve a great God.

1Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. 2Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, Hebrew 12: 1-2

I do know that life can throw some very unexpected curves our way and I do know where those curves come from. As you begin to dedicate your life to serving and to making your life count it will come with obstacles, but don’t lose heart, because the one that began that good work in you will complete it to the end. Just remember to stay faithful and make your life count looking forward to our rescue and completion that is very near.
Just thoughts from a sinner on his way home

peace byron

Back From Africa!

2008-02-29T12:06:00.001-08:00

My Friend JD arrived safely home from Africa this week and I had a chance to visit with him. Things are truly as bad as we see on TV. He told me that he could not believe the brutality of racism that breeds from hate and the sad part is it is hate from the same color. It is not the racism that we experience here in the states. The men of one tribe (Kikuyu) are told to abandon their wives of another tribe (Luhya). This was the situation that arose for George a pastor of the church we work with. I love this man's faith and I love his heart. He told the haters "I married a woman not a tribe!" go George! Another friend of ours (Diammus)is beginning a new work in another low impoverished area. One of the reasons for JD's visit was to help get this new work started. The person they were going to rent from was of the Kikuyu tribe and Diammus is Luhya. JD told me that the renter was requiring 6 months rent in advance for the place for the group to meet at. JD had the money ready to give the money to the man when he had a change of heart. The man opened up and let them know he was planning on taking the money for rent and go buy weapons and when they came to meet, he was going to kill them. I do know that God is still at work, but I ask that you still pray for the people of Kenya. They are talking peace now but the repercussions from what has already happened is still very much in play.

Just thoughts from a sinner on his way home,

peace, byron

My Friend!

2008-02-05T05:58:00.001-08:00

There is a a lot going on in Kenya and a lot of the things that are happening that is an uncertainty for their future. My friend JD Ballinger is headed there this month (Feb) to check on a couple of churches and orphanages we work with. The main reason he is going is because of our concern for our brothers and sisters there, and because God is leading him to go. I am asking that you lift him up in your prayers and that you continue to pray for the people of Kenya. God has called us to be salt and light to this world and to focus first on the Kingdom of God. There are many spiritual battles that are taking place all around us and we have the calling to be the change agent for God. JD is very passionate about the Kingdom work he does around the world and should be an example to us all. He is making a difference here and abroad. Ask yourself this week have I made a difference even in the community I live in? I hope the answer is "Yes"

Just thoughts from a sinner on his way home,

Peace, byron

Information from Kenya, Please pray!

2008-02-04T05:50:00.000-08:00

This is a letter from my mentor (Bob Roberts) blog site. It comes from a pastor that is in the middle of what is going on in Kenya. As you read this you will get a greater understand of the violence that is taking place in Kenya and why.

For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places.

As you read this letter please pray for our brothers and sisters to be strong in the spiritual battle they are facing!

“Hi. I had promised to write and let you know how you can help us in these difficult days. On Thursday last week, a number of pastor’s met asking – “What more can the men & women of God do in our present crisis? What more can the church do? After much discussion they agreed to do 5 important things within the next 1 – 3 month.

1. Mobilize the church to spiritually cleanse this nation. Before the election several politicians engaged the help of a well-known witchdoctor from Tanzania, to come and pray over the towns and provinces they were claiming victory over. The witchcraft was conducted in Kisumu, Eldoret, Nairobi and Mombasa – the very epi-centers of the violence we have experienced. What demonic influence did that act unleash upon this nation? How do we close the floodgate or portal that he opened up? And what of the floodgates that have been opened out by the bloodletting, the killing and the burning of churches?

Our politicians will broker for peace; the business community to restart business, but only the church can cleanse this nation spiritually. If we do not do so – people will turn back to the old ways, charms and witchcraft for spiritual protection against the evil that has been unleashed.

In preparation for the spiritual cleansing, Christians will be called to a concerted, unified time of fasting and prayer.

2. Mobilize churches to take in Internally Displaced People. Nakuru is full, and cholera is a real risk. Tigoni got 7,000 new IDP’s last week because of new threats to certain tribes. It is the same all around the country. We need to open up our church doors, and allow these houses of God to be ‘shelters’ in this hour of need. Let people associate the Church with mercy and help. If we play safe with our buildings, or do not want the inconvenience – God may well declare ‘Icabod’.

But what if a church is not an ideal set-up for IDP? Compared with where they are staying right now, almost all our churches are much better places. Karura Community Church shared their story. They are in a tent, with prefab Sunday School buildings, but they still took in 250 people. God has blessed them in amazing ways as a result.
1. A borehole has now been installed for them since they did not have enough water for the IDP’s.
2. Someone has erected a fence around their property to help define the grounds for the IDP’s.
3. They are not well known in Runda and had intended to reach out to the community and increase their visiobility this year; but because they took in the IDP’s, the Runda Welfare Association wrote to all the homes in Runda asking them to visit Karura and help the IDP’s. In one fell stroke they are now known in all the homes in Runda in very positive light.
4. The rural villages along Limuru/Banana road used to say Karura is for ‘rich folks’. But because they took in the IDP’s, many residents in the area have reviewed their perception of the church, and have been visiting to help.
5. KP&L also installed a 3-phase electrical connection to help them have more power.

We can all try and do more for the internally displaced people. Many do not even want to “stay” in a camp, they just want help to go home squared. Many others are pleading for a little help and capital to rent a room for 3 months, and to restart up their business ventures asap. What can each church do?

3. Use the Media to speak a message of hope to the nation. There are far too many negative stories in the paper, and not enough stories of Christians helping others; stories of grace, etc. We will use the media (even if it means purchasing space) to tell positive stories, give pastoral letters, mobilize the churches to act as one, etc. We shall also work to have a voice in the local community FM stations, especially in the rural areas.

4. Mobilize the church to Community Networking. one church told how, when pamphlets started going around threatening people of a certain community, how it had called together all the church leaders in the community and agreed they would not allow the community to be ruled by fear. So the leaders went out into the community and started encouraging people on the streets, meeting places, etc to reject division, embrace tolerance, and actively reach out to one another . . . and it worked. They then teamed up with the DO, Chief, etc and have instituted a community program to make people positively aware on what their community will stand for. We can network other churches and interested parties for peace.

5. Mobilize the church for a Caravan of Hope. The pastor’s agreed to mobilize 200 – 500 pastors from all over Kenya to conduct a Caravan of hope march from Mombasa to Nairobi to Nakuru to Eldoret to Kisumu, visiting all the hot-spots, conducting cleansing services, counseling the traumatized, bringing food and supplies and hope to the displaced, comforting the bereaved, healing the sick.

Because this is a statement by the church, on a national scale, hopefully ministering to the whole nation, the desire will be to mobilize as many pastors as possible, to dress in collars, and to minister together as a sign of unity, doing that which only the church can do. 500 ministers together would speak to this nation.

The caravan will take a week from Mombasa to Kisumu. This is not a physical march, but a caravan of vehicles. The caravan will mobilize the local pastors of these places, and as the church of Kenya, commission them to go after the cleansing, and cleanse other areas in their province, hence covering a much wider area.

We are also suggesting that the “Caravan of Hope” mobilize funds and rebuild the AOG church that was burnt down in the Rift Valley, plus build a memorial for the many who died there as they sought shelter in the house of God.

Secretariat - To make all this possible, it was suggested that a secretariat be set up with the sole purpose of mobilizing the church and planning logistics. The secretariat will be led by those pastors who are willingly give up their usual church work and focus on this single task alone (because they cannot ably fulfill their church responsibilities AND ALSO run the secretariat, without burning out).

The purpose of the secretariat will not be to highlight any particular church or denomination, but to mobilize the goodwill and participation of as many churches and ministers as possible, so we can act together as the church in Kenya. Once this work is done, the secretariat will disband. Work will begin immediately with those already available.

I will serve as a point person at the secretariat as my co-pastors have graciously freed me to mobilize others. Already 30 members of Chapel have also volunteered to serve full-time at the secretariat. Several computers and office equipment/desks have also been donated. We are presently looking for offices to set up this week.

Can I plead with you to be help us with this effort? Our biggest need will be funds to mobilize the whole church, and funds to care for and feed the displaced people we take in or minister to. We also need you to pray – mobilizing the church without falling into the battle of disunity & personal agenda’s will take the Lord . . . but we must try, and we must believe that the church of Christ can rise above that for the sake of the nation. Pls help if you can.

Sincerely,

Pastor Oscar Muriu

When your race is finished!

2008-02-01T06:22:00.001-08:00

My mother called me last night to let me know a family friend had finished his race. She said that while he laid in the hospital bed that he told his wife that he was seeing a beautiful light pointing toward the wall. She looked that way and said "I don't see any light." He said it is right there, point toward the wall, "It is the same light I saw 13 years ago" he said, that is when he trusted Christ. He then started singing Amazing Grace, and for the next few hours he continued singing Amazing Grace till he slipped from this life to the next. Each nurse that came in to check on him asked "Is he singing Amazing Grace?" A testimony as he passed away.

This morning while Cindy and I was getting ready and talking we looked at a blog that Dorothy Newman had sent us (http://www.cold-water-news.blogspot.com/). A close friend of hers daughter had finished her race last week at the age of 28. She was a strong Christan lady with a husband that has the character and attitude that can only come from a close and intimate walk with Jesus. Reading and hearing the words he spoke at her funeral reveals his close walk with God. As my friend that passed away their words, weather sung or spoken, are a true testimony to us all. This life is only temporary, but what is to come is eternal.

This has got me to really thinking about my own race and really having a strong desire to finish my race well. And the only way I can finish well is to be the example of the love that God demonstrated on the cross, agape love! Thinking of others more then I do myself, letting Jesus love those that are around me through me. Loving the unlovely! Opening my life up in such a way that when the voice of God is spoken to me, I act immediately. I don't know if you have given this much thought, but as I walk through this life I see sooooooo many people that are living for this time and moment and I think they are really missing what is most important, "Life" Because their so wrapped up in this life they are missing true life.

My prayer this morning as I begin my day is God share your Love to someone through me today. God make Hope Community Church the church that always reaches out to the unlovely and to the down and out and keeps loving people our main focus. God walk with me so that I may truly experience life!
That is my prayer for you as well!

Just thoughts from a sinner on his way home,

peace, byron

Where am I and who are these people?

2008-01-26T04:43:00.000-08:00

This morning I woke up when the alarm went off, and laid in bed for 5 minutes trying to think of why the alarm went off, what day is it, and who's house am I in? Then to top it off, who am I? Sounds crazy right, but I bet if you were honest you've had mornings like too. I knew there was something that I was suppose to do, but because my week has been so busy it all seems to run together. Then I remembered today is Angel Food day at our church and a day to help a brother in need move, also a day to complete the sermon for Sunday. Then I became stressed with the thought of how I might get all this done. Isn't it amazing how much stress we put ourselves under. We think that we are able to go wide open and do all the things we use to do when we were in our early 20s'. My son Cody came home Thursday night and shared with me and Cindy that his boss collapsed at work. He works at a new grocery store and I have commented many times that the three guys that opened that store along with their other three stores are pushing themselves to the breaking point. Something we all do and don't even realize it. About three years ago I did a sermon series on the stress within us and how dangerous it can be. I referred to statistics that even back this up that our work is the major killer in America, causing a great deal of stress. Our life is like a rubber band and we are about ready to break. We all need to take time to slow down and take some down time and just watch a sunset, or go to a park and take a walk in God's creation. I guess what I am saying is don't let life take you out of the game. Take time to refresh so that you can be your best for God. I know I am!

Just thoughts from a sinner, on his way home.

peace byron

Post from my mentor.

2008-01-15T06:17:00.001-08:00

Hey Guys, I wanted to post a post from my mentor from Texas. He is in Jerusalem right now and he gives some very encouraging words of what is taking place there; and some very challenging words for us to reach the world with the Love of Jesus Christ. I love and am challenged by his closing statement especially during a political year.

Evangelical American Pastors - Meet Evangelical Palestinian Pastors!

posted January 10, 2008 by Bob Roberts Jr.

Yes, they really exist! I wanted to post a picture, but didn’t want to make their life anymore difficult than it is, already. They love God, they are evangelical, they were born in different parts of Israel and the West Bank, their families have been there for centuries and millenias and they are the most effective representation and the best hope of Jesus Christ in that part of the world today. My meetings with them were beyond incredible. They have suffered rejection, abandonment, and isolation for one simple reason–they were born Palestinians. One leading evangelical who met with them a couple of years back was happy they were Christians but at the conclusion of the meeting told them they needed to move to Jordan or somewhere else. How absurd and utterly ignorant of the Great Commission and God’s call for all peoples.

One of the pastors told me, “We are the only nationality in the history of Christianity where other Christians have told us we should leave and are the obstacle to the fulfillment of the Great Commission. Instead, they would rather work with non-believers who have rejected Christ who are not involved in the Great Commission instead of working with us.”

There are some Muslims that have made life difficult for them and there are some Israeli’s that have made life difficult for them. But, the greatest rejection, and most painful of all, has been that of their Christian brothers from the church in the West. It’s not just rejection though, it’s oblivion. Most, in the West, do not realize that there is a growing and emerging church in the West Bank, despite all the thousands of Palestinian Christians that have come West. There are about 3,000 Christians that live in Gaza. Many of them could leave and live here, but they feel called to stay to be witnesses to Christ. Their life is very difficult, but if they leave who will share the light and love of Jesus? I met 8 pastors in Bethlehem. I was impressed with every single one of them. They are educated, effective, and passionate. They are closer to the culture than anyone else. Does Jesus love Palestinians and Jews? Does He want there to be a light and witness whether men accept Him or reject Him? Were there conditions to who could fulfill the Great Commission or was it really the call of all believers?

In Nazareth, I visited with one Palestinian Christian leader who feels God has called the Palestinian Christians to fulfill the Great Commission in the whole of the Middle-East. He told me, who is better situated, connected, and able to speak the Good News of Christ than they are. He’s not just mouthing. He has actions to back up his talk–and more to come. Wouldn’t it be just like God to use the “least” of the Palestinian Christians to bring peace to the Holy Land with the Messianic Jews!!!!!!!! WOW, these are all the sons of Abraham! Wouldn’t it be just like Jesus to heal a rift and use the least likely to see the transformation of a nation and part of the world?

These are courageous men of vision who are giving their entire lives that make all our little “missional” discussions look little and goofy. One of the most exciting things of all I saw was a Palestinian pastor speaking at a Messianic congregation. The two pastors embraced and have become very close friends. They don’t agree on everything–BUT, they do agree that they are brothers in Christ and must respect each other–enough that they share pulpits and work together. I’m convinced the greatest hope for Peace in Jerusalem and Israel and the West Bank is going to come from Christians who live there, who are reconciled to each other and are providing an example and model of how they live together. If Christian brothers from both sides are willing to work together there why shouldn’t we?

Bethlehem Bible College also blew me away. I saw the future church of the Holy Land and the Middle East and was excited. These young men and women love God, are filled with passion, and are smart and gifted. Of all the church planters and young leaders I know in the US, they stand head-to-head and shoulder-to-shoulder to the very best here in the West–if not even taller! The reason is, not only are they smart and gifted, but they choose to stay and live in difficult circumstances which has a massive impact on character and maturity. This is why Jesus says the first will be last and the last first. Their names will not be as well known as some here in the West, but the sacrifice and effectiveness goes beyond anything we know here. You can legally start churches in the Palestinian territories, which has been done, and many of these are being trained to do just that. They also get engagement, whether it’s reconciliation exercises they are involved in, or serving the poor–you name it. Here in the US, I’m always told, “when our church gets bigger and we have more money then we’ll start churches and start engaging.” I’m glad they don’t talk that way or believe that–they wouldn’t be doing all the things they’re doing now. BTW one of the churches has sent a “missionary” to America!!!!!! He happened to be “home” the Sunday I spoke at one of the churches and he was there.

I always talk about lessons from the church in the East–this is where we, in the West, have it really wrong–our failure to recognize and connect deeply with believers in the West Bank. We’re still trying to drive foreign policy through speculative theology. I don’t know how Jesus will return; I do know He’s called all of us to share the good news of who He is and to serve others. I don’t know when He will return; I do know what He’s called all of us to do until He comes. We have traded the Great Commission for the sake of an eschatological foreign policy. Jesus told Peter to put down his sword–He put the ear back on the soldier. He is about an eternal kingdom. He will come at the behest of the father, not the contrivings of religious power brokers trying to play global politics.

We must support Israel. They are a nation of people that will be represented in eternity for whom Christ died. But we must also support the Palestinians, a nation of people that will be represented in eternity for whom Christ died. Anything less is a rejection of what God has called all believers to do. They want reconciliation–shouldn’t we? Does the Kingdom of God flourish and transform the world by love and reconciliation, or by hatred and power politics? Easy answer–look at the cross . . .

Part 2 - Palestinian & Messianic & American Evangelicals

posted January 14, 2008 by Bob Roberts Jr.

Can the seed of the Gospel of the Kingdom of God work in Jerusalem? It must. If it can’t work there it can’t work anywhere. E. Stanley Jones wrote that the reason the Gospel of the Kingdom spread like it did was because it started in Jerusalem. Had it started in Galilee it may have only been viewed as a cult or another would be messiah, but the fact that it took root in Jerusalem–the hardest place for it to take root–meant that it could and would work anywhere. If the Gospel only works in the easy places, then how strong is the Gospel. But if the Gospel is the Gospel, then difficulty is no issue.

Where in the world is there anymore conflict? Where would more glory to God be brought than if Jesus were to be the determining factor of peace in Israel? In terms of war, conflict, destabilization, there is no place on the face of the earth more important than Jerusalem and Israel. If you solve that problem, you solve much of the problems of the Middle-East. I know, many middle-eastern nations use that just as an excuse. Well, let’s take that excuse off the table.

Jesus was about reconciliation–not war. Not saying there are not just wars. I am saying when I read or hear leading “evangelical” TV personalities, pastors, and evangelist and others calling for unilateral strikes on nations “in the name of God,” I shake my head. I have a hard time picturing Jesus sitting behind the control panel of a missile launching site! Our first response must be reconciliation. Isn’t this what we’ve been called to do?

I was visiting with a Congressman and he was in a prayer meeting of believers in government praying for the peace process, and one intercessor literally began to pray against it! How can that be? What Christian religious insanity would pray against peace. That goes against everything Christ taught and practiced.

2Cor. 5:18 Now all these things are from God who reconciled us to Himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation, 19 namely, that God was in Christ reconciling the world to Himself, not counting their trespasses against them, and He has committed to us the word of reconciliation. 20Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were making an appeal through us; we beg you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God.

Another question. Are we one body or two? Read this passage–look:
1. It’s always been about Faith–OT and NT
2. Sons of Abraham of those who put their faith in God regardless of race.
3. Abraham was a promise to all nations, not just one.
4. Jew and Greek, Male and Female, all the same now.
5. We are all heirs of Abraham!

Gal. 3:6 Even so Abraham BELIEVED GOD, AND IT WAS RECKONED TO HIM AS RIGHTEOUSNESS. 7 Therefore, be sure that it is those who are of faith who are sons of Abraham. 8 The Scripture, foreseeing that God would justify the Gentiles by faith, preached the gospel beforehand to Abraham, saying, “ALL THE NATIONS WILL BE BLESSED IN YOU.” 9 So then those who are of faith are blessed with Abraham, the believer. 10 For as many as are of the works of the Law are under a curse; for it is written, “CURSED IS EVERYONE WHO DOES NOT ABIDE BY ALL THINGS WRITTEN IN THE BOOK OF THE LAW, TO PERFORM THEM.” 11 Now that no one is justified by the Law before God is evident; for, “THE RIGHTEOUS MAN SHALL LIVE BY FAITH.” 12 However, the Law is not of faith; on the contrary, “HE WHO PRACTICES THEM SHALL LIVE BY THEM.” 13 Christ redeemed us from the curse of the Law, having become a curse for us—for it is written, “CURSED IS EVERYONE WHO HANGS ON A TREE”— 14 in order that in Christ Jesus the blessing of Abraham might come to the Gentiles, so that we would receive the promise of the Spirit through faith.15 Brethren, I speak in terms of human relations: even though it is only a man’s covenant, yet when it has been ratified, no one sets it aside or adds conditions to it. 16 Now the promises were spoken to Abraham and to his seed. He does not say, “And to seeds,” as referring to many, but rather to one, “And to your seed,” that is, Christ. 17 What I am saying is this: the Law, which came four hundred and thirty years later, does not invalidate a covenant previously ratified by God, so as to nullify the promise. 18 For if the inheritance is based on law, it is no longer based on a promise; but God has granted it to Abraham by means of a promise. 19 Why the Law then? It was added because of transgressions, having been ordained through angels by the agency of a mediator, until the seed would come to whom the promise had been made.20 Now a mediator is not for one party only; whereas God is only one. 21 Is the Law then contrary to the promises of God? May it never be! For if a law had been given which was able to impart life, then righteousness would indeed have been based on law. 22 But the Scripture has shut up everyone under sin, so that the promise by faith in Jesus Christ might be given to those who believe. 23 But before faith came, we were kept in custody under the law, being shut up to the faith which was later to be revealed. 24 Therefore the Law has become our tutor to lead us to Christ, so that we may be justified by faith. 25 But now that faith has come, we are no longer under a tutor. 26 For you are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus. 27 For all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ. 28 There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free man, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus. 29 And if you belong to Christ, then you are Abraham’s descendants, heirs according to promise.

Paul wrote the church at Galatia because it tried to go back to the past, and he said no–the Kingdom of God is more than a physical place, the temple is now in our hearts. Jesus didn’t do away with the Old Testament or law, he merely fulfilled it.

When I was in the old city–Jerusalem, I bought a ceramic tile that is framed. it’s an Armenian Christian’s rendering of the old city and Bethlehem divided by a wall and written on the wall is Eph. 2:14 “For He Himself is our peace, who made both groups into one and broke down the barrier of the dividing wall. . . ”

Neither suicide bombers or 30 foot tall walls turning communities into virtual prisons and ghettos will solve the problem–only make it worse. SO HOW CAN WE AS BELIEVERS BE A PART OF THE RECONCILIATION PROCESS . . . I HAVE SOME IDEAS - I’LL TELL YOU MINE IN MY NEXT BLOG - TELL ME YOURS TODAY!!!!!

New Birth!

2008-01-06T04:03:00.000-08:00

One of my best friends is launching a new church today. I am so excited as if I am launching a new church. Cindy and I and some of the people from Hope are going down to Amory Mississippi to be with this great day for Life Pointe Church. Rob Westbrook is the planting pastor and he is also a world missionary, and a great friend. He and I grew each other in the faith, working together at tire factory we challenged and keep each other accountable for what God wanted to do with our lives. Rob and I even left Cooper Tire at the same time to pursue Seminary. He is New Orleans and I in Fort Worth Texas. Robs Blog is part of my favorites, check out what they are doing when you get the chance. Please keep this new church in your prayers as they advance the Kingdom of God in Amory Mississippi and also in the World. Life Pointe I love you Guys and I am praying for the great work God is going to do through all of you.

Just thoughts from a sinner on his way home,

Peace, byron

New Year!

2007-12-27T20:17:00.000-08:00

We'll now that we are on the thresholds of a new year, it is time for all the positive new year resolutions to make. I wonder how many of us really make it past the first month with our resolutions? Unless you make the resolution not to make a resolution this year and then you are guaranteed not to fail. I was thinking about making that resolution this year, but then I remembered I made that one last year. But now to be serious, I am not making a resolution this year, but a commitment to our Heavenly Father, to serve Him and make His Son known locally and throughout our world. That will be done through my life and the life of Hope as we set our goals for the year and then we trust His Holy Spirit to live through His church. I have already began writing down a few things I am feeling lead to see accomplished. I will let the church know first as we fast and pray for Gods' direction. And then I will pen them on the blog. I am just so happy to be apart of a group of people that make up Hope that are willing to do what ever for the Kingdom of God. Hope Community Church I Love you Guys!

Just thoughts from a sinner on his way home,

Peace, byron

Great Sunday!

2007-12-02T20:30:00.000-08:00

Sometimes things just seem to fall into place. Like the nascar race where your favorite driver wins the whole thing, or the football game where your team does no wrong; or even the shopping trip where all is required is for you to sit on a bench and wait for everyone else. That is the way this Sunday was. We just started a new series in Timothy and we at Hope are developing the kind of Leadership that God wants us to be. He is appointing the right people for the task, but only through an understanding of His Word and through a time of Prayer and Fasting. But this Sunday was awesome. The music was great and very spiritually moving and the message was challenging even to the preacher. I guess the biggest thing was people was listening and seeking what God would do with there life. If anything I hope it was challenging to all that heard. The primary response of the follower of Jesus Christ is to point their life toward Him. And that is really what this season is all about, it is about a child in a manger that came to this world to save mankind, period. Anything we add to it is just worldly. Remember Jesus never said remember my birth, but He did say remember my death and resurrection. That is what I will focus on this month!

Just thoughts from a sinner on his way home,

peace byron

You can Smell it in the Air!

2007-11-19T07:38:00.000-08:00

There is something different in the air, maybe it is the crowed shopping centers and the constant ringing in my head, or maybe it is the houses are lighting up with the colors of green and red, it could be all the sales papers coming to your house and the sales news papers that comes to you with the same amount of words that are found in the novel “War and Peace”, but it does feel like a holiday is fast approaching. Were now moving to the Christmas season at a break neck speed, so hang on because the ride of your life is about to get faster as if it were not fast enough.

That is the way I feel when it comes to Christmas, that we are living life Fast Forward. The tree has to be up and decorated, the decorations have to be hung; the Christmas cards that have to be sent out. The gifts have to be bought, all the Christmas parties that must be attended, and not to mention all the families that have to be visited or else someone’s feelings can get hurt. I am getting stressed just writing this stuff down. Why? Because I haven’t done the first thing on this list and I only have 36 days left. Here is my advice to all of us, lets just give up. I mean really why do we put so much stress into our life with meaningless stuff. The world will not end if we don’t fulfill something on this list and if the world does end praise God, we’ll have Jesus birthday celebration with Him in person. So here is what you and I should do this Christmas season, do what you want to do and what you enjoy. If you enjoy going shopping, go! If not, don’t go. If you really like to put lights all over your house then go crazy! If you don’t want to visit a certain family member then don’t go, but write or call them later and thank them for the Christmas gift of not getting upset and holding your absents over your head. The bottom line is this, Christmas should not be what we have made it to be. Christmas should be a time of ENJOYMENT and CELEBRATION of the birth of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Not the whole commercialized version we live out year after year. So this season when you are feeling the pressures from someone about not celebrating Christmas their way, reminded them what this season is all about, a baby in a manger that came to give His life for you and me.

Just thoughts from a sinner on his way home.

byron

TRUST in God!

2007-10-25T06:59:00.001-07:00

Just got a call from a good friend, brother in Christ, and Ugandan Mission worker (A. H.). He is a very modest man, so I am going to keep his name confidential; but you that go to Uganda with us know who I am talking about. He called asking about some info on cost of well digging wells in Africa and then he shared some faith news with me. What is faith news, it is when you trust God for something and truly trust Him, by following Him in faith, which leads to action and some really cool things happen. Here is what happened for him. He just got back from a mission trip in Africa and when he left, he didn't have the money for the trip. He called me one day very concerned about this, I told him if God wanted him to go, God would provide just TRUST God! Sooooooooo as Paul Harvey says, here is the rest of the story: He wrote a check out of his account, (A large amount) for the trip and went trusting God for what He needed. They had a great trip, did some great work for the people there and in served the Great Commission and came home ready to face the reality of life in the states, that would be bills for those not knowing what I mean when I say reality. He told me this morning, he is not sure when it happened, but while on the trip there was a large deposit made in his account for three times what he wrote out of his account. Is that just not like our God? My friend is truly proof of what I have been screaming. God is more concerned with what happens in us, more than what happens outside of us. He is more about a life change in trusting Him for EVERYTHING and LEANING on Him for everything than he is about what we do, or where we go. When we get right internally, (Following Christ with our whole life) then the externally stuff happens, (Going to Africa, visiting people that are hurting, helping those in need, praying with those that are lost and can't find their way) that kind of stuff. So lets keep our hearts open and allow God to work in us internally so that we can attempt the impossible for a possible God!

Just thoughts from a sinner on his way home,
peace, byron

Scared and in the Dark!

2007-10-11T05:22:00.000-07:00

Through the last month and a half, it has been a blur. There has been many things happening with Hope Community Church. We have move into our 5th building, we completed a 40 day fast and prayer together, there is much excitement in the air, and part of our mission team is in Africa right now. It always amazes me, but it shouldn't, that when we as God's people get on our face before Him, He will do amazing things; all He ask is that we just trust Him.

It is amazing that God only ask us to trust Him, especially when times seem dark, that should be the times we trust Him even more. If we could just understand He only has our best interest in His heart for us. When I was young I use to walk in my sleep, I would even have conversation with people in the house, freaky isn't it. One night I woke up to find myself in the dark and not knowing where I was. The embarrassing part was I was in my room and I was lost and couldn't find my way out, (Lets not tell anyone about this, OK). I called out in a panic and my mother came in my room and found me on top of the dresser, don't ask, but I was on top of my dresser. She did the amazing thing that I could not do, she found the light and turned it on. Right now some of you feel that you are in complete darkness and you can't find your way out. You feel in darkness and you are not able to turn the light on, now would be a good time to cry out to Dad, and let Him turn the light on in your life. How? Just pray! Ask the Father and then TRUST Him.

Just thoughts from a sinner on his way home,

peace, byron

An American Hero!

2007-09-28T11:24:00.001-07:00

My Brother is headed of to Iraq today or tomorrow. He is a Follower of Jesus Christ, a Husband, a Father, a Youth minister, and a Solider for you and me. He has set his life on hold for the next year to go and serve us in a distant land that cares nothing for him or his faith. I really don't get into the whole argument that seems to have taken the country by storm, of weather we should be there or not, I just know my brother is going there to do his duty, and I will do mine. I will pray for him daily, I will communicate with him as often as possible, and I will help his family that is here while he is gone. I went to see him off Wed. in Camp Shelby in south Mississippi and I told him; he is a follower of Jesus Christ going to do a Mission for God and the Government is paying for the whole thing. While he is there he will be ministering to the young people that are under his command and he will be the Salt and Light that Jesus has called him to be. He will be a Solider for Jesus Christ first serving God then the USA. If you get a chance will you lift up my brother in your prayers and for for his family too. thanks
He also reads this blog, so you can leave him a word in the comments if you want.

"Go Get em big brother"

Thoughts from a sinner on his way home,

peace, byron

Video

2007-09-20T08:15:00.000-07:00

watch the whole thing...you will be sooooo glad you did.

http://www.godtube.com/view_video.php?viewkey=ee73e63418003b47d7d5

Thoughts from a sinner on his way home,

peace byron

The Cat.

2007-08-24T06:00:00.000-07:00

I am like any other red blooded American I don't like cats. I mean I can tolerate them as long as they are not on my car, which they usually are. Cats are a nuisance., because all they think about is themselves. While I was in Fort Worth Texas finishing my internship and my seminary degree, I heard a man compare cats and dogs to people in the church and he was so right on the money. His name is Bob Sjogren and he talked about how some people that are in the church think only of themselves, they think that the church's only focus should be for them. Like a cat.

I think this is where we get this church shopping mentality. Cats are always looking for churches that will treat them as they are what matters. Cats are looking at how I can get mine, instead of being like the dog and saying how can I serve the master. Cats say to the Master, you love me , you feed me, you pet me, you take care of me, I must be god. But the dog looks at the Master and says, you love me , you feed me, you pet me, you take care of me, You must be God. It all has to do with our loyalty. Is our focus Jesus Christ and looking at Him as the most important part of my life. Trying to live a life that brings a smile to His face. Or, is it about making me happy no matter what, am I the most important and everyone and everything else takes a back sit to me. True to the pic a lot of cats are drinking out of the toilet and only thinking of themselves. So the question to ask yourself today, "Am I a cat, or am I a dog?"

Just thoughts from a sinner on his way home,

peace, byron

Why do we keep drinking out of the toilet?

2007-08-17T03:31:00.000-07:00

I try to live my life by questions, I have found that works very well for me. What I mean, as I go through life I allow questions to shape and direct my character. Questions directed by God through prayer! This is the question that has been coming to my mind this week. Why do we keep drinking from the toilet? This week as I was looking at the words of Jesus and especially the words He spoke to the woman at the well, something struck me.

¹⁰Jesus answered her, "If you knew the gift of God and who it is that asks you for a drink, you would have asked him and he would have given you living water. ¹¹"Sir," the woman said, "you have nothing to draw with and the well is deep. Where can you get this living water? ¹²Are you greater than our father Jacob, who gave us the well and drank from it himself, as did also his sons and his flocks and herds?" ¹³Jesus answered, "Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again, ¹⁴but whoever drinks the water I give him will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life." ¹⁵The woman said to him, "Sir, give me this water so that I won't get thirsty and have to keep coming here to draw water." (John 4: 10-15)

Jesus offered to this woman "Living Water" the same living water that is available to you and I. He desires for you and I to have this living water welling up inside of us, quenching a thirst for true life within. Jesus longs for and desires for us to walk in His counsel and not according to this worlds counsel. So, here again is the question; "Why do we keep going back and drinking from the toilet? Think about it every time we allow this world to dictate our actions and our views concerning our happiness we are going back to the toilet to drink. When ever we allow the old life to reappear trying to satisfy the thirst for life within after we have drunk the “Living Water” of Jesus Christ we are in fact going back to the toilet to drink only what He can give. So, here is my suggestion lets stop drinking out of the toilet and lets fill the thirst of life we have with a total focus on Jesus.

Next blog, why the cat in the toilet.

Just thoughts from a sinner on his way home,

Peace, byron

pic by:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/alexiperplexy/24584399/

Fasting and Praying.

2007-08-09T08:03:00.000-07:00

We are going to begin a 40 days of prayer and fasting for our area and chruch and we asked that all that read this blog would be in prayer for Hope. We are moving into a new phase of what to do with the land we have and in establishing and appointing our leaders (Elders) at Hope. Also, we seek to demolish the strong holds we know the evil one has on brothers and sisters as well as the city we serve. I will try to make time to record on this blog the great victories that I know our Father will break in our area from the evil one. If you feel God is placing on your heart to pray with Hope please join us. More info and dates to come.

Just thoughts from a sinner on his way home.

peace, byron

The Pursuit of Happiness!

2007-07-06T13:22:00.000-07:00

The pursuit of happiness can take individuals in many different directions, but the end desire is happiness. Two Sundays ago we had a great service. Why?, because the unexpected happen. The message was on Lordship and at the end of the service, with only a hand full of people there, people began opening up. They began to share how God had delivered them from addictive behavior that they thought was bringing them happiness, but was bringing them enslavement. This week I quoted from Blaise Pascal a fourteenth century French Philosopher:

All men seek happiness. This is without exception.Whatever different means they employ, they all tend to this end. The cause of some going to war, and others avoiding it, is the desire in both, attended with different views. The will never takes the least step but to this object. This is the motive of every action of everyman, even of those who hang themselves.

After reading this questions that I have heard keep ringing in my ear: Why do I find myself enslaved to this addiction. Why is the happiness that I am trying to find only brings to me confusion and despair. Why do some people, especially teenagers take their own life in a quest for release of this life. Some ask why do I do the things I do? The apostle Paul asked the same question, and the answer he received is the same answer we get. Who will save me from this wretched man that I am, Thanks be to Jesus who delivers me. (Romans 7:14-25)

I don't know what you are facing right now, I don't even know if there may be some addictive behavior that you are facing right now, I don't even know if there are people reading this blog, but I do know the one that can give you happiness. It is Heaven, and heaven is not a place, He is a Person and His name is Jesus. Quit trying to find happiness in stuff, or in the things that are really addictions that have enslaved you and trust Jesus for your happiness.

Just thoughts from a sinner on his way home,

peace, byron

Photo by Flickr: http://www.flickr.com/photos/supernaturalwarfare/with/481949902/

The Journey!

2007-06-25T19:13:00.000-07:00

Our life is a journey and the only way we can make it on this journey is to have a very close companion. This Sunday I was leading our church through Colossians 1:24-29 and the main focus was "Christ in you- our Hope and Glory."

Stuart Briscoe, author of What Works When Life Doesn't says once he went through four stages in coming to this understanding of the Christian life. When he first became a Christian he said, “Oh, this is easy! All I have to do is to repent and ask Jesus to come into my heart–no problem.” But then, as he began to learn what Jesus expected of him his second stage was, “Wow, this is difficult!” He found it wasn’t as easy as he first thought. Stage three was when he admitted, “This is impossible!” But after that confession, he discovered the secret of Christ in you–the hope of glory and stage four is, “This is exciting!” What stage are you in now?

I don't know what stage you are at right now, but I do know when you come to the point of giving it all to God, and I mean every thing, you experience the freedom of God being in control and not you. The journey of a Christian is never walked alone, but with a close companion. And to me that is the journey that I love to be on. Does that mean that there are no ups and downs, hardly, but when I face those ups and especially the downs, I don't face them alone. I face them with Christ in me, my Hope and Glory.

just thought's of a sinner on his journey,

peace, byron

Can we really be One?

2007-06-04T03:54:00.001-07:00

The goal is for all of them to become one heart and mind—
Just as you, Father, are in me and I in you,
So they might be one heart and mind with us. The same glory you gave me, I gave them,
So they’ll be as unified and together as we are—
I in them and you in me.

Jesus

The word's of Jesus got me thinking, if He and the Father are one, then why is the Body of Christ so separate? Just think about it, there are many buildings (tools), that many like to call church, that are sitting empty 5 days a week. If we are all working for the same goal, which is the advancement of the Kingdom of God, then why so much division? Here is a question I would like some help answering, do you think two or three local congregations could use one building? They don't have to meet at the same time, but they can be working for the same goal. If anyone has feed back on this I would love to hear it, I have found NOTHING on the internet or from any other source about this.

Just some thoughts from a sinner on his journey home.

peace, byron

I want to turn the world upside down!

2007-05-30T19:13:00.000-07:00

Wouldn't it be nice if there was an Easy Button for life? I mean wouldn't it be nice if we ask, "Ok God what do you want me to do with my life?" and then we just pushed the Easy Button and poof we have our answer. I have been looking for one of those Easy Buttons for a long time and I have yet to find one. What I have found is that the longer I live , the more questions I have.

I have just finished a short little book titled, "God's Will" by John MacArthur. The book is only 61 pages but has some powerful statements in it. I love how he closes the book out with, to do God's Will just do what ever you want to do, but make sure you have the first 6 principles in order first. You will have to get the book for the first 6 principles, but I bet you can guess what they are. Well I have come to what I really want to do and it is still what I wanted to do when I graduated from seminary. I want to turn the world upside down! But how does that look? How do I keep from burning myself and my family out on this quest? How can I impact the world without the right resources, without the monetary needs that are needed. How can the future of what is needed be met through a small band of people? Where is the easy button when you need it? (I said I had a lot of questions.)

I found and I realize the easy button was within me all along. The power of God is within, not from an outside source. The answers are within me, through the power of the Holy Spirit that lives in me. You see our problem is we try to answer problems based on what our human weakness desires, not on what or where the Holy Spirit leads. By the way this is one of the reasons we find ourself addicted to many harmful things. Look at the life of Peter, when was he the strongest? When he was closest to the Master, Jesus. Depending on the strength of God and not on his own strength. And when Jesus ascended to heaven it was the Power of the Holy Spirit that led him to speak boldly about the things of God. (Acts 1:8) It was not the great wisdom of Peter, but the willingness to allow his life to be surrendered to the power from within. So here is the hard question once again, How can the world be turned upside down? By submitting to the power within. I know the rest of the details will come later, but for now all I can do is give Him my life minute by minute, day by day. Thanks for the ear, or eye.

Thoughts from a sinner, on his journey home.

Peace, byron

What to wear, what to wear?

2007-05-22T04:19:00.001-07:00

Colossians 3:12-14 (MSG)
¹²So, chosen by God for this new life of love, dress in the wardrobe God picked out for you: compassion, kindness, humility, quiet strength, discipline.
¹³Be even-tempered, content with second place, quick to forgive an offense. Forgive as quickly and completely as the Master forgave you.
¹⁴And regardless of what else you put on, wear love. It's your basic, all-purpose garment. Never be without it.

My reading this morning was from Colossians. This was my thought from what I read.

Don’t let your life be directed by your desires, but by your passion to seek after God with your whole life.

Last month was my birthday, and yes I do feel older. Along with the cards and the many happy birthdays I received, I also received some new clothes from my wife. I am not a shopper, and don’t ever plan on being a shopper. My wife on the other hand loves to shop. So if I am to get new clothes to wear they will come from her picking them out and I am fine with that. But, one thing I have come to realize is that if I do not choose my clothes, then I should be thankful to what I receive. No matter if the shoes don’t go with my eyes, or if the color makes me look fat, (By the way it is not the color, or the clothes that bring out my fatness, it is the fatness.) which got me to thinking about what I read in Colossians about wearing Christ this morning. Sometimes we don’t like putting on the wardrobe of compassion, kindness, humility, quiet strength, discipline, but when we do, our life fits together. You see it it’s the desires of the old nature that try’s to be put back on our back and we have to make the decision that we ain’t going to dress like that no more. So as your faced with a situation or a problem this day, go ahead and show off that new wardrobe, put on Christ, LOVE, this day.

Just some thoughts form a sinner, on his journey home.

Peace, byron

Heart Vs. Mind

2007-05-12T20:39:00.000-07:00

I will confess I love to watch UFC. Don't ask me why , it must be a man thing. For those that have been in a cave for the last year or two, UFC is the Ultimate Fight Challenge. It is where two guys get in a ring and beat each other to submission. Not a great confession for a pastor, but James says to confess our sins one to another. It may be because my favorite movie of all times is "Gladiator" and these are truly modern day gladiators without the death part. The other day while watching a fight I got to thinking of how the battles we face are so much like the fight I am watching. In one corner there is the heart, the underdog. In the other corner is the mind, which always seems to win. I think it is because the mind gets all the attention, but one thing I do know is that the mind is always stronger. The only way for the heart to win is for the heart to be the stronger opponent in our life, but how does that happen? I truly believe it is by walking by faith, which would be by our heart and not by or mind which would be the logic of this world. It comes by trusting our heart to make the right decision, even when we have to trow logic out the window. God says we are to trust Him about everything, even when it is the hardest thing to do; but when we do things go according to His plan and not ours. And that is when the mind taps out and the victory goes to the heart.

Just some thoughts from a sinner,

peace byron.

Law of Christ

2007-04-20T06:42:00.000-07:00

One of the elements of Hope Community church, that I am so encouraged with, is the REALNESS of the people that make up the group. If anything they are real about their faith, real about their struggles, real about what church means to them, and real about their doubts and confusions that plagues all of our lives . Willingness to be real about their burdens, and taking on the burdens of others. You guys teach me a lot about being real in my own walk and with my own faults and struggles. Daily I have to remind myself that I have a King and I am under His leadership to do things His way, not mine. Here is a statement from Jim Palmer that wrote Divine nobodies, it sums up a lot of churches today.

“And so it is with us. The more we have been schooled in religious activity, the more difficult it is to see this kingdom for what it really is. We have millions of people on the planet today claiming to be born again who don’t have the foggiest idea who Jesus is or how to live in his reality. They may subscribe to Christian beliefs, follow Christian ethics and practice Christian rituals, but they do now know how to ride the wind of his Spirit and be transformed by him.”

Jim Palmer “Divine Nobodies”

The transformed life can be seen in the willingness to follow Christ to the other side of the planet to lend a hand, or a shoulder. The transformed life can be seen in the willingness to cross the street to help a neighbor no matter there race, creed, social status, economical status. The transformed life can be seen in a willingness to share with each other our burdens and then allow the Holy Spirit to work and move in our lives to heal and to transform us. The transformed life can be seen in fulfilling the law of Christ.

Gal. 6: ² Share each other’s burdens, and in this way obey the law of Christ.

What is that law: Love God, Love people as you love yourself.

Matthew 22: ³⁷Jesus replied: " 'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.' ³⁸This is the first and greatest commandment. ³⁹And the second is like it: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' ⁴⁰All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments."

Living the transformed life is not easy, did anyone say that it would be. But, anything that has a cost to it, also has the greater reward. Peace now and eternity with God, that is the transformed life.

Thoughts from a sinner on his journey.

Peace, byron

5 Minutes Christian.

2007-04-13T06:21:00.000-07:00

Have you ever noticed how we have no time. I mean I decided to try my hand at blogging and guess what happened? I can't find time. I guess this is God's way of showing me the most precious commodity He has given all of us is time. And it is so sad that the one thing we take for granted is our time. I am reminded of this as I prepare for a dear lady, of fifty seven years, funeral this Saturday. True to the words of James, "What is your life but a vapor" I don't know about you. but I find myself constantly stressed and running. It is amazing that when I read the words of Jesus I see a man that had all the time in the world, but had the most demanding schedule to fulfill in the shortest amount of time. What was that agenda? To save the world and to redeem man back to God in 33 short years. And I thought I was busy. But what was so amazing was he did this while living a life totally dedicated to the Father. We have trouble living a Christian life 5 min. at a time.

During one of our small groups at Hope we had a young lady share what God had done in her life. How he had radically transformed her 2 years ago, but she also found she was struggling with her total dedication to God. She came up with this label and I thought she was right on target. She said she was a 5 min. Christian living for Christ only 5 min. at a time . I can relate to that, for I to am a 5 min. Christian. I guess if I could keep my thought's and time dedicated to the right things, as did Christ, then I could overcome being just a 5 min. Christian and maybe with my fingers crossed become a 10 min. Christian. Just some thoughts from a sinner struggling along on his journey.

peace, byron

Hope for the World!

2007-04-10T15:18:00.000-07:00

This will be my first attempt at blogging and I hope not the last. I hope this will be a great place for thoughts and discussion. This morning as I was having my alone time with God, and while reading a new book I have called "Revolution of Character" I read a statement that match what we are doing at our church. Dallas Willard is the author of the book and he says:

"Jesus sent his followers out, not to start governments, or even churches as we know them today. These organizations inevitably convey some elements of a human system. Instead, His disciples were to bring the presence of the kingdom and its King into every corner of human life by fully living in the Kingdom with Him."

I feel we at Hope are on the right track of seeing the lives of people transformed by the power of God. We have the right understanding that it is not about building's or programs, but the transformed lives and we get to be apart of that. I have been reflecting on our sunrise service at Hope and I was blown away that the people of Hope are still thinking out of the box. Although, we do not have a building to call our own, we met on our land and many of the people from Hope said lets start a drive in church. You guys are awesome! The church is about people coming and growing by the power of the Holy Spirit in their lives. It is about living for the King and being under his sovereignty for everything in our life. The bottom line, it is about letting our king control and we follow.

peace, byron