RECENT CONNECTIONS AND REFLECTIONS:
The week of November 29th was filled with Budget and Finance Committee, Departmental Leaders, and Executive Presbyter meetings as we worked on finalizing a budget to present to the Presbytery in January for the coming year. It is a pleasure to work with everyone involved in these areas of leadership.
On December 3rd Loretta and I traveled to San Diego, CA for a CEP board meeting followed by four days of AG Executive Leadership meetings. Shared worship, workshops, and personal interactions are beneficial at these events.
On Saturday and Sunday, December 11 and 12 it was my privilege to publicly present Crystal Sharp her Certificate of Ministry in the three weekend worship services at Grace Community Church in Centennial, CO. Crystal is part of the pastoral team at Grace. Congratulations Crystal!
A NEW YEAR AHEAD:
Entering a new year is often a time for personal reflection and evaluation. I recall a cartoon in which a woman hands her husband a list and says, “Here are your new year’s resolutions”. The input of others is helpful, but we should from time to time assess ourselves to see if there are areas where we need to grow. I would like to suggest a format for assessing where we are in ministry. I have framed these thoughts with the acronym EXCEL.
ENJOY your work! Certainly every assignment has its challenges and I know that pain is a companion of leadership. Having said that, however, when we are In the will of God and faithfully carrying out the work there is a sense of peace and enjoyment that is absent when a person is outside God’s will. The joy of the Lord is present as well when we are walking with Him. Are we enjoying our work? Do we believe we are in the center of God’s will?
EXCEED expectations! Doing the minimum required or falling short of the minimum produces an unfruitful ministry. “Under promise and over deliver” is a formula for success. Are we willing to go the extra mile in ministry?
CONNECT with God! Our personal spiritual health and the invocation of God’s favor are essential to our effectiveness in ministry. A great irony of the ministry is that we can grow distant in our relationship with God even as we seek to serve Him. Are we keeping spiritual disciplines alive? Are we earnestly seeking His direction in our ministry?
EXEMPLIFY Christ! Living in the “glass house” is added motivation to keep our lives holy and healthy, as well as motivation to provide an example for others to follow. Are we overcoming temptation? Is the fruit of the Spirit increasing in our lives?
LOVE people! Love fulfills the law and it is difficult to miss the mark when you truly love people as Christ loves them. It is easy to become jaded and cynical in our relationships with people; assuming the worst instead of the best. Is God’s grace and love reflected through our interactions with people? Are we moved with compassion by their needs?
I pray we all will excel in our work for Jesus Christ.
PRAYER NEEDS:
Please pray for the Art Moya family. Art passed away on December 4, 2010. He pastored our church in Berthoud, CO for several years and is loved and respected by many.
Thursday, December 16, 2010
Monday, November 29, 2010
RECENT CONNECTIONS AND REFLECTIONS
On October 31st Loretta and I had the privilege of sharing in the celebration of the 100th anniversary of First Assembly of God in Greeley, Colorado with Pastor Michael and Nan Popineau, and the congregation. This church predates the inception of the AG and has a rich history of ministry.
I have heard it said that every generation has to develop its own churches. There is some truth in that statement and for a church to be sustained effectively from generation to generation is a significant accomplishment. Some of our finest ministers have pastored this church through the years and their leadership provides an example of moving a church forward while respecting the history of the church.
On November 14th I installed Bill Woods as the new Pastor of Solid Rock Christian Fellowship in Florence, CO. Congratulations Bill and Paula on your new God-given assignment. May God bless your ministry in Florence!
On November 21st Loretta and I visited Northland Community Church led by Pastor Jerry and Susan Cassell in Monument, CO. This church was launched two months ago and has an average Sunday a.m. worship attendance of about 75 and a youth ministry with about 35 teenagers in attendance.
We had a church in Monument for many years, but after some reverses we closed it in 2009. There are 250,000 people in a radius of 15 miles around Monument so the need is great. Under the leadership of Jerry Cassell in partnership with Pastor Randy Popineau, The Church at Briargate, and District leadership, Northland Community Church was envisioned and brought into reality. The church is already having a very positive impact on the community. God bless you Jerry and Susan as you lead this vital ministry forward.
In this season of Thanksgiving I thank God for you and pray for God’s blessing in your family and ministry. Today, Loretta and I celebrate 42 years of marriage! Above everything else I thank God for my wonderful wife and family. There is nothing more valuable under God than healthy relationships; first of all with one’s family and then with others.
PRAYER NEEDS:
Please pray for God’s comfort and strength for Steve Salazar’s wife Donna and his family. Pastor Steve Salazar’s funeral service on November 17th was a great celebration of a life well lived. Over 1,000 people were in attendance and schools were closed that day in honor of Steve. His impact in the community of Del Norte, Colorado was extraordinary. He will be missed.
I have heard it said that every generation has to develop its own churches. There is some truth in that statement and for a church to be sustained effectively from generation to generation is a significant accomplishment. Some of our finest ministers have pastored this church through the years and their leadership provides an example of moving a church forward while respecting the history of the church.
On November 14th I installed Bill Woods as the new Pastor of Solid Rock Christian Fellowship in Florence, CO. Congratulations Bill and Paula on your new God-given assignment. May God bless your ministry in Florence!
On November 21st Loretta and I visited Northland Community Church led by Pastor Jerry and Susan Cassell in Monument, CO. This church was launched two months ago and has an average Sunday a.m. worship attendance of about 75 and a youth ministry with about 35 teenagers in attendance.
We had a church in Monument for many years, but after some reverses we closed it in 2009. There are 250,000 people in a radius of 15 miles around Monument so the need is great. Under the leadership of Jerry Cassell in partnership with Pastor Randy Popineau, The Church at Briargate, and District leadership, Northland Community Church was envisioned and brought into reality. The church is already having a very positive impact on the community. God bless you Jerry and Susan as you lead this vital ministry forward.
In this season of Thanksgiving I thank God for you and pray for God’s blessing in your family and ministry. Today, Loretta and I celebrate 42 years of marriage! Above everything else I thank God for my wonderful wife and family. There is nothing more valuable under God than healthy relationships; first of all with one’s family and then with others.
PRAYER NEEDS:
Please pray for God’s comfort and strength for Steve Salazar’s wife Donna and his family. Pastor Steve Salazar’s funeral service on November 17th was a great celebration of a life well lived. Over 1,000 people were in attendance and schools were closed that day in honor of Steve. His impact in the community of Del Norte, Colorado was extraordinary. He will be missed.
Thursday, October 28, 2010
RECENT DEVELOPMENTS
NEW MINISTRY RESOURCE:
Forrest Rowell, who has served as Youth Pastor at Praise AG in Pueblo, CO recently received approval from the Rocky Mountain District, the National Youth Department, and US Missions to serve as the Youth Alive Missionary to the Rocky Mountain District. Youth Alive Missionaries provide resources for churches to reach their local Middle School and High School campuses.
The Youth Alive mission encompasses the following four ministries to campuses: Campus Missionaries, Campus Clubs, Prayer Zone Partners, and the 7 Project which is school assemblies. Forrest has a proven track record of ministry in these areas. In the 2009 - 2010 school year he conducted 15 school assemblies in the Middle Schools and High Schools in Pueblo, CO. As a Youth Alive Missionary he will be able to provide training in campus ministry for Churches, Youth Leaders and Youth Groups. He will also be able to assist in the development of relationships with local school administrators to carry out assemblies and other campus ministry.
Forrest’s ministry will be funded like other missionaries from the support of churches and individuals. Please open your heart to this ministry and consider adding Forrest to your missionary support. Once he has secured 100% of his budget he will be able to engage in this vital ministry.
RECENT CONNECTIONS AND REFLECTIONS:
Since my last ebulletin I had the privilege of installing Albert Lopez as Pastor of The Lighthouse Worship Center in Walsenburg, CO on Sunday October 3rd. It was a joy to minister to this fine congregation and to get acquainted with Pastor Lopez. Welcome to the RMD, Albert!
October 7th and 8th I attended the District Secretary Treasurers conference in Springfield, MO. All Superintendents attend at least one of these conferences to be more fully informed of policies and procedures in credentialing, and resources available through the General Council. This is a great group of ministers serving our fellowship.
October 8 – 10 Loretta attended and spoke in two workshops at the Women’s Ministry Colorado retreat in Keystone, CO. Attendance was very strong. I appreciate Peggy Vawter and her leadership team in Women’s Ministries.
October 10th I filled the pulpit at Living Hope Church in Colorado Springs, pastored by Phil Steiger while he and Heather took a needed vacation. Each time I am present in this church I see new faces as the congregation continues to grow.
October 17th I installed Paul Aragon as the new Pastor of Restoration Church in Colorado Springs, CO. This growing church is now approaching 600 people in attendance. Paul asked me to recount the history of Radiant Church planting Restoration Church and then on Sunday, October 24th cast vision for the future of the church. It was exciting to reflect on what the Lord has done in the establishment of this church and hopefully stir faith for the future.
Loretta and I traveled to Park City, Utah for the UT Minister’s retreat October 22nd and 23rd led by Alex Lucero. The retreat provided fellowship, inspiration, and discussion focusing on church planting and development in UT. Specifically under church development the Apprenticeship Program for the development of Youth and Children’s ministers was rolled out. The program will begin in Salt Lake City in January with Keith Elder teaching the young people. Lee Terry has been formulating this ministry and a partnership with Utah pastors who share the same vision has developed to facilitate the work. As always it was great to be with our Utah ministers.
On October 24th I spoke at Christian Life AG in Payson, UT pastored by Mark Gering. Mark and Pam have ministered in Payson for about one year and are doing a great job leading this church.
Forrest Rowell, who has served as Youth Pastor at Praise AG in Pueblo, CO recently received approval from the Rocky Mountain District, the National Youth Department, and US Missions to serve as the Youth Alive Missionary to the Rocky Mountain District. Youth Alive Missionaries provide resources for churches to reach their local Middle School and High School campuses.
The Youth Alive mission encompasses the following four ministries to campuses: Campus Missionaries, Campus Clubs, Prayer Zone Partners, and the 7 Project which is school assemblies. Forrest has a proven track record of ministry in these areas. In the 2009 - 2010 school year he conducted 15 school assemblies in the Middle Schools and High Schools in Pueblo, CO. As a Youth Alive Missionary he will be able to provide training in campus ministry for Churches, Youth Leaders and Youth Groups. He will also be able to assist in the development of relationships with local school administrators to carry out assemblies and other campus ministry.
Forrest’s ministry will be funded like other missionaries from the support of churches and individuals. Please open your heart to this ministry and consider adding Forrest to your missionary support. Once he has secured 100% of his budget he will be able to engage in this vital ministry.
RECENT CONNECTIONS AND REFLECTIONS:
Since my last ebulletin I had the privilege of installing Albert Lopez as Pastor of The Lighthouse Worship Center in Walsenburg, CO on Sunday October 3rd. It was a joy to minister to this fine congregation and to get acquainted with Pastor Lopez. Welcome to the RMD, Albert!
October 7th and 8th I attended the District Secretary Treasurers conference in Springfield, MO. All Superintendents attend at least one of these conferences to be more fully informed of policies and procedures in credentialing, and resources available through the General Council. This is a great group of ministers serving our fellowship.
October 8 – 10 Loretta attended and spoke in two workshops at the Women’s Ministry Colorado retreat in Keystone, CO. Attendance was very strong. I appreciate Peggy Vawter and her leadership team in Women’s Ministries.
October 10th I filled the pulpit at Living Hope Church in Colorado Springs, pastored by Phil Steiger while he and Heather took a needed vacation. Each time I am present in this church I see new faces as the congregation continues to grow.
October 17th I installed Paul Aragon as the new Pastor of Restoration Church in Colorado Springs, CO. This growing church is now approaching 600 people in attendance. Paul asked me to recount the history of Radiant Church planting Restoration Church and then on Sunday, October 24th cast vision for the future of the church. It was exciting to reflect on what the Lord has done in the establishment of this church and hopefully stir faith for the future.
Loretta and I traveled to Park City, Utah for the UT Minister’s retreat October 22nd and 23rd led by Alex Lucero. The retreat provided fellowship, inspiration, and discussion focusing on church planting and development in UT. Specifically under church development the Apprenticeship Program for the development of Youth and Children’s ministers was rolled out. The program will begin in Salt Lake City in January with Keith Elder teaching the young people. Lee Terry has been formulating this ministry and a partnership with Utah pastors who share the same vision has developed to facilitate the work. As always it was great to be with our Utah ministers.
On October 24th I spoke at Christian Life AG in Payson, UT pastored by Mark Gering. Mark and Pam have ministered in Payson for about one year and are doing a great job leading this church.
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
HEROES IN HEAVEN
HEROES IN HEAVEN: Gwen Glover who ministered alongside her husband, Jonathan as a pastor’s wife in Colorado and a missionary in Africa, went home to be with the Lord Saturday, September 4, 2010. The funeral will be Wednesday, September 8, 2010 at Central AG in Springfield, MO. Jonathan and Gwen had a very fruitful ministry and are some of the finest people you will ever meet. They had a powerful impact on my life when I was a teenager. I remember distinctly when they came to Englewood AG itinerating and how impressed I was with their ministry and Christ-like spirit. At the time, in the early 60s, I was finishing High School and preparing for College. I had saved $1,600 for College and after the Glover’s service spoke to my dad about the possibility of giving everything I had saved to the Glovers for their ministry in Africa. My dad was a godly man who faithfully gave to missions. He said, “You can’t out give God, but why don’t you consider giving half of what you have saved”. I followed his advice and never regretted that sacrificial giving. I finished my BSEE degree at the University of Colorado debt free. The Glovers were a great investment!
I spoke to Jonathan Monday afternoon and he was rejoicing in Gwen’s entrance into heaven even as he experienced the personal sorrow of her absence. He said, and I am paraphrasing, “This is real, our faith in God and the hope of heaven is real. Gwen is looking into the face of Jesus and I envy her. When you boil it all down the only thing that matters is knowing Jesus.”
Another saint entered heaven Saturday, September 4th; George Cook, Bob Cook’s dad. George served God faithfully as a minister, business man, church man, and family man. The funeral will be Thursday, September 9, 2010 at Victory Life Church in Grand Junction, CO. Our prayers go out on behalf of these two families.
RECENT CONNECTIONS: Since my ebulletin of August 19th I have had the privilege of connecting with many of our ministers. Let me share a few.
Sunday, August 22nd, I visited Plum Creek Community Church in Castle Rock, CO where Doug Miller Pastors. This church is flourishing with hundreds of people in attendance and a growing influence in the community. Doug was in a sermon series on the Ten Commandments and dealt with the seventh commandment “You shall not commit adultery.” See, I remembered. Important teaching! People may not always remember your sermons, but I heard it said that we don’t remember the specific meals we ate in the past yet we are nourished by them. Your congregants may not remember specifically your every sermon, but the body of biblical truth they receive nourishes them into strong mature believers.
August 30 through September 2, I traveled through Southern Utah to visit several of our pastors. Ray and Nancy Paschen in Moab, Willard and Betty Coleman in Richfield, Jonathan and Stephanie Holiman in Cedar City, Mike and Jana Trail in St. George, and Gerald and Emma Van Iwaarden in Cedar City. These men and women are champions of the faith. They are doing a great work building churches in isolated communities and challenging situations. They are sowing the seed of God’s word, watering it, and harvesting souls as God adds to the church. I pray God supplies their every need and increases the harvest of souls through their ministries.
Sunday, September 5th, Loretta and I visited Red Rocks Church in Golden, CO where Shawn Johnson Pastors. The church has grown to over 2,000 people in attendance. Shawn gave a very clear biblical message on how to receive salvation and how believers can share their faith with others. Many are coming to Christ through the ministry of this wonderful church.
God brought us together in this great partnership of ministry. I thank Him for each and every one of you and the unique calling He has placed on each of your lives. Whether your ministry is large or small, rural or urban, famous or unknown you are important to the fulfillment of His plan and purpose. As Jonathan Glover said, “This is real…When you boil it all down the only thing that matters is knowing Jesus”. “Therefore, my dear brothers, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.” (1 Corinthians 15:58).
I spoke to Jonathan Monday afternoon and he was rejoicing in Gwen’s entrance into heaven even as he experienced the personal sorrow of her absence. He said, and I am paraphrasing, “This is real, our faith in God and the hope of heaven is real. Gwen is looking into the face of Jesus and I envy her. When you boil it all down the only thing that matters is knowing Jesus.”
Another saint entered heaven Saturday, September 4th; George Cook, Bob Cook’s dad. George served God faithfully as a minister, business man, church man, and family man. The funeral will be Thursday, September 9, 2010 at Victory Life Church in Grand Junction, CO. Our prayers go out on behalf of these two families.
RECENT CONNECTIONS: Since my ebulletin of August 19th I have had the privilege of connecting with many of our ministers. Let me share a few.
Sunday, August 22nd, I visited Plum Creek Community Church in Castle Rock, CO where Doug Miller Pastors. This church is flourishing with hundreds of people in attendance and a growing influence in the community. Doug was in a sermon series on the Ten Commandments and dealt with the seventh commandment “You shall not commit adultery.” See, I remembered. Important teaching! People may not always remember your sermons, but I heard it said that we don’t remember the specific meals we ate in the past yet we are nourished by them. Your congregants may not remember specifically your every sermon, but the body of biblical truth they receive nourishes them into strong mature believers.
August 30 through September 2, I traveled through Southern Utah to visit several of our pastors. Ray and Nancy Paschen in Moab, Willard and Betty Coleman in Richfield, Jonathan and Stephanie Holiman in Cedar City, Mike and Jana Trail in St. George, and Gerald and Emma Van Iwaarden in Cedar City. These men and women are champions of the faith. They are doing a great work building churches in isolated communities and challenging situations. They are sowing the seed of God’s word, watering it, and harvesting souls as God adds to the church. I pray God supplies their every need and increases the harvest of souls through their ministries.
Sunday, September 5th, Loretta and I visited Red Rocks Church in Golden, CO where Shawn Johnson Pastors. The church has grown to over 2,000 people in attendance. Shawn gave a very clear biblical message on how to receive salvation and how believers can share their faith with others. Many are coming to Christ through the ministry of this wonderful church.
God brought us together in this great partnership of ministry. I thank Him for each and every one of you and the unique calling He has placed on each of your lives. Whether your ministry is large or small, rural or urban, famous or unknown you are important to the fulfillment of His plan and purpose. As Jonathan Glover said, “This is real…When you boil it all down the only thing that matters is knowing Jesus”. “Therefore, my dear brothers, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.” (1 Corinthians 15:58).
Thursday, August 19, 2010
Recent Connections and Reflections
Loretta and I visited the PK retreat July 20th and enjoyed sharing with these wonderful kids. Lee and Renae Terry do a great job loving on and ministering to our kids.
Saturday, July 24th Loretta and I had dinner with Lee and Sandy McFarland and then on Sunday took in Lee’s message to Radiant Church in Colorado Springs. Lee and Sandy were members of Radiant Church in years past when Lee was an electrical engineer. During those years he was filled with the Spirit and served in the church. He went on to become a Director at Microsoft Corp. in the Seattle area with an excellent salary and very valuable stock options. In the course of time God called him into the ministry. He left the salary and the incredible wealth potential behind to plant a church in the fast growing Phoenix suburb of Surprise, Arizona about 12 years ago. By the grace of God and much hard work he developed Radiant Church in Surprise to a congregation with an attendance of 6,000 people today. Lee has expressed on several occasions that he is thankful to be a pastor. Though it has been a financial sacrifice and at times very challenging he sees the ministry as a cherished gift from God.
Lee shared with me a few years ago that if a business man looked at a pastors job description he would say, “that is a bad job”. He also stated that pastoring is the most leadership intensive job he has ever had. So, where is the joy in that? It is found in obedience to our great God and Savior, His abiding and empowering presence, and in the transformation of lives impacted by the gospel. Most of us will never experience growth in our church to 6,000 people, but we all have the privilege of serving our Savior, experiencing His sustaining and life-giving presence, and seeing people changed by the grace of God.
Sunday evening, July 25th I visited Denver Church and Pastor Bryan Sederwall. They currently meet in a boxing gym in Denver on Sunday night. This is an exciting church. I was by far the oldest person present. How great is that (though you might be thinking that is probably true wherever I go - smile). God bless you Bryan and Denver Church.
August 1st Loretta and I attended the 50th anniversary of Orchard Road Christian Center in Greenwood Village, CO. Wally and Marilyn Hickey started this church in 1960 and Reece and Sara Bowling serve as lead pastors today. It was an anointed gathering as together we gave thanks to God for 50 years of effective ministry in the Denver area and around the world. Thank you Wally and Marilyn, and Reece and Sara for enduring, exemplary ministry.
On August 5th I traveled to Springfield, MO for a series of meetings. The Church Extension Plan board met first on August 6th. In case you don’t know this is a wonderful lending agency serving AG churches with a heart for ministry. CEP recently created an arm of ministry designed to provide church buildings for church plants that after 3 to 5 years will purchase the facility from CEP. Then the funds from that purchase will be recycled into another church plant. Two projects are now underway and funds continue to be raised to provide the seed money for the initial purchase of church plant properties. It is a privilege to be on the board of this organization.
The evening of August 6th and Saturday, August 7th District Superintendents met with Dr. George Wood for a Superintendent’s forum. Then General Presbyter meetings were conducted Monday through Wednesday. I believe our movement is headed in a very healthy direction and I have the highest regard for our national leadership.
On Sunday, August 15th Loretta and I celebrated a wedding reception for Ryan and Kimberly Bachman at Living Hope Church in Colorado Springs. Ryan is an Associate Pastor at LHC and we extend our congratulations to this wonderful couple and welcome Kimberly to our RMDC family.
August 16-17 we conducted a Minister’s Renewal at Radiant Church in Colorado Springs, CO with Doug Clay speaking. Doug shared wonderful ministry and it was a very meaningful time of encouragement and enrichment. I want to thank Pastor Todd Hudnall and his team for hosting this event.
August 18th our district department leaders met. Each one reported on recent summer camps and events. It has been a productive season of ministry to boys, girls, teenagers, and adults. I appreciate our department leaders and their ministry teams. We also continued to formulate plans for our Rocky Mountain Ministries Conference to be held at Praise AG in Pueblo, CO August 19-20, 2011. This event will be designed to serve everyone who works in ministry to children, teens, women, and men. Please mark your calendar.
Saturday, July 24th Loretta and I had dinner with Lee and Sandy McFarland and then on Sunday took in Lee’s message to Radiant Church in Colorado Springs. Lee and Sandy were members of Radiant Church in years past when Lee was an electrical engineer. During those years he was filled with the Spirit and served in the church. He went on to become a Director at Microsoft Corp. in the Seattle area with an excellent salary and very valuable stock options. In the course of time God called him into the ministry. He left the salary and the incredible wealth potential behind to plant a church in the fast growing Phoenix suburb of Surprise, Arizona about 12 years ago. By the grace of God and much hard work he developed Radiant Church in Surprise to a congregation with an attendance of 6,000 people today. Lee has expressed on several occasions that he is thankful to be a pastor. Though it has been a financial sacrifice and at times very challenging he sees the ministry as a cherished gift from God.
Lee shared with me a few years ago that if a business man looked at a pastors job description he would say, “that is a bad job”. He also stated that pastoring is the most leadership intensive job he has ever had. So, where is the joy in that? It is found in obedience to our great God and Savior, His abiding and empowering presence, and in the transformation of lives impacted by the gospel. Most of us will never experience growth in our church to 6,000 people, but we all have the privilege of serving our Savior, experiencing His sustaining and life-giving presence, and seeing people changed by the grace of God.
Sunday evening, July 25th I visited Denver Church and Pastor Bryan Sederwall. They currently meet in a boxing gym in Denver on Sunday night. This is an exciting church. I was by far the oldest person present. How great is that (though you might be thinking that is probably true wherever I go - smile). God bless you Bryan and Denver Church.
August 1st Loretta and I attended the 50th anniversary of Orchard Road Christian Center in Greenwood Village, CO. Wally and Marilyn Hickey started this church in 1960 and Reece and Sara Bowling serve as lead pastors today. It was an anointed gathering as together we gave thanks to God for 50 years of effective ministry in the Denver area and around the world. Thank you Wally and Marilyn, and Reece and Sara for enduring, exemplary ministry.
On August 5th I traveled to Springfield, MO for a series of meetings. The Church Extension Plan board met first on August 6th. In case you don’t know this is a wonderful lending agency serving AG churches with a heart for ministry. CEP recently created an arm of ministry designed to provide church buildings for church plants that after 3 to 5 years will purchase the facility from CEP. Then the funds from that purchase will be recycled into another church plant. Two projects are now underway and funds continue to be raised to provide the seed money for the initial purchase of church plant properties. It is a privilege to be on the board of this organization.
The evening of August 6th and Saturday, August 7th District Superintendents met with Dr. George Wood for a Superintendent’s forum. Then General Presbyter meetings were conducted Monday through Wednesday. I believe our movement is headed in a very healthy direction and I have the highest regard for our national leadership.
On Sunday, August 15th Loretta and I celebrated a wedding reception for Ryan and Kimberly Bachman at Living Hope Church in Colorado Springs. Ryan is an Associate Pastor at LHC and we extend our congratulations to this wonderful couple and welcome Kimberly to our RMDC family.
August 16-17 we conducted a Minister’s Renewal at Radiant Church in Colorado Springs, CO with Doug Clay speaking. Doug shared wonderful ministry and it was a very meaningful time of encouragement and enrichment. I want to thank Pastor Todd Hudnall and his team for hosting this event.
August 18th our district department leaders met. Each one reported on recent summer camps and events. It has been a productive season of ministry to boys, girls, teenagers, and adults. I appreciate our department leaders and their ministry teams. We also continued to formulate plans for our Rocky Mountain Ministries Conference to be held at Praise AG in Pueblo, CO August 19-20, 2011. This event will be designed to serve everyone who works in ministry to children, teens, women, and men. Please mark your calendar.
Thursday, June 24, 2010
Inadequacy
Inadequacy: Have you ever felt inadequate? No doubt we all have and do. One of the extraordinary features of the Kingdom of God is that God chooses the unworthy and makes them worthy. We experience this in salvation. He also assigns tasks to the inadequate and provides His adequacy. We experience this in His call to ministry.
In my natural gift set I am missing some of the ingredients I would like to have to be an effective minister of the gospel. It has mystified me at times that God would call me to spiritual leadership when my natural tendency is to fade into the woodwork and live my life in obscurity. The spiritual gifts He imparts and His supernatural work makes up the difference, but that requires of me a continual reliance on Him. The need to lean hard on Him is a gift to be valued.
Ministry requires achievement that exceeds our natural abilities. God’s call is unique and perfectly suited to each of us. This does not mean, however, that His call is easy. It appears to me that God wants to take each of us to higher places than we would achieve on our own. The Peter Principle is a real limiting factor in our personal achievement capabilities, but the God Principle can lift us above our natural abilities. I am not suggesting that we can all achieve the same thing if we just get close enough to God and work with great efficiently. I am suggesting that God enables us to become more than we can ever be in our natural abilities; to live a life that can only be explained by factoring in the presence and empowerment of God. This reality means we get stretched and need to live with great faith in God.
Ministry requires proclamation of biblical truth; truth that challenges the messenger as well as the hearer. To faithfully proclaim biblical truth means that at times we share truth we have not fully realized in our personal living. We overcome this inadequacy with transparency, commitment to personal growth, and the firm belief that God’s word is the truth we all need. Don’t wait till you have mastered a biblical life-principle before sharing it with others. Don’t be afraid to admit a leadership mistake to your board or church. Don’t be afraid to share personal failures that can be instructive and encouraging to other imperfect journeyers. Though there is a necessary baseline of maturity for ministers, we are still on the journey of discipleship. We are to be examples to the flock of God, and part of the example we provide is our own continued growth in Christ.
Ministry requires the work of God. We cannot cleanse anyone of their sins. We cannot change the human heart. If God doesn’t show up, we are nothing more than self-help influencers with no real power to address the deep issues of life. We need to be acutely aware of this inadequacy and lean heavily on God’s adequacy.
“I thank my God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus. And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless until the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ – to the glory and praise of God.” Philippians 1:3-11.
In my natural gift set I am missing some of the ingredients I would like to have to be an effective minister of the gospel. It has mystified me at times that God would call me to spiritual leadership when my natural tendency is to fade into the woodwork and live my life in obscurity. The spiritual gifts He imparts and His supernatural work makes up the difference, but that requires of me a continual reliance on Him. The need to lean hard on Him is a gift to be valued.
Ministry requires achievement that exceeds our natural abilities. God’s call is unique and perfectly suited to each of us. This does not mean, however, that His call is easy. It appears to me that God wants to take each of us to higher places than we would achieve on our own. The Peter Principle is a real limiting factor in our personal achievement capabilities, but the God Principle can lift us above our natural abilities. I am not suggesting that we can all achieve the same thing if we just get close enough to God and work with great efficiently. I am suggesting that God enables us to become more than we can ever be in our natural abilities; to live a life that can only be explained by factoring in the presence and empowerment of God. This reality means we get stretched and need to live with great faith in God.
Ministry requires proclamation of biblical truth; truth that challenges the messenger as well as the hearer. To faithfully proclaim biblical truth means that at times we share truth we have not fully realized in our personal living. We overcome this inadequacy with transparency, commitment to personal growth, and the firm belief that God’s word is the truth we all need. Don’t wait till you have mastered a biblical life-principle before sharing it with others. Don’t be afraid to admit a leadership mistake to your board or church. Don’t be afraid to share personal failures that can be instructive and encouraging to other imperfect journeyers. Though there is a necessary baseline of maturity for ministers, we are still on the journey of discipleship. We are to be examples to the flock of God, and part of the example we provide is our own continued growth in Christ.
Ministry requires the work of God. We cannot cleanse anyone of their sins. We cannot change the human heart. If God doesn’t show up, we are nothing more than self-help influencers with no real power to address the deep issues of life. We need to be acutely aware of this inadequacy and lean heavily on God’s adequacy.
“I thank my God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus. And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless until the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ – to the glory and praise of God.” Philippians 1:3-11.
Monday, June 7, 2010
Recent Connections and Reflections
RECENT CONNECTIONS AND REFLECTIONS: On May 20th many family and friends gathered in Denver, CO for a wonderful memorial service for James Boulware. James impacted several thousand people with his life and ministry. He was pastor of Aurora First AG when I was a young man growing up in Englewood, CO. Though my family did not attend Aurora First, I became acquainted with James and his ministry early on, and observed his life and ministry for several years. He combined the qualities of a loving spirit, great strength of character, and effective ministry. He built a great church in Aurora. He then went on to serve on the Mission field and in various ministry positions. He was a man ahead of his time. While some were preaching against sports he was buying uniforms for their church softball team He was a student of the bible and built a ministry that was anchored in the timeless truths of God’s word and reflected through contemporary methods. His influence was instrumental in my willingness to answer the call to pastoral ministry. James Boulware will be missed and is another reason to look forward to heaven.
On May 21 and 23, Friday p.m. and Sunday a.m., I had the privilege of speaking for Pastor Myke Crowder at the High School Graduation of Layton Christian Academy in Layton, UT and in the Sunday a.m. services at Christian Life Center in Layton. The school is impressive and provides a powerful influence in Layton for Christ. The church has grown large with about 1,000 people in attendance and is making a significant impact in the area. God bless you, Myke in your continued ministry. God is doing great things in Utah; may He continue to anoint and use our pastors and churches.
On May 26th I spent the day in beautiful Avon, CO with Pastor Dan Matney discussing future developments for New Life AG. Many congregants have suffered the loss of jobs. These circumstances present opportunities for churches and challenges. We are believing God for His blessing in this unique place of ministry. Dan we appreciate your 14 years of ministry there.
On May 27th I met with Pastor Bryan Sederwall and he shared an update on the Denver Church which was planted in 2007. They had to leave the school they were meeting in due to a remodeling project. God in His goodness provided an unexpected and unique venue for ministry in a nearby boxing gym. The boxing ring will be the platform for the worship band and pastor. The owner of the gym is a committed Christian who is not only providing the location but also encouraging his boxers to attend; another first in God’s creative solutions.
On Sunday, May 30th I had the privilege of speaking for Pastor Ted and Tami Miller at the dedication of the new Victory Life Church (formally Grand Junction First AG) facility in Fruita, CO. The facility is wonderful and signifies a great legacy in the church, a “men of Issachar” (who understood their times) ministry, a passion to reach more people for Christ, and excelling leadership. Relocation is a major step and I pray the Lord will meet all the needs of this church and use Pastor Miller and the congregation in greater ways than ever before. Our churches in the Grand Junction area are making a significant difference in the Kingdom of God.
On June 3rd I stopped in on Sox Place, Doyle Robinson’s ministry to homeless kids in downtown Denver. The place was overrun with kids receiving help and being loved on by God’s people. Gareth Unruh (who ministers to young people in jail) was there with Doyle, and I forgive him for colliding with me on a borrowed skate board.
On Friday, June 4th I was Loretta’s driver and accompanied her to Peggy Vawter’s Women Reaching Women conference at Abundant Life Christian Center, in Arvada, CO. Many of our WM leaders from across our district gathered and received encouragement and valuable teaching. Thanks for your leadership Peggy. Also, the women recently completed a successful missions trip to Costa Rica.
On Sunday, June 6th I was honored to install Justin and Megan Atchley as the new Pastor of New Hope Community Church in Golden, CO. Justin had been serving on Pastor Steve Curry’s leadership team at Foothills AG in Fort Collins, CO. Congratulations Justin and Megan, and may God grant you a flourishing ministry in Golden, CO.
PRAISE REPORTS: Pastor T. J. and Robin Harris, Englewood First AG, Englewood, CO reported the first ever Love Englewood community worship service on Sunday, May 23rd. Eight churches participated with about 1,500 people in attendance at the Englewood High School football stadium (my alma mater). The city council was present along with the Mayor and other city officials. T. J. was asked to speak and many responded to an invitation. Some were baptized in horse troughs on the spot. City leaders subsequently asked T. J. to set up a meeting with the City Fathers and the Faith Community to discuss ways to work together to see Englewood whole and restored.
Pastor Rex and Amy Adams, Ordway AG, Ordway, CO had a Grand Reopening of the church on Sunday, June 6th. After preparing the building and canvassing the community they experienced a wonderful Sunday of outreach to the community. The district had funds available for church revitalization to assist with upgrades to the building and we are excited about what the Lord is doing in this ministry.
I am also thankful for the opportunity to provide coaching for some of our pastors who are working toward the revitalization of their churches. There are praise reports yet unexperienced I believe God will bring into reality as we work together faithfully with Him.
On May 21 and 23, Friday p.m. and Sunday a.m., I had the privilege of speaking for Pastor Myke Crowder at the High School Graduation of Layton Christian Academy in Layton, UT and in the Sunday a.m. services at Christian Life Center in Layton. The school is impressive and provides a powerful influence in Layton for Christ. The church has grown large with about 1,000 people in attendance and is making a significant impact in the area. God bless you, Myke in your continued ministry. God is doing great things in Utah; may He continue to anoint and use our pastors and churches.
On May 26th I spent the day in beautiful Avon, CO with Pastor Dan Matney discussing future developments for New Life AG. Many congregants have suffered the loss of jobs. These circumstances present opportunities for churches and challenges. We are believing God for His blessing in this unique place of ministry. Dan we appreciate your 14 years of ministry there.
On May 27th I met with Pastor Bryan Sederwall and he shared an update on the Denver Church which was planted in 2007. They had to leave the school they were meeting in due to a remodeling project. God in His goodness provided an unexpected and unique venue for ministry in a nearby boxing gym. The boxing ring will be the platform for the worship band and pastor. The owner of the gym is a committed Christian who is not only providing the location but also encouraging his boxers to attend; another first in God’s creative solutions.
On Sunday, May 30th I had the privilege of speaking for Pastor Ted and Tami Miller at the dedication of the new Victory Life Church (formally Grand Junction First AG) facility in Fruita, CO. The facility is wonderful and signifies a great legacy in the church, a “men of Issachar” (who understood their times) ministry, a passion to reach more people for Christ, and excelling leadership. Relocation is a major step and I pray the Lord will meet all the needs of this church and use Pastor Miller and the congregation in greater ways than ever before. Our churches in the Grand Junction area are making a significant difference in the Kingdom of God.
On June 3rd I stopped in on Sox Place, Doyle Robinson’s ministry to homeless kids in downtown Denver. The place was overrun with kids receiving help and being loved on by God’s people. Gareth Unruh (who ministers to young people in jail) was there with Doyle, and I forgive him for colliding with me on a borrowed skate board.
On Friday, June 4th I was Loretta’s driver and accompanied her to Peggy Vawter’s Women Reaching Women conference at Abundant Life Christian Center, in Arvada, CO. Many of our WM leaders from across our district gathered and received encouragement and valuable teaching. Thanks for your leadership Peggy. Also, the women recently completed a successful missions trip to Costa Rica.
On Sunday, June 6th I was honored to install Justin and Megan Atchley as the new Pastor of New Hope Community Church in Golden, CO. Justin had been serving on Pastor Steve Curry’s leadership team at Foothills AG in Fort Collins, CO. Congratulations Justin and Megan, and may God grant you a flourishing ministry in Golden, CO.
PRAISE REPORTS: Pastor T. J. and Robin Harris, Englewood First AG, Englewood, CO reported the first ever Love Englewood community worship service on Sunday, May 23rd. Eight churches participated with about 1,500 people in attendance at the Englewood High School football stadium (my alma mater). The city council was present along with the Mayor and other city officials. T. J. was asked to speak and many responded to an invitation. Some were baptized in horse troughs on the spot. City leaders subsequently asked T. J. to set up a meeting with the City Fathers and the Faith Community to discuss ways to work together to see Englewood whole and restored.
Pastor Rex and Amy Adams, Ordway AG, Ordway, CO had a Grand Reopening of the church on Sunday, June 6th. After preparing the building and canvassing the community they experienced a wonderful Sunday of outreach to the community. The district had funds available for church revitalization to assist with upgrades to the building and we are excited about what the Lord is doing in this ministry.
I am also thankful for the opportunity to provide coaching for some of our pastors who are working toward the revitalization of their churches. There are praise reports yet unexperienced I believe God will bring into reality as we work together faithfully with Him.
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