SPOTLIGHTS: brief messages of Hope and Light

SPOTLIGHTS: Back in the Land of Blog

2010-04-02T10:30:00.003-05:00

Greetings,
I have not blogged for 1 year. But I am thinking that this is a valuable tool that I should be contributing to, so I am going to give it another crack. Some of you may know that I am doing a 1 minute "Spotlight; brief messages of HOPE and LIGHT" on 97.1 Kyck FM in the mornings at 7:33 (after the 7:30 news segment). I figured this would be a good compliment to that and a way for me to add to the radio thougths and for individuals to give feedback.
So here goes: "Hit the Spotlight"

Blessings -- a partner in the gospel,

Paul Knight

He Died For Me

2009-04-12T20:58:00.011-05:00

The Apostle Paul writes, " We preach Christ crucified: a stumbling block..."

We are either the recipients of the work on the cross or we are left to pay the penalty for our own sin.
We either accept payment or pay ourselves.

I for one accept the payment. Thank you.

a partner in the gospel,

Pastor Paul

Am I like Judas?

2009-04-11T13:57:00.001-05:00

Have you ever thought about what kind of man Judas really was? What kind of man could betray Jesus Christ for 30 pieces of silver?

I am not comfortable with it, I hesitate even to write it, but sometimes I think the line between a person like Judas and myself is not big enough. I am a follower of Jesus Christ. But there are similarities between Judas and myself, uncomfortable similarities.

Judas heard the teachings of Jesus, the Son of God. He sensed His care and love. At least I assume this is true. Judas saw incredible demonstrations of his Jesus’ power. And yet Judas did not allow the realities of who Jesus was to grip his heart. This is disturbing to me. The heart of Judas remained impervious to the love and forgiveness of Jesus Christ. And Judas was right there with Him. And furthermore, Judas was loved by Jesus. And he was unchanged. How could someone be right there and unchanged?

I wonder if there is something about doing the things of God that is dangerous to the hearts of those who do the work. Obviously at first glance, this cannot be true. But maybe there is a danger, a subtle danger, concentrating on doing over being. A subtle danger of doing what needs to get done because of the press of people and expectations and missing the beautiful simplicity of being loved by God and being invited into relationship with Him.

It seems clear that people can exist in the proximity of the presence and love of God and remain unaffected. This is incredibly sad and certainly dangerous! This thought catches my attention. It makes me again think of Judas.

He was the “purse-keeper.” I wonder if there was a pressing financial need or concern? I wonder if he focused so much on getting the work done that he never really allowed himself to be affected. I wonder if the work was so consuming that he didn't have time? The truth is that in the midst of all this doing of work in the proximity of Christ, Judas was still and instrument of the Enemy. Aweful.

Getting the work done, watching the bottom-line, learning to deal with people are all part of the work of ministry (or so it seems), but these can never supersede our relationship with Him – my relationship with Him.

As I sit here on the Saturday before the Celebration of the Resurrection of Jesus Christ, I have pulled myself aside to seek the Lord and to rest my heart. We have had a wonderful week of activity and I humbly say – ministry. But I must ask the Lord to search my heart, to refresh my heart, to remind me of the work of His kingdom - the real work of His kingdom. But mostly to help me. To help me experience being loved by Him, loving Him in return, and loving others in Jesus’ name.

Be blessed knowing that the resurrected Jesus loves you and has the power to transform your life!

Your partner in the gospel,
Pastor Paul

Chairs, HOPE, Tears

2009-03-31T21:09:00.003-05:00

Our chairs arrived this weekend for our new worship center. They were stacked outside of the doors of the room that in a few weeks we will be worshipping in. When I stood there and looked at them my eyes filled with tears. The tears came in anticipation of the people who will sit in them and hear about a God who loves them relentlessly. The tears came in thanksgiving for the people who are Giving Themselves Away (our Stewardship theme) for the sake of those who don’t know Jesus yet and those who will be drawn to HOPE in the future. The tears came for the many who have served for many hours to prepare this facility for others.

God thank you for the privilege of being a part of a dream called HOPE.

A partner in the gospel,
Pastor Paul

Encouragement to Pray for the ELCA Church

2009-03-02T16:13:00.007-06:00

Stephen Lee of the GRAND FORKS HERALD reports:

In what promises to be a controversial move unprecedented in the history of Lutheranism in the United States, a national task force of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America recommends that the nation's largest Lutheran denomination change its policy and allow homosexual clergy to live in "committed, same-gender relationships."

I am not a part of the Lutheran Church. But I am a part of the Church. This recommendation by the national task force leaves me quite concerned. I do recognize that the recommendation of the national task force does not mean it will be a recommendation of the whole ELCA Lutheran Church. So in the mean time, while we wait for the response, please be in prayer for our brothers and sisters in Christ. As we think of this recommendation and the response of the Church to those who live in gay and lesbian lifestyles, I have a few thoughts.

Here are a few of my thoughts and concerns:
• Love does not mean that every passion and desire must be accommodated. I get very concerned with all of us, not just those who support this particular issue, who ask that the Church love us by not teach against our behaviors or by accommodating our lifestyle or sin of choice. If indeed we believe the Holy Bible as the Word of God then our lifestyles and behaviors are to be shaped by the Scriptures. I was in a discussion recently with someone, not from my community, who was upset that the people he is in relationship with keep discussing with him the inappropriateness of his extra-marital affair. His comments began to lean into phrases like “if they loved me they would stop talking about it,” “If they cared about me they would know that this is best for me.” I want to say that love does not just sit by and watch as people line their lives up contrary to the teachings of the Bible. This is particularly true of those who claim relationship with Jesus Christ. The contrary would be our call: "Brothers, if someone is caught in a sin, you who are spiritual should restore him gently." This act of gentle restoration is the call to all followers of Jesus Christ.

• Love means caring enough to warn, to correct, to encourage, and exercise patience. I understand that there are areas of our lives where we struggle to live into the teachings of the Bible. This is true in my life as well. But the struggle to become more and more what the Bible teaches is a wonderful walk of life. But when we modify or lower the call of Christ to live into the Scriptures then by default miss out on the wonder and beauty of being shaped by Christ and His Spirit. I think of the Apostle Paul who asked God three times to remove a particular struggle. We don’t know what that struggle was, but we do know that it was not removed. And that Paul was taught that the grace of God is sufficient to see him through the struggle. This is the way that passage reads: “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” God was teaching Paul that there is something of power that is displayed in weakness. How many times do we accommodate the sinful behaviors in our own lives and miss out on the transforming power of God’s grace.

• I am confronted periodically by the question, “What if homosexuals are born that way.” My response is simple, but not without compassion. I honestly don’t think that the issue is about being born a certain way or not. Birth “programming” does not eliminate the opportunity to be shaped by truth and to strive to live into something that fits God’s design for life. I am told that the average male has a propensity or birth programming that inclines us to desire many sexual partners. Some have even said that monogamy is not the natural design for men. I am not arguing that as true or false, but would like to make a comment regarding it. If it is true, which I would personally tend to say that it is, this does not mean that we then throw out the call of Scripture to fidelity in marriage. There is, according to Scripture, a better way of living. And for the individual who by birth programming or nature has a desire for multiple sexual partners God would invite us into dependence upon Him for the strength to live according to His call.

• However the outcome of the ELCA’s decision. The call of all in the church to one another and outside the church is to love. I get concerned on the “other side’ of this issue when I listen to “Christians” who seem to take pleasure in bashing those with gay and lesbian tendencies and or lifestyles. The call to the Church is to love with the love of Jesus Christ. We must not change the biblical standard for living to accommodate either group. We cannot biblically accommodate the gay and lesbian lifestyle. And we cannot accommodate Biblically a lifestyle of not loving.

A partner in the gospel,

Pastor Paul

GOOD NEWS APPOINTMENTS

2009-02-10T13:57:00.001-06:00

The Good News Appointments are probably my favorite type of appointment that God arranges for me. This is when you are given an opportunity or God has arranged an appointment for you to bring a bit of Him verbally into a situation. The appointment may be to speak a word of truth, to tell a part of how God is working in your life,to interject his name, or even to invite a person into life in Christ. Peter, in his letter, says that we need to always be ready.

But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect… 1 Peter 3:15 NIV

Ready for the Good News Appointments God is preparing for us. I had one of these appointments this past week at the desk of the motel I was staying at. I was in conversation with the young woman behind the counter and began to ask if she were involved in a church or spiritual things. She answered in a way many people do. She mentioned involvement in a church but not really active or engaged. I casually mentioned that the great thing about Jesus is that more than going to church, He wants us to know how much he loves us and wants the best for us. It was simple. It was true. And it was Good News.

She didn’t kneel down and receive Jesus as her Lord and Savior. But Good News was planted; and she and I were blessed. Look for these Good News opportunities. And, by the way, notice how Peter describes us doing this: gentleness and respect. It will make for a much better and more enjoyable appointment if you remember his words of guidance.

Your partner in the gospel,
Pastor Paul

PRAYER APPOINTMENTS

2009-02-08T13:26:00.000-06:00

You’ve had this happen haven’t you? Your sitting at your desk minding your own business and all of the sudden someone comes into your mind and you have this sense that you should be talking to God about that person. This is a God Appointment and in particular a Prayer Appointment.

A Prayer Appointment is a prompting from the Holy Spirit to intercede (pray) for someone. Often times you might not even be aware of why you are praying. You just know that God has placed this person on your heart or in your mind. And so you bring their name before God.

Other times you are completely aware. Like a man named Epaphras (if you are looking for names for your kid this is a good one). The Apostle Paul mentions that he is wrestling in prayer (kind of an interesting description) and that he had specific things he was praying about.

Epapharas, who is one of you and a servant of Christ Jesus, sends greetings. He is always wrestling in prayer for you, that you may stand firm in all the will of God, mature and fully assured. Colossians 4:12 NIV

I know that many of us don’t think we are “good at prayer.” Well, these Prayer Appointments are wonderful opportunities that God give us. I have a prayer quote that I have committed to memory: The people around you need prayer and you need the practice.

Go ahead be ready for these God Appointments – the promptings to pray!

Your partner in the gospel,
Pastor Paul

GOD APPOINTMENTS

2009-02-07T13:22:00.006-06:00

Many of us have experienced it. We experience the sense that we are in a situation that God has designed a particular moment for a higher purpose. He planned for this arrangement to take place and, thankfully, you stepped in and made yourself available! I like to call these God Appointments. An appointment that God planned and we had the opportunity to step into it.

God Appointments are all around us and I believe prepared for us every day. To be honest I miss them often, but I am seeking to be more aware and attentive to His presence and therefore his appointments.

These God appointments are wonderful and truly do have impact. Sometimes when I am in a God moment I realize it right away. Other times I become aware after the fact. But the reality is, when I step into the appointment and serve His purpose, God uses me for a higher purpose, for the sake of His Kingdom. I love that and I am honored.

“…created in Christ Jesus to do good works which God prepared in advance for us to do.”

In the next few posts, I would like to briefly describe some of the types of God Appointments that God will make for us. Feel free to contribute yourself stories and appointments that you have been blessed to experience.
Your partner in the gospel,
Pastor Paul

MY PRESIDENT

2009-01-21T12:24:00.007-06:00

I didn’t vote for President Obama. I am in significant disagreement with many of the positions that he holds on several issues. One that is prominent in my mind today is his position on abortion. I am hoping that he does not make abortion more accessible. There are other foundational positions that I am concerned about, but I must say that I do sense a positive emotional upturn in our country.

As I watched the inauguration, via video, I was genuinely moved. And as I have mentioned before, I am proud to be an American. It is an incredible thing to witness again the peaceful transfer of power. I couldn’t help but notice the feeling of excitement and anticipation in our national psyche. I couldn’t help but notice the sense of unity among many people of varying races, backgrounds, faiths, and dreams. I couldn’t help but notice an audaciousness of hope. And hope is good for us.

Can President Obama fulfill these expectations and hopes? I don’t know, but I sure hope so. The weight is now on him and he will be called on to produce. As people of faith we get some choices to make at this moment. We can support, encourage, and guide him or we can be a part of the chorus of people who will seek to break him down. We should disagree on issues when we must, but we can do all of our disagreeing by speaking the truth in love.

Finally, we can pray for our President. For those of us who are people of the Word – prayer for our leaders is a command.

“Father, in the name of Jesus Christ I ask you to bless President Obama. Bless his wife and children. Protect them and give them divine wisdom as they are a part of the leadership of this nation. Help us to be a people who bring you honor and praise. Amen.”

A partner in the gospel,

Pastor Paul

Martin Luther King Jr and a dream

2009-01-19T22:47:00.009-06:00

When I was in junior high school we were asked to name someone we would like to be like. I didn’t know a lot about him but I said, “Martin Luther King, Jr.” My teacher asked me if I knew he was black. My response was, “yes, can't I pick him?” I am not sure what was meant by the question. I don't want to read more into it than was meant. But I wonder if she thought I should have picked someone “more like me?” I chose him at that moment of my life because he was a man that struck me as passionate, committed, and willing to live out what he believed. And ultimately, to give it all for what he believed. He was a man who was striving for a dream. I like that.

I can’t say that I understand all the facets of the dream that he had. I don’t fully understand the racial struggle that we have in our country, but I do believe that it is worth striving to be a people who judge not by the "color of the skin but by the content of character."That is what attracted me to Martin Luther King, Jr. It was what I knew of his character. I believe that if we want to be a people, a nation, that does not judge by skin color we will have to be a people who strive to be men and woman of character. And to be a people where character does matter.

As we strive to be men and woman of character, the young people who come behind us will have more role models. They will have role models of character rather than merely skin color.

Your partner in the gospel,
Pastor Paul

One more additional comment:
In the next few hours we will have a new President of the United States of America. He is black. Regardless of my political position, I am proud that skin color did not keep him from being our President. And I pray that he and his family would be blessed by our Lord!

2009-01-15T23:03:00.007-06:00

I have been rereading Brother Lawrence’s classic book: Practicing the Presence of God. And partially because of that book I am seeking to be more attentive and aware of the presence of God in my life. And I am inviting those at HOPE, the church that I pastor, to participate in this discipline with me. We are calling it the 1,3, 10 Practice. The Practice is like this:

1 – Go on a God Hunt each day and find look for the evidence of His working in you, through you, or around you each day and then to tell someone about how you noticed Him.
3 – At least 3 times a day acknowledge God’s presence with you. The added benefit is that as we acknowledge His presence we will also be reminding ourselves to be more attentive and aware.
10 – For 10 minutes each day give yourself to being specifically attentive God through a time of personal devotion. This is a 10 minute commitment to prayer, silence, listening, reading or whatever helps you be specifically attentive to Him.

Now here is the kicker. I have struggled with this the last few days. It seems like I am struggling with it more than normal. But it shouldn’t surprise me! The Enemy does not want me to do is to be aware and attentive to the presence of God. Further, the Enemy does not want me living in the specific presence of God communicating with Him and living with Him. The Enemy does not want me Emmanuel-ing. And so, it seems, that he has specifically kicked up the attack. My attitude has been ugly, my schedule busy, blah blah blah.

The big question is am I going to let the enemy keep me sidelined? NOPE!

Hey, if you are seeking to grow spiritually and taking steps to make that happen...don’t be surprised if the enemy seeks to thwart your efforts. But remember: “…the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world.” 1 John 4:4

Your partner in the gospel,

Pastor Paul

WHITE OUT? The Broom Says It All...

2009-01-10T22:17:00.005-06:00

The energy was intense, the crowd engaged, and the Sioux dominated the ice. The Sioux played and the white out left the gophers looking for a place to hide.

Friday nights score: Sioux 6 and the U of M 3
Saturday nights score: Sioux 6 and the U of M 1

I am confident that the Gophers are a better team than it seemed, but it was wonderful to see the Sioux playing at the level that they played this weekend. This is the first sweep of the Gophers since 2003.

Tomorrow -- worship of the King of Kings!
Pastor Paul

WHITE OUT IN GRAND FORKS - UND

2009-01-09T11:14:00.011-06:00

It was intense, a bit daunting, and just plain not safe to be in that environment. It was about 18 years ago, while driving, that I experienced my first “white out.” I couldn’t see the front of my car in the midst of the pervasiveness of the white. My son vomited in the back seat because of the swirling. After a while he didn’t even dare look. Bonnie and I watched the lines on the road to make sure we didn’t lose our way. We were all experiencing the Force of the North.

Tonight, Grand Forks is expecting another white out! We are excited about it and working to make it happen! It will be an environment swirling in power and intensity. The University of Minnesota, the Gophers (RODENTS THAT DWELL IN HOLES IN THE GROUND) will be making an appearance at the University of North Dakota: Home of the Fighting Sioux. The crowd will be dressed in white and our hockey team is expected to drive the rodents into a hole in the ice.

They will experience the Force of the North!

If UND sweeps, which I fully expect, our worship director (who woefully holds onto his Gopher fan -i-ness) will be wearing a University of North Dakota jersey for the morning (except during worship – we don’t want to get too out of balance : ).

a partner in the gospel (and hockey fan)
Paul Knight

P.S. Hope people will gather at Mike's Pizza in EGF after the game (in the lower level). Sorrowful gopher fans from Hope are welcome too -- Unity in the essentials, freedom in the non-essentials, and love in all things!

God Hunt -- Emmanueling

2009-01-06T20:08:00.010-06:00

Far too often I find myself living my days unaware and inattentive to the reality that God is present with me. The message of the New Testament is full of the teachings of Emmanuel, God with us. Far too often I find myself not even thinking or looking for His activity. I want to change that. I want to be aware. I want to be more attentive.

The message of the New Testament is that God is active and working. Emmanuel, God with us, is just as true today for the follower of Christ as it was 2,000 years ago. Dare I say that in many ways Christ is more present today than He was then? Now He dwells within us! If attentive, I shouldn’t have to look too hard to see or sense His work.

Several years ago our church participated in an exercise called a God Hunt (I think I first heard of it from author David Mains). The exercise was to hunt for God’s activity on a daily basis. Maybe it would be through creation, the words of a friend, a conviction, a song, a hurt, and through innumerable other ways. The point was to seek to be aware and attentive. Then when we noticed God’s activity in and around us, we were to tell someone; a friend, spouse, or your small group. I have encouraged the church that I pastor to intentionally be on a God Hunt each day for the next month. I am looking forward to how this is going to heighten the awareness and prayerfully the attentiveness of our church to God’s activity.

I am personally looking forward this active discipline of looking for God’s activity. I know that it is not grammatically correct, but I am calling this heightened attentiveness and awareness emmanueling. Emmanueling is my way of describing my attentiveness and awareness to His being with me.

I would like you to invite you to go on this God Hunt with us. To participate with us in emmanueling and to give testimony to His work in your life.

So let me ask, how have you noticed God today working in your life?
Encourage us all with your story of His work by commenting in this blog.

Your partner in the gospel,
Pastor Paul

Merry Christmas

2008-12-24T09:38:00.003-06:00

The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the One and Only, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.

Tonight, many will gather with family and in churches to celebrate the incarnation of Jesus Christ. God come to earth. This is the life changing truth of a God whose passion for humanity caused Him to become one of us. This is His expression of love. As the Apostle John says it, "For God so loved the world that He gave his one and only Son..." God wanted to be "with us." We will hear the reminder of that desire all around us in songs and the spoken word: Emmanuel, "God with us."

I find in my life that the greatest issue isn't about God being with me, but rather me being with God. I wish there was a good word for that! Emmanuel means God with us. What is the word for "me with God?" Words like: aware, attentive, present come to mind. But to be honest this isn't so much about me learning a new word. It is about me actively choosing to live in His presence, aware and attentive. I would like to give that Christmas gift to my Lord. The gift of increasing awareness and attentiveness to Him. I think that would be a great response to His love for me and us.

Your partner in the gospel,

Pastor Paul

Have a Merry Christmas

Thanksgiving? For What?

2008-11-27T13:00:00.009-06:00

As I sit here on Thanksgiving Day,
I have much to be thankful for!
I give thanks today for…

• My relationship with God through Christ and the influence of His Spirit.
• My wonderful wife Bonnie.

• My children: Tim, Daniel, and Kristen.
• My parents: Charles and Janice Knight
• My brothers: Gary, Jim, and Danny and their families
• The Church that God has privileged me to pastor for the last 17 years: Hope Evangelical Covenant Church.
• My friends…which are too many to name but are worthy of thanking God for.
• My pain and struggles which make me dependant on my Lord.
But I am also curious.

What are you thankful for?

Your partner in the gospel

Pastor Paul

Thanksgiving - A Discipline!

2008-11-26T14:42:00.006-06:00

The Apostle Paul says to "give thanks in all circumstances...” You've got to be kidding? I can think of plenty of circumstance where it would seem inappropriate to give thanks. Is it possible or reasonable that a person should be able to give thanks for the fact that they are dealing with abuse, past or present? Is it possible to expect that someone could give thanks for the lingering pain of an abortion done while they were in a state of confusion and hurt? What about the person who discovers that they or someone they love has cancer? Give thanks? Is it possible that God would expect the man or woman to give thanks when they have received a pink slip notifying him or her that their job has been eliminated? And yet the Apostle Paul says it: “Give thanks in all circumstances...”

That is why this entry is titled THANKSGIVING – A DISCIPLINE! The discipline is this; to turn your heart and focus, in the midst of circumstances, back toward Christ. I am not saying this is easy. But it is good and it is possible. Because no matter how big or discouraging “our circumstances,” God is still God. And because of that we can find truths “in Him” for which we can give thanks. And in the exercise of this discipline of enumerating our thanks to and for God, God is glorified and honored and we are grown. We become bigger toward Him. And that is, always, good! And dare I say, that if our “circumstances” cause us to look to Jesus and give thanks? maybe we can indeed develop a strength to “give thanks” even for our circumstances. Because they, our circumstances, aided us in looking to our great Savior.

Have a great Thanksgiving!

Your partner in the gospel,

Pastor Paul
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

The Awfulness of the Flood -- not like in the Children's Story

2008-11-24T22:23:00.000-06:00

The story is incredible, faith stirring, and it is horrendous. I am referring to the story in Genesis about Noah and the flood. The people have turned their hearts away from relationship with God so much so that every inclination of their heart is contrary to God’s heart. And he determines that he will wipe all of mankind off the face of the earth with a flood.

I don’t think I can fully imagine what that judgment must have been like. I don’t really want to. But I cannot avoid the reality that God’s judgment, when released, is exacting, holy, right, and awe filled and from my human perspective, horrendous. The flood took everyone. It took everyone, but one family. I am a grace oriented person, mostly because I am a recipient of grace. The idea of judgment bothers me. As I pondered this event it brought tears to my eyes. It began with thoughts about those I know who live outside of relationship with Jesus Christ.

I do believe there will be a coming judgment. I don't like the thought of it. My imagination creates an absolutely horrendous picture of the flood. I wonder if, in this act of judgment, whether God was merciful and wiped people out instantaneously, but that is not the way it plays in my head. In my mind the flood and the terror for those who were being taken by the waters is horrendous. Maybe you can imagine the reaction of people as the waters rose. Did they seek higher ground? Did they swim? Did they try to hold one another? Did they try to convince Noah to let them in and to save them? Did Noah and his family hear? It is almost too much to consider; which is possibly why the Scriptures tell us nothing about those who are deluged in the judgment of God. But the Scriptures do teach us about the man, Noah and the God that saved him.

The Scriptures teach us that Noah found favor with God. Noah lived in such a way that those around him knew he “walked with God.” He had faith. And God spared him. In the midst of God’s all consuming judgment we see the evidence of his wonderful grace floating in a boat. The boat was protecting a man and his family who trusted Him enough to act on what they had been told.

One day again, judgment will come. Never again will it come in the form of a flood, but come it will and as I observe the world turning their hearts away from relationship with God, come it must. And that makes my heart ache, for us and for those who do not know Jesus Christ yet. 2 Peter reminds us:

They will say, “Where is this ‘coming’ he promised? Ever since our fathers died, everything goes on as it has since the beginning of creation.” But they deliberately forget that long ago by God’s word the heavens existed and the earth was formed out of water and by water. By these waters also the world of that time was deluged and destroyed. By the same word the present heavens and earth are reserved for fire, being kept for the day of judgment and destruction of ungodly men. But do not forget this one thing, dear friends: With the Lord a day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like a day. The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. He is patient with you, not wanting any to perish, but everyone to come to repentance. (2 Peter 3:8,9)

He will not wait forever to bring judgment, but thankfully he is patient. He is patient with those who know Him. We have much to do as we learn to live for him and advance his kingdom into our own hearts and into the hearts of many who do not yet know the love of our Lord. I am thankful for the patience of God! "Father, thank you for being a God of patience. Give us the strength and desire to spread the message of your grace and love, the Good News of Your Son Jesus Christ. Help us to be salt and light!"

Your partner in the gospel,

Pastor Paul

FIREPROOF -- The Movie

2008-11-10T14:40:00.011-06:00

I was walking out of the theater with my wife Bonnie and in the midst of several people, many who happened to be from our church, when one of the ladies in the group said; “That was the best movie I have ever seen in my life!” To which I foolishly responded, “Come on – it was a good movie, but not the best you’ve ever seen.” Without any hesitation, not just one, but several people swung their heads in my direction with their eyes still red and a bit swollen, a few still gripping their Kleenex, they glared at me. Even a man or two! A shiver ran up my spine and I hoped they were all followers of Christ. “OK – it might have been,” I offered, still a bit fearful that I might be beaten with wet tissues.

I was very impressed with the film FIREPROOF. This is one I do encourage you to see. I recommend it. I strongly recommend it. Yes, it is surely a low budget film. but even with its lower production value the movie is not disappointing.

Firefighters have a saying: “Never leave your partner behind.” That is a powerful truth and the message comes out clearly in this film. I will be purchasing a copy of this film for our library.

One of my buddies says I build movies up to the point where they can’t live up to the expectations – He has already seen this so – GO SEE IT!

Your partner in the gospel,
Pastor Paul

Happy Birthday Dr. Billy Graham!

2008-11-07T08:45:00.007-06:00

It was the summer between my 8th and 9th grade years in school. I had been being drawn by God toward Himself for quite a long time. Witnessed to by friends who knew Jesus. And sensing his love and also very aware that I was sinful. I was wondering how to "get my life connected to God."

The new film produced by the Billy Graham Association, Time to Run, was playing in Duluth Minnesota. I attended. After hearing Dr. Graham's preaching on the film, being moved by the story, hearing the testimony of Robert Lapine Sr. (a man from Duluth who spoke at the end of the movie), and hearing the prompting of God's Spirit; I made my way to the front of the theater to receive Jesus Christ as my Savior and Lord. "God loves you and will forgive you, " echoed in my heart.

I am consistently blessed and amazed, blessed, and challenged by the life and message of Dr. Graham. His constancy and faithfulness to the simple gospel message and his life lived in devotion to God are a model for all who have the evangelistic heart and gifting and really to all followers of Christ.

A few years ago I had the opportunity to visit the Billy Graham Center at Wheaton College and the center's museum on the history of evangelism. As I stood in the pulpit used by Dr. Graham on display (yes I stood in the display), I asked the Father to renew my heart, to help me to be faithful to His call on my life, and to continue to burn the message of Jesus' love and forgiveness for everyone into my heart.

On the day of Dr. Graham's birthday I would like to say, "Happy Birthday and thank you!"

a partner in the gospel,

Pastor Paul

President-elect Barack Obama

2008-11-04T20:42:00.006-06:00

Tonight, we elected a new president of the United States, Barack Obama.
We elected our 44th president, a black man, an historical step.
A step that I pray will help us heal racially.
I am proud of the way we do our elections.
I am proud to participate.

I have not been in agreement with much of what President-elect Obama has stood for, but I will pray for and honor him as the President of our nation.
Tonight, I am proud to be an American.

Your partner in the gospel,
Pastor Paul

Boots on the Ground

2008-10-29T15:03:00.007-05:00

I was invited this week to the Grand Forks Air Force Base. Our base is instituting a new initiative with local clergy. it has potential to be a wonderful relationship and opportunity to serve men and woman from all over the United States. I have had the privilege of being The Honorary Wing Chaplain for the past year or so of our base. Because of this relationship my eyes have been opened a bit more to the work of our military. I would like to recount two stories that moved me.

Ch, Capt. Shin H. Soh was serving in civilian ministry in New York City on September 11, 2001. He watched as the city he lived in was attacked. As it did for so many, it impacted him. Soh's family had immigrated to the USA when he was a child. He struggled with feeling a part of this new nation. On September 11th Chaplain Soh had something begin to stir in him that eventually ended up in a calling to serve God and to serve his country. He found himself with a realization that the United States was his home and that he desired to couple his faith in Jesus Christ and his commitment to his country. My heart was moved as Chaplain Soh spoke about the coupling of his faith in Jesus Christ and his loyalty to his earthly citizenship.

Ch, Lt Col John Kinney also spoke. Chaplain Kinney spoke about his recent experiences in Iraq. it was his "boots on the ground" report that reminded me that not everything good gets reported. He talked about the welcome from Iraqi people and the affection he sensed. He spoke about the large percentage of American servicemen that are serving more as mentors than "fighting." He said that it seemed that 90% of what we were doing was coming alongside and training the Iraqi people. Again, i found myself thankful for a man who was serving in the name of Christ in an extremely difficult area. Chaplain Kinney mentioned that he wished the media would report more on the people that are being blessed by American presence.

On this day I was thankful for the men and woman who serve Jesus Christ and our nation through military service. I realize there are many who say that we should get out of the war. I don't like the war either. But maybe there is much more good being accomplished than is being made public. The "boots on the ground" report from Father Kinney left me thankful for my primary citizenship, the Kingdom of God; and thankful (even though I may not always agree) for my secondary citizenship, the United States of America.

Your partner in the gospel
Pastor Paul

The photo above is from the awards ceremony when the Grand Forks Air Force Base was honored as having THE 2007 BEST AIR FORCE SMALL CHAPEL AWARD.

The Hope of the World

2008-10-27T11:30:00.009-05:00

I recently found a quotation that captivated me. Spurgeon (1834-92) was the pastor of the Metropolitan Tabernacle in London. He frequently preached the Good News of Jesus to audiences of more than 10,000 people. He has been called the Prince of Preachers. The quotation is about the Church and speaks much to the necessity for the Church to be impacting our culture.

And let the entire body of the Church of our Lord Jesus Christ–instead of looking to societies for evangelization, or to commerce, or to governments– remember that she is the sole saviour of the world. As Christ was the world’s hope, so is the Church the world’s hope, and she must take up the charge as if there were not another.

I agree with Spurgeon. I have heard Bill Hybels of Willow Creek Community Church state it this way:

The local Church is the hope of the World.

The Church, the bride of Christ, is called and charged to bring the hope and love of Jesus Christ to the World that Jesus Himself says that He loves (John 3:16). It may be nice, and maybe on some issues necessary (ie: abortion), to have the government and as Spurgeon refers to "commerce and societies" to partner with us. But in the end the call to feed the hungry, to give hope to the poor, to care for the orphans and widows, to address the issues of oppression, of bondage, of social ills like AIDS, abortion, and Human Trafficking to mention a few is the charge to the body of Christ. We cannot depend on the government to have the heart of Jesus Christ nor to truly be able to bring hope to our social ills.

I must confess that much of my life as a Pastor has been primarily about pasturing the local church that I have been a part of and of personal evangelism. I believe this is my spiritual gifting. But over the last several years, I have been convicted and challenged that a significant part of my maturity and the discipleship of God’s people must include engagement in the lives of the “lost and the least” of the world. We must do this not only from an evangelistic perspective, but also to address with compassion and justice the needs of those around us.

I am being challenged that true discipleship cannot be merely knowledge (although it must include knowledge) nor just personal life issues. Any plan for maturing believers in Christ must include leading followers to be engaged in the lives others. To be engaged with an evangelistic heart with those who do not know Jesus yet. And leading them to be engaged with a “loving people as they are in Jesus’ name” heart that serves people with compassion and seeks justice for people in the name of Christ.

Discipleship, of course, is following Jesus. To follow Jesus will certainly lead us to become a friend of the “tax collectors and ‘sinners’” of our day. Following Jesus will lead us to bringing good news to the poor, to proclaim freedom for prisoners, recovery of sight for the blind, and to release the oppressed (Luke 4:18).
“Jesus, expand my heart.”
Your partner in the gospel,
Pastor Paul

P.S. This post is not meant to take us off the hook in our need to be politically astute and aware. We certainly don't want a government that would be working "against" the Church or the causes that the Church is called by God to address.

Endorsing a Candidate for President

2008-10-20T11:53:00.006-05:00

Soon we will be casting our vote for the next president of the United States of America. The date for the vote is November 4, 2008. On November 5th (hopefully) we will know who our next president will be.

I would like to urge all of us who are followers of Jesus Christ to be in prayer for the election and certainly in prayer for whomever becomes our next president. The Apostle Paul teaches us in 1 Timothy 2:1-4:

I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone -- for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all men to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth.

I have been quite captivated by the race over the last months. I would like to pose a few questions to you as readers of this blog.

I am wondering how captivated you are in the presidential campaign?

What are the main issues for you as a voter?

When you think of casting your vote, how much does your faith enter the equation?

Do you think there are valid Christian values expressed by both of the political parties? If so what are they?

Finally, what wisdom do you see in clergy endorsing or not endorsing a candidate for a public office?

How do you think you would personally respond if the clergy of your church endorsed a candidate contrary to who you were supporting?

Your partner in the gospel,

Pastor Paul

PRIVATE RELIGION?

2008-10-17T19:45:00.006-05:00

Today the Grand Forks Herald reported on a survey published in the Fargo Forum on October 17, 2008. One of questions reported on was the role of religion in public life. According to the survey 50% of the people in our region regarded religion as a private matter.

I find that very interesting. It fits very much into our regional culture. We pride ourselves as being highly independent and of course private. I suppose if we are merely talking about religion in the sense of a set of precepts or doctrines one could keep that generally to oneself. Unless one of the precepts of said religion was to make the message of the faith known to others; as does Christianity. Then notion of one’s faith being private, if one is a follower of Jesus Christ, is immediately repudiated by the message of Jesus' life.

Jesus was clear that his followers would be those who lived their faith in Him with a lovingly public persona. He said things like: “Go and make disciples. You are the light of the world. You are the salt of the earth.” Jesus said, “I have come to seek and to save the lost.” To be a follower of Jesus then, would take part in doing the work of Christ.

Maybe we could better understand the sentiment in the survey if we recognized that being a follower of Christ is certainly “personal” but it can never be “private.”

I like the words of G.K. Chesterton: “A man can no more possess a private religion that he can possess a private sun and moon.”

In regard to your life in Christ, seek to be as public as a light in a dark place!

Your partner in the gospel,
Pastor Paul

The Greatest Bailout in History

2008-10-14T21:31:00.005-05:00

I have found myself with an increasing frustration about this great historical bailout. It frustrates me that our government is giving a "get out jail free" card to the executives who have basically cheated, mismanaged, lived selfishly ambitious, and indulgent lives with no regard for others. It frustrates me further because there seems to be no plan for payback! I probably don't know all the ramifications of us choosing not to do the bailout, but my gut tells me; "lets just bite the bullet and take the tough pill now for an economy run on debt, dishonesty, and selfishness.

But it occurs to me that this bailout by the U.S. government is not the biggest bailout in history of people who have cheated, mismanaged, lived selfishly ambitious, and indulgent lives. No this current bailout is nothing compared to the bailout provided for all of us by Jesus Christ. When Christ died he payed the debt for our sin! That is a wonderful unconditional bailout. And truth is that we have no opportunity for payback. Our only response is to live lives of gratitude and love to Him and for Him.

I find myself today grateful and humbled for my personal experience of being bailed out -- as undeserving as I was -- I am a recipient of God's grace, forgiveness, and restoration. And now, I seek to live in His economy and as a citizen of His Kingdom.

Your partner in the gospel,

Pastor Paul

Economic Downturn

2008-09-18T10:16:00.005-05:00

I wrote myself a note on a piece of scratch paper last night as I watched the news reports of a crumbling stock market and the governmental efforts to protect several faltering companies. Here is, in part, the gist of what I wrote:“

I am so thankful that as I watch our economy being threatened by dishonesty, greed, and mismanagement that I am seeking to invest in a different Kingdom. It is so easy for me to want to gain riches here and to expand my grasp for possessions and properties. But I am thankful that my heart has been gripped and is being gripped by a call toward a heavenly kingdom. A kingdom not made with hands.”

I am reminded of Jesus’ words in the sermon on the mount (Matthew 6:19,20): "Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. “ To be honest there are many times that grasping for the things of immediacy are more inviting than the “someday return” of my eternal investments. This is something I wrestle with. It is one of the reasons I am thankful for several of the early commitments that Bonnie and I made together regarding our finances. We have protected ourselves against the lure of the immediate and from, for the most part, my impulsiveness regarding purchases, and the temporal “this is a really good deal.” In the midst of these boundaries that we have, there really is an increasing sense of freedom and, in these days, protection! I don’t think in this life we will ever be totally protected from economic difficulties or even ruin, but the principles of God’s Word are sound. And if nothing else, we are invested and investing for eternity.

Now my big questions is: Do I jump on the downturn and purchase some low priced stock? Do I capitalize now! Honestly the greed monster is still alive in me... So I will pray and talk with Bonnie and see what would be wise and prudent.

Your partner in the gospel,

Pastor Paul

A Simple Blessing

2008-07-15T20:27:00.004-05:00

I was burning a few pieces of an old cedar log in my chimenea. The stars were shining and the moon was reflecting light in a “pause and notice kind of way” behind the clouds. At one moment the clouds, with the moon behind them, had the legendary silver lining. Bonnie and my friend Tom were sitting with me. And other than the fact that the height of my fire was threatening the branches on my willow tree, it was a near perfect Grand Forks evening.

As we were talking, Tom told a wonderful little story about his encounter with Dr. Billy Graham. It made me think of the simple power of a blessing.

Tom had worked as server in a hotel/restaurant and had the opportunity to serve a few “famous” people. He served a famous rapper, complete with security and swooning waitresses. And he had the opportunity to bring room service to Dr.Graham. He had ordered a burger. When Tom arrived Dr. Graham was sitting casually waiting for his meal. There was no security. No pomp. Just a gentle man sitting alone in his room.

Tom told us a bit about his conversation with Billy. I would love to meet him. But all these years later there was something in the conversation that stood out to Tom.

As he was finishing setting up the room service and was preparing to leave Dr Graham spoke the words: “God bless you, son.” He said the words not in a habitual or perfunctory way. They were heartfelt. And they were a true blessing to Tom beyond just the words.

I wonder if we could get our heads around the power of a simple blessing to those we encounter. Our "bless you" invites the Creator of the universe to extend His favor and grace. This is a wonderful act of love. It is a gift. Be generous with your blessings!

Your partner in the gospel,
Pastor Paul

The Covenant Elects a New President

2008-06-28T21:55:00.004-05:00

The denomination that I belong to, the Evangelical Covenant Church elected Rev. Gary Walters as our new president. Walters after being prayed over stepped to the pulpit and delivered his first message as our president. Walters reminded us that we have always been known as a Mission Society or The Mission Friends. A body of believers intent on reaching those who do not know Jesus yet. He reminded us that we are a People of the Book. In the early days we were called the Readers. He quoted James 1:22-25, which was the text for his message:

Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like a man who looks at his face in a mirror and, after looking at himself, goes away and
immediately forgets what he looks like. But the man who looks intently into the
perfect law that gives freedom, and continues to do this, not forgetting what he
has heard, but doing it—he will be blessed in what he does.

Walters then went on to highlight what he called 3 “urgency's” for the Evangelical Covenant Church. They are urgency's because they are woven throughout God's Word.

1. First is the call to evangelism – the sharing of the good news.
“Every Covenant president has said the same thing,” Walters declared. “It is no small matter to God that there are lost people – and it must become no small matter to us, or we deceive ourselves.”Recalling the words of former President Milton Engebretson, Walter reminded the audience that “if evangelism is not the first priority, it will become no priority.”

2. The second urgency in scripture is the call to be doers of the word in areas of compassion, mercy and justice.
“It is no small matter to God that there are hurting people in the world – and it will be no small matter to us. We deceive ourselves if we think otherwise and fail to act.”Our response requires more than just sincere sympathy for those who are hurting, Walter suggests. Quoting Debbie Blue’s oft-stated illustration, Walter said compassion pulls people out of the river; justice goes upstream to stop those who are pushing them in.” Jesus wants more than sympathy for hurting people – he wants us to help them, to do something about it.

3. The third urgency in scripture is the call to be the whole church – to experience unity in Christ.
“It is no small matter to God that the world is fractured, and that the church is too often as well . . . and so it will be no small matter to us. We deceive ourselves if we think otherwise and fail to act.”The world is fractured along three primary fault lines, Walter said in paraphrasing the apostle Paul. The three lines are race, class, and gender. “But, through the cross, Christ has ushered in a new community – Paul says that in Christ, there is neither Jew or Greek (race), slave or free (class), male or female (gender). The cross creates a new community where all of God’s children are valued and celebrated.”

The above highlights from Gary Walters message are taken from the Evangelical Covenant Website: http://www.covchurch.org/cov/news/item6391

In my family of origin, I don’t agree with everything they say or do, but I love being a part of the family! I feel the same way about my denomination. I don’t agree with everything we say and do, but I love being a part of it. I am very encouraged by the direction that our new president has declared. I am encouraged to be a part of a church family that seeks to make a difference for the Kingdom.
Your partner in the gospel,
Pastor Paul

Walking on the Path for a long time!

2008-05-24T10:35:00.005-05:00

I find myself treating differently people who commit the same sins. For one group of sinners I have this sense of compassion and mercy. I genuinely feel bad for them. I have been there. For the other group, who most often commit the same initial sin, I feel frustrations, doubts, incredulity and a few other emotions. I also still feel compassion and mercy but this compassion and mercy is different.

The two groups of sinners, I have been in both at various time, are divided not by the particular sin but by their actions around the sin. I will use sexual sin as the context, but it is certainly not the only context, for my example. In the first group a couple comes to me and is saddened and concerned because they have crossed the lines into sexual sin. They generally have an element of concern, sorrow, and real desire to recapture a place of discipline and spiritual wellness. My heart is proud of these individuals, not because of their sin – obviously, but because of their sense of conviction and wanting to be restored to Christ. They have obviously responded to the conviction of the Holy Spirit. I have compassion and mercy for them.

The next type of sinner comes to me, usually in a different context, and through discussion I find out that they are living together or planning on living together (again this is an example). They come with an element of sorrow, sometimes, but mostly with a ready explanation: “We just felt stuck financially and so it made more sense to share an apartment.” There is a clear choice to enter into a relationship of sinfulness and to “go in the direction” of sin. I have compassion and mercy for them.

Let me describe this in a different way. The Bible speaks of the Word being a light to our path. So thinking in terms of walking along a path of right living (righteousness) I will describe what I am experiencing. The first individuals are walking along the path and for a variety of reasons have stumbled, stepped, transgressed off the path. They find themselves on the side in the ditch or swamp. They recognize their plight and work to get back on the path and moving in the right direction. Many times this includes getting counsel from other believers and for some includes entering into accountability type relationships.

The second individuals are walking along the path and for a variety of reasons have stumbled, stepped, transgressed off the path. They find themselves on the side in the ditch or swamp. They recognize their plight, but here they make a conscious choice. They determine in their heart and mind that they have “reasons” for being off the path. And rather than work their way back onto the path they continue walking in the ditch or swimming in the swamp. Eventually they find themselves soiled spiritually in a different way than just through the initial sin. Their hearts become more and more cold and hardened and their spiritual lives less and less about love for the Lord and more about lesser things. As a pastor I find it difficult to not have a deeper concern for the spiritual future of these individuals. It saddens me for them.

Eugene Peterson once described discipleship as “a long obedience in the same direction.” Actually, that is a title of one of his books. It is a brilliant description of this walk we are on called discipleship. It is interesting how a stumble in long obedience is less consequential than a direction change. I am not saying the stumble or short transgression doesn’t matter, but it does seem to have a less damaging consequence than going off the path completely and heading in a new direction – can I say, “duh?”

I remember when I was younger someone quoted a verse to me that has stuck with me. It was out of the New American Standard version of the Bible; make no provision for the flesh in regard to its lusts. The passage is from Romans 13. I will put it into context:

For this, "YOU SHALL NOT COMMIT ADULTERY, YOU SHALL NOT MURDER, YOU SHALL NOT STEAL, YOU SHALL NOT COVET," (and if there is any other commandment, it is summed up in this saying,) "YOU SHALL LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF." Love does no wrong to a neighbor; therefore love is the fulfillment of the law. Do this, knowing the time, that it is already the hour for you to awaken from sleep; for now salvation is nearer to us than when we believed. The night is almost gone, and the day is near Therefore let us lay aside the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light. Let us behave properly as in the day, not in carousing and drunkenness, not in sexual promiscuity and sensuality, not in strife and jealousy. But put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh
in regard to its lusts.

The man who quoted this verse to me explained to me about not making plans and provisions for my sin: “If you know you are going to drink at the party don’t go.” “If you are going to be tempted being alone with your girlfriend plan on not being alone with her.” These teachings made sense to me. Through the years this has helped me. To be honest it hasn’t always stopped me, but more often than not it does. When I find myself making plans for sin it is easier to stop at that stage than later. When I find myself arranging opportunities for my continued sinfulness, making provision, I know I am in trouble in a different way. Where have you made provision for sin, or continued sin?

I encourage all of us to be more ruthless with our desire to stay on the path or return to the path. Let’s plan on making no plans for our own sinfulness. Here is a prayer:

Father, help us all to lay aside the deeds of darkness and to put on the armor of lights. Help us to live the way you would want us to live. Wearing your Son and our Lord Jesus Christ like a garment, help us to cut off and destroy our plans and provisions for our sin. We want to live with our lives in full view of everyone – with nothing to hide! Thank you Father for your Spirit who strengthens us and equips us to live for you! Amen”

Your partner in the gospel,

Pastor Paul

Mother's Day and a Funeral

2008-05-09T12:54:00.000-05:00

This Sunday evening we will be holding a prayer service for the son (21 years old) of a woman in our church. Monday will be the funeral service. Sunday is also Mother's Day. This is a horrible juxtaposition. It grieves me. The difficulty is magnified by how the young man was living. His lifestyle was outside of safety and wisdom. His way of living was certainly not of a fashion that would make his untimely death in a car accident a shock. And clearly he was a nice young man who knew inside the truth about Christ and about life with Christ, but it would be a long shot to say that the reality of Jesus was affecting his life.

As I write I am thinking of all the kids I know who assume they will have time to "turn around" and who believe in their heart that the direction they are currently headed is temporary. They believe they are just "livin on the edge," for a while. And they seem to have full intention to settle down someday. I hope they do.

I am also wondering why we expect kids to do this? I know it seems to be a truth, kids need to "sow their wild oats." but I don't like it. The idea that kids have to wander and to "experiment" does not ring true in my heart. And to be honest it bothers me that so many expect this.

I am not sure what the answer is to all of this. But it makes me wonder what would happen if our faith was more real, more adventurous, more Biblical, more edgy, and less safe and staid if more young people would live passionately toward Christ. I don't know. But I do know that I am bothered by the expectation that young people need a prodigal time.

The Gospel of John -- The Wedding Miracle John 2:1-11

2008-05-02T06:52:00.003-05:00

Jesus attends a wedding feast in Cana. And it is in recounting this story that John gives us the first “sign.” It is the miracle of turning water into wine. Now this has been the subject of a lot of discussion with people in my past. It seems to me that this is one of the miracles that many wish he wouldn’t have done…the whole “making wine” thing has really messed with some people's assumptions. But that clearly is not the main point of the passage, is it?

So here are a few questions for us as we study the gospel:
1. How do you think this sign or miracle helps John achieve his purpose as mentioned in John 20:30, 31?
2. What do you think Mary was expecting when she told Jesus that the wedding party was out of wine?
3. What do you think Jesus meant when he said to Mary: “My time has not yet come?”
4. Chris Z mentioned it on Wednesday night, the question for a free cup of coffee at the Grounds for Missions coffee shop, is approximately how many bottles of wine (average sized bottles) would Jesus have made? (I will go by Chris’ estimate – first correct answer within 20 wins).

Tithing -- I Don't Understand Why Not?

2008-04-28T19:53:00.012-05:00

Are you as dismayed as I am regarding the number of people who tithe (give 10% of their income)? I read recently the results of a survey by The Barna Group regarding our giving practices. They truly sadden and concern me. They sadden me for the sake of the church. They concern me for the sake of individuals. I am concerned for those who consistently live in bondage to spending patterns that demonstrate a lack of fiscal discipline and trust in God. It seems to me that we do have a competing god (Matthew 6:24). I wonder what would happen if individuals and couples would enter into more biblically consistent financial management principles. So here are some of the basics from The Barna Group (2007 giving):

About 5% of adults tithe
Among the most generous Barna states that:
o 24% of evangelicals tithe
o 12% of conservatives
o 12% of those who have prayed, read the Bible and attended a church service in the last week
o 11% of Charismatics or Pentecostals
o 10% Registered Republicans
Among the least generous (less than 1% of the people in each of these groups tithed)
o Atheists and Agnostics (duh – my personal comment – not Barna’s)
o Singles adults who have never married
o Liberals
o And downscale adults

Barna also says that 9% of all those who claim to be Born Again Christians gave at least 10% of their income and Protestants were 4 times more likely to tithe as Catholics (8% versus 2%, respectively).

So here is my issue. I don’t understand why this is so. Why are Christians so stingy? Why are we not more generous? It seems to me that people who are recipients of God’s grace and forgiveness would be incredibly generous givers. Being a generous giver is a basic biblical principle. The Bible throughout the Old Testament teaches a basic foundation of giving of 10% and then much more giving added to that “first step.” My assumption is that those who are no longer bound by the law would want to respond with greater generosity than what was required (I guess I am wrong). Many authors and communicators of good financial practices (Dave Ramsey, Crown Ministries, and others) teach the basic foundational principle of giving 10 % of your income. It makes good fiscal sense to be a giver.

So I wonder why it is that most who claim to be Christians do not tithe their income to the local church or to anywhere for that matter. I wonder how many of us would find our financial situations greatly improved if we were trusting of God with our finances. I remember hearing Pastor Bill Hybels one time state that he found it amazing that people say they are trusting God for their eternity but that they were unwilling to trust God with their finances. There is a wonderful passage in Malachi 3:8-11. This is the only place in the Bible where God invites his people to test him. It is to test him regarding his part in pouring out blessings on those who are tithers. I know that this does not necessarily mean money, but I wonder how many of us would have improved financial management if we were faithful in our giving. I am inviting comments and discussion about this topic – I will respond as well.

I have one final comment. I am saddened for followers of Christ who find themselves unable to trust God with their finances. But I am even more saddened for those who are leaders in the local church; pastors, elders, and teahers who do not trust God with their finances. Maybe this is one of the reasons we are in such a weakened state as the church.
Your partner in the gospel,
Pastor Paul

P.S. For anyone from Hope Covenant Church (Grand Forks, ND) who would like to enter a Tithing Test, I will help you facilitate this test. For your own sake: I dare you! Email me.

THE GOSPEL OF JOHN - John the Baptist Post #4

2008-04-24T22:13:00.000-05:00

I am impressed with what I read about John the Baptist. Even though you have to admit he was a bit of an odd character. He wore camel's hair clothing and ate bugs...not necessarily a candidate for bringing home to meet your parents. But his clarity about who he was and what his role was in the kingdom was absolutely profound. I would like to be more like him.

In John 1:20, we read that John the Baptist is completely clear that he is not the Christ, that he is not worthy to even untie Jesus' sandals (1:27). In John 1:23, he says that he is a voice of one calling in the desert.

Take a moment and read the gospel accounts of John the Baptist.

Matthew 3
Matthew 11:1-19
Matthew 14:1-12; Mark 6:14-29
Mark 1:1-12
Luke 1:5-25
Luke 3:1-22
John 1:1-42
John 3:22-35

What do you notice about John's character?

How do you think he battled the desire for prominence?

Do you have trouble reconciling John's devotion to Christ and the work of God and how he struggled in prison (Matthew 11:1-19). And how John died?

What does John's life teach you personally?

Your partner in the gospel,

Pastor Paul

For this weeks complimentary cup of coffee at the Grounds for Mission Coffee Shop @ HOPE: What do you think the is meant by Matthew 11:16-20?

Say What You Mean and Say it with Love!

2008-04-24T08:44:00.002-05:00

Reverend Ole was the pastor of the local Norwegian Lutheran Church, and Pastor Sven was the minister of the Swedish Covenant Church across the road. I saw them yesterday standing by the road, pounding a sign into the ground, that reads:'Da End iss Near! Turn Yourself Aroundt Now! Before It's Too Late!'

As a car sped past them, the driver leaned out his window and yelled, 'Leave us alone, you religious nuts!'

From the curve we heard screeching tires and a big splash...

Rev. Ole turns to Pastor Sven and asks, 'Do ya tink maybe da sign should yust say 'Bridge Out'?

I received this in an email and it made me lol . I thought it was good humor. But I had to laugh because I have been a part of conversations where the individuals are trying to say something and won't actually say it. They cloak what they are saying in religious language which often makes it more confusing. The truth is, in some of the cases, they use the "religious" language because they want to avoid taking ownership for what they were saying.

Ephesians 4:15 the Apostle Paul says, "...speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into him who is the Head, that is, Christ." It is an act of courage to speak the truth. But it, when done well, truth helps us "grow up."

And the Bible is clear that "truthing" well is doing so with LOVE! Lets be honest, it seems that some "Christians" are better at speaking truth, but not so good at the love part. Others of us are good at the love portion and thin on the truth telling. The Bible says that we are to do both and if I add the teaching from Ephesian 4:29 to speak so that others are built up. Imagine if we took those three speaking guidelines to heart: truth, love, and building.

Be blessed! Your partner in the gospel,
Pastor Paul

One last thought: Just because something is true doesn't meant it has to be spoken. We all know that, right?

We all deserve hell!

2008-04-20T22:54:00.012-05:00

Bonnie and I just finished attending our small group. I think we are in our fifth week of chapter one of our book study. Tonight we never even cracked it open. But we had great discussion and caring for one another. It is really exciting...I feel God knitting our hearts together as we allow one another to see more and more of who we are. Tonight, much of our discussion was centered on the idea of hell and fairness.

Gary Thomas (author of The Beautiful Fight, Authentic Faith, Sacred Marriage, and other wonderful books) was our guest speaker this morning in church. He has been in the Grand Forks area this last week. It was a full and enriching week. One of the things that provoked our discussion tonight was something Gary said. I may not quote it exactly but...

We all deserve hell. The Bible is clear about that. So any day that we are not in hell is a good day and one that we can be grateful for... Even a really bad day is better than any day in hell.

This quote led us to a discussion about fairness, God, and hell. The gist of our time was the solemn realization and affirmation of the truth that if God were to act "fairly" with all of humanity, we would all spend eternity a part from him -- in hell. How amazing it is that we get to know Him. How grateful we are for us wonderful and amazing grace toward us. This truth also makes me want to pray much more fervently pray for and seek to love into the kingdom those that do not know him, yet.

It was a great day of worship and a great evening spent with my small group. And now I get to crawl into bed next to a woman that I love! "Father, thank you! Thank you for allowing me to live, to breath, to love, and to be loved. With love from an undeserving but grateful child, Paul."

a partner in the gospel,

Pastor Paul

The Gospel of John 1:14-18 Post #3

2008-04-14T08:11:00.005-05:00

And the Word became flesh. and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the One and Only, who came from the Father full of grace and truth. John 1:14

I don't know how to express the importance of this passage. It may be one of the most significant sentences in the Bible. I know that is a dangerous thing to say 'cause every passage is significant, but...

The incarnation is what is being described here. There are several key thoughts mentioned here: flesh, dwelling, glory, One and Only, grace and truth. Take a few moments and contemplate each of these words. How do you understand these words? Give us some of your thoughts in the "comments" section of this blog.

Take a moment and read Philippians 2:5-11 and read the Apostle Paul's description of the incarnation. In the "comments section," describe for us how you understand the incarnation. How would you describe it differently to someone who does not have a "Christian" background?

your partner in the gospel,

Pastor Paul

P.S. For a cup of coffee at the GROUNDS FOR MISSIONS coffee shop @ HOPE: What is another way to translate the word "dwelling?" In what ways does this word have Old Testament connections or illusions?

UND Hockey and Marriage

2008-04-11T13:46:00.007-05:00

I am not going to cry. But last night was a tough loss for the UND Hockey Team and for those of us who are UND Hockey fans. 6 to 1 is a trouncing. The guys gave us a great season. I was hoping, and "planning" on a win. This was our fourth trip to the Final Four. I was thinking that it was our time. After the first period my hopes and plans were being dashed by the Boston Eagles aggressive and quick offense. My misery was cut short, before the game was finished I had to head to church for a group session for couples planning on being married.

I listened as the panel of veteran married folks talked about working through struggles, forgiveness, dealing with disappointments and even the blessings of being together. I was blessed and reminded that I want to continue to work on my relationship with the one I love. It was a great session. I hope the young couples take it to heart. I hope they allow the struggles, difficulties, and blessings to be used to build a foundation for a great life together.

Today I opened up the paper and the reporters were analyzing and commenting on UND's trouncing. One of the pieces that impressed me was what the guys and the reporter said about Phil Lamoreaux. "He's a stand up guy,"said Chorney, "and he's not going to hide behind anything." Lamoreaux talked about the goals he would like back. He didn't make excuses. There were a few split second decisions that ended up in goals being scored against him. The Grand Forks Herald reporter also mentioned that Phil was the first UND guy in line to shake hands with Boston and the last Sioux player to leave the ice after he shook the hands of the referees.

I don't want to stretch the connection too much between my activities last night; hockey and pre-marital counseling, but...

There are, in every marriage, the moments that we would like to take back. But we can't. This is a time to be "stand up" people. A time to be people who are willing to take ownership for our behavior, the successes as well as the things we "wish we could get back." I wish we could all learn to not "hide behind things" and to stand tall through our struggles and difficulties. If we could do this, I think there would be more couples who choose to not "leave the ice" early.

Your partner in the gospel,

Pastor Paul

The Gospel of John 1:1-15

2008-04-10T16:38:00.007-05:00

The Apostle John has set out several themes in this preamble to his gospel . These themes are repeated throughout his book and are meant to support of his thesis (John 20:30,31).

John 20:30, 31
Jesus did many other miraculous signs in the presence of his disciples, which are not recorded in this book. But these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name.

John states that his desire is that the people who read his text will believe that Jesus is the Christ. He makes no apologies for his biased. He has been with the risen Christ and knows Him.

Here are some of the themes you will pick up in this introduction by John and throughout the rest of the book:

The diety of Jesus
The Word
Creative power
Life
Light and Darkness
The World
The lack of recognition

Questions for discussion:

Do you think we can trust an account from someone like the Apostle John? Why or why not?
John is clearly saying that the Word (Jesus) is God. As we look at John's Christology what else is John claiming is true regarding Jesus?
In what ways do you notice that the world does not recognize Jesus (vs 10)?
The phrase "The One and Only" is used two times by John in this passage. What do you think John is saying with that wonderful phrase?
As we think throughout this book about the word "believe" what do you think John means when he uses it in John 20:31?

your partner in the gospel,

Pastor Paul
P.S. Congratulations to Jay K. for answering the question about the Eagle from The Gathering. Jay, I will be buying your coffee on Sunday.

Invitation to the Gospel of John

2008-04-07T17:15:00.004-05:00

Michael Card writes in his book, The Parable of Joy, Reflections on the Wisdom of the Book of John:

“Realize, as you listen to the text (he suggests reading out loud – me too), that you are sitting at the feet of the last living contemporary of Jesus. Give him the respect he deserves. Pay close attention as he takes you aside and whispers explanations in your ear, things he only realized years after the fact. None of the other Gospel writers will do this for you.”

I am going to be reading the gospel of John over the next few weeks (maybe months). We will also be studying it at The Gathering, our Wednesday evening Worship service at the church that I pastor.

I am planning on writing some of my thoughts regarding my reading here in my blog – Spotlights. I would like to invite you to do the same in the COMMENTS section. This is an invitation to sit at a “virtual table” or in a “virtual stuffed chair in front of a fireplace” and discuss a wonderful book. We won’t all read the gospel at the same pace, or the same time, and all won’t have the same level of involvement -- that is fine. Whenever you are available, grab a cup of coffee, your bible, and a nice comfortable chair and let’s discuss our reading. About once a week I will do a post under the symbol of the Eagle, which through much of Church history has represented the Gospel of John, and I will invite you to comment, ask questions, or just be present at the virtual table.

Some of you, I would guess, are ready to jump in! If you would like, let us know who you are by adding a COMMENT to this post.
Your partner in the gospel,
Pastor Paul

(καταρτίζω) Restoration - The Church's Test continued...

2008-04-06T20:38:00.008-05:00

There is a wonderful word in the book of Ephesians about how the church is to function and the role of certain gifted people within the church. It is described in Ephesians 4:11-13:

It was he who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers, to prepare God's people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ.

The key word I would like to focus on is this wonderful word "prepare." The passage says that there are those who are to do the work of "preparing" God's people so that they can do works of service. In the New American Standard version of the Bible the word used is "equip." I like that word even better! That God's people are to be "equipped" for works of service. The word that is being translated prepare or equip is from the root word: καταρτίζω. Kä-tär-tē'-zō and is translated in several ways in the bible. I would like to explore some of the ways katartezo is translated and used in the context of the Scriptures. This will take several entries. Hopefully through this exploration we can gain a better understanding of what it means for us to be equipping people or doing the work of discipleship. I see this as a significant test for the church; do we "katartezo" well?

The first occurance of this word in the New Testament is early in the gospels. Jesus sees James and John in their boat and they are mending their nets (Mark 1:19). The word for mending is καταρτίζω. The idea here is that the disciples are mending the holes in their nets so that the nets could be put back into use. When thinking of the work of discipleship in this context, it is like saying that part of the work of the church is helping repair the holes in people's lives so that they can be put back into service.

What an image! I love it. The Church, mending people's lives. Think about all the various ways people tear holes in their lives or how people tear holes into the lives of those around them. The repairing, or mending of these holes, is the work of the church. Discipleship, it seems, is about this work of mending. 1 Peter 2:11 says, "Beloved, I urge you as aliens and strangers to abstain from fleshly lusts which wage war against the soul." When a soul has had war waged against it the damage is significant, whether it is self-inflicted or inflicted by another. The work of the church is to help those holes be filled or mended so that that life, an individual made in teh image of God, can again bring glory to Him.

Maybe as we think of whether a church is doing what God has designed her to do we should do more than ask whether they have "this or that" program. Maybe we ought to ask "how are they doing at mending lives.

a partner in the gospel,

Pastor Paul

A Big Day for Grand Forks, North Dakota

2008-04-04T09:37:00.012-05:00

The radio announcer got it right this morning; "This is a big news day for Grand Forks." It is and I find it really exciting.

This evening we will be hosting two huge events. The opening ceremonies for the Men's World Curling Championships and the North Dakota Democratic Convention with keynote speakers Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton all in Grand Forks, North Dakota. Who would have thought it? These are big events, international and national, for our community and we get the opportunity to showcase our city and the character of the people who live here.

I know that some who read this will have mixed emotions about both of these events. There are some of us who are unaware that there is a sport other than hockey that can be played on ice. We are after all the home of the finest hockey arena in the United States. And, we will know after next week for sure, the finest college hockey team in the United States. But there are many in the world who enjoy an ice sport called curling. And many of them will be in our city for the next week or so. What a great opportunity for us to learn more about the sport and to offer a friendly welcome to those who are visiting here.

The other big event is the North Dakota Democratic Convention with two presidential candidates speaking here tonight. You don't have to agree with these candidates to appreciate this event. Agree or not, the convention highlights one of the beauties of our political system. We have a system that allows for varying opinions to be voiced in the freedom of public forum. With all of its flaws, I believe that we have the best political system in the world. It should not be overlooked that we will be hosting these two candidates on the anniversary of the death of Martin Luther King, Jr. You can bet that the nation will be observing tonight. But this is not my main point in writing.

I would like to encourage us in the Greater Grand Forks area to raise the bar of our courtesy and friendliness to all those who will be visiting our great region. We are a wonderful city and many of us are followers of Jesus Christ. This evening there will be many lights on, spotlights shining all over. I pray that the brightest lights will not be at the Ralph Engelstad Arena nor at the Alerus Center but that the brightest light will be the Church of the Greater Grand Forks area -- shining with the love of Jesus Christ.

Your partner in the gospel,

Pastor Paul

April Fools Day - Backfired :-(

2008-04-01T16:40:00.000-05:00

Several years ago a friend and I were playing practical jokes on each other -- it was all meant to be good fun. But we got out of hand. So we agreed not to do that anymore. Well my high play ethic and my spontaneous impulsiveness got the better of me today.

It was the continuation of an April Fools joke played on me and I encouraged the individual to play it on others as well. And, of course, I helped with the deception. This wasn't one of those April Fools jokes where you switch the salt and the sugar type pranks. This was one that too closely mimicked real life. It took advantage of the goodness of other individuals and also squandered trust amongst friends. What's more, I ignored the check in my spirit (probably a prompting from God) that said, "this isn't right."

No one was physically hurt and we didn't mean harm, but . . .
I am confident of forgiveness and grace from all involved, but I am saddened that I used, as a joke, the trust of friendship. I remember someone saying when I was a kid, "well it is all fun until someone pokes out an eye." Well, I feel like I pokes some friends in the eye today and to be honest -- it wasn't that fun.

a partner in the gospel
Pastor Paul

WHEN YOU WANT TO COMMENT HERE - PLEASE GIVE US YOUR NAME

2008-03-29T19:47:00.001-05:00

I appreciate that a few of you are starting to comment on my blog. Thank you. My hope is that through some of the thoughts and ideas expressed here that we will be able to learn from each other, grow in our thinking, and appeciate one another's ideas.

Recently there have been a few annonymous comments. I liked some of the ideas and thoughts behind what was written. However in the future, I am planning on deleting annonymous comments. I learned in the second church that I served that people can be very unkind annonymously. Our staff rule was that these kind of letters were not even read. I notice that one of the options offered in my current blogging format is to comment annonymously. I will try to figure out how to not allow that option.

What I am hoping is that we can have honest expression of ideas and be loving toward one another. When there is no accountability for what we say there is a tendency to not say what we mean with care toward others. Hopefully this all makes sense -- otherwise -- feel free to comment!

blessings - a partner in the gospel,

Pastor Paul

Economic or Spiritual Stimulus Package?

2008-03-24T12:52:00.000-05:00

The US government has announced that they are providing a $145 billion economic stimulus package to taxpayers. It is pretty exciting to think that our government is going to be sending most of us checks in the mail. I like that! This is being sent in hopes that it will be an “economic stimulus” package . Spend the money on something you want or need and give our lagging economy a needed "shot in the arm.” Although I am not convinced this will work, I certainly like the idea of putting funds into the hands of people. “Free” money is good. But I am wondering if it could be used for a greater stimulus?

There is an old saying that I have heard many times through my “brief” years. “Put your money where your mouth is.” I would like to change that a bit. I would like to encourage us to think in terms of “putting our money where we would like our hearts to be!” Jesus teaches; “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also (Luke 12:34).” Think of it! Most of us want our hearts more in tune with Christ and more alive spiritually. What if you could stimulate your heart through giving! I believe we can. It seems that this is one of the reasons Jesus teaches so much about money and possessions. Because he knows that money and possessions do affect our hearts spiritually, either for benefit or as a hindrance. Dare I say that faithful giving may prevent significant heart disease? Back to this economic stimulus package.

I am thinking that this gift of money from our government may have a greater value than merely being an economic stimulus package. What if the followers of Jesus Christ would take this money and use it as a way of directing or stimulating our hearts through the worship of giving? Moving this money from being an Economic Stimulus Package to a Spiritual Stimulus Package!

While I was in Ethiopia, it struck me that my wife and I will be receiving approximately $300 per child in our household and about $1,200 for us as a couple. The cost to sponsor a child through Compassion International is about $384.00 per year -- $32.00 per month (http://www.compassion.com/). What if we used a part of our economic stimulus package to affect the life of a child in the world? Think of the benefit to us and to the child. This got me thinking about this stimulus package even more. How can we use these monies to further the kingdom of God?

What about blessing your local church or a local church ministry? Our congregation is going into a building program in the next few months. We want to provide more seats for those who don’t know Jesus yet. We are also thinking of launching a new offsite worship venue so that we can bring the good news of Christ to more people. I am thinking that using a portion of the economic stimulus package to help launch our building fund or satellite worship venue, or even another area of ministry through our church, might be something worth praying about! Imagine what would happen if followers all around the U.S.A. would provide an influx of “over-and-above” gifts to their local churches or ministries to be used to help stimulate the spiritual lives of those around you. The options are as varied as our hearts. The point I am seeking to make is that we can just spend the money or use it for spiritual purposes. Let me tell you what I am praying about…

I have been thinking of getting a big screen television (it started as a 52”) since sometime before Christmas. I now have this free money coming and I am thinking: “Big screen television or sponsor another child?” I am struggling with “big screen television or helping HOPE, our church, extend the ministry of good news.

Think of the benefits to your life spiritually, the spiritual life of your family, if we all would sit down together with this money in hand and ask God: “Father, how can these monies be used as a Spiritual Stimulus Package? How would you like us to use this to impact Your kingdom or to do good in Your name?” Maybe we will find Him saying: “Go ahead treat yourself and give to this area of my kingdom.” I am not sure what the outcome would be for you or for me. I just think it will be good for us to be open to Him and ask the questions.

Your partner in the gospel,
Pastor Paul

P.S. If you give a gift as a result of the economic stimulus package may I encourage you to write on the check memo line: Spiritual Stimulus Package.

He is risen! You decide...

2008-03-22T11:14:00.000-05:00

Lee Strobel quotes professor Gerd Lüdemann, professor at the University of Göttingen in Germany on the plausibility of the resurrection of Jesus Christ. The prof. says,

“If you say that Jesus rose from the dead biologically, you would have to presuppose that a decaying corpse -- which is already cold and without blood in its brain -- could be made alive again..." "I think that is nonsense."

The Apostle Paul, formerly Saul Tarsus -- who saw the resurrected Christ with his own eyes -- wrote:

"If there is no resurrection of the dead, then not even Christ has been raised. And if Christ has not been raised, our preaching is useless and so is your faith. More than that, we are then found to be false witnesses about God, for we have testified about God that he raised Christ from the dead. But he did not raise him if in fact the dead are not raised. For if the dead are not raised, then Christ has not been raised either. And if Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile; you are still in your sins."

Regarding the resurrection - you decide for yourself! You don't actually decide if it is true or not. Your decision, regardless of what it is regarding the resurrection, does not change the historical facts regarding Christ's rising from the dead. Either He rose or He did not. Your decision only affects how your life is lived within the reality of the truth of the resurrection. And that decision has huge ramifications for the life you get to live in the here and now and in the one to come.

"Christ is risen. He is risen, indeed!"

a partner in the good news of Jesus,

Paul

the one from Proctor, Minnesota -- not the one from Tarsus : )

The Redemption of St. Patrick's Story

2008-03-17T07:28:00.000-05:00

Today we celebrate the man who allegedly corralled the snakes out of Ireland. We do this by eating corned beef and cabbage (a family tradition my daughter really dislikes), wearing green and talking in silly accents. Many will even indulge in green beer and a few will try to dance like a leprechaun. I won’t be attempting the dance this year. But there is so much more to this man who came out of incredible adversity to influence a nation through his devotion to Jesus Christ.

Patrick was captured from his "well to do" family home in Britain (probably Scotland) by men under the strong arm of a warrior chief. Around the age of sixteen, he was brought in bonds to the land of Ireland where he was enslaved. His chief, or master, was a barbaric man who had placed the heads of those who opposed him on posts throughout the land. It was during this time of brutal slavery, isolation and starvation, while he tended to the pigs that he began to contemplate the godly teachings of his childhood and the creation around him. He was convinced of the truths of Christ. This led to a devotion and relationship with the Lord that guided his entire life.

"I would pray constantly during the daylight hours," he later recalled. "The love of God and the fear of him surrounded me more and more. And faith grew. And the spirit roused so that in one day I would say as many as a hundred prayers, and at night only slightly less."

It was a vision from the Lord that led him on a 200 mile journey to the coast where he would board a trading ship to his homeland. He left as an escaped slave, but that is not the end of his story, obvioulsy. The beauty of Patrick's story is that several years later he would return to Ireland under the conscription of a new but loving master, Jesus Christ. He returned to the land of his captivity as a missionary/evangelist. Patrick used the things of the culture and his faith to lead these people, who were planted in his heart, toward the love of God.

This truly is a day when we can celebrate and be challenged by a man whose love for Jesus caused him to risk all for Him.

a partner in the gospel,

Pastor Paul "Frazier" Knight

Primary Source: Christian History magazine. http://www.christianitytoday.com/history/special/131christians/patrick.html

SUPER PASTOR -- NOT

2008-03-06T10:30:00.000-06:00

It was time for the sermon and the point had to be made. I donned, at the suggestion of our worship director, the superman t-shirt and cape and sprinted to the front of the worship center. With arms outstretched (as though I was flying - a personal dream), I began my run across the front of the room, down the side aisle, and then finally up the center aisle. I opted out of the leap onto the platform and ran up the stairs. Gripping the pulpit, with super pastor strength, I pulled it up onto the platform and then lifted it above my head -- and held it with one hand. There was significant laughter and applause.

Then I launched into my message for the morning, between deep breaths and a desire for more oxygen, I made the point. "I am not truly Super Pastor and we all know this." I told them of about 10 years ago when I was exhausted and spiritually struggling. I further described how I knew I was not doing well, when I recognized that I was slipping into my office and turning off the lights between services. I didn't want the light to shine under my office door, because I was hoping no one would come to talk to me. I was too tired from trying to be more than God had made me to be. This led to the main point of the message for the morning. "We, all of us who follow Jesus, are a royal priesthood and God has made us all to serve together for His kingdom." I think, even despite the over the top theatrics, that the point was made. God desires to bless each of us with the priveledge of serving his kingdom. This was the end of first service.

Second service went pretty much like first service. Accept I faultered lifting the pulpit up over my head. I got it there, but it began to tip. I got it down quick, almost taking out the worship team's monitors, and launched into my message. Second and third services we also had Matthew West as a guest artist. This was a great blessing. He closed second service with "Only Grace" following our celebration of the Lord's supper. This led us to third service.

The worship time with Matthew West for third service was wonderful! God's presence was sensed as He was sensed the previous services. But now -- it was time for Super Pastor! I again donned my t-shirt and cape and sprinted to the front of the worship center. Struck a Super Pastor pose, right arm stretched to the skies and took off for my sprint around the room. Somewhere between that moment and the next I ended up planted into the carpet. I rose to the applause and laughter of the congregation. Bright red faced, I mouthed to our worship director, "I think I pulled something." Now with a much more vivid image, I worked my way up the platform, didn't run, and asked for help with the pulpit. Pain! I finished the message, the celebration of the Lord's Supper, and made the point that everyone needs to pitch in -- "I am not super pastor."

The end result is that tomorrow I have surgery to reattach my Achiles Tendon. Not the way I wanted to make the point. But it is clear: I am not super pastor. Not even really that powerful at all... Have a great week!

your partner in the gospel,
Pastor Paul

Restoration -- The Church's Test

2008-02-26T19:41:00.000-06:00

Brothers, if someone is caught in a sin, you who are spiritual should restore him gently. But watch yourself, or you also may be tempted. Carry each other's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. If anyone thinks he is something when he is nothing, he deceives himself. Each one should test his own actions. Then he can take pride in himself, without comparing himself to somebody else, for each one should carry his own load. Galatians 6:1-5 NIV

I wonder in the local church who is "spiritual?" The Apostle Paul states that the "Spiritual" one in the church should work toward the restoration of sinners...

If we would look at the church today, you might think that there are very few "spiritual" ones because there seems to be precious few who enter into this kind of restorative and gentle work.

But I think we know better. The spirtual are not a special class Jesus follower. The spirtual are all who follow Jesus.

By basic definition the spiritual are those who have the Holy Spirit and by definition those who have the Spirit are followers of Christ. The Apostle Paul in Romans 8:9 reminds us; You, however, are controlled not by the sinful nature but by the Spirit, if the Spirit of God lives in you. And if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, he does not belong to Christ.

Therefore, lets be clear that the followers of Jesus Christ who see a brother or sister caught in a sin should, because the Holy Spirit is within them, seek to gently restore them. Could I say it this way? "The Spirit-filled person is one who is a restorative type person."

Did we hear it; if you are spiritual and see someone, a brother or sister in Christ, caught in something destructive to their souls -- do the work of gently going to them and helping them find their way back to their spiritual home. Help them be restored. I wonder how much of the way people view their relationship with the church would change if "sinners" found out that the body of Christ loved enough to be restoration not merely pointing out the sinfulness?

I BROKE MY COFFEE POT

2008-02-19T14:59:00.000-06:00

I returned from my trip with Compassion International in Ethiopia. It was an incredible experience. I am confident that I have been marked by the Spirit in ways that I will not fully know for quite some time.

On the way home I missed my flight out of Dulles to Mpls. due to a delay taking off from Addis Ababa. Our 17 hour plane ride had been delayed by an hour so I was unable to make my connection. I was put on stand-by for the next several flights. Finally, at 5:22 (EST) I had my seat and was on my way to Minneapolis where I would catch another flight to home in Grand Forks. I arrived home sometime after 11:00 p.m. (CST) I was picked up at the airport by my son, who said to me, "I am looking forward to hearing about what you saw dad." He has been to Africa. We will share something together of the pain and wonder.

When I got home I decided to pull my toothbrush (with plans to kiss my wife Bonnie) from my luggage. While I was looking for my toothbrush I was really disappionted to find that my Ethipopian coffee pot was broken along with two of the five cups I had purchased. The coffee pot was intended to be a reminder of the coffee ceremony that was so graciously performed at almost every home we entered. It was a beautiful sign of hospitality. And my coffee pot was now broken. I had not packed it well.

Holding the broken pot in my hand my immediate thought was, "well I will have to replace this some day!" I will have to replace it someday because, I guess, I can. And that is what hurts. It was only going to be a decoration. Not something I would use. The coffee pot was to be added to the artifacts of my travels. And I can replace it. And I will most likely have opportunity. And I will most likely have the means. So I went to bed.

Today, I began gluing up my broken Ethiopian coffee pot. I am gluing it because I feel like I must. Other than the coffee pot, I am not sure what else "I must." I am sure that the Father will teach me and I hope that as He does that I will say, "I must."
Your partner in the gospel,
Pastor Paul

Here is a link in case you would like to check out Compassion:
http://www.compassion.com/default.htm

All You Who Are Thirsty -- Come

2008-01-23T11:26:00.000-06:00

I was thinking this week about the times in my spiritual life when I am parched and living with a dehydrated soul. In these times my tendency is to want God to intervene and “do something” about me. I want him to pour into me the streams of living water (his Holy Spirit) that I crave. And I cry out to him to come to me and quench the thirst of my being. I have been listening to numerous songs that join me in the cry: “Come to me.” “Come to me” seems to be a common theme.

As I was re-reading Jesus’ words from John 7:37-39, I found myself being spoken to… The words that Jesus speaks to us are “"If anyone is thirsty, let him come to me and drink.” Interesting, I am praying, crying out, demanding, for him to come to me. And his invitation is for me “to come to him.” I don’t want to quibble about words, yet I find it interesting that I do this very thing in my other relationships. I want my friends to “come to me.” To call me. To visit me. I want them to make the first move. How self-centered of me.

James 4:8 has a wonderful promise: “Come near to God and he will come to you.” The King of the Universe invites me into his presence and I am saying to him – “no, you come to me?” Who am I?

Then from a different perspective, my heavenly Father is saying, “Come to me, you who are weary and burdened.” The invitation is to me – his cherished and loved child! Come and I will take the burden. I wonder what He knows about the benefits of me coming to him?

Restoration - The Church's Test

2008-01-11T14:21:00.000-06:00

I wonder where my desire for us to get this right, the restoration of those caught in sin, comes from? Maybe it is because I have had so many I love flee or slip out of relationship with their "Church family" only to pursue or wander spiritually because of stupid choices they have made. Maybe it comes from the look I see on the faces of men and woman who "come back" for another attempt at Church family after a long bout of sinful choices. Sometimes the shame I see in their faces makes me weep. Maybe it is a bit of pragmatism? I see some of us in the church family make attempts at "getting it right" and watch as the wandering soul is pushed further from the church family. Maybe it is more personal? Maybe it is because I have had wonderful brothers and sisters stand by me when I have struggles and they have graced me -- held me with the "kindness of God that has led me to repentance."I don't have this all figured out. I don't have all my thoughts in order or refined, but I thought I would start figuring it out right here. I will come back to this thought periodically, because I am a sinner that loves the church family and I know a bunch of sinners that need the church family.

Here goes: How should we, the Church, respond when one of us gets "stuck" in sinfulness. As I have been thinking of this there is a frustration in my soul with how I sense and see that we handle sinners (as though they are not us). There are those who, it seems, get an internal sense of satisfaction when someone, especially from another theological or ecclesiastical flavor, gets caught. We walk around like clucking roosters proud that our theology or ecclesiology kept us out of trouble -- "we must be right in what we believe." This is clearly sad (even more when it is me doing the clucking). It seems the only thing this truly displays is that the rooster is sinfully arrogant. Then there are those who are intent on "truthing" the individual caught. Like the person who feels it is their "godly duty" to phone the person struggling in marriage or with a divorce just to "let them know the Truth about divorce." I find this so common in the church, and very ineffective. I do, honestly, understand the importance of speaking the Truth. But sometimes it seems that our need to speak the truth is more about us than the one being spoken to. It appears to me that it gives us a sense of "well I've done my part and now they know." In many ways, and I have done this, it disgusts me. This is generally not done in love. Dare I say "rarely done in love?" And it does not seem to be done with the "sinner's" benefit in mind at all -- although we pretend it is. It seems to me that we get this internal sense of satisfaction with keeping the "church pure" as we help these sinful folks out. Or that, in the midst of other Christians hearing about the person from our church that is stuck in sin, we make sure the other Christians (from other churches) know that we are not compromising on the Truth! "We have told them they are wrong!" It seems that we feel like we have to prove ourselves to the critics from other fellowships. Like we have to “be harsh on the sinner” so that those who are always watching and judging whether or not we are getting it right. I found this quote on a website called Ponder These Things. The quote is from Brian McLaren. "

Being right isn't enough. We also need to be wise. And loving. And patient.
Perhaps nothing short of that should 'seem good to the Holy Spirit and
us.'"

Maybe McLaren touches on what I am feeling and thinking. As I become older I am becoming more and more partial to the Apostle Paul's statement in Romans 2:4: Or do you show contempt for the riches of his kindness, tolerance and patience, not realizing that God's kindness leads you toward repentance?

It we, the Church, really believed in the forgiveness of sins and the power of love to draw people back into the fold wouldn't we extend it more? I am beginning to look at this as a significant test for the church. Can we and will we restore the prodigals in our midst? Are we willing to make the effort or to expend the energy or to risk the hurt? Galatians 6:1-5 speaks volumns about how we should respond -- the spiritual should gently restore.

Brothers, if someone is caught in a sin, you who are spiritual should restore him gently. But watch yourself, or you also may be tempted. Carry each other's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. If anyone thinks he is something when he is nothing, he deceives himself. Each one should test his own actions. Then he can take pride in himself, without comparing himself to somebody else, for each one should carry his own load.

Your partner in the gospel,

Pastor Paul

Beautiful Snow

2007-12-22T16:14:00.000-06:00

What a beautiful morning it is... My trees in the back yard have been brushed with frost and snow. The whiteness has touched almost everything in my yard. I can't help but to think of two songs I heard years ago. These songs play often in my head through Christmas; "I'm Dreaming of a White Christmas" and "Whiter Than Snow." One of the stanzas says, "Whiter than snow, wash me and I will be whiter than snow." The prophet Isaiah writes, "Come now, let us reason together, though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be whiter than snow... ( Isaiah 1:18)"

The big and difficult thing for me is to choose to believe and trust that I am truly forgiven. Or as the Scriptures teach -- that I am whiter than snow. I am invited in the Isaiah text to reason with him. To discuss with him my thoughts about forgiveness and my struggles. I am invited to come. It is funny when I do come to him and listen to His "reasoning" I find myself within that truth -- of being clean -- of being whiter than snow. Then I am motivated to want to live out who I am.

I want to live in the truth that, because of Jesus, I am holy and blameless. I want to live in the truth in a theological sense. But also, I want to live in that truth pragmatically. I want to in increasing measure live out the holiness and blamelessness of Jesus Christ.

I am truly thankful, at the core of my being, that I have been washed. I am thankful for a Savior who has come to set us free. This morning I am just allowing that truth to bless me and to be brushed across the topography of my heart.

Your partner in the gospel,

Pastor Paul

In the next 20 to 30 years

2007-11-16T21:30:00.000-06:00

Bonnie and I just returned from a week of vacation in Florida. We spent our week at her dad’s place which is located in a small community for people over 55 years old, a retirement village. I found it quite interesting. The place was full of wonderful senior adults many of them enjoying life and contributing to those around them. But this was not so for others. I was struck by how empty and seemingly quite meaningless life can be if your heart and life are not prepared for your tomorrows. I found myself pondering what my life might be like when I am in my senior years.

Assuming, which can’t be assumed, that I will be living 20 or 30 years from now I wonder… How will my spiritual habits sustain me in the future? How will my financial preparation sustain me? Who will my friends be? Am I caring for my health in a way that will make my senior years productive? Will I desire to be serving Jesus with a similar passion that I do now? I know that there are a lot of variables, but not everything is up for grabs is it. Whatever is to come I would like my spiritual life to be full of vitality and in a giving mode. In order to have this hope I know there are some things that I need to modify in my life today so that I can be ready for tomorrow.

Visiting this retirement community for the week also made me think of my mother. She is 77 years old and still teaches a weekly Bible study to young women. She became a follower of Jesus when I was a high school student. Giving through teaching God’s Word has been a part of her spiritual life for as long as I can remember. I admire that in her. I read recently a quote from Philip Yancey: “We must serve or we die.” Each one of us is given a gift that is meant for the rest of us. It is an interesting paradox in the life of a Christian – the more you give yourself away the more you live!

Which brings me back to the things I am pondering: what modifications do I need to make today so that my tomorrow is vital?
Your partner in the gospel,
Pastor Paul

NOT JUST COFFEE

2007-11-06T20:57:00.001-06:00

We all know it instinctively, I think, that fellowship is more than just sharing a cup of coffee. Fellowship as I look at it in the New Testament seems to be about sharing life. It implies a depth. As I was looking up the word, kononia (fellowship), I was reminded of a few things and taught a few things. I was reminded that fellowship is about real relationship, depth of relationship as I mentioned earlier. But I was taught something about how this depth is created. I found it really interesting that the word for fellowship implies within it a “generosity.” What a wonderful understanding -- relational generosity. Fellowship is being a relationally generous giver – giving of ourselves in relationship to others. Fellowship is being a relationally generous receiver – receiving relationship from others.

Wow, imagine if we could create a Church where relational generosity was the norm. If we fellowshipped by being generous with our gifts, our talents, our stories, our vulnerabilities, our weaknesses, and our sinfulness. But not stopping there. But striving as well to be relationally generous receivers; receiving other’s gifts, talents, stories, vulnerabilities, weaknesses, and sins. I am thinking I want to strive toward relationally generosity. But as I write that I know there are things that are risky about it. I wonder if I will be able to take the risk – at least gradually.
Your partner in the gospel,
Pastor Paul

Being What We Need

2007-10-27T10:27:00.000-05:00

It is so easy to think of ourselves as independent individuals or to think of ourselves as just a part of a big whole - the Church universal. Both are true but can leave us a bit stilted. One can lead to incredible self-centeredness and the other to an individualistic or anonymous style of faith. The Bible is clear that we are meant to be fully a part of a local church family. Caring and being cared for, encouraging and being encouraged, serving and being served. When the church functions well – there is nothing like it on the face of the earth! I have been struck lately by how significant the Church family is too many of us – especially in times of crisis and struggle and times of rejoicing! When I read Acts 2 it is clear that “those people really cared about each other!” Can we, dare we settle for anything less?

I must confess that as HOPE Covenant Church grows there is part of me that fears that we will not do well at caring for one another or even knowing one another. Part of the problem is that we put the onus for being loving and caring on “the church.” Truth is “we” are the church and in order for us to receive from “the church” what we need, we need to become examples of what we need.
Blessings on you as you love God and love others in Jesus name.
Your partner in the gospel,
Pastor Paul

Fall Success

2007-09-13T21:01:00.000-05:00

This has been a great week of reinvigorating of activities and the life of the church for many! The fall season is here! Sunday in worship we had a bunch of people in attendance. It is great to see so many college students making attendance at a church a priority in their lives. Last night (Wednesday) the house was a buzz with people! Kids were coming to their Wednesday night programs and ministries. The youth (lots of them) coming for the fall kick off of tacos, iced coffees, to hang with other youth, and listen to music. Adults came for worship, prayer, and study of God’s Word. This has been a “successful” week! or has it?

It struck me, again, recently how God measures success. I don’t think He measures based merely on numbers of people, although every person that we count – counts to God. So I think He likes lots of people gathering together, but there is more. I think God measures our hearts. Are we, collectively and individually, growing more and more in love with Him and are we more and more learning to love others. As many of you know, there were several of us who worked at the Northland’s Rescue Mission this past week helping to create a setting of beauty through gardens and patios. It was a lot of fun. But here is what happened to me.

As I served, doing something I naturally enjoy, I found my heart getting bigger. I liked the people I was serving alongside (Bonnie, Clayton, Zona, Vince, Myron, Sharon, Cowboy, Freddy, Barley, Todd, Bob, Esaad, and others). I was riding a few days later with one of my kids past the mission. There was someone outside that I recognized so I beeped the horn on my truck. “You find some new friends, dad?” was the “teenage” question asked with a smile in the voice. I just smiled back. But the answer is “yes.” Maybe I can’t truly call them friends, but I do care and if I could go so far as to say I think I love them more had I not taken the time to serve with them. My heart grew when I took the step to serve and to get to know a bit better, and to care. I think that is what God will measure in us as a church…are we loving more?

May you be blessed as you love the Father and love others in Jesus name,

Paul