What Could Be?

Actually a pretty good Sunday morning. This is usually one of the harder Sundays of the year. There's a post-Christmas let down and people are tired and mellow. Many people are still out of town. But worship was great and a good crowd too.

We did a beginning of the year challenge of "What Could Be?" Rather than focusing on the negatives of what we didn't do or need to do, we stepped back in grace and asked God what He desired to do in and through us in 2008. Grace and Growth by Faith. If the same Spirit that raised Christ form the dead lives in us, imagine the possibilities!

Be Refreshed!

Proverb of the Day: Proverbs 30:4 Who has gone up to heaven and come down?
Who has gathered up the wind in the hollow of his hands?
Who has wrapped up the waters in his cloak?
Who has established all the ends of the earth?
What is his name, and the name of his son?
Tell me if you know!

Scripture of the Day: Romans 8:11 And if the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead is living in you, he who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through his Spirit, who lives in you.

Quote of the Day: “To love means loving the unlovable. To forgive means pardoning the unpardonable. Faith means believing the unbelievable. Hope means hoping when everything seems hopeless.” G. K. Chesterton

Christmas Complete

After a Christmas Interrupted with Sonya and the kids leaving early for a funeral, we were all rejoined at home last night for a belated Christmas today. A fun, lazy day of presents, a big brunch, and snow all day long. Not bad for Christmas 3 days late.

We hope you all had a blessed Christmas season. Joy to the world, the Lord has come.

There are a few benefits to a Christmas delayed.
-The reunion is sweeter.
-Everything else is over, so you can relax and enjoy the day.
-You can get great deals on late gifts during the post-Christmas sales.

Merry Late Christmas!

Be Refreshed!

Proverb of the Day: Proverbs 28:19 He who works his land will have abundant food, but the one who chases fantasies will have his fill of poverty.

Scripture of the Day: Luke 2:10-14 10 But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. 11 Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord. 12 This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger." 13 Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, 14 "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests."

Quote of the Day: Selfishness makes Christmas a burden, love makes it a delight. Unknown

One Size Fits All

The Magic number this December is 4. That's 4 Sundays in a row of lousy winter weather. Today was snow and 30-40 mile an hour winds. Fortunately many braved the weather to make it out 2 days before Christmas.

This morning we looked at One Size Fits All. The greatest gift ever, the coming of Christ, was for every one of us. Shepherds, wise men, Jews, Gentiles, white, black, slave, free, rich, poor, everyone. Have you surrendered to the true God? He's just what you need and you were created to have a relationship with him.

Tradition of the Day: We'll miss out on a few traditions this year with Sonya & the kids having to leave early. Driving around one evening to see the lights. Listening to the old fashioned Christmas eve programming on WGN radio while we travel after the Christmas Eve service. Caroling at Sonya's boss's house.

Be Refreshed!

Proverb of the Day: Proverbs 23:22 Listen to your father, who gave you life, and do not despise your mother when she is old.

Scripture of the Day: Ephesians 4:4-7 4 But when the time had fully come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under law, 5 to redeem those under law, that we might receive the full rights of sons. 6 Because you are sons, God sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, the Spirit who calls out, "Abba, Father." 7 So you are no longer a slave, but a son; and since you are a son, God has made you also an heir.

Quote of the Day: "Remember, if Christmas isn't found in your heart, you won't find it under a tree." Charlotte Carpenter

The Light Has Come!

What an appropriate day for the first day of winter. Gloomy and overcast with a thick fog that has been hanging around for days and probable snow tonight. But the good news is that the days begin getting longer! If we could see it, the sun would set at 4:26 today and then 5 seconds later tomorrow.

Just three more worshiping days to Christmas. A sneak peek at tomorrow is One Size Fits All. As a 6' 5" man, I can guarantee you that those tags aren't always true. But when it comes to the hope of Christ and His work on the cross, it is sufficient for all.

Tradition of the Day: I'll be heading for my parent's house for Christmas after our church's Christmas Eve Service. My mom will have a stocking for me filled with nuts and fruit. That's what we always got when we were kids and we were giving her a hard time years ago about never getting toys in our stockings but mixed nuts in the shell and an orange or apple. So now she has started it again to give me a hard time.

Be Refreshed!

Proverb of the Day: Proverbs 23:17 Do not let your heart envy sinners, but always be zealous for the fear of the LORD.

Scripture of the Day: Isaiah 9:1 The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of the shadow of death a light has dawned.

Quote of the Day: "There is no evidence of any kind regarding the date of Jesus’ birth. His nativity began to be celebrated on Dec. 25 in Rome during the early part of the fourth century (AD 336) as a Christian counterpart to the pagan festival, popular among the worshipers of Mithras, called Sol Invictis, the Unconquerable Sun. At the very moment when the days are the shortest and darkness seems to have conquered light, the sun passes its nadir. Days grow longer, and although the cold will only increase for quite a long time, the ultimate conquest of winter is sure. This astronomical process is a parable of the career of the Incarnate One. At the moment when history is blackest, and in the least expected and obvious place, the Son of God is born…" Joe E. Pennel, Jr.

Christmas Interrupted 2

2 1/2 weeks ago I preached on Christmas Interrupted. It came from the story of Joseph and Mary who had big plans for their lives until God interrupted them. The challenge was to let God interrupt your life and Christmas plans for something greater because God's plans are always bigger and better than ours. Aren't you glad God interrupted them and they said yes? Eternity will never be the same.

I've thought and prayed that a few times the last couple of weeks, but God tapped me on the shoulder this morning in Walmart to remind me of my own sermon. Sonya and I had just had a talk about our changed Christmas plans. She received a call this week that one of her cousins had been killed in a motorcycle accident in N. Texas. He was the same age as Sonya and they had been close growing up. He was one of the few strong Christians on her mom's side of the family. Sonya really felt strongly that she needed to be at the funeral this Saturday in OK. We had planned to drive to my parent's house after the Christmas Eve service to spend Christmas with my family and then her and the kids would travel on to spend some time in AR with her family. Now they'll head out tomorrow and we won't be together for Christmas. While I was very supportive and encouraging since I'm such a good husband :) I still was sad. Then God reminded me of the sermon. Would I be willing to let go of some of my traditions for the year so others can be brought closer to Jesus and ministered to in their time of loss? So while I'm still sad, the big picture always makes the valleys seem smaller. (Be careful what you preach too.)

On a lighter note check out this video from comedian Tim Hawkins on homeschoolers.

VIDEO

Tradition of the Day: I always read the full Christmas story (Matthew & Luke) before we open any Christmas presents on Christmas morning. This helps set a nice tone for the day and reminds us what's really important. (It drives the nephews crazy too.) We'll do this tonight or in the morning as a family since they'll be leaving in the morning.


Be Refreshed!

Proverb of the Day: Proverbs 20:12 Ears that hear and eyes that see— the LORD has made them both.

Scripture of the Day: 1 Thessalonians 5:12-13 13 Brothers, we do not want you to be ignorant about those who fall asleep, or to grieve like the rest of men, who have no hope. 14 We believe that Jesus died and rose again and so we believe that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in him.

Quote of the Day: "It might be easy to run away to a monastery, away from the commercialization, the hectic hustle, the demanding family responsibilities of Christmas-time. Then we would have a holy Christmas. But we would forget the lesson of the Incarnation, of the enfleshing of God—the lesson that we who are followers of Jesus do not run from the secular; rather we try to transform it. It is our mission to make holy the secular aspects of Christmas just as the early Christians baptized the Christmas tree. And we do this by being holy people—kind, patient, generous, loving, laughing people—no matter how maddening is the Christmas rush…" Fr. Andrew Greeley

Do You See What I See?

We spent Sunday morning in Isaiah looking ahead to the Messiah. Israel (the 10 northern tribes) was on their way down for the last time. Judah (the 2 southern tribes) was backslidden again. Then here comes the prophet Isaiah with hope for the future. (9:2) "The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of the shadow of death a light has dawned." And then in 9:6, "For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace." The good news for us today is that we don't have to wait 700 years like Israel, hope is here for us today.

We had an awesome time with a full house Sunday night at the Bethel Family Christmas. With the third Sunday morning in a row with snow or ice, we may have had more out in the p.m. than the a.m. (Free food helps too.) Here is a picture of Jeremiah and Elizabeth quoting Ephesians chapter 6 during the open mic time.


Here's a picture of one of our youth, Megan C. She lost her mom a few years ago and it has been a hard road at times, but here she is singing a song during the night. She heads to Costa Rica this March for a missions trip. We are very proud of her. God is faithful.


Tradition of the Day: We hit two traditions yesterday (Monday). One is we always go out to eat at The Olive Garden. I'm sure that sounds odd, but about 10 years ago Charlene W. gave us a gift certificate from there. The closest Olive Garden is probably about 30 miles, so we went in and hit the mall too and did some Christmas shopping. It was so nice to get away for 1/2 a day in the busy Christmas season we've done it every year since.

We also give the kids their ornaments for the year when we get back from the Olive Garden trip.
-Ethan got a cell phone ornament. He bought a LG Chocolate cell phone with his summer wages. (Which went through the wash twice in the first few months. Now he uses dad's old one.)
-Isaac got a mailbox ornament. He always has to check the mail and wants to know what's going on.
-Jeremiah received a cross ornament. He went on a mission's trip this summer and was also baptized in water this fall.
-Elizabeth got an ornament in the shape of a Christmas tree made with soccer balls. She had an awesome year in soccer this fall.

Be Refreshed!

Proverb of the Day: Proverbs 18:24 A man of many companions may come to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.

Scripture of the Day: Luke 1:30-33 30 But the angel said to her, "Do not be afraid, Mary, you have found favor with God. 31 You will be with child and give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus. 32 He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David, 33 and he will reign over the house of Jacob forever; his kingdom will never end."

Quote of the Day: A prison cell, in which one waits, hopes... and is completely dependent on the fact that the door of freedom has to be opened from the outside, is not a bad picture of Advent. Dietrich Bonhoeffer

Bethel Family Christmas Eve

The little Mills' elves are busy scurrying around prepping for our annual Bethel Family Christmas. Here they are dipping marshmallows in chocolate and sprinkles. Next come the pretzels. We just took two pies out of the oven and I'm mixing up 5 lbs of ham and cheese ball. In the end we'll wind up with 20 feet of goodies to say thanks to our church.


Here's a picture of Ethan from his game last night. It was a rare occasion where we had Isaac & Ethan with back to back home games on the same night. It was the first win of the young varsity season.

Tradition of the Day: Tomorrow is our Bethel Family Christmas. Or as I like to refer to it, Congregation Appreciation Day. My family cooks all the food and goodies as we say thanks to our awesome church. We then have an open mic time where families sing, share a memory, do a skit, tell a joke, and other miscellaneous offerings. We end the night singing in circles around the Christmas tree (an old Norwegian tradition). We used to hold it at the house but we outgrew that and now fill the fellowship hall. (This idea was a blatant ripoff from my former presbyter Bob Maddox.) We started this our second year here and it's one of my family's favorite parts of the Christmas season. If your greatest joys of the holidays are what you'll get or what gifts you buy, I offer my condolences.

Be Refreshed!

Proverb of the Day: Proverbs 15:15 All the days of the oppressed are wretched, but the cheerful heart has a continual feast.

Scripture of the Day: Micah 5:2 "But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times. "

Quote of the Day: Christmas is the season for kindling the fire of hospitality in the hall, the genial flame of charity in the heart. Washington Irving

Sports Center

Only 12 worshiping days till Christmas.

It's been a while since a sports family update...
Both Ethan & Isaac are playing basketball at the local Christian school. Neither played last year so it's been a year of catching up for both of them, but they are working hard. Isaac's season is about 3/4 over. They had a slow start but are coming around. They won in overtime tonight in the first round of the conference tournament. Ethan's team lost tonight. Both E&I had scores in their games over the weekend.

Tradition of the Day: We always open one gift on Christmas Eve. This is a tradition that goes back to my family when I was a child. I'm not sure why we did it then or why we do it now, but it's tradition so we have too!

Be Refreshed!

Proverb of the Day: Proverbs 13:11 Dishonest money dwindles away, but he who gathers money little by little makes it grow.

Scripture of the Day: Isaiah 9:6 6 For to us a child is born,
to us a son is given,
and the government will be on his shoulders.
And he will be called
Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

Quote of the Day: Ask your children two questions this Christmas. First: "What do you want to give to others for Christmas?" Second: "What do you want for Christmas?" The first fosters generosity of heart and an outward focus. The second can breed selfishness if not tempered by the first. Anonymous

The Great Communicator

In the Old Testament God spoke in a variety of ways. Prophets, judges, priests, miracles, plagues, captivity, and even a donkey. But then God came Himself, God with us, Immanuel. Born of a virgin. The Incarnation. God became man. The Word now flesh. And the world would never be the same.

John put it like this, (1:14) "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."

And now Hebrews tells us of the benefits. 4:14-16 "Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has gone through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess. 15 For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet was without sin. 16 Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need."

Thank you God. Thank you for loving us so much that You came to live and die among us. Thank you for showing Your love by not just saying, but doing. Immanuel.

Tradition of the Day: The kids always build their own ginger bread houses. Well, actually it's graham crackers and the buildings vary. Supplies include gummi bears, red hots, licorice, gum drops, cookies, and other miscellaneous candies. Last night Elizabeth built a manger scene, Jeremiah a train station, Isaac a house, and Ethan a train. They put them on display at the Bethel Family Christmas.

Be Refreshed!

Proverb of the Day: Proverbs 12:16 A fool shows his annoyance at once, but a prudent man overlooks an insult.

Scripture of the Day: John 1:12 Yet to all who received him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God—

Quote of the Day: Our hearts grow tender with childhood memories and love of kindred, and we are better throughout the year for having, in spirit, become a child again at Christmas-time. Laura Ingalls Wilder

Snow Day

With the impending ice storms, just about everything is canceled today. That's the bummer of homeschooling and laptop computers, snow days just aren't the same. Although when we got that nice snow last week Sonya and our kids were out on the slopes at Russell Woods while all the "traditional students" were at their desks.

We had a great weekend! The weather was mediocre, but the kids put on an awesome children's musical at church. I know when your kids are involved they are always good, but this really was one of the best I've ever seen. Probably the best.























Sunday morning we looked at the wiseman and talked about The Best Christmas Ever. It's all about what you seek (worship the King) and what you give (yourself). Those will never disappoint.

The bride of my youth celebrated her birthday yesterday. I'm still the best gift she's ever received. She is more beautiful every year. It was this time of year 19 years ago that I was out shopping for engagement rings. I am blessed.


Tradition of the Day: We have an advent calender we do each night as a family before we go to bed. It has a Scripture for each day that walks us through the Christmas story. It's a nice daily reminder of what it's all about and it helps us to end each day on course.

Be Refreshed!

Proverb of the Day: Proverbs 11:16 A kindhearted woman gains respect, but ruthless men gain only wealth.

Scripture of the Day: Proverbs 18:22 He who finds a wife finds what is good and receives favor from the LORD.

Quote of the Day: Let us remember that the Christmas heart is a giving heart, a wide open heart that thinks of others first. The birth of the baby Jesus stands as the most significant event in all history, because it has meant the pouring into a sick world the healing medicine of love which has transformed all manner of hearts for almost two thousand years... Underneath all the bulging bundles is this beating Christmas heart. George Matthew Adams

Christmas Psalms

We looked into the Psalms again in Wednesday night Bible study. I was hoping to pull out some Messianic Psalms with a heavy dose of Christmas, but there wasn't a whole lot. We did take the night to go through about 7 Messianic Psalms that told of the hope of the coming Messiah though. Psalm 2 & 110 were really good. It's interesting how Psalm 110 is used in the New Testament to prove the claims of Jesus by Jesus, Peter, and Paul.

Tradition of the Day: Every year we buy a new ornament for each of the kids. The ornament signifies a memory or something from their year. (bike: learned to ride a bike, etc.) I saw a Hallmark commercial this year that shows a similar idea. ( I think they stole it from us)

Be Refreshed!

Proverb of the Day: Proverbs 5:18 May your fountain be blessed, and may you rejoice in the wife of your youth.

Scripture of the Day: Psalm 2:6-8 6 "I have installed my King on Zion, my holy hill." 7 I will proclaim the decree of the LORD : He said to me, "You are my Son; today I have become your Father. 8 Ask of me, and I will make the nations your inheritance, the ends of the earth your possession.

Quote of the Day: The only blind person at Christmastime is he who has not Christmas in his heart. Helen Keller

Let It Slow

A nice slow evening after the birthdays. Sonya & Isaac are at Rochelle at a BB game. The rest & I stayed home due to the beautiful snow coming down. The kids are watching Rudolph and I'm sitting by the tree with only the Christmas lights on and some mellow instrumental Christmas music on. Sometimes uneventful is a good thing.

Tradition of the Day: On our main tree the kids each have their own section of the tree for their individual ornaments. The tree has red and white bulbs, gold beads, and white lights all over, but it's also sectioned off for them. Check tomorrow for part 2.

Be Refreshed!

Proverb of the Day: Proverbs 4:6 Do not forsake wisdom, and she will protect you; love her, and she will watch over you.

Scripture of the Day: Micah 5:2 "But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times."

Quote of the Day: Whatever else be lost among the years, Let us keep Christmas still a shining thing: Whatever doubts assail us, or what fears, Let us hold close one day, remembering Its poignant meaning for the hearts of men. Let us get back our childlike faith again. Grace Noll Crowell

Happy Birthday to Me

Today is my birthday. I thought it might be odd to put in my own picture though. Sonya said she should write the blog entry today, but she doesn't know how to access the account and I wasn't going to tell her (at least not today). Thanks to everyone who has poured into my life these past 42 years. I am blessed.

Some sad news today. A former college basketball teammate, who is now a Wycliffe missionary to the Congo, and his wife lost a baby several days ago. She went into labor and they found no heartbeat when they arrived at the hospital Their names are Jeff & Michelle. Please keep them in your prayers. They are currently in the states for furlough.

Tradition of the Day: The kids are putting up their personal Christmas trees tonight. They each have an artificial 4 foot tree that they get to decorate however they want just for themselves. Most keep them in their room and use them as nightlights too.

Be Refreshed!

Proverb of the Day: Proverbs 3:3-4 Let love and faithfulness never leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart. 4 Then you will win favor and a good name in the sight of God and man.

Scripture of the Day: Proverbs 20:29 The glory of young men is their strength, gray hair the splendor of the old.

Quote of the Day: The best of all gifts around any Christmas tree: the presence of a happy family all wrapped up in each other. Burton Hillis

Happy 13th Isaac!

Isaac is a teenager!

Our second son, Isaac, officially became a teenager today. We had a little party this afternoon and all us boys went to see Casting Crowns in concert tonight at NIU. It's been a long good day. We love you Isaac!

The theme this morning was Christmas Interrupted. How often what we view as interruptions could really be great opportunities if we allow God to have His way. Joseph and Mary had big plans and dreams until God interrupted their plans and eternity will never be the same. Make your prayer this season to be sensitive to how God wants to interrupt your Christmas plans for something greater.

Tradition of the Day: In our manger set, one of the sheep always goes on the roof of the stable. Back when Sonya and I were dating I used to stick that sheep (same set) on top of the manger just to annoy her. She figured it out and would leave it up there just to prove it didn't bother her and it's gone up there every Christmas since. I think all 4 of our kids have cried when they were young because we wouldn't let them put the sheep down where it belonged. But tradition is more important than the mental health of my children.

Be Refreshed!

Proverb of the Day: Proverbs 3:7-8 7 He holds victory in store for the upright, he is a shield to those whose walk is blameless, 8 for he guards the course of the just and protects the way of his faithful ones.

Scripture of the Day: Ephesians 3:20-21 20 Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, 21 to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.

Quote of the Day: Instead of being a time of unusual behavior, Christmas is perhaps the only time in the year when people can obey their natural impulses and express their true sentiments without feeling self-conscious and, perhaps, foolish. Christmas, in short, is about the only chance a man has to be himself. Francis C. Farley

Awesome Creator

I took three of the kids to The Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago yesterday on a homeschool field trip. We've been there several time before, but the exhibit that always draws me is the stages of life for the human embryo/fetus. All along a wall they have preserved embryos/fetuses starting at 25 days all the way through almost full term. I think there are 30-40 throughout the exhibit. Then next to each one they describe what is taking place, what has formed, etc. Even at 25 days when the embryo is still tiny, most of the major organs are already there in miniature. It's fascinating to see what is really going on during those 9 months. How someone walks away from that exhibit pro-choice I cannot understand. They try to dehumanize the life into just a tissue mass or disposable blob, but in the exhibit the miracle of life is right there before your eyes. Wow! I'm still in awe each time I see it.

Tradition of the Day: After we bring the fresh cut (by all hands) tree (from Camelot) into the house (while listening to Russ Taff's A Christmas Song CD --see last few posts--) it is my job to put the lights on the tree. Sonya will then come in from the kitchen and say, "Can you push those lights further in?"

Be Refreshed!

Proverb of the Day: Proverbs 30:5-6 Every word of God is flawless; he is a shield to those who take refuge in him. 6 Do not add to his words, or he will rebuke you and prove you a liar.

Scripture of the Day: Psalm 139:13-14 For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb. 14 I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.

Quote of the Day: “The real question today is not when human life begins, but, What is the value of human life? The abortionist who reassembles the arms and legs of a tiny baby to make sure all its parts have been torn from its mother's body can hardly doubt whether it is a human being. The real question for him and for all of us is whether that tiny human life has a God-given right to be protected by the law— the same right we have.” President Ronald Reagan

Lion Alert

I used the lion analogy from 1 Peter 5:8-9 in Uth tonight where the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Here are a few nuggets to take home. (no charge)

-The lion hates fire, so don't let God's fire in your spirit go dim.
-The lion looks for the weak and crippled, so stay strong and know your weaknesses.
-The lion likes to separate it's prey from the pack, so don't wander off on your own.
-The lion looks for those who aren't alert or paying attention, so be ready at all times.
-The lion likes his territory to hunt in, so stay away from his strongholds.

Tradition of the Day: When we're out cutting down the Christmas tree, all the kids take a turn on the saw.

Be Refreshed!

Proverb of the Day: Proverbs 28:1 The wicked man flees though no one pursues, but the righteous are as bold as a lion.

Scripture of the Day: 1 Peter 5:8-9 8 Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. 9 Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that your brothers throughout the world are undergoing the same kind of sufferings.

Quote of the Day: Selfishness has never been admired. C.S. Lewis

Elizabeth Turns 8!

Happy Birthday to Elizabeth Carey who turned 8 years old today!

Elizabeth celebrated the big number 8 today. Still young enough to love dolls, candles, and the simple things, yet old enough to be able to add up her cash gifts. I'm sure her favorite gift was the new shirt she's wearing in the picture though. We love you Elizabeth!

We kinda thought three boys was a pretty good place to stop, but along came Elizabeth. At first another boy seemed like a pretty reasonable plan. We already had all the stuff, clothes and toys. A girl would mean a lot of needless duplication. But here she came, so we decided to let her stay. What a blessing. What a good God.

Tradition of the Day: We always celebrate Elizabeth's birthday on November 27th. (OK, so it's not really a Christmas tradition, but 30 days of tradition is going to be a stretch.)

Be Refreshed!

Proverb of the Day: Proverbs 27:21 The crucible for silver and the furnace for gold, but man is tested by the praise he receives.

Scripture of the Day: Matthew 18:1-6 1 At that time the disciples came to Jesus and asked, "Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?" 2 He called a little child and had him stand among them. 3 And he said: "I tell you the truth, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. 4 Therefore, whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. 5 "And whoever welcomes a little child like this in my name welcomes me. 6 But if anyone causes one of these little ones who believe in me to sin, it would be better for him to have a large millstone hung around his neck and to be drowned in the depths of the sea.

Quote of the Day: "Parents are often so busy with the physical rearing of children that they miss the glory of parenthood, just as the grandeur of the trees is lost when raking leaves." Marcelene Cox

Tradition?

As I was researching a tradition quote for yesterday I was reminded that tradition has a pretty bad reputation. Tradition can be a joy from our past that can help guide us as we move forward, or it can be an anchor from our past that keeps us from ever moving forward. As the old church joke goes, "We've never done it that way before." That can be an inquisitive pause or a cease and desist order.

Unfortunately a church or Christians can be some of the worst. I'm sure we all know someone who serves out of tradition or worships out of tradition but is spiritually drier than a desert wind. We do it because we've always done it and that's how we do it. We stagnate at our spiritual highpoint and prefer that we never leave that place. Keep the songs the same, keep ministry the same, let's leave things the way they are right at that time.

So with that in mind, I hope our traditions are traditions that allow us to move forward yet reminiscent of where God has brought us. Hopefully the Mills Christmas traditions won't be an anchor to my kids, but a reminder of the joys of family and the hope of Immanuel, God with us.

Christmas Tradition of the Day: When we bring our tree into the house to set it up, Russ Taff's CD, "A Christmas Song" is always playing in the background. This is my favorite Christmas album of them all. It has sort of a smooth jazzy feel to it. Mellow with a nice bass. Check out a sampler at CBD.

Be Refreshed!

Proverb of the Day: Proverbs 26:17 Like one who seizes a dog by the ears is a passer-by who meddles in a quarrel not his own.

Scripture of the Day: Matthew 17:1-4 1 After six days Jesus took with him Peter, James and John the brother of James, and led them up a high mountain by themselves. 2 There he was transfigured before them. His face shone like the sun, and his clothes became as white as the light. 3 Just then there appeared before them Moses and Elijah, talking with Jesus. 4 Peter said to Jesus, "Lord, it is good for us to be here. If you wish, I will put up three shelters—one for you, one for Moses and one for Elijah."

Quote of the Day: "Tradition is a guide and not a jailer." William Somerset Maugham

TRADITION!

Just one month till Christmas! We have lots of family Christmas traditions, so I'll be sharing a "Tradition of the Day" for the next 30 days. They range from very trivial, to events, to things that will make no sense to you. Some even have multiple layers. But to us it's Tradition! I hope your Christmas season is filled with joy and tradition too.

We had a great morning together in God's house today. It was a long weekend for many, so we kept it simple with "Finding Rest." Jesus said in Matthew 11:28, "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest." Have you entered His rest?

Tradition of the Day: We headed out to Camelot Trees for the cutting down of the Christmas tree. We have gone there every year but one of our thirteen Christmases in Sycamore. The one year we went somewhere else the kids cried all the way home because they didn't have free cookies and hot chocolate. Elizabeth had wanted to wait till it was snowing to go get our tree, but she changed her mind after grandma and grandpa left some presents to put under the tree. After we cut the tree and were headed up to the chicken coop to pay and get our hot chocolate and cookies it started to snow. By the time we headed home the flakes were HUGE. Cool God.

Be Refreshed!

Proverb of the Day: Proverbs 25:13 Like the coolness of snow at harvest time is a trustworthy messenger to those who send him; he refreshes the spirit of his masters.

Scripture of the Day: Matthew 11:18 Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.

Quote of the Day: “What an enormous magnifier is tradition! How a thing grows in the human memory and in the human imagination, when love, worship, and all that lies in the human heart, is there to encourage it” Thomas Carlyle

Huskies Down

Took the kids to the NIU-Ball State football game this afternoon. My sister-in-law and nephew joined us as the Huskies fell short of a victory. We came within 6 with a minute and a half to go, but the onside kick was caught and Ball State was able to run out the clock. The Huskies really struggled with injuries and victories this year. There's always next year...

Time to gear up for Sunday. It's the end of the Thanksgiving weekend, so we'll keep it pretty simple tomorrow morning. Next Sunday we'll take the turn towards Christmas.

Are you expecting?

Be Refreshed!

Proverb of the Day: Proverbs 24:14 Know also that wisdom is sweet to your soul; if you find it, there is a future hope for you, and your hope will not be cut off.

Scripture of the Day: Ephesians 2:8-9 8 For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— 9 not by works, so that no one can boast.

Quote of the Day: A great many people are trying to make peace, but that has already been done. God has not left it for us to do; all we have to do is enter into it. Dwight L. Moody

The Day After

Hope you had a blessed day yesterday of giving thanks. We spent the day at my brother's house with my sister and boys, mom and dad, an aunt, uncle and cousin. A total of 18 plus the dog. It was a classic day of food, football, and some games in the evening. We're heading in again this afternoon for round two.

My quote of the day is for all of the power shoppers out there. Sometimes the best wisdom is the old wisdom.

Be Refreshed!

Proverb of the Day: Proverbs 23:17 Do not let your heart envy sinners, but always be zealous for the fear of the LORD.

Scripture of the Day: Psalm 33:12 Blessed is the nation whose God is the LORD, the people he chose for his inheritance.

Quote of the Day: "He that goes a borrowing goes a sorrowing." Benjamin Franklin

Blessed Thanksgiving!

An early morning Thanksgiving to everyone! I just took the Chex Party Mix out of the oven, so I thought I'd do my Thanksgiving blog now since we'll be busy most of the rest of the day. I'm a late night person so I stayed up to do the Chex. Sonya is early morning, so she'll be up at 5 to bake and clean.

I pray you'll have a great Thanksgiving today. Take time away from the buffet table, TV, and turkey to meditate on God's blessings and faithfulness. It is easy to become complacent and even selfish when we live in such a blessed country. Take a step back and look around the world and then give thanks.

About 11 p.m. I realized we were out of butter for tomorrow (I made a double batch of Chex mix and I always add extra seasonings:) so I went to buy more. It was snowing, the streets were wet, not too many cars out, the Christmas lights were on downtown, and it was beautiful. I think I'm ready for winter now.

Be Refreshed!

Proverb of the Day: Proverbs 22:9 A generous man will himself be blessed, for he shares his food with the poor.

Scripture of the Day:

A psalm. For giving thanks.

1 Shout for joy to the LORD, all the earth.

2 Worship the LORD with gladness;
come before him with joyful songs.

3 Know that the LORD is God.
It is he who made us, and we are his ;
we are his people, the sheep of his pasture.

4 Enter his gates with thanksgiving
and his courts with praise;
give thanks to him and praise his name.

5 For the LORD is good and his love endures forever;
his faithfulness continues through all generations.

Quotes of the Day: "It must be an odd feeling to be thankful to nobody in particular. Christians in public institutions often see this odd thing happening on Thanksgiving Day. Everyone in the institution seems to be thankful 'in general.' It's very strange. It's a little like being married in general." Cornelius Plantinga, Jr.

"Nothing purchased can come close to the renewed sense of gratitude for having family
and friends." Courtland Milloy

"The Pilgrims made seven times more graves than huts. No Americans have been more impoverished than these who, nevertheless, set aside a day of thanksgiving." H. U. Westermayer

"Thanksgiving puts steel into our patriotic veins. It reminds us or our great heritage. It carries us back with numbing nostalgia to that first dreadful winter at Plymouth where less than half the handful of people survived. It speaks in clear, crisp tones of forgotten terms, like: integrity...bravery...
respect...faith...vigilance... dignity...honor...freedom... discipline...sacrifice...godliness."
Charles R. Swindoll

Pre-Shopping Checklist

I read an interesting article today that looked at a survey saying that many parents will buy media items for their kids this year even though they are not comfortable with the content. Here's a quote...

"Millions of Christian parents want to appear to be relevant in their children’s eyes, and to provide gifts that fit within the mainstream of postmodern society," George Barna, lead researcher of the latest study, noted. "The problem is that many of the entertainment products that meet those criteria conflict with the moral precepts of the Christian faith. Parents have to make a choice as to what is more important: pleasing their kids’ taste and sensibilities, or satisfying God’s standards as defined in the Bible. When the decision made is to keep their children happy, the Christian parent is often left with a pit in their stomach."

As the frenzy of post-Thanksgiving shopping builds to a head soon, take time to make sure your gifts will build up and not tear down the foundations of your children's lives. Eternity is at stake.

You can read the entire article HERE.

Just one more day of rejoicing before Thanksgiving!

Be Refreshed!

Proverb of the Day: Proverbs 21:3 To do what is right and just is more acceptable to the LORD than sacrifice.

Scripture of the Day: Psalm 118:28-29 28 You are my God, and I will give you thanks; you are my God, and I will exalt you. 29 Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; his love endures forever.

Quote of the Day: "How sharper than a serpent's tooth it is to have a thankless child!" Shakespeare in King Lear

Fa la la la la la la la la

I heard the first Christmas songs in a store a few days ago. At first I thought it was too early. (My personal preference is all Christmas music the day after Thanksgiving, then 25% the next week, 50% the next, and then building to 100% the week before Christmas.) But with the warm fall and early Thanksgiving it really helped me start to get in the mood for the holidays. It was also one of the great worship songs, so it lifted my spirit too.

If you're looking for your Christmas music fix in the car or at home over the next few weeks turn to 104.7 WBGL. They will be playing all Christmas music beginning after Thanksgiving. WBGL is also owned by the IL Assemblies of God, so you know it has to be good:)

Just 2 more days of rejoicing before Thanksgiving!

Be Refreshed!

Proverb of the Day: Proverbs 20:1 Wine is a mocker and beer a brawler; whoever is led astray by them is not wise.

Scripture of the Day: Psalms 113:4-6 4 The LORD is exalted over all the nations, his glory above the heavens. 5 Who is like the LORD our God, the One who sits enthroned on high, 6 who stoops down to look on the heavens and the earth?

Quote of the Day: "Thankfulness is not something God gives us. It is not a spiritual gift and it is not a spiritual fruit. We can receive God's peace, joy and love, but thankfulness is something that we give to God and to others. It is a choice that we make. Let us thank Him today with songs of celebration, hearts of strong devotion and acts of admiration." Roy Lessin

Speeding the Light

Our youth went up on the auction block after our church carry-in dinner yesterday and raised over $1,100 for Speed the Light in their Servant Sale. STL provides our A/G missionaries with cars, trucks, boats, bikes, camels, A/V equipment, etc. to assist them in their missionary work. Since its humble beginnings in 1944, the youth of the A/G has give over $207 million to STL! Our youth here at Bethel have given over $2,000 a year for the last 5-6 years. One of our youth gave over $100 of their own hard earned money just this last week. Way to go Uth!

Just 3 more days of rejoicing before Thanksgiving.

Be Refreshed!

Proverb of the Day: Proverbs 19:3 A man's own folly ruins his life, yet his heart rages against the LORD.

Scripture of the Day: Psalms 84:1-2 1 How lovely is your dwelling place, O LORD Almighty! 2 My soul yearns, even faints, for the courts of the LORD; my heart and my flesh cry out for the living God.

Quote of the Day: "Thanksgiving is an important ingredient in praying...If all we do is ask, and never thank God for His gifts, we are selfish. Sincere gratitude to God is one of the best ways to put fervor into our praying." Warren Wiersbe

Hay Friends

The sprinkles cleared out just in time for a great hayride tonight. A couple of wagons, roaring fire, chili & dogs, s'mores and more. Good Times.

It's time for the weekly sports updates to begin again. Ethan has just had one game so far and his season gets going more regular next week. Isaac has been going 4 times a week for the last couple of weeks. They've gotten off to a pretty slow start, but got their first win today. They finally played well as a team and guess what... it worked! I think there is a sermon illustration there somewhere.

Be Refreshed!

Proverb of the Day: Proverbs 17:17 A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.

Scripture of the Day: Psalm 30:11-12 11 You turned my wailing into dancing; you removed my sackcloth and clothed me with joy, 12 that my heart may sing to you and not be silent. O LORD my God, I will give you thanks forever.

Quote of the Day: "Feeling gratitude and not expressing it is like wrapping a present and not giving it." William Arthur Ward

Thanksgiving Countdown

We're going through the Psalms on Wednesday nights, so the hardest part of last night was trying to narrow down which Psalms of Thanksgiving we were going to try and get through in one night. I think we made it through 12. (9, 30, 32, 34, 66, 67, 92, 100, 115, 116, 118, & 138) The wide variety had an interesting mix of thanksgiving for provision, healing, deliverance, hope, the nation, the individual, the coming Messiah, and more.

Take some time in these Psalms this week and then write your own Psalm of praise. He is worthy!

Be Refreshed!

Proverb of the Day: Proverbs 15:17 Better a meal of vegetables where there is love than a fattened calf with hatred.

Scripture of the Day: Psalm 30:11-12 11 You turned my wailing into dancing; you removed my sackcloth and clothed me with joy, 12 that my heart may sing to you and not be silent. O LORD my God, I will give you thanks forever.

Quote of the Day: "Perhaps it takes a purer faith to praise God for unrealized blessings than for those we once enjoyed or those we enjoy now." A. W. Tozer

Pentathlon Week 1

The guys had week one of the BAMM Men's Winter Pentathlon last night. Our spiritual theme for the night was Discipline of Perseverance and the event was Checkers. We hadn't done checkers in a couple of years and everyone bad mouthed it, but it always gets the most intense night of action. It was about 11 before I made it home. Kris B. was the checkers champion on the night and is off and running to defend his first place trophy of 2006-07.

Speaking of competition, it's about time for more Sports Week in Review. Both Ethan & Isaac are playing basketball at Cornerstone this winter and games are underway now.

Be Refreshed!

Proverb of the Day: Proverbs 13:11 Dishonest money dwindles away, but he who gathers money little by little makes it grow.

Scripture of the Day: Acts 10:44-45 44 While Peter was still speaking these words, the Holy Spirit came on all who heard the message. 45 The circumcised believers who had come with Peter were astonished that the gift of the Holy Spirit had been poured out even on the Gentiles.

Quote of the Day: "A spirit of ingratitude is he first step towards apostasy." Ammon S. Kauffman

Persecuted Church

How ironic it was that yesterday was Veteran's Day here in America and it was also the International Day of Prayer for the Persecuted Church. As I shared yesterday, here I felt no fear and never thought about it twice other than giving thanks for the freedoms our veterans have fought for us to enjoy. Unfortunately that is not true for many of our brothers and sisters around the world. Many live in harms way. Many are persecuted or imprisoned. Others will give their lives for their faith. Here are a couple of links for you to find out more information on the persecuted church.

http://www.persecutedchurch.org/
http://www.persecution.com/


Be Refreshed!

Proverb of the Day: Proverbs 12:28 In the way of righteousness there is life; along that path is immortality.

Scripture of the Day: Hebrews 13:13 Remember those in prison as if you were their fellow prisoners, and those who are mistreated as if you yourselves were suffering.

Quote of the Day: "In ordinary life we hardly realize that we receive a great deal more than we give, and that it is only with gratitude that life becomes rich. It is very easy to overestimate the importance of our own achievements in comparison with that of others." Dietrich Bonhoeffer

Thanks Veterans!

Thanks to all of our veterans who have served this country. What a privilege we have to live in America. This morning we gathered on the corner of Maple and Elm in our church to worship and never once did the thought of fear cross my mind. No one was arrested. We have a church sign out front. All of our information is in the paper and yellow pages. My sermon wasn't being monitored by the state. Even some of the people there didn't listen:)

I have the privilege of having a family who have served our country.

My dad joined the Navy the year after WWII ended. He later was called up by the Navy out of college to go to the Korean War. Thanks Dad.

My oldest brother Roger was a Marine. Or should I say, Once a Marine, Alway a Marine. Thanks Roger.

My other brother Robert was a career Navy man. He was just finishing 20 years when he passed away. He served on a carrier in the Gulf during the first Gulf War. Thanks Robert.

Sonya's brother Rodney has been in the National Guard for 20+ years and was on the ground in the first Gulf War. He now is full time in the Guard and will head back to Iraq early in 2008. Thanks Rodney.

Be Refreshed!

Proverb of the Day: Proverbs 11:28 Whoever trusts in his riches will fall, but the righteous will thrive like a green leaf.

Scripture of the Day: Psalm 33:12 Blessed is the nation whose God is the LORD, the people he chose for his inheritance.

Quote of the Day: "Thanksgiving like contentment is a learned attribute. The person who hasn't learned to be content will not be thankful for he lives with the delusion he deserves more or something better. " Robert Flatt

Surplus or Sacrifice?

I received an e-mail yesterday from one of the missionaries our church supports and he had a great tag line on the end. It read, "Not just Pity but Prayer, Not Indifference but Involvement, Not Surplus but Sacrifice." What a great challenge in just a few words. Do we just admire or feel bad for our missionaries who leave it all behind to serve God or do we join them on the front lines with prayer? Do we forget about them after they leave the states or do we stayed involved and engaged? Do we really sacrifice for the Kingdom of God or do we just wait and see what we have left over after we've fully satisfied ourselves? Make that challenge part of your meditation this week.

We had a beautiful night last night for the youth hayride. Beautiful dark blue skies, thousands of stars, and not a cloud in the sky. The temp was in the upper 40's, so just cool enough to stay close to the fire but not freeze either. Don't forget our all church hayride next Saturday at 5:30. It's a great way to get together with the Bethel family and celebrate the harvest and God's faithfulness.

Be Refreshed!

Proverb of the Day: Proverbs 10:19 When words are many, sin is not absent, but he who holds his tongue is wise.

Scripture of the Day: Philemon 1:4-7 4 I always thank my God as I remember you in my prayers, 5because I hear about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints. 6 I pray that you may be active in sharing your faith, so that you will have a full understanding of every good thing we have in Christ. 7 Your love has given me great joy and encouragement, because you, brother, have refreshed the hearts of the saints.

Quote of the Day: "If a fellow isn't thankful for what he's got, he isn't likely to be thankful for what he's going to get." Frank A. Clark

More Ninjas Please

We had a fun time putting the adults and youth together last night, although the participation of the adults in the Blind Ninja game was woefully lacking. My lovely wife did take a couple of blows to the head though, so I better give her credit. One of the adults even said we should do it again sometime. (The evening as a whole, not necessarily that game)

Thanksgiving is just two weeks away. Have you begun (or hopefully continued) your season of giving thanks?

Be Refreshed!


Proverb of the Day: Proverbs 8:13 To fear the LORD is to hate evil; I hate pride and arrogance, evil behavior and perverse speech.

Scripture of the Day: Ephesians 5:18 Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit.

Quote of the Day: "Pride slays thanksgiving, but an humble mind is the soil out of which thanks naturally grow. A proud man is seldom a grateful man, for he never thinks he gets as much as he deserves." Henry Ward Beecher

All Thanksgiving, All the Time

Thanksgiving comes early this year. Thanksgiving is the 4th Thursday of November, so with the 1st being on a Thursday, this is the earliest it can be. I occasionally challenge my church that Christians should be the most thankful people on the face of the earth. In a world of the unsatisfied, lawsuit filing, and my rights generation, we should shine like stars in the universe.

I read recently that, "An unthankful Christian is a defeated Christian for he/she has lost their joy." So set aside not just a day this month, but every day this month to regain your victory and joy through thanksgiving.

Be Refreshed!

Proverb of the Day: Proverbs 6:6-8 6 Go to the ant, you sluggard; consider its ways and be wise! 7 It has no commander, no overseer or ruler, 8 yet it stores its provisions in summer and gathers its food at harvest.

Scripture of the Day: 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 16 Be joyful always; 17 pray continually; 18 give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.

Quote of the Day: "We would worry less if we praised more. Thanksgiving is the enemy of discontent and dissatisfaction." Harry A. Ironside

General Superintendent

A few weeks ago I put a link to the testimonies of our national Assemblies of God leaders. Click Here Since that time, our General Superintendent George Wood has put together a web page for his office. I thought you might enjoy getting to know him a little better. With 11,000+ churches, he'll probably never make it to Sycamore, but now you can get to see some of his life and heart for the A/G. There is also a special family testimony on there of God's faithfulness through a very hard time of their lives. Check it out. Click Here

Be Refreshed!

Proverb of the Day: Proverbs 5:18 "May your fountain be blessed, and may you rejoice in the wife of your youth."

Scripture of the Day: Ephesians 4:29 Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.

Quote of the Day: "The Christian ideal has not been tried and found wanting; it has been found difficult and left untried." G.K. Chesterton

Get Your Goat

This is an old story, but I told it tonight during the evening sermon. It's a good reminder as we move into November and Thanksgiving.

There is a man who goes to the rabbi and complains, "Life is unbearable. There are nine of us living in one room. What can I do?" The rabbi answers, "Take your goat into the room with you." The man in incredulous, but the rabbi insists. "Do as I say and come back in a week." A week later the man comes back looking more distraught than before. "We cannot stand it," he tells the rabbi. "The goat is filthy." The rabbi then tells him, "Go home and let the goat out. And come back in a week." A radiant man returns to the rabbi a week later, exclaiming, "Life is beautiful. We enjoy every minute of it now that there’s no goat -- only the nine of us."

Be Refreshed!

Proverb of the Day: Proverb 4:14-15 14 Do not set foot on the path of the wicked or walk in the way of evil men. 15 Avoid it, do not travel on it; turn from it and go on your way.

Scripture of the Day: Matthew 6:31-34 31 So do not worry, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?' 32 For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. 33 But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. 34 Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.

Quote of the Day: Such a blessed people should be a thankful people. Cotton Mather

Wild, Wild West

We had our Hallelujah Party last night for the community. The theme this year was Wild, Wild West. Elizabeth was an Indian girl and Jeremiah was Teddy Roosevelt (he's been studying him in school). We had games, stories, music, candy, food, and lots of fun. The majority of kids aren't from our church, so it's a great opportunity to connect with others.

Yesterday was a party with the kids. Today I had lunch with the Senior Saints. Tomorrow I leave for the statewide youth convention. I guess I should have planned something for mid-adults to complete the generations.

Be Refreshed!

Proverb of the Day: Proverbs 1:32-33 For the waywardness of the simple will kill them, and the complacency of fools will destroy them; but whoever listens to me will live in safety and be at ease, without fear of harm.

Scripture of the Day: John 3:17 For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.

Quote of the Day: A pharisee is hard on others and easy on himself, but a spiritual man is easy on others and hard on himself. A. W. Tozer

Do You Smell?

One of the objectives of a believer is to shine for Jesus. Several times Scripture admonishes us to live good lives and let the world see our good works. The result of those lives is to see Christ lifted up. The bad news today is that our culture is slipping lower and lower. The "good" news is that it is now easier to shine brighter. We've lowered the bar to such a degree that honesty, virtue, purity, integrity, and servanthood easily stand out.

So go and shine for Jesus today. Let the world smell the fragrance of Christ on you.

Be Refreshed!


Proverb of the Day: Proverbs 31:30 Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised.

Scripture of the Day: Ephesians 6:10-13 10 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. 11 Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. 12 For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. 13 Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand.

Quote of the Day: The world is a den of murderers, subject to the devil. If we desire to live on earth, we must be content to be guests in it, and to lie in an inn where the host is a rascal, whose house has over the door this sign or shield, "For murder and lies." Martin Luther

Focus

Focus was the focus of our Sunday morning yesterday. It was Pumpkin Festival weekend, so this was more of a side note for our fall sermon series. But for us to truly walk as Jesus we need a different Focus.

In Acts 5 after they had been flogged it says, "The apostles left the Sanhedrin, rejoicing because they had been counted worthy of suffering disgrace for the Name."

In Acts 7 as Stephen is being stoned to death it says, "Then he fell on his knees and cried out, "Lord, do not hold this sin against them." When he had said this, he fell asleep."

In Acts 16 Paul and Silas are attacked, stripped, flogged and locked in stocks in prison and their response is, "About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening to them."

The one thing that all three of those events have in common is that they don't have a normal response. Rejoicing? Forgiveness? Worship? If our focus is on ourselves none of those three responses happen. If our focus has shifted heavenward, all three now make sense. If we really desire to live God's abundant life we need a different focus. If today's church is going to grow and have influence like the early church, our focus must be lifted heavenward.

Where's your focus?

Be Refreshed!

Proverb of the Day: Proverbs 29:27 The righteous detest the dishonest; the wicked detest the upright.

Scripture of the Day: Hebrews 11:13-16 13 All these people were still living by faith when they died. They did not receive the things promised; they only saw them and welcomed them from a distance. And they admitted that they were aliens and strangers on earth. 14 People who say such things show that they are looking for a country of their own. 15 If they had been thinking of the country they had left, they would have had opportunity to return. 16 Instead, they were longing for a better country—a heavenly one. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God, for he has prepared a city for them.

Quote of the Day: "If the devil were wise enough and would stand by in silence and let the Gospel be preached, he would suffer less harm. For when there is no battle for the Gospel it rusts and it finds no cause and no occasion to show its vigor and power. Therefore, nothing better can befall the Gospel than that the world should fight it with force and cunning." Martin Luther

A Good Tired

The big town festival is this weekend, so lot's of people going in lots of different directions. Hopefully Bethel will be a light in the center of all of it and also raise money for missionary literature, missionary vehicles, a children's home, a Christian adoption agency, a home for troubled ladies, our boys ministry, and more. At our house we call that a "good tired".

This week in Sports:

Jeremiah finished up his football season on Thursday night. They played hard, but a couple quick scores by the opponents in the first couple of minutes were too much to overcome. Jeremiah was on a young team this year, but they sure played hard.

Be Refreshed!

Proverb of the Day: 27:1 Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring forth.

Scripture of the Day: Philippians 2:3-4 3 Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. 4 Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others.

Quote of the Day: The family fireside is the best of schools. Arnold Glasow

Broken

Part of the challenge for the youth tonight was brokenness from the story of the alabaster jar (Mark 14). The perfume inside was worth over a year's wages, and yet she broke the jar as she anointed Jesus with the perfume. Too often we crack open the lid of our lives a tiny bit and slowly parcel out what we feel comfortable with while we keep control of the rest. But true worship comes as we are broken before God and allow him to have it all.

Once the alabaster jar was broken, there was no keeping anything back. She was now fully committed. No half and half. No turning back. It's all His.

We also need to be fully broken. Fully Committed. No half and half. No turning back. All His.

Be Refreshed!

Proverb of the Day: Proverb 24:26 An honest answer is like a kiss on the lips.

Scripture of the Day: 1 Kings 18:21 Elijah went before the people and said, "How long will you waver between two opinions? If the LORD is God, follow him; but if Baal is God, follow him." But the people said nothing.

Quote of the Day: Before we can begin to see the cross as something done for us, we have to see it as something done by us. John Stott

Power 2

A little more fuel for your fire today.

In the Thirteenth century, Pope Urban IV was showing Thomas Aquinas around the Vatican in Rome. The pope showed the Thomas the vaults where there was a display of all the massive wealth of the church of that day. And looking at him the Pope said, “Thomas, no longer does the church have to say, ‘Silver and gold have I none‘”….to which Thomas Aquinas replied, “that’s right …but also …no longer can the church say ….‘in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk.’”
(original source unknown)

Be Refreshed!

Proverb of the Day: Proverbs 23:18 Do not let your heart envy sinners, but always be zealous for the fear of the LORD.

Scripture of the Day: Acts 3:6-8 6 Then Peter said, "Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk." 7 Taking him by the right hand, he helped him up, and instantly the man's feet and ankles became strong. 8 He jumped to his feet and began to walk. Then he went with them into the temple courts, walking and jumping, and praising God.

Quote of the Day: True contentment is a real, even an active, virtue---not only affirmative but creative. It is the power of getting out of any situation all there is in it. G.K. Chesterton

Power

We finished week 4 of our fall series, God's Eternal Blueprint, yesterday. The theme for this week is POWER. One of the engines for the early church was the power of the Holy Spirit. Time and time again throughout the book of Acts you see the combination of the Word combined with the supernatural. The world saw God's power and heard His truth. That combination led to incredible daily growth in the church. The religious leaders could argue the theological, but they didn't know what to do when the lame walked.

Oh God, return to America in Your power.

Be Refreshed!

Proverb of the Day: Proverb 22:15 "Folly is bound up in the heart of a child, but the rod of discipline will drive it far from him."

Scripture of the Day: Acts 14:3 "So Paul and Barnabas spent considerable time there, speaking boldly for the Lord, who confirmed the message of his grace by enabling them to do miraculous signs and wonders."

Quote of the Day: "A church in the land without the Spirit is rather a curse than a blessing. If you have not the Spirit of God, Christian worker, remember that you stand in somebody else's way; you are a fruitless tree standing where a fruitful tree might grow." Charles Spurgeon

The Calm

This weekend is the calm before the storm. The next 2 weeks are a couple of the busiest of the church year. A weekend of Pumpkin Festival, the Hallelujah Party, and state youth convention over the course of 9 days.

Today is Sweetest Day. (A fake holiday:) But everyday is sweetest day for me. God has truly blessed me with an amazing wife. Beautiful, talented, hard worker, gentle spirit, loves God and hates to shop. What a combination! I love you!

This week in sports.

-Elizabeth finished up her soccer season with a 8-3 win this morning. She scored 4 goals in the first half, sat the third quarter, and was on defense the fourth.
-Jeremiah is down to his last football game next Thursday. They played one of their best games this week but still came up short.
-Isaac & Ethan are into their pre-season basketball practices at Cornerstone.

Be Refreshed!

Proverb of the Day: Proverbs 20:12 "Ears that hear and eyes that see— the LORD has made them both."

Scripture of the Day: Proverbs 18:22 "He who finds a wife finds what is good and receives favor from the LORD."

Quote of the Day: "The desire of love is to give. The desire of lust is to get.” Unknown

God in the Cave

We went through Psalms 57 & 142 in Bible study last night. Both were written by David when he was hiding in the caves from King Saul (1 Samuel 22-24). In a day of the instant we can struggle with Psalms of trust and praise from a cave. We want deliverance now. We want victory & justice now. David is honest of his weariness and feelings of isolation, but he also knows that God is faithful.

I wonder if God was crafting a king? We already know he was a great warrior. Even the people sang of his great exploits. But it takes more than being popular and a good warrior to rule God's kingdom. Character is often crafted in the caves of life. We all, like David, want to be known as a man after God's own heart (1 Sam 13:14). We want to be great worshipers. We want to be the king. But are we willing to worship in the caves of life? Will we still honor him when death is a step away (1 Sam 20:3)? Can we still exalt Him as faithful when we're all alone?

James 1:2-4 says, "2 Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, 3 because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. 4 Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything."

Be Refreshed!

Proverb of the Day: Proverbs 18:12 "Before his downfall a man's heart is proud, but humility comes before honor."

Scripture of the Day: Job 1:20-22 "At this, Job got up and tore his robe and shaved his head. Then he fell to the ground in worship and said:
"Naked I came from my mother's womb,
and naked I will depart.
The LORD gave and the LORD has taken away;
may the name of the LORD be praised."
In all this, Job did not sin by charging God with wrongdoing."

Quote of the Day: "Courage is almost a contradiction in terms. It means a strong desire to live, taking the form of a readiness to die." G.K. Chesterton

A Blessed Pastor

More of a personal note to our congregation today.

I was thinking tonight just how blessed I am to have you for a church. You have loved us, accepted us with open arms, blessed us, and I'm sure at more times than I wish to admit, tolerated me. You are gracious and generous with my kids. You honor and respect my wife. I am privileged to serve you.

Losing Mary & Jeannine these past few weeks once again reminded me what a great family we have. I know it can be dangerous to focus only inward and become closed off, but at least we're not hoping new people come because we can't stand the ones here now:) My best friends attend my church.

Tomorrow I'm taking a pastor out for lunch who was not voted back into his church this spring (another denomination). His entire time there it seemed like a constant struggle. I want to encourage and bless him, although to be honest it's hard for me to fully understand and sympathize. I don't say that because I'm so good, I say that because you're so good.

Be Refreshed!


Proverb of the Day: Proverbs 16:24 "Pleasant words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones."

Scripture of the Day: Psalm 133:1 "How good and pleasant it is when brothers live together in unity!"

Quote of the Day: "Is any pleasure on earth as great as a circle of Christian friends by a fire?" C.S. Lewis

A/G Testimonies

At our August national Assemblies of God General Council, two of our main leadership team retired, so there were several new leaders elected to serve us. In the national headquarters chapels last week, four of our main leaders shared their testimonies. I thought you might enjoy hearing the heart of those who serve us at the highest level. Click HERE to access the recording of their testimonies.

Sports week in review. (No wagering please)

Isaac (above) finished up his soccer season with Cornerstone Christian Academy with third place in their year end tournament. He also scored a goal in the third place game. He really hustled and had a great year with the team.

Elizabeth scored once in a tough defeat in soccer on Saturday. She played hard, but they met a tough team. One more game to go.

Jeremiah's Tigers KYFL football team lost another one Thursday. I missed it for a visitation, but he played both ways again. He's getting a good workout and hopefully learning a lot.

Ethan finished his first week of basketball practice tired and sore. I of course had no sympathy and told him stories of pre-season training in the good old days. Kids these days are soft. Back in my day...

Be Refreshed!


Proverb of the Day: Proverbs 15:13 "A happy heart makes the face cheerful, but heartache crushes the spirit."

Scripture of the Day: 1 Peter 2:12 "Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us."

Quote of the Day: "God, I pray Thee, light these idle sticks of my life, that I may burn for Thee. Consume my life, my God, for it is Thine. I seek not a long life, but a full one, like You, Lord Jesus." Jim Elliot