The New Year...

I'm not much for New Years resolutions but I am for renewed and passionate pursuit of a more meaningful, in depth and life changing relationship with Jesus. A more intentional lifestyle that will escort me into the "much more" Paul the Apostle sets before us in the book of Romans.

The God of all history has assured us who are in Jesus Christ, that our yesterdays, todays AND tomorrows are secure and that an unhindered, reciprocal relational flow between us will assure our adequacy, sufficiency and security... that certainly includes 2007.

The Gospel has and always will be, relevant and applicable for every contemporary concern, need or obsticle. Every generation preceeding us loudly declares the faithfulness of Our God. The Psalmist says: "I have been young and now am old...and I've never seen the righteous forsaken OR his seed begging bread." As you move toward the new year, remember, as you walk with Him, His adequacy will resource you for all your endeavors and His abundance will overflow to the degree that You will have enough for all things AND you will become a source of blessing for others.

Looking forward to all He'll bring in 2007.

Blessings,

Mitch

Final Thoughts On Christmas...

The angel Gabriel said to Mary, "You are blessed among women...blessed from the greek word eulogeo, meaning well spoken of. We contemplated her obedience in the previous blog; the angel tells her she is and will be well spoken of. Her simple, yet exemplary life gained God's favor and attention and her faith in His fresh words to her would guarantee it in the future.

But this word "highly favored one" in Luke 1:28 deserves special attention. In the greek it is charitoo, meaning and conveying the idea of being uniquely privileged...even the sense of being afforded a once in history opportunity. In her case, she was the privileged bearer of the Christ child, a once in history role. The scripture seems clearly intent on emphasizing this same once in history fact about every one of us.

Remarkably, this same word, used of Mary, is used of us today. This word is found in only two places in scripture: in Luke 1, of Mary, and in Ephesians 1 of each and every believer in Jesus. Of each believer, charitoo is used in Ephesians 1:6, and joined with the fact that each of us have been called "blessed" also (Eph. 1:3). As ones who have been "chosen" (Eph. 1:4), we each have a unique role assigned to us that no one else, other than ourselves, individually, can fulfill.
Adapted

It's amazing that the Holy Spirit would move the Apostle Paul to use the same word, used only one other time in scripture, in reference to Mary, and apply it to each of us. The implications, possibilities and potential of this truth are huge and time and space will not allow it to be explored here. But suffice it to say, that as Mary was uniquely privileged and empowered by his word, we too, through Jesus have been uniquely privileged, graced and empowered for possibilities and limitless potential in our contemporary lives; a unique opportunity, in our current sphere of influence, to do something, through Jesus, that noone else can possibly do or achieve. It is staggering to contemplate. ...Oh the timeless power and relevance of the Gospel.

GLORY TO GOD IN THE HIGHEST, AND ON EARTH PEACE AND GOODWILL TOWARD MEN.

Ponder this, get excited in it...and run with it. Merry Christmas!

Mitch

Thanks...

Thanks to everyone that helped to make this past Sunday night such a sweet time. The music was meaningful, the children were such fun, the candles, carols and Christmas munchies were incredible.

This week begins the renovation of our sound system. We hope to make many improvements. This has been a long awaited and needed step. We all are excited about this privilege. Though we will see significant improvements, it doesn't mean we will have flawless sound. The technical aspects of "worship" are complicated at best and it demands not only good and well functioning equipment but carefully trained operators and maintainers of that system. This significant step will enhance and facilitate what we do in many ways. We'll always be looking for ways to use this equipment more effectively and excel for the Glory Of God!

Also, our sound men will be participating in a training seminar in Jacksonville in January, another long awaited opportunity / privilege. This will give them helpful information and sharpen the skills their ministry requires.

Don't miss this coming Sunday Morning Worship at 10:45. It will feature seasonal music and carols, a message by Pastor Rick and the Lord's Supper. What wonderful preparation for Christmas Day and the celebration we'll enjoy.

Finally, I highly recommend the movie "The Nativity". Try to fit this into your Christmas schedule...a moving depiction of the Christmas Story....

Merry Christmas!!

Mitch

Christmas continued...

I'm profoundly moved when I think about Mary and the price of her obedience to God, her Father. Her encounter with the angel was private and the message to her was pretty unusual. As she reported it to others, it was incredible, too unusual to be possible and as she began to "show", she was not only misunderstood but scorned by all for her seeming moral impropriety and lack of integrity regarding her betrothal. It put Joseph in a very difficult position and it was only after his own mystical encounter with God that He could cooperate with Him in what was Spirit initiated in her.

Her obedience set into motion a series of events [that she couldn't possibly have forseen] over the next two to three years: extensive traveling and covert living to escape notice of Herod; the slaying of hundreds of innocent children as ordered by Herod; the heightened pressures placed upon Joseph, the ongoing concern and inexplicable scenario that Mary's parents must have felt and the physical separation and no-news-wondering they must have suffered while they were away in Egypt...and on and on....

In all of this Mary must have had her moments of questioning and doubt [Joseph, too], "Did I do the right thing?"

Obedience always has its benefits, but I also think it is important to remember that it is costly, and many times, in ways that we couldn't possibly forsee. It is imperative that we know this and determine to have a peaceful resolve to receive what our obedience may bring, lest after having obeyed, we sometime abandon the God-given course due to the antagonism, losses and impact on others it may bring.

Obedience is where we should live but many of its rewards are enjoyed much later than we would hope or anticipate. Costly and unforseen as Mary's course was, conversly, she couldn't have possibly imagined the tremendous blessing her life would be to every generation to follow her and the profound impact her decisions would have on you and me.

One day, when this life has given way to the spiritual dimension, I'm going to find her and thank her for how she touched my life and express my appreciation to her for her willingness to endure, so that I could be so uniquely privileged...and my children...and their children, to be vitally connected to God, my Father through His / Her Son.

To be continued....

I just felt compelled to share these thoughts with you. Blessings on you and yours.

Mitch

Christmas...

Christmas...God taking on flesh, becoming a man...the incarnation.... So many are writing, expressing and celebrating this season in their unique ways. Those of us in the Kingdom are hoping to see Christmas with "new eyes"... fresh insights and angles for ourselves and to portray what we learn of this most significant event to others.

I'm just an average person and don't think that I have anything significant to add to the many voices out there that are heralding the glorious news of Jesus. I must say though, that for me, I'm continuing to discover that the incarnation [God taking on flesh in the person of Jesus] was just the begining. Since then, God our Father has intended for His person, His life, to be born, incarnated, in us. It starts when we first choose to become a follower of Jesus. Every day after that, as we walk with Him, His virtues, person and personality increasingly are seen in us. His Life in us, just as it was in Jesus, clearly showing the world we live in, what God is like, how He loves and cares.

Christmas strongly reminds me that what He did through His Son, Jesus...He wants to do through me. Jesus said: "The things that I do, you can do because...." The book of Acts [commonly known as The Acts of the Apostles] is inaccurately titled according to some bible teachers. They state it should be , The Acts of Jesus as continued by the Apostles. I like that! It puts the credit and glory where it ought to be and reminds me that the Jesus birthed in me can do his work if I'll let Him...and God can be incarnated again and again and again.

Nothing profound really that I've typed here...nothing new...but certainly something that I need to remember all year and not just Christmas.

Just thought you'd want to know...

Blessings,

Mitch

A Busy Season...

It's at this time every year when I find myself struggling to keep the most important things in my life important, in their proper place...the place my Heavenly Father has determined they should be for me.

It is a challenge to say "yes" when I should say "yes" and "no" when I should say "no". I'd say it is particularly hard to say "no". Resisting the temptation to yield to urgency, good things over the best, to compromise disciplines [quite time, exercise and eating right...ouch] and more.

Knowing that it is the "little foxes" that can spoil the vine and, how desperately we need the consistency of these Father-imposed boundaries, we should keep alert and intentional in all we do or don't do in any busy time of our lives (are we ever not busy?).

Paul reminds us that following Jesus is a race, a marathon, and as every good athlete would, we must always pay close attention to the things that can make us and keep us in the best shape for His purposes in us.

Please don't hear me saying that you can't have fun during the holidays because I believe our Father has given us all good things to enjoy. But, somehow in my enjoying, I want Him to see that, no matter what, He has first place and first choice in me and especially in the "little things". And, don't forget, it is His birthday we're celebrating and He's the One we want to honor, please and respect in all of our festivities. It just seems like the right thing to do for Him.

As always, I'm the one that needed to hear this the most. I hope that as you read this note, that was really written for me, you'll be encouraged too.

Such a joy to serve at Fellowship!

Mitch

A Great Sunday!

What a day it was being introduced to Jeff Powell and his family, hearing him preach, answer questions and much more. The Word was powerfully delivered, there was an electricity in the air...a spirit of anticipation and joy!

Many have asked what is the next step. As soon as we hear from Jeff and Jane, the team will try to discern what that step will be and they'll inform us when they know.

Let's continue to pray for Jeff, his family and the search team. The one thing that we all are looking for is what God wants. Pray that it will be very clear and confirmed for us all.

Great things to come from our great God....

Love you all,

Mitch

For You All...

Very simply, may this time of thankfulness be the most meaningful for you and yours ever...and be sure and know that Teresa and I are so thankful for you.

I look forward to seeing you this coming Sunday.

Blessed,

Mitch and Teresa

Thanksgiving - Part II

His Word continues...

Offer unto God Thanksgiving, pay thy vows and call upon His name.

Sing unto the Lord a new song; for He has done marvelous things...

Make known His deeds among the people. Remember His marvelous works that He has done.

Forget none of His benefits!

Praise the Lord! Give thanks to Him, for He is good and His mercy endures forever!

Let the Redeemed of the Lord say so, whom He has redeemed from the hand of the enemy. O that men would praise Him for His goodness and wonderful works to the children of men.

Honor the Lord with thy substance...In the day of prosperity be joyful...and ye shall eat in plenty, and be satisfied and praise the name of the Lord your God, that hath dealt wondrously with you.

Yes, give thanks always for all things unto God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light.

For it is a good thing to give thanks to the Lord...in all things do this; for being rooted, built up and established in Him causes us to abound in thanksgiving. This is the will of God for us all, that we continually offer the sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name.

God Is So Good! Let's glory in His goodness to us all this season.

Bless You,

Mitch

Thanksgiving - Part I

November is the month that we traditionally give special attention to gratitude and thankfulness to our Father. I leave these passages for you to read, ponder and to guide you in this special season....

God saw everything that He had made, and, behold, it was very good.

Thou visitest the earth, and waterest it: Thou greatly enrichest it with the river of God, which is full of water: Thou preparest them corn, when thou hast so provided for it.

Thou crownest the year with Thy goodness; and Thy paths drop fatness. They drop upon the pastures of the wilderness: and the little hills rejoice on every side.

The pastures are clothed with flocks; the valleys also are covered over with corn; they shout for joy, they also sing.

He causeth the grass to grow for the cattle, and herb for the service of man: that He may bring forth good out of the earth. O Lord, how manifold are Thy works! In wisdom hast Thou made them all: the earth is full of Thy riches.

Oh that men would praise the Lord for His goodness, and for His wonderful works to the children of men! For He satisfieth the longing soul, and fillest the hungry soul with goodness.

But I will sacrifice unto Thee with the voice of thanksgiving; I will pay all that I have vowed. Salvation is from the Lord.

To be continued....

Thankful for you all,

Mitch

Thanks So Much...

Many of you have prayed for and expressed to Teresa and her family your support and concern during the recent loss of her mother. Our language does not provide a way to adequately express our appreciation. Just know there is a deep seated gratitude we feel for you all as we contemplate the events of this last week. Your presence, kind words and deeds of love and support have profoundly touched the family in ways and in places that are meaningful, deep and memorable...and will not soon be forgotten.

Your continued prayer during the days to come is coveted and will, we are certain, make such a difference.

We are blessed to have a family like you.

Amazed,

Mitch

Contrition...

Contrition...a biblical word that's not used much anymore...it seems.... Translated from the Hebrew, it literally means bruised, broken, crushed in spirit. It's not a "feel good" word in our world and culture that is so heavily engaged in an inordinate pursuit of health, wealth and prosperity. But it's an indispensible word in God's economy , if indeed, we're going to know His best and what it means to be, as Jabez said it, "blessed indeed."

The Psalmist states that "the nearness of my God is my good!" But as we read further we find that God's nearness is conditional. The condition is contriteness.... I leave these verses of scripture with you to ponder. May we all understand more of what this condition means and how it behaves. For in having this sober virtue, we are certain of His nearness and all His presence brings....

The Lord is near to the brokenhearted, and saves those who are crushed in spirit.

The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart, O God, Thou wilt not despise (ingore; in essence, the broken and contrite have an audience with God!).

"For my hand made all these things, thus all these things came into being," declares the Lord. "But to this one will I look, to him who is humble and contrite of spirit, and who trembles at My Word!"

So...

"Rend your hearts and not your garments." Now return to the Lord your God, for He is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger, abounding in lovingkindness, and relenting of evil (meaning, He doesn't want us to hurt or be hurt and will revoke His sentence of evil on us when His conditions are met - Amplified).

...For it's Your kindness that leads us to repentance, O Lord.

...In Your presence (nearness), there is fullness of joy, in your right hand, there are pleasures forever....

Blessings,

Mitch

Our "Work"...

We believers have to learn how to be God's champions in the middle of a very morally confused and complex culture...a life filled with many pressures and challenges. Sometimes we would check out or move to another "location" that would make things simpler...easier if we could. But that's not God's plan for us. Chances are, we are where we are because God has engineered it for us and those in our environment so that we all can grow.

All of God's kids are ordinary people. We are made extra-ordinary by the things He brings our way. The scripture says: "I am made all things, to all men, that I might by all means win some." (1 Cor. 9:22) Think about it...God has chosen you for the unique set of circumstances you're in. He will make YOU all things that you need to be for what He has given you to do. He will make us all things, and equal to every task that he assigns. It is not so much that we have Him but that He has us and is able to get the job done.

I've thought about it...men and women that we remember today were ordinary people, in extraordinary circumstances who overcame in them: Moses (ordinary guy, big job to do, BIG GOD), Abraham Lincoln (humble, ordinary man; extraordinary national crisis and by his admission, God made him equal to the daunting task of uniting a divided nation)...there are many more.

When God choses you and puts you somewhere, He also places at your disposal extraordinary resources necessary for those things. Be His man or woman where you are and you'll find yourself doing and being extra-ordinary...for His Glory and to your ultimate and complete satisfaction and fulfillment. "The chief end and duty of man is to glorify God and enjoy Him forever." Forever begins right now for us Kingdom Kids. Don't miss any of it!

Blessings,

Mitch

Simplicity...Applied...

Well you probably noticed that I blogged only once last week. It wasn't because I was too busy (though I had a very full week). I simply didn't feel like I had anything to say. O yes...I've got lots of resources and could have plugged something into this slot. I had some fresh new thoughts from the scripture that I could have shared. But I decided to resist the temptation to "fill the air" with more words when they very well might not have been His Words and at the right time. This is an attempt to eat what I've been serving up in this blog the past couple of weeks...trying to hear from Him what is most important and do it, even though some things may appear to be neglected or go undone (for a while)...a scenario that Jesus faced every day of his life.

Those of us in the ministry are famous for speaking when we should be quiet or when we know we really don't have something important to say. We act when we should wait, do when we should be still...and I could go on. I'm finding that I'm uncomfortable with silence and consequently speak when it is not necessary. Sometimes I talk because I think it's what is required of me in a situation as a minister. I find I can be uncomfortable when I don't have something to do; I can pace the floor, feel guilty about my "idleness" when it may indeed be exactly what my Father wants...quietness and stillness...with an eternal purpose.

I suspect you are hearing what I'm talking about and understanding because you have the same feelings in your own world where you live. I've made up my mind...I'm going to grapple with this search for simplicity and believe that He, Jesus, who lived simplicity so beautifully, will piece by piece, liberate me from the tyranny of the urgent, keep me at the center of what is essential and give me peace about what is left over. ...For He said, the things I do, YOU can do...because I go to my Father....

There's so much more...and I thought you'd want to know, I'm reaching for it.... Join me, won't you?

Blessings,

Mitch

Simplicity Continued...

As I look into the Gospel Of John, there is a simplicity that characterizes the life of Jesus. When asked about his life and its secrets, He gives simple responses to all of us simple people. I need it that way...simple me, simple mind, simple path. In the urgency of his life and its demands, He stayed on trac, got the essentials done, did the best things (in the face of much conflict from his enemies and friends) and could confidently say in the end..."It is finished." His life's purpose, what He was here for, got done...and His Father said of Him, "this is my Son in whom I am well pleased." His relationship and vital connection with His Father was what made Him effective and efficient. Jesus said Himself, "...apart from my Father, I can do nothing."

Our relationship to our Heavenly Father is the key to everything. What Jesus had with His Father is possible for us too. He said, "...the things that I do, you shall do...because I go to my Father."

So...back to simplicity in practical living...how does this apply? I leave you with these two quotes:

Much of our acceptance of the multitudes of obligations is due to our inability to say No! We calculated that that task had to be done, and we saw no one ready to undertake it.... But when we say Yes or No to calls, on the basis of inner guidance and whispered promptings of encouragement from the Center of our life, or on the basis of a lack of any inward "rising" of that Life to encourage us in the call, we have no reason to give, except one - the will of God as we discern it.

And...

In religious circles we find today a fierce and almost violent planning and programming. A sense that without ceaseless activity nothing will ever be accomplished. How seldom it occurs to us that God has to undo and to do all over again so much of what we, in our willfulness, have pushed through in God's name. How little there is in us of the silent and radiant strength in which the secret works of God really take place! How ready we are to speak, how loath to listen, how quick to do rather than "be", to act instead of wait, to sense the further dimension of what it is that we confront.
(Copied from Plain Living)

Intimacy with our Father, hearing him in all things, wisdom and direction in all issues...that's what Jesus had...and what we so desperately need to avert the tyranny of the urgent and know the peace and confidence He demonstrated.

I need this...and thought it might encourage you too.

Blessings,

Mitch

Simplicity...

I'm finding that simplicity in life is not so much about what is going on around me as it is about what's going on in me. Christin Hadley Snyder says that simplicity is not so much about what we own, but about what owns us. She continues...if we need possessions to maintain our self-esteem and create our self-image and to look good to our neighbors, then we have forgotten or neglected that which is real and inward. If our time, money, and energy are consumed in selecting, acquiring, maintaining, cleaning, moving, improving, replacing, dusting, storing, using, showing off, and talking about our possessions, then there is little time, money and energy left for our other pursuits such as the work we do to further the community and kingdom of God.

We must sit light to our possessions lest they possess us.... Truely gracious living is a by product of gracious thinking and doing. ...It is not the rejection of beauty in our surroundings, but the refusal to allow concern for things to clutter our minds.... (Edgar B. Castle)

Helpful to hear and be reminded. I always need that.

Blessings,

Mitch

Simple...Just for me

Simplicity always seems to work well in most things. I guess that's because we are simple people and simple is usually best. I certainly need it that way.

The Lord knows this about us. His instructions to us about how to live life are simple. In Psalm 50 we see simple steps on how to please Him and give Him what He wants from us.

They are:

Give thanks, do what we promised we'd do (be obedient), call upon God for all our needs and praise Him when He answers. It seems I can filter most anything that comes in my day through those instructions...and what a difference it makes!

Have a great week! Hope to see you this coming Sunday.

Blessings,

Mitch

First Impressions...

First Impressions

I’m convinced that Fellowship Church has some of the best teachers, leaders and people of any church around! I believe if people get to know us, they will come to the same conclusion. However, a bad first impression could cause a guest to miss the real Fellowship.

We all know how awkward it is to go into a place where everyone knows each other and is friendly toward each other, but we do not know anyone; and no one seems to want to get to know us. That kind of first impression is also a certain last impression.

The first impression that people get when they visit Fellowship will often determine if they will come again. If they feel that we really care for them, if they feel loved and accepted into our church, they will probably come again and become a part of Fellowship. Conversely, if they do not, we will probably never see them again.

First impressions are eternally important, for if there is not a good first impression, there may not be opportunity for a second.

Many of you, along with our greeters, welcome center and ushers, work hard in order to make people feel welcome; and by doing so, you play a vital role in the kingdom’s work! For if we neglect to reach out to those that God sends to our doorstep, we shall surely fail to reach out to those who do not visit our church, and God may tire of sending us people that He loves and we take for granted.

Everyone who comes to our church is looking for spiritual help, fellowship, friendship, acceptance and love. Let’s make sure that their first impression of Fellowship is lasting and results in an opportunity for them to become a part of our church.

“Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by this some have entertained angels without knowing it.” (Hebrews 13:2)

...Just thought this would encourage us all....

Blessings,

Mitch

We're Back!

Thanks for the privilege of some time away. Teresa and I had a wonderful week enjoying God's creation and each other. We're so blessed!!

We are into fall programs and activities full steam! Make sure and take advantage of all that is being offered for you and your family. There are lots of good and exciting things happening in every area of ministry. Please continue to pray for God's blessing and help, guidance and favor on Fellowship.

Teresa and I are so thankful for all of you and blessed to be a part of this family of believers.

Blessings,

Mitch

Living In The Light Of Eternity, Part 2

Here are some suggestions:

• Schedule some time each day to read the Bible and pray. Have a plan to do so. I've found that following a bible reading calendar helps me read through the Bible devotionally each year.
• Pray as things come to mind that concern you - while driving, walking to the office, washing dishes, or anytime your mind is not fully engaged in a task. Mrs. Billy Graham has described this as 'praying on the hoof." she kept an open Bible on the table and would read a few verses when passing by.
• Ask God to use you in the lives of your daily contacts. Pray for them and for an opening to share the good news with non-believers and intentionally encourage those Christians around you.
• Take responsibility for your own Christian growth by being actively involved in church, listening to messages, reading good Christian literature, attending helpful conferences and seeking mentors who can build into your life.

We can live in the light of eternity. The choice is ours. Time is short.

~copied

Bless You

Mitch

Living In The Light Of Eternity, Part One

Do you live each day with the thought of making it count for eternity? Is each action performed for the glory of God?

Our life on earth will soon be over. We have many warnings in Scripture about the brevity of life on earth and how we need to live wisely.

"Yet you do not know what your life will be like tomorrow.

You are just a vapor that appears for a little while

And then vanishes away." James 4:14

"LORD, make me to know my end,

And what is the extent of my days,

Let me know how transient I am." Psalm 39:4

"So teach us to number our days,

That we may present to Thee a heart of wisdom." Psalm 90:12

Certainly, life is full of little daily tasks that seem so unimportant when viewed in the light of eternity. But, we are human. We have to work, eat, sleep, relate to people, pay our taxes, raise children, be a responsible citizen, etc.,. Life is full of the mundane. But, we can live our lives so that everything we do can be done for His glory.

"Whether, then, you eat or drink or whatever you do,

do all to the glory of God." I Corinthians 10:31

To be continued!

Love you all,

Mitch

New Clothes...

Most everyone loves to put on new clothes. There's something about being properly dressed for an occasion and color coordinated that makes you sort of feel special...good...just right.

Colossians 1,2 and 3 basically tells us that Jesus, the Christ and Lord has been presented to us so that we can live our lives in union with and rooted in Him. Consequently, we'll be built and made stable in our faith, characterized by gratitude and thankfulness.

Now, it goes on to say that in Jesus, we can take off an old way of living (old clothes) and put a new way (new garments - Colossians 3:12) that suits God's chosen people, His own, His beloved! A new way, new clothes, a new life! Those garments are: compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, patience, forbearance, forgiveness and love - which is the crowning, completing and binding ingredient.

I got to thinking...what would happen if everyone in the world decided to take just one of these virtues and live it out, no matter what, for just one day...today...? It would profoundly change our environmment, our world and our lives personally.

In our christian community and churches nationwide, we seem to be enamored with the search for relevance and new methods, etc. What would happen if everyone in the Kingdom of God would take the clothes Jesus has given us and wear them in our church lives, our community and other areas of influence? I can't think of anything more practical and relevant. This Gospel always has been! Division in churches would cease, the dim and nominal image of our very real God would become clear. In a more profound way than ever before (at least in this generation), the deepest longing of humanity would be recognized for Who He Is and His manifest presence through us would gloriously shake a needy world...more things would happen by accident than on purpose because of the unleashed power of the river of the Spirit Of God in us (John 7:38).

Don't get me wrong, there's value in using the latest, the fastest and whatever else is current (or as is commonly used "contemporary"). But all of that, without Him, is just more "stuff". We'll find ourselves competing with the world rather than penetrating it! A strong horse is a false hope for victory. ...It's not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit, says the Lord.

I'd love to see something big like this happen...and am asking God to do it. In the meantime, I'm gonna be busy putting on my new clothes!

Anticipating much,

Mitch

The Life of Jesus...

Thomas a' Kempis says we need to become students of the life and lifestyle of Jesus. In doing so, we'll live out the Gospel in all its fullness yet, in simplicity. The Gospel...it's so practical! Imagine that.... In the life of Jesus there is urgency without hurry, pressures without panic, clear direction and focus in the presence of distractions, temptation without failure and calm in the midst of calamity. We know that His relationship with His Father is what made His life what it was. He said it himself, "I can do nothing, without being vitally connected to my Father in heaven."

I'll tell you what, I could use some more of what He had...in a lot of places. I think God wants to give it more than we could possibly want it. What could be more relevant in the culture we live in than to know that there is a readily accessible remedy for the overwhelmed...Jesus, the Overcomer.

"He who abides in me...bears much fruit." "Come unto me...and I'll give you rest." "Take my yoke upon you and learn of me, for my yoke is easy and in me you'll find rest." "They that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength...they shall run and not get tired, walk and not faint."

"...Now to Him who is able to keep you from stumbling, and make you stand in the presence of His glory blameless and with great joy...to Him be glory...forever. Amen!"

Mitch

The Nearness Of God...

All of us desire a tangible sense of God's nearness but in all reality many times we simply don't feel like He is close at all. There can be many reasons for this. I've been savoring some scriptures the last couple of days that has helped me. I pass them along to you for your own personal reflection....

The eyes of the Lord are toward the righteous, and His hears are open to their cry. ...The righteous cry and the Lord hears and delivers them out of all their troubles. The Lord is near to the broken hearted, and saves those who are crushed in spirit. (Ps. 34:15-18)

O Lord, ...thou dost not delight in sacrifice, otherwise I would give it; ...nor with burnt offering. The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart, Thou wilt not despise (ignore). (Ps. 51:15-17)

He (God) jealously desires the Spirit which He has made to dwell in us.... God is opposed to the proud, but gives grace to the humble (broken and contrite). Submit therefore to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you. Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners; and purify your hearts, you double minded. Be miserable and mourn and weep...humble yourselves in the presence of the Lord and He will exalt you. (James 4:5b-10)

Yes, humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you at the proper time, casting all your care upon Him, because He cares for you.... And the God of all grace...will Himself perfect, confirm, strengthen and establish you! To Him be dominion forever and ever. Amen!! (1 Peter 5:6-11)

May His powerful Word do its work and accomplish the purpose for which it was sent out, In the Mighty Name Of Jesus, the Word made flesh.

Mitch

Remember...

...In Psalm 31 David declares:

...But I will trust in the Lord. I will rejoice and be glad in Thy lovingkindness, because You have seen my affliction, ...you know the troubles of my soul, ...You've not given me over to the hand of the enemy, and You've set my feet in a large (open and secure) place. He goes on in Psalm 33 and says:

The eye of the Lord is on those who fear Him, ...those who hope for His lovingkindness, ...to deliver their soul, sustain them, ...help and shield them.

And finally he says:

...He who trusts in the Lord, lovingkindness will surround him. Therefore, be glad! Rejoice, righteous ones, for (in my words) you have every reason to be incorrigibly happy and joyous and to shout because He is your helper!

Let (allow) your heart be glad as you ponder these unimpeachable words from our Father's heart to yours.

Blessings,

Mitch

Therefore...

...Since Jesus was delivered to you as Christ and Lord, live your lives in union with him. Be rooted in him, be built in him; be consolidated in the faith you were taught; let your hearts overflow with thankfulness. Be on your guard; do not let your minds be captured by hollow and delusive speculations, based on traditions of man-made teaching and centered on the elemental spirits of the world and not on Christ.

For it is in Christ that the complete being of the Godhead dwells embodied, and in him you have been brought to completion.

Colossians 2:6-10 The New English Bible

Great verses to ponder....

I'll be looking for you Sunday!

Mitch

Hercules...

Hercules is a well-known figure in Greek mythology. To make a long story short, he was assigned several very difficult tasks as punishment. Among these feats was killing the Nemean lion, taming the Cretan bull, capturing the Cernian stag, slaughtering the Lernaean hydra (a serpent with nine heads) etc.

The most interesting and difficult task assigned him was that of cleaning the ox stables of King Augeas. The king had 3000 oxen housed in stables. They had not been cleaned in thirty years. He was required to clean the stables in one day - a Herculean task indeed!

He could have looked at the mess and said, Wow, this is impossible! But having succeeded in the previous tasks, he would not be out done by dung! He made two openings in the stables, front to back. Two rivers that were flowing nearby were diverted by a channel through the stables. They were cleansed in a single day!

An ancient myth but possibly a modern plan for the church. The fact that the church needs cleansing is without debate. Pastors cannot do it alone. One after another have tried and failed.

Through the world and always near the church flow two mighty rivers - the Spirit and the Word. One (the Spirit) empowers the other (the Word); the other (the Word) provides the channel for the flow of the one (the Spirit). They both are necessary, each complimentary to the other and mutually dependant. One is the source, the other the course. The flow of each is vital but incomplete without the other.

Some through the years have tapped into the flow of these rivers and felt their power to restore, purify, and enable. At times a whole culture has been changed. At present, it seems that the rivers are so far away and the channels are too small.

If the body of Christ on earth can dig a channel to these great rivers through humbling repentance and prayer, connecting them with the body, the cleansing will be wonderful, swift, and thorough.

Our Lord, mightier than Hercules, waits to accomplish this task! He is committed to "make her holy, cleansing her by the washing with water through the word, and to present her to himself a radiant church, without stain or wrinkle or any other blemish.' (Eph. 5:26-27)

Lord, bring the rivers together in our church...and let them flow!

From The Word Of God With Power by Jack Taylor

I thought the Lord would have me share these thoughts with you. ...Halleluia, thine the Glory! Revive us again.

Mitch

The Simpler Life...

I don't know of anyone that's not looking for ways to simplify their life. With the demands of our culture, packed schedules and the need to multi-task, there is a longing to find anything that can modify the intensity of it all.

High Springs is growing very fast and many of the people who are coming are from South Florida, hoping to escape the complicated fast pace of that part of our state. I can't say I blame them.

I've been working on this for a long time. Simplifying life in all of its dimensions isn't done over night. The scripture gives many clues for this. I've especially been noticing that Jesus was never in a hurry, never panicked, seemed to always be on time and remained remarkably peaceful in the context of tremendous pressures.

I've touched on this before but Jesus disclosed the secret of His life in the Gospel of John as we are allowed to glimpse into the intimate relationship He had with His Father. Living here was simply a matter of hearing His Father and doing what He said! With life being full of messages, sounds and images that forcibly intrude on us, I find it challenging to filter out the noise and clearly discern Him. I think it takes practice and intentional disciplines...and it's worth it!

A spiritual life requires discipline because we need to learn to listen to God, who constantly speaks, but whom we seldom hear. Henri Nouwen states that when we learn to listen, our lives become obedient lives. Obedient is from the Latin word audire, which means listening. Without listening, our lives become absurd (derived from the Latin word surdis, meaning deaf), ridiculous, out of control, complicated. Spiritual discipline is necessary to move slowly from an absurd to an obedient life, from a life filled with noisy worries to a life in which there is some free inner space where we can listen to our God and follow His guidance.

Jesus was always listening to His Father. We need to be "all ears" for God! The core of all prayer is listening and obediently standing in His presence...the simple life as Jesus prescribed it.

Adapted from The Only Necessary Thing by Henri J.M. Nouwen

I needed to hear this. Hope it blesses, challenges and begins to simplify your life as it has mine.

Blessings,

Mitch

Pruning...

...An essential for most plants, to maximize their beauty, productiveness and fruit. That's nice to know but Jesus teaches us that pruning is necessary in our lives in order to maximize our intended possibilities and potential. I can't say I like that idea too much. It's fine for my yard and O.K. for someone else, but Jesus gets real personal and assures me I need it too.

There's no way we can fully understand all He is doing in the pruning regimen He has formulated for us. But, one thing is for sure; Psalm 25:8-10 tells us that He is good and upright as He leads and teaches us. That all the paths of the Lord are lovingkindness and truth. Whew, that is so comforting to know.

Bruce Wilkinson in his book Secrets of the Vine says God has 4 prime points of pruning on us. They are:

The people you love the most...
Your right to know why God does what He does...
Your love for money and possessions...AND last but certainly not least...
The sources of your significance....

As He lovingly shapes you, governed by his goodness, rightousness and truth, be assured, in spite of the pain, of a beneficial, profitable, positive and glorious end (Ps 25:12-15).

Your Heavenly Father just wanted me to tell you this...and, I needed to hear it again too....

Blessings,

Mitch

What Happened This Week?

Well, if you've been accustomed to reading the Leadership Blog each week, you probably noticed that Monday's post didn't get done. Sometimes, life is like that. Sorry for the blip in the routine.

I wanted to mention a couple of things to you all:

The new Bible Study Quarter begins Sunday, September 3rd. The new line up will be posted in the upcoming Equipper.

Life Groups are beginning to fire up for the Fall. Make sure and check out the Info in the Welcome Center.

Coming in October: Pastor Rick will be teaching a 4 Sunday series on Sunday Nights at 6:00. Be watching for more information. This may impact your Life Group if you meet on Sundays. We're all looking forward to hearing more from Rick. Plan some creative fun things with your group that will keep you connected during that time.

AND...

An Agape Feast / Town Meeting has been scheduled for Sunday, September 17th at 6:00 P.M. in the MMB. More to come on this!

Great things coming. Look forward to seeing you Sunday.

Mitch

Soul Nourishment First

From the Autobiography of George Mueller....

It has pleased the Lord to teach me a truth, a benefit of which I have not lost for more than fourteen years. The point is this: I saw more clearly than ever that the first and primary business to which I ought to attend every day was to have my soul happy in the Lord. The first thing to be concerned about was not how much I might serve the Lord, or how I might glorify the Lord, but how I might get my soul into a happy state and how my inner man might be nourished.

I saw that the most important thing I had to do was to give myself to the reading of the Word of God - not prayer, but the Word of God. And here again, not the simple reading of the Word of God so that it only passes through my mind just as water runs through a pipe, but considering what I read, pondering over it, and applying it to my heart. To meditate on it, that thus my heart might be comforted, encouraged, warned, reproved and instructed. And that thus, by means of the Word of God, whilst meditating on it, my heart be brought into experimental communion with the Lord.

I began therefore to meditate on the New Testament from the beginning early in the morning. The first thing I did, after having asked in a few words the Lord's blessing upon His precious Word, was to begin to meditate on the Word of God, searching as it were into every verse to get blessing out of it.

When we pray, we speak to God. Now, prayer, in order to be continued for any length of time in any other than a formal manner, requires, generally speaking, a measure of strength or godly desire; and the season, therefore, when this exercise of the soul can be most effectively performed is after the inner man has been nourished by meditation on the Word of God, where we find our Father speaking to us, to encourage us, to comfort us, to instruct us, to humble us, to reprove us.

By the blessings of God, I ascribe to this mode the help and strength which I have had from God to pass in peace through deeper trials, in various ways, than I had ever had before.

How different, when the soul is refreshed and made happy early in the morning, from what it is when, without spiritual preparation, the service, the trials, and the temptations of the day come upon me.

Blessings,

Mitch

Prayer...Life's Limitless Reach

This is the title of a book written on prayer and ever since I heard it, it echos in my mind reminding me of this powerful privilege we posses.

Prayer not only has power and practical results for now, but for years and generations to come. In Colossians 1 Paul prayed for the church and his prayer continues to reverberate and influence us. He says: We've not ceased to pray for you...and ask that you would receive [from Him] all wisdom and spiritual understanding for full insight into His will, so that your manner of life (how you live and behave) may be worthy of the Lord and entirely pleasing to Him. We pray that you may bear fruit in active goodness of every kind, and grow in the knowledge of God...that He would strengthen you, in His glorious might, with ample power to meet whatever comes with fortitude, patience, and joy; and to give thanks to the Father who has made you fit to share the heritage of God's people in the realm of light.

I ditto his prayer for you, that all these things be true and increasing for His Glory, to the advancing of His Kingdom and for your continued benefit, blessing and joy. May God continue to grace you in this race (gk. agon, from which we get the word agony) as Paul calls it, until, in His time, we realize the blessed hope that He has guaranteed.

Full, to overflowing,

Mitch

Tremendous...

What a tremendous offer from God, through His Son, Jesus. In John 7:37, He stands and loudly extends to all: "If anyone is thirsty, let him come to me. Whoever believes in me, let him drink. As Scripture says, streams of living water shall flow out from him. He [Jesus] was speaking of the Spirit...."

What could possibly happen through you and me if we were to fully live out this remarkable and generous proposal? Selah....

Very simply, He says, you must have soul thirst. Has life left you thirsty? True thirst will always drive us to seek out true drink.

Then He says come to me. Making the choice to stop going anywhere else but to Him, is a defining moment for all of us. It seems that I have to keep on learning and re-learning this. You can probably relate. When will we finally settle it, once and for all, that true satisfaction is in Him alone?

Thirdly, believe and drink. All true faith has cooresponding actions or works that believing in His Word demands.

The result is that "Streams of living water will flow from within you!" Not only will you be satisfied, but there will be a refreshing, unending flow gushing from you sufficient to refresh others; they will taste and see that the Lord is good through you.

We sing a song here: All of You, is more than enough for all of me, for every thirst and every need. You satisfy me with Your love, and all I have in you is more than enough.

How's the flow going? I've come to discover that if I'm feeling a little dry [thirsty] it's not His fault. Something is wrong with my thirst, my coming or my believing and drinking.

Father, please help me to get out of the way and "let the River flow in me" unhindered. Amen....

Love you all,

Mitch

Choices...

Everyone loves to have choices, options on what they do and how they do it. We all know that the choices we make are very important. Choices shape and determine destinies. Consider these great quotes:

We are who we are because of the choices we have made.

We are fast becoming what we are going to be.

Our choice is indelibly marked for time and eternity. What we decide makes our destiny, not what we have felt, nor what we have been moved to do, or inspired to see, but what we decide to do in any given situation...this is what makes us or mars us.

Paul's prayer for the Philippian church (Phil. 1:9,10) is that their love would abound [grow] more and more, richer and richer in real knowledge and insight of every kind, SO THAT they would be able to discern, approve and have the gift of true descrimination [ability to see and choose or decide between) for the excellent things; to choose between the good and the best.

Nothing has greater potential for frustration, disappointment, waste and futility than zeal that's exerted in an undisciplined, haphazard, impulsive or uninformed manner. With that comes the sense of investment without satisfying return.

We all want the most from the best we have rendered. Paul prays that the driving force of their lives [agape] would grow and that with experience and maturity, their lives would be more carefully and proactively spent in the most excellent ways...to achieve the maximized potential and possibilities...for Him, for them personally and for others.

We've all heard it said that "the good is always the enemy of the best." Knowledge and insight from God, over time, will enable us to jettison good things for better and teach us by experience, what things are most worth while.

Time is short. We owe it to Him to do the best with what we've been given...and it's a matter of choice.

Blessings,

Mitch

A Blessing To You...

Psalm 20 is a prayer of blessing...speaking well of and over another. James 4 tells us that words are powerful and they can be used for blessing or cursing. I think I'd rather be found blessing! Read, receive and be blessed....

May the Lord answer you in the day of your trouble. O that you would know that Jehovah sees you, knows you, hears you and will answer you at any time that life's events have disturbed your peace.

May the name of the God of Jacob set you securely on high! What rest comes when we are settled and convinced that the expanse of God's ability, power and resources is readily available and keeps our feet planted. Our lives will be characterized by an unshakable stability.

May He send you help from His sanctuary and support you from Zion! Just think...God has myriads of angels that carry out His directives. We know that He dispatches them to us as they are needed [...for the angel of the Lord encamps round about those who fear Him...and rescues them Ps 34:7]. They are sent to work in our behalf and to support us.

May He remember all your meal offerings, and find your burnt offering acceptable. Would He ever forget any investment, act of faith and love or deeds of service properly rendered for Him and His Kingdom, and not reward it? Why of course not! May He multiply to you the dividends that He has promised to those who choose to honor and please Him.


May He grant you your heart's desire and fulfill all your counsel [the purposes to which God has assigned you]. What joy there is in knowing that the desires that He has placed in your heart, the purpose to which He has called you, will indeed be accomplished.

And...

May the Lord fulfill all your petitions...for He saves and answers...by the strength of his right hand. Some may boast in chariots, others in horses; but we will boast in the name of the Lord. It is God who is at work in you both to will and do of his good pleasure.

May the Lord bless you, make you victorious, overcomers by His glorious provision and heaven sent support.

Thankful for you...

Mitch

To Always Remember...

The Lord is near; have no anxiety, but in everything make your requests known to God in prayer and petition with thanksgiving. THEN the peace of God which is beyond our utmost understanding [worth far more than human reasoning] will keep guard over your hearts and your thoughts, in Christ Jesus. Philipians 4:6,7 TNEB

Optimum functioning in our spiritual lives is always predicated on our understanding and living out the fundamentals [basics] of that life. Bum Phillips, past coach of the then Houston Oilers, in an interview was asked to discuss his coaching technique; what was important to guarantee success on the gridiron? In essence, he said: Football is about throwing, catching, running and blocking, etc. Any team that does those things well wins games! I work on improving our skills in the basics. That makes a good football team. I've never forgotten his words.

After thirty years in the ministry, I have to admit that one of the basics that I still need to be reminded of incessantly is: "The Lord is near."

Life is demanding, fragmenting, has uncertainties and surprises. All this can cause anxiety, fear, restlessness, sleepless nights and the list goes on. Many times in the New Testament we are told that God has called us to peace. This is realized through the Prince of Peace who lives inside of us. We all would say that we know and understand this, but so many times we find ourselves feeling and acting as if we are alone and left to our own devices. For me, it is a constant effort to Practice the Presence of God throughout a day in all that it brings...His nearness for my neurosis...the only lasting remedy.

Computers have what is called "default settings" which causes a system to operate consistently a certain way. As life downloads on us, my prayer for us all is that the fundamental default information we have been graced with in Jesus would be fully functional, constantly enabling us to see and operate in life consistently as God has promised we can.

The psalmist says: "...but as for me, the nearness of God is my good; I have made the Lord God my refuge...." Psalm 73:28 NASB

Father, by your Holy Spirit, enable us to live, conscious and confident of your nearness and characterized by your unfathomable peace. This is a message of hope our world needs to hear and see [in us].

Blessings,

Mitch

Important Week...

This week is VBS...an important week in the lives of our children. Please be praying with us for the children, teachers and all technical / logistical aspects of this ministry. According to Southern Baptist stats, VBS is the most effective evangelism tool we have for children. Let's ask God for big things and maximized results for all involved.

The Bible Study Line-Up for Fall is beginning to shape up. It begins Sunday, September 3rd and runs through Sunday, November 26th. If you are interested in teaching, please contact me now so we can discuss this.

And...a variety of Life Groups are available for you. You'll be hearing more about them as they fire up for the Fall. Make sure you are connected to one of these relational groups. Check out the Life Group Info Spot in the Welcome Center or call us in the office.

Blessings,

Mitch

The Price Of Vision...

I've been reading My Utmost For His Highest and today's rendering really spoke to me. ...Thought I'd pass it along.

"In the year King Uzziah died, I saw the Lord..." (Isaiah 6:1)

Our soul's personal history with God is often an account of the death of our heros. Over and over again God has to remove our friends to put Himself in their place and that is when we falter, fail and become discouraged. Let me think about this personally - when the person died who represented for me all that God was, did I give up on everything in life? Did I become ill or disheartened? Or did I do as Isaiah did and see the Lord?

My vision of God is dependent upon the condition of my character. My character determines whether or not truth can even be revealed to me. Before I can say, "I saw the Lord," there must be something in my character that conforms to the likeness of God. Until I am born again and really begin to see the kingdom of God, I only see from the perspective of my own biases. What I need is God's surgical proceedure (ouch!) - His use of external circumstances to bring about internal purification.

Your priorities must be God first, God second, and God third, until your life is continually face to face with God and no one else is taken into account whatsoever. Your prayer will then be, "In all the world there is no one but You, dear God; there is no one but You."

Keep paying the price. Let God see that you are willing to live up to the vision.


Wow...may we all continue to give ourselves to His jealous guardianship over our lives, making Him our first choice and primary source for all things. "My heart says of You, 'Seek his face!' Your face, Lord, I will seek." (Psalm 27:8)

See You Sunday,

Mitch

I Can't...

The first significant step in becoming all that God wants from you is to understand and declare that you can't! Knowing that there is nothing in me that can help achieve His best, will hopefully turn our undivided attention to His resources that make all these wonderful but humanly impossible things a glorious reality, to our joy and blessing and His glory!

Major Ian Thomas said it this way: "O God, I cannot! You never said I could. You can, and always said You would!"

You cannot live a holy life but you can decide to let Jesus Christ make you holy.

You cannot effectively serve God alone but you can put your self in the place where God's power will come through you.

You might say: I'm not worthy, not me.... Oswald Chambers says, Yes, it does mean you, and the weaker and feebler you are, the better. The one who "has something to trust in" may find the greatest obsticles in trusting Him. He goes on to say, it is not a matter of, can we, but will we.

I'm finding that life boils down to choices. Will I choose? Just think...what would we be like if we really believed and dared to let God be to me all that He says He will be?

O God ! I believe...help Thou my unbelief. "What must we do to do the works of God?", the disciples once asked. ...His reply...this is the work...that ye believe.

Father, grace us to radically entrust ourselves to all the possibilities and potential You have declared belongs to us now...for our joy and blessing and for your Glory!

So rich, we are...

Mitch

The Ability To Listen...

Solomon, when given opportunity to have anything he wanted from God, asked for wisdom. Literally what he was asking for was a "hearing ear"; the ability to hear God speak and guide him as the newly installed King of Israel.

For myself, I've found that my greatest need is to be able to hear...which necessarily implies that my hearing could stand some significant improvement. Jesus basically credited the success of His ministry to His ability to see and hear His Father in John 5.

A spiritual giant of another generation writes:

"I will hear what the Lord God speaks to me. Blessed is the soul that hears the Lord speaking within it, and receives comfort from His Word. Blessed are the ears that hear the still, small voice of God, and disregard the whispers of the world. Blessed are the ears that listen to Truth teaching inwardly, and not to the voices of the world. Blessed are the eyes that are closed to outward things, but are open to inward things. Blessed are those who enter deeply into inner things, and daily prepare themselves to receive the secrets of heaven. Blessed are those who strive to devote themselves wholly to God, and free themselves from all the entanglements of the world. Consider these things, O my soul, and shut fast the doors against the desires of the senses, that you may hear what the Lord your God speaks within you."

May He grant to us an ever increasing ability to hear, discern, receive and respond to His Life giving Voice and Words to us; wisdom, the essential information that makes Life work for all.

Blessings and See you Sunday,

Mitch

Sunday...

Wow! A great day, great message and great fun Sunday night. I personally think that Miles Steen won the egg toss for his most creative way in playing it. I know 'cause I was his partner. I should win the trophy for the one having the most courage to play egg toss.... Miles was elated and I only got egg on my hands. Not too big a price for the laughs.

Vicki may have a root of bitterness toward Rick for ending up in the dunking booth. We are praying that this, plus the "digs" she gets from the pulpit on Sundays, will not result in too devastating a retaliatory action on her part. We will keep you posted...and ready to dial 911 at a moments notice. She personally told me she'd only hit him where it doesn't show...we shall see.

You certainly won't want to miss this Sunday morning.

Blessings,

Mitch

Refreshed...

Teresa and I just got back from a few days of rest and refreshment. Fellowship Church had honored us on our service anniversary with 2 days at our favorite bed and breakfast. It was a wonderful time and very strongly reminded us of how blessed we are to serve here. Thanks again for your generosity and acts of love toward us.

Independance Day weekend is coming up! Don't miss Fellowship's Independance Day Picnic, right here, Sunday, July 2nd from 6:00 til 8:30 ish. Hamburgers, hot dogs and beverage is provided. Bring 2 side dishes for your family and to share. It will be a great night of fun, food and fellowship for everyone.

Looking forward to worshiping with you this Sunday morning.

Blessings,

Mitch

From The Mind of Jeff

Hey church family. I just wanted to take a moment to tell you how thankful I am for all your generous donations this past year to help send our youth to Mission Fuge. I hope that this coming Sunday morning you will get a little taste of what we did during our trip to West Palm Beach. I know that our students loved the trip and were stretched to serve God in ways that they have never done before. We were all challenged to serve our communities back home the same way that we served the people of West Palm. Over the course of time, I plan to give students, you can join us as well, the opportunities to serve the community in which we live in. A simple start to this will be on July 4th. This July 4th we will pass out frozen ice pops to the community during the 4th of July festival. We are going to have little business card size flyers to simply say that God loves them and that Fellowship Church loves them. A simple way to connect with our community. If you are interested in joining us, please let me know.

Thanks again for all your hard work, donations, and prayers for our student ministry. It is a blessing to be a part of such a loving church family.

Psalm 23

Psalm 23 gives us insight into the profound and deep connection the Psalmist had with God. I believe his testimony here stands to remind us that the same benefits are available to us who believe, because He [God] is "the same yesterday, today and forever." Think on these things...and be blessed....

The Lord is my Shepherd...
That's Relationship,

I shall not want...
That's Supply,

He maketh me to lie down in green pastures...
That's Rest,

He leadeth me beside still waters...
That's Refreshment,

He restoreth my soul...
That's Healing,

He leadeth me in the paths of righteousness...
That's Guidance,

For His name sake...
That's purpose....

Relationship, supply, rest, refreshment, healing, guidance and purpose...and there's so much more. Read ahead to the end and see what else there is...and...

We'll continue in Part 2.

I'll be looking for you Sunday!

Mitch

A Great Day!

Father's Day 2006 was a great one at Fellowship. Thanks Rick for the messages on Family that have been so helpful to us.

Coming Up:

July 2nd - Independance Day Picnic here at Fellowship. Be watching the Share and listening for special announcements the next two Sundays about this fun church-wide event.

July17-21 - VBS - Son Treasure Island - Register in the Welcome Centers and plan to be involved.

Life Group activities can change during the Summer so make sure and contact the leaders of the group you are interested in or check the Life Group Info Area in the Welcome Center for more information.

As always, let us know how we can serve you.

Blessings,

Mitch

Suffering...

...Not a popular topic but an important one since it is something that we all have; some more than others. While facing difficult things it should not surprise us, as if some unusual thing is happening to us. "Through many tribulations we must enter the Kingdom Of God" (Acts 14:22). "You yourselves know that we are destined for this" (I Thess. 3:3). "The Lord disciplines the one he loves, and chastises every son he receives" (Heb. 12:6). Suffering is a normal part of the christian life.

A part of me wants to say, "Lord, thanks, but no thanks." But as I am maturing I see more and more that all of this is such a necessary thing. It is from Him, and specifically designed for my unique spiritual needs...all intended for my growth, personal improvement and enlargement...a good Father, He is!

The hymn writers said it well:

He whose heart is kind beyond all measure,
Gives unto each day what He deems best.
Lovingly, its part of pain and pleasure,
Mingling toil, with peace and rest.

And...

When through fiery trials thy pathways shall lie,
My grace all sufficient, shall be thy supply;
The flame shall not hurt thee; I only design
Thy dross to consume, and thy gold to refine.

As you feel the pressures and challenges of life, envision the hand of God lovingly applying necessary things to rehabilitate and restore you to His intended purposes for you (...all things work together for good for those who love Him and are called according to His purpose).

He is busy, the Master of Restoration! How we need to cooperate as He works. Never easy, but so needed...necessary....

Just thought I'd remind us all of this...and I'm sure, I need it more than anyone. Blessings on you and yours.

Mitch

A Few Things To Know / Remember...

Father's Day is this Sunday and Pastor Rick's final message on the home. Don't miss it! Life Groups do not meet this Sunday so you can have family time.

Sunday, July 2nd from 6 till 8:30ish is our annual All-Church Independence Day Picnic. As always there will be horseshoes, arm wrestling (plus much more) and this year's Special Feature...The Dunking Booth...in all probability starring yours truely. ...Hamburgers, hotdogs and the fixins...a great time for the whole family. Make sure and bring a friend or neighbor.

And finally a prayer need...We all remember Peter Lord. He ministered here several times...his wife, Johnni, will be having a delicate vascular proceedure this Wednesday, June 14th at 10:00 A.M. This proceedure is a first of its kind to be done. Please pray for a successful operation with no complications. Thanks for your help (2 Cor. 1:10,11).

And don't forget our students at Missions Fuge in West Palm Beach.

Blessings,

Mitch

This Sunday...

This Sunday, Pastor Rick continues his series on the home. A new Bible Study quarter has begun. Make sure and take advantage of the study opportunities that are here.

The Pastor Search Team will administer the Pastor Search Survey this week in Bible Study and the Worship Service. This is to be completed and returned then. Your participation in this is so valuable to the process. Input from everyone is important. Thanks for your help!

Father's Day is coming up. Be making your plans to honor the great men in your lives.

...And as always, let us know how we can best serve you and the body of Christ that meets here at Fellowship.

Blessings,

Mitch

The "One" Who Is All-Good

There are so many benefits that we enjoy in this life and it is always incumbant on us to give thanks and live with a gratitude mentality. All these things are given by our heavenly Father and are intended ultimately to draw our undivided attention, devotion and surrender to Him. Yes, He mercifully and generously gives; our needs and wants are gloriously met; and His desire is that we come to know Him, that we should seek God the Giver of all good things, first.

Psalm 27 says, "The Lord is my light and my salvation, ...my stronghold. ...My heart says of You, 'Seek His face!' Your face, Lord, I will seek."

To seek Him for him and not just for what He can do. This pleases God and should be our primary motive and passion.

One of the great Puritans said it this way:

My God, Thou hast helped me to see that whatever good there be in honor and rejoicing,
How good is He who gives them, and can withdraw them.
That blessedness does not lie so much in receiving good from and in Thee, but
In holding forth Thy Glory and Virtue:
That it is an amazing thing
To see Deity in a creature, speaking, acting, filling, shining through it;
That nothing is good but Thee,
That I am near good when I am near Thee,
That to be like Thee is a glorious thing:
THIS IS MY MAGNET, MY ATTRACTION!!!!

May He align all that we are, in order that the focus and primary pursuit of our life endeavors be Him, first, and Him alone.

Determined to move closer to The Center, The One, who is our Life!

Blessings,

Mitch

This Sunday...

This Sunday begins our new Summer Bible Study Quarter. Our children's classes promote this week and this will affect Children's Church. All rising 5th graders will remain in worship from now on.

Make sure and select a class and study the Word this Summer. The class line up is on our web site. Just click the ministries tab and select Bible Study. Also, Line-Up sheets are in the Welcome Centers for your convenience.

We'll honor our graduates in the worship service and commission our Mission Fuge participants. There are 4 who will be baptised. ...Lots of good things happening!

Pastor Rick will preach another message for the family.

Don't miss it. See you then!

Mitch

A Great Book...

I ran across a great book entitled "The Inner Life" by Thomas a' Kempis that you should know about. I've been taken by how simple and practical it is. Thomas is not exactly a newcomer. Actually he was a monk that lived during the 14th century and is of German descent. It is a small book, I like that... : ) , the chapters are short and the insights are so pertinent to everyday life and the journey we are all on. Make sure and check it out!

Sunday was a great day, remembering the fallen of past and recent wars, a meaningful message from Pastor Rick and ending with Communion...precious....

This coming Sunday begins a new Bible Study Quarter. Make sure and select a class and study the Word this Summer with us.

Blessings,

Mitch

True Riches...

What abundance we have as followers of Jesus! In I Corinthians 1, Paul categorically declares that "those who have heard His call (with no favoritism toward race or other distinction), He (Jesus) is the power of God and the wisdom of God. Ephesians 3:10 refers to the "manifold wisdom of God" or the many forms of His wisdom. Throughout the scripture God is proclaimed as having all power (omnipotent) and is sovereign over all. He (Jesus) is full of grace and truth. I Peter 4:10 refers to the manifold grace of God (grace in its many forms) and II Corinthians 9:8 says that He (God) "is able to make all grace abound to you, that always having sufficiency in everything, you may have an abundance for every good work!" And finally, II Corinthians 2:30 tells us that all of us who are in Jesus are "there" because of God's work [not ours] and He (God) has made Him (Jesus) our wisdom, our righteousness, our sanctification and redemption.

True riches, blessed indeed, "joy unspeakable and full of glory".

So much we have; so much yet to discover of what we possess; so much to indeed live out of this Indescribable Gift...all unmerited, undeserving...truely a uniquely privileged and chosen people that God has intended that we should show forth His praises, Who has called us out of darkness into His marvelous light.

Contemplate and revel in these glorious things and yes, partake.
I love you all!

Mitch

Secrets Of Effective Ministry...

Paul, in his letter to the Corinthian Church reminds them (and us) that his ministry and influence on their lives was not built on subtle arguments, impressive vocabulary, human / worldly wisdom and techniques. Rather his message and focus was "Jesus Christ and Him crucified!" (I Cor. 2:2) Actually, he states that God chooses weak and foolish things to accomplish the mighty. In I Cor. 2 he even admits that when he was ministering to them that he was weak, nervous and shaking with fear. But the message of the Cross, the Gospel, he procalimed, choosing not to depend on the contemporary methods of influencing, but rather on the wisdom of God and the power of the Spirit. Consequently, he says, their faith rests not on human wisdom and techniques but on the power of God.

As we use the best of the tools God offers, may it be true of us that His wisdom and power is the primary source and focus and our total dependancy.

Blessings on you all. Looking to see you Sunday!

Mitch

Great Moments...

It was a sweet time in Worship Sunday. Celebrating Mother's Day, and the first message in a series on the family from Pastor Rick was enjoyed... and all with a packed house! Praise the Lord!!!

Don't miss any of these timely messages on the family. As always, these messages are available on CD. Just place your order with the Library and we'll see you get them.

Please continue to pray for all the good things going on during this interim time. Our Pastor Search Team is making good progress. The Administrative Team and Deacons are continuing to work on a Policy and Proceedure Manual. Life-Changing decisions are being made on Sundays...precious to see!

As always, let us know how we can serve you. Looking forward to Sunday!

Blessings,

Mitch

Greatness...

Servant Leadership is a term we've all become somewhat familiar with. It was coined by Robert Greenleaf in his classic book "Servant Leadership - A Journey Into The Nature Of Legitimate Power and Greatness". We see this quality modeled in the lives of great men in the scripture and particularly the life of Jesus. He stated clearly that "he who would be great must become the servant of all." John the Baptist looked at Jesus and said: "He must increase and I must decrease." In that, he coined a concept that should govern all that we do and are.

The present world order doesn't understand this nor have a model that comes close. The well known phrase that describes the way to success and greatness in its system is upward mobility. But Jesus declared servanthood or downward mobility as the road to success and greatness in His Kingdom...less of me so that there can be more of Him. Oh for the grace to seize and live out this Kingdom concept and imperative in every area of influence entrusted to us.

Blessings,

Mitch

A Prayer...

In my personal reading I ran across this prayer penned over 200 years ago...profound, powerful and so practical...enjoy....

Lord, high and holy, meek and lowly,
Thou hast brought me to the valley of vision,
Where I live in the depths but see thee in the heights;
Hemmed in by mountains of sin I behold thy glory.

Let me learn by paradox
that the way down is the way up,
that to be low is to be high,
that the broken heart is the healed heart,
that the contrite spirit is the rejoicing spirit,
that the repenting soul is the victorious soul,
that to have nothing is to possess all,
that to bear the cross is to wear a crown,
that to give is to receive,
that the valley is the place of vision.

Lord, in the daytime stars can be seen from the deepest wells,
and the deeper the wells the brighter thy stars shine;
Let me find thy light in my darkness,
thy life in my death,
thy joy in my sorrow,
thy grace in my sin,
thy riches in my poverty,
thy glory in my valley.

Amen....

Quite A Stir...

The DaVinci Code has elicited no small amount of disturbance on the Kingdom's radar screen. I guess it should not be a surprise that things of this nature are emerging more and more. The scripture gives us a "heads up" that in the last days these kinds of things are coming. As time passes and we get closer to the return of Jesus, the enemy, knowing his time is growing short, will launch many propagandic enterprises to raise "speculations and lofty things against [and contrary to] the knowledge of Christ." We shouldn't fear this but rather be informed and ready to "give a reason for the hope that is within us."

There are a number of reliable sources of information published by noted and solid men and women in the christian community, intended to biblically inform and ultimately debunk this rediculously fictional happening.

One that I highly recommend is entitled "The DaVinci Code" - A Quest for Answers by Josh McDowell. For several decades Josh has been a respected apologist. This book is concise and well within the reach of any reader. Make sure you're ready!

See you Sunday,

Mitch

Just Letting You Know...

Our blog site was down for the last couple of days so it was impossible to publish a new one until now. Sorry for the delay....

Reading Psalm 5 has been a treat for me. In verse 11 the psalmist says that all who take refuge in the Lord should be glad and they should "ever sing for joy." Later in that verse it says, "those who love Thy name...exult in Thee." What does exult mean? Literally, it is to leap for joy, jubilant in triumph and victory. Adding verse 12 to the mix and putting it all in my own words, it's telling us something like this: When you've got God on your side, sheltering, protecting, blessing, surrounding and favoring you...you have every reason to be so incorrigibly happy that you might even find yourself jumping up and down in an unguarded way as you contemplate the possibilities and the potential of your future (kind of like what Gator fans were doing the night the basketball team seized the national championship). "If God is for us, who can be against us."

I know this is all true. I struggle many times remembering it though, let alone applying it. Well, the Holy Spirit certainly has his hands full with me about things like this. But when you're walking by sometime, don't hesitate to whisper that in my ear or someone elses. You never know, it just might be the Holy Spirit using you to give someone in the marathon of life a necessary "second wind." Exhilarating for you...refreshing for them.

Just thought I'd mention it.

Blessings,

Mitch

What A Day...

Sunday was such a strong day of celebration, worship and the Word. God is giving us such sweet days as we seek Him. I'm basking in the after-glow of being with Him and you...a taste of heaven...now.

Pastor Rick will be beginning a new sermon series on the family. Be watching for more.

As our Pastor Search Team embarks, lets make sure to support them in every way and especially in prayer. Don't miss being a part of the prayer initiative beginning for them and the new pastor to come. Prayer is life's limitless reach! What a privilege to participate in such an effective effort in obedience to the Lord (I Timothy 2:1,3 - First of all, then, I urge that petitions, prayers, intercessions and thanksgivings be offered for all men...for such prayer is right and approved of God).

Have a great week!

Mitch

This Sunday...

This Sunday will be Pastor Rick's final message in the "Journey Toward Easter" series entitled The Last Day For Sin and The First Day For Sinners. Read Matthew 27 to prepare for this time in the Word. Don't miss worshiping and celebrating the resurrection with us.

There are no church activities this Easter Sunday evening. We encourage you to spend this time with your families.

On an informational note, the Pastor Search Team will be trained this coming Monday evening by Dr. Bob Mounts of the Florida Baptist Convention. Once this training is complete they will launch into the task of finding the next pastor for Fellowship. Prayer will be essential in this endeavor. Be watching for more about a search team prayer initiative that you'll be invited to participate in.

Looking to see you Sunday! Bless You ALL!!!

Remembering and Proclaiming...

The Last Supper Jesus had with his disciples was to be continued in the lives of believers from then until He returns. Celebrating this Supper was basically to serve two purposes. As often as we do it, we are to remember Him and proclaim his death until he comes.

Being the forgetting humans that we are, we need things in our lives to remind us of significant events lest they pass us by and their importance cease to have meaning for us.

And to proclaim his death is of utmost importance. God's redemptive act on our behalf is the single most significant happening in the history of mankind. God presented Himself in human form to die as the remedy for our disordered and lost condition. The more I contemplate this reality, the more I find myself gazing into this vast and unfathomable treasure to us...speechless...awed...humbled...profoundly moved and thankful.

May the unfathomable riches of His indescribable gift be yours in super-abundance! He is Risen!

Hallelujah! What a savior!

Thinking Ahead...

Sunday begins what is traditionally called "Holy Week", a series of days and events that began at His triumphant entry into Jerusalem. As you move into next week, let me encourage you to think about the events that I've listed below on the days that they traditionally happened in anticipation of Resurrection Sunday. I think it can make this season more meaningful.

Sunday - Triumphant Entry - Matt. 21
Monday - Cursing the fig tree / Buyers and sellers driven from the temple - Matt. 21
Tuesday - Chief Priests plot to eliminate Jesus / Mt. Of Olives sermon. - Matt. 21-22
Wednesday - Jesus spends time in prayer and seclusion.
Thursday - Also called Maundy Thursday - Judas betrays Jesus, The Last Supper, Agony in the Garden and Jesus is arrested. - Matt. 26
Friday - The trial, crucifixion, death and burial of Jesus. - Matt 27
Saturday - The sabbath on which Jesus rested in the tomb.
Sunday - Resurrection Day - Matt. 28

May the power of His life and resurrection be yours in fullest measure.

Blessings on all of you!

Mitch

We Are So Blessed...

...To have so many who do so much, that is so meaningful. I thought Sunday as I saw people serving in so many capacities, from teachers, ushers and...name it...to technical people and more, how blessed we are at Fellowship to be resourced with many, with so much, from our God who is so generous! This week as you think about our church, be reminded about the "someones" that make ministries and services happen for you and your family and thank God and them. Even a little appreciation does much to encourage us all to more "love and good works."

Coming this Sunday, the next message in our Easter series, "His last Steps, For Our First Steps". Read Matthew 21 in preparation as we look toward Palm Sunday and His triumphant entry into Jerusalem...the event that marked the beginning of Jesus' final week of ministry.

Father, help us to see more of the depths of the riches of your Word and your indescribable gift to us who believe and for it to be revealed to those who do not yet believe. "Open the eyes of our heart..." for we want to see You...more...and more....

Amen

Prayer...Continued...

We've seen in recent blogs that "the end of all things is near" and consequently prayer is to have an important place in our lives; we should be disciplined so as to guarantee it.

Paul, in I Timothy 2, gives prayer priority one! All kinds of prayers need to be offered in behalf of all men...so that we can lead tranquil and quiet lives characterized by godliness and dignity. He says that this really pleases God, for He desires all men to be saved and know the truth; that truth being, there is only one God and one mediator between God and man, Jesus!

Prayer is priority one, it pleases God and makes for living like He intends. With this being true, he says, therefore, I want men in every place to pray. And it should be done lifting holy hands (with pure lives and hearts) and without wrath and dissention. In other words, no things displeasing to God nor anger and misgivings in your heart toward anyone; no disagreeing among you to hinder the prayers being offered.

I don't know about you, that sounds pretty challenging to me. Lets search our hearts and make sure that there is nothing that would minimize the great priority and privilege of prayer personally or corporately.

I just thought you'd want to know.

Blessings,

Mitch

A Historic Moment...

Sunday was a defining and historic moment in the life of Fellowship. The Constitution and By-Laws was ratified by unanimous vote and the Pastor Search Team was affirmed. Much prayer and effort by many made this possible.

Be in prayer for the Search Team. They are: Paul Clendenin, Terry Steger, Fran Smith, Doug Lawson, Edie Bache, Darla Greer and Steve Burroughs. The team will be soon be involved in a time of training with Dr. Bob Mounts of the Florida Baptist Convention. We'll keep you informed as things develop.

Sunday was a special day. I look forward to the remaining messages in the new series "Journey Towards Easter" by Pastor Rick. This Sunday, "The Last Kiss of a Lost Friend" from Mark 14.

Don't Miss It!

Mitch

Praise The Lord...

God is so good to continue to especially visit us these days during worship. What a powerful and moving time at the altar and a great ending to the Blueprint Series of messages to the Church!

Beginning this Sunday, Pastor Rick begins a new series entitled "Journey Toward Easter". This weeks message will be taken from Luke 21. Let me encourage you to be reading and meditating on this in preparation for Sunday!

...And don't forget...Agape Feast / Town Meeting / Dessert Auction this Sunday evening at 6:00 in the M.M.B. Bring sandwiches, and salad (tossed, pasta or congealed) for your family and to share. The town meeting agenda will be to ratify the final draft of the Constitution and By-Laws and vote to affirm the Pastor Search Team recommended by the deacons. The final draft is available in the Welcome Centers for your convenience. This will be followed by the annual fun-filled Dessert Auction (proceeds for the Student Ministries).

Don't miss anything during these remarkable days at Fellowship.

Rejoicing,

Mitch

Urgency...

It seems that so many things in life scream for our attention. If you're like everyone else, there are more things clammoring for our energies than we have energy for! We soon realize that if we are going to get the most important things done we must prioritize our life to make sure they get accomplished.

Many years ago I heard Ron Dunn, an itinerant preacher / teacher, state that "we should never take on more than we can handle in believing prayer." I don't remember anything else he said that day, but that has stuck with me. What tremendous advice! The implication being that prayer is necessary and essential for wise choices and success in all of life's activities.

It also suggests that the busier we get, the more contemplation and prayer we need to cover our lives and its demands. There is a "Life-flow" that prayer releases. It equips and makes us adequate for all we encounter. Otherwise, there is only one thing to resort to. Soulish efforts and the flesh always falls short of God's intended possibilities.

Usually, the busier we get, the less we pray. It should be the opposite. How much more we need the powerful influence of intimacy with Him when the pressure is turned on. So let me encourage you to do as I Peter 4:7 suggests: "...Lead an ordered and sober life, [so your life can be] given to prayer."

I just wanted you to know. See you Sunday. Let's anticipate another great day in His presence and with the family of God.

I love you guys,

Mitch

It's Uncanny...

The last two weeks as I've studied through the Psalms, I was drawn to stop and focus on Psalm 133. It has taken me many places in the scripture as I've explored what this short but significant Psalm is declaring. It begins, "Behold, how good and pleasant it is for brothers to dwell together in unity." From there, David begins to elaborate on this wonderful corporate virtue by stating things that it is like. Space will not allow sufficient comment on these similes but it is clear that unity is very important to God and has powerful ramifications.

In John 17:20-23, Jesus makes a strong appeal to His Father, in behalf of His disciples and those who would believe in Jesus through them, for this imperative ingredient. It's a virtue that is near to the heart of God because of unity's convincing and compelling effects...important to the ongoing success of the Kingdom and the display of His Glory.

It is interesting that in Rick's message to the Church about the 7 deadly sins profiled in Proverbs 6, that the "Yea seventh" thing that God hates, and probably more than any of the others, is human activity that spreads strife and compromises the unity of brothers. It is logical that He might hate it the most because it is probably one of the dearest things to His Father-heart, the unity of His Kids.

Lets all continue to soberly look at these important things in God's word and purpose to please Him more in all that we are.

It was a great day Sunday at Fellowship. I love you guys!

Mitch