Out with the old, in with the new!

I cannot believe that so much time has passed since my last post.  I have truly missed sharing my heart and fully intend to be more consistent in the coming year.  So much has happened in my life since I last posted on here.  In addition, I find myself in these last few days of 2011 reflecting on this past year.  In doing so, I am reminded of so many things.  I think of the victories, the defeats, the successes, the failures, the times of rejoicing and the times of sadness.  I am reminded of how in every situation, God has been ever present.  Why am I surprised at this?  His word tells that ... "Behold, I am with you always, even until the end of the age" (Matt. 28:20)  See, Jesus promises to be with us through the good and the bad.  We have a responsibility to learn from our mistakes.  We need to make sure that as we enter into this NEW YEAR, that we are firmly rooted in our relationship with Jesus.  It is in this relationship that we find the peace, strength, wisdom and other provision to live a Godly life.

I challenge you this week to reflect on this past year.  Spend some time, alone with God and ask Him to remind and reveal things to you.  Maybe you need to commit or recommit to spend time with Him each day, crying out to Him, surrendering to Him.  Maybe you need to start being that spiritual leader in your home and be the example that your family needs to help them in their walk with Christ.  Maybe you need to find a place in your local church where you can get plugged in and use your gifts to build up the kingdom.  Maybe you need to be more intentional about sharing Jesus with others, not just with your mouth but with your feet.  Maybe you need to be a better steward with the resources you have been given such as time, money and talent.  Maybe you need to get plugged into a small group so that you can build up others and others can build you up.  As for me... I need to consider all of these areas.

There is just something about a new year that commands a renewed perspective.  It just seems natural to take an inventory of our lives and determine what we need to do better and more effectively.  I am not sure about you, but I am thankful for a God that offers new mercies and new blessings each day.  Let's make sure we honor Him with how we live our lives in 2012 and for the remaining time we have until He comes for us...  If you are unsure about where you will spend eternity, please contact me as soon as possible, I would be honored to share how Jesus saved me and how He wants to do the same for you.

Waiting on Him,
ML

Wash. Rinse. Repeat.

OK, so most of us have taken time to read the directions on the shampoo bottle at least once.  While we could take some time to debate how many times we are supposed to "repeat" this process, I want to focus on how this concept of doing something over and over applies to our faith walk with Jesus.  I have been studying through the book of Philippians and Paul has given us so much within these four books to challenge, encourage, teach, and help us as we seek to follow Jesus.

In Phil. 4:4 we read; "Rejoice in the Lord always and  I will say it again rejoice"  Sound familiar? (Wash. Rinse. Repeat.)   Now, intuition tells me that if something is repeated a second time it must be important.  Paul is letting the Philippians (and us) know that we are to rejoice.  Period.  When things are going your way, rejoice.  When things are difficult, rejoice.  When people disappoint you, rejoice.  When the wheels come off, and the Ox goes in the ditch, rejoice.  I am so hard headed that I need to see and hear this a number of times before I take it to heart.  Then when I think I have it down, I need to be reminded again.

See, it is God's will that we rejoice in all things and not be a slave to the burdens of life in this world.  James promised us in Chapter 1 that WE WILL HAVE TROUBLES!  We need to take heart because Jesus has this and all circumstances under control and He DOES NOT need our help, He needs our faith.  Paul goes on to say later in chapter 4 of Philippians (v.6) "Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God."  This is further proof that we are not to take ownership of our struggles, but instead with a thankful heart, bring them to the problem solver!  And then we can experience the promise of verse 7- (my paraphrase)- "Only then can we experience the peace of God. The peace that our finite little human minds cannot begin to comprehend, and that same peace will offer a protective shield around our hearts and minds which is where anxiety is born and raised!"

So, I want to challenge you to do a couple of things:
1. Read Philippians chapter 4 before you go to bed tonight
2. Read Philippians 1,2 & 3 this week.
3. Put into practice Phil. 4:6
4. Tell someone else what Jesus did for you on the cross

Waiting on Him,
ML

What have YOU done for ME lately?

We live in a "What have you done for me lately" world don't we?  It seems like everywhere we turn there are people with expectations of us.  It is so easy to get caught up in trying to meet the demands and expectations of others.  Sometimes, we even have selfish motives for this pursuit of others' approval.  I know, some truths are just hard to hear.  Keep in mind, not hearing the truth does not make it less true!  We live in a society where we are all expected to pull ourselves up by our own bootstraps, (What are bootstraps anyway?).  We are expected by the world to make our own way and accomplish anything we want under our own power and authority.  DOING more perpetuates more and greater rewards.  Work harder, get noticed, get a raise and promotion.  At home, maybe we replace genuine love for our spouse by working harder and bringing home more money.  Maybe we give our kids everything they ask for in place of spending time with them and pouring into them.  All of these behaviors are based on "us doing".

Is your spiritual life based on the same principal?  Are you working your way into heaven?  Are you relying on your own actions and efforts to ensure your relationship with Jesus is intact?  If this is the case in your life I want to urge you to continue reading.  See, salvation through Christ has EVERYTHING to do with what HE did and NOTHING to do with what we do or did.  We read in Ephesians 2:8-9 "For it is by grace you have been saved by faith- and this not from (insert your name here), it is the gift of God, not by works so that (insert your name here) cannot boast."  See, Jesus did the "doing" on the cross.  Salvation and eternity in heaven have nothing to do with how good you are, (Our righteousness is like filthy rags- Isa. 64:6) how much you do or don't do.

Be encouraged, 2 Cor. 6:2 reminds us that "Now is the time of God's favor, now is the time of salvation"  I want to challenge you today to trust in Jesus Christ for your provision.  His grace is sufficient.  Are you willing to stop living under the yoke of "I GOTTA DO MORE"?  Keep seeking, keep praying.  Let's change to a "WHAT HAS HE DONE FOR ME TODAY" mentality!

Waiting on Him,
ML

What Are You Gonna Do With Your Life?

What a question!  I remember being asked this question when I was in Jr. High School, maybe even before that. I especially remember considering this while in High School.  As the father of a 16 year old daughter who is a junior in High School, this question is floating around in our house even now.  What do you wanna do when you grow up?  I don't really care for the phrasing in that format... My wife is all but convinced that I will never grow up. (She may be right!)  Having been married for 18 years, my wife has watched me make some career changes.  Some were lateral type moves, one sales job to another in pursuit of a better opportunity.  There was also a time when I was advancing up the corporate ladder into mid-level management of a medium sized company.  At 42 years old the longest I have stayed in one place has been 5 1/2 years.  (I went back and spent another 1 1/2)  See, at that point in my life God was using secular employment to prepare me for ministry.

I regret to tell you that at one point during this part of my professional life I lost sight of what was important in my life.  I allowed my priorities to get out of order.  I became focused on success in my job and I did it at the expense of my relationship with Jesus and also at the expense of my family.  They got what was left over and that usually was not very much.  See, I forgot that my significance was not in success, financial gain or another promotion, my significance was and always has been in Jesus Christ.  It was Him that died to save me.  It was Him that rescued me from a life of sin and destruction that would have led me to eternal separation from God.  Yet, I was so selfish that I neglected Him and even the wonderful family He entrusted to my care.

Now listen, before you go and quit your job, cash in whats left of your 401k and spend the remainder of your life on the mission field, (Unless God is leading you that way!) I want to clarify a few things.  We have to support our families.  We have to support our church with tithes and offerings.  I am not suggesting that you forsake your career.  I am asking that you be willing to take a good hard look at the priorities in your life.  We are called to be good stewards with what God has entrusted to us.  I do think that this means our job.

My challenge is that your first priority is your personal relationship with Jesus Christ.  You must have this vertical relationship intact if you have any hope of having horizontal (earthly) relationships intact.  Do not deprive the Giver of Life of your devotion.  He deserves it and He desires it.  Next, love your spouse like there is no tomorrow, he/she is a gift from God.  Pour into your family.  They need to see Godly parents living a life in pursuit of holiness and righteousness.  Allow your vocation to serve as a funding source for your personal ministry.  See, God has already prescribed a plan for your life.  You can read about it in Ephesians 2:10- "For we are God's handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God has prepared in advance for us to do."

Will you allow Jesus to be the priority in your life?  Will you trust Him to direct your path as you obey the call He has on your life?  I pray you will.

Waiting on Him,
ML

Enough is Enough!

What a week it has been.  Have you seen the hand of God in the last week?  I can tell you with all sincerity that I have seen God at work in many ways.  The last week has been difficult in our community and in my ministry, yet through this difficulty, God reigns!

How about you?  What is going on in your life that has you wondering how much more you can take?  Are you at a place where you are thinking to yourself or maybe even telling others, I just can't take anymore!  ENOUGH IS ENOUGH!  When will it stop?  Maybe you are wondering what it is that God is trying to teach you through this season of your life.  Maybe you are wondering if God even cares.  I pray this is not the case, but maybe you are wondering if God even is...

I can assure you, God most definitely is!  He is and  He cares.  He cares about you more than you can imagine.  He knows everything going on in your life, the good, the bad and the ugly!  Ecclesiastes 7:14 tells us that He made the good days and the bad!  His desire is that we run so hard and so fast toward Him that we cannot be deterred by the circumstances of life.

See, Enough is Enough is the right attitude.  Enough is Enough is exactly the mindset we should have.  But we need to have it in the right context...

In 2 Corinthians chapter 12 Paul is talking about this thorn in his flesh that God allowed in order to keep him humble.  See, Paul was an incredible man of God who was devoted to sharing the Gospel and suffered greatly for his devotion to Christ.  He pleaded with God to remove this thorn and I am reminded about how we ask God to take away the bad things in our lives.  We ask Him to deliver us from the struggles we face and stop the pain and suffering we experience.  His response to Paul in 2 Corinthians chapter 12 is the same response He has for us today... Enough is Enough! When Paul pleaded for the 3rd time to have this thorn removed Jesus said (Verse 9), "My grace is sufficient for you.  My power is made perfect in weakness"  See, His grace is enough for you and I!  And enough IS enough.  Be encouraged, the Jesus that spoke to Paul wants to speak into your life today and help you be victorious in your struggles!  He wants you to cast your cares upon Him!  Enough IS Enough!  My challenge to you this week is to read  2 Corinthians chapter 12 1-10 and ask God to speak to you.  Are you spending time with Him daily?  Are you seeking His will for your life?  I am praying that you do!

Waiting on Him,
ML

A Little Help from My Friends!

As I was reading in scripture this morning I was reminded about the men God has put in my life over the years.  I am referring to Godly men who have been accountability partners, mentors, encourager's, challengers, reminders, teachers and just friends.  Since the time I began walking with Jesus at the age of 23, there have been a handful of guys that have really poured into me.  God has allowed these men to impact my spiritual journey by allowing us to experience things together and learn from each other while at the same time, helping to keep one another accountable.  These relationships continue to impact me today.
I am reminded about a time when I came out of Lowe's or Home Depot (I don't recall which one) and there was a guy struggling with getting a huge box in the back of his truck.  I think it was one of those entertainment centers you put together.  It was very large, very heavy and very cumbersome.  He was trying all kinds of ways to get it in the truck.  The cart kept rolling away,  the box would slip off and once I think it came all the way off the cart.  I was able to assist him and  in about 3 minutes it was loaded, tied down and he was on his way.  I am not sure how long he would have struggled if I had not stopped to help.  There are so many benefits to working together.  I think about my partnership with my wife and how much easier our household is to manage because of her incredible help.  I think about my ministry and how God uses my pastor to partner with me to help me accomplish what has been set before me.  I think about my men's accountability group that meets on Thursday mornings and how we sharpen each other and spur one another on to love and good works.
See, we were never supposed to do life alone.  We read in Ecclesiastes 4:9-10, "Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their toil, for if they fall, one will lift up his fellow.  But woe to him who is alone when he falls and has not another to lift him up."  This verse is not only referring to a physical falling. (I have fallen and I can't get up! Sorry, couldn't resist the reference)  There are times in our lives when we are feeling beat down and discouraged.  Times when we fall and fail.  Let's not try to pick ourselves up alone.  Allow the Holy Spirit to knit you together with other Godly men (or women for you women readers, same principle)  This is God's design for living in community.

Be Blessed.

Waiting on Him,
ML

Magic Cure!

This post could make me famous!  It is entirely possible that I could change the world with the information I am about to share.  Disclaimer: There is nothing new under the sun.  I did not come up with this incredible information, however, I discovered it during my study this morning and in the interest of preserving marriages and relationships everywhere I want to share this insight. 
I have been married to my incredible wife for 18 years.  There is no question that she was an undeserved gift from a merciful God.  If you can imagine, we have had some difficult times along the way.  We did our pre-marital counseling in our 4th year of marriage and because of that, stayed married.  One of the hardest things for us to overcome was our inability to effectively communicate with each other.  I wanted her to hear me out and see things my way and she wanted me to hear her out and see things her way.  That is the tendency of humans.  The world tells us that it is all about I, Me, My.  I rediscovered some things in the book of Proverbs this morning that spoke to my heart.
Proverbs 18:2 says that "A fool takes no pleasure in understanding but only in expressing his (or her) opinion"  See, if we are going to communicate effectively, there must be more than one person involved.  I am so guilty of thinking my way of thinking is paramount.  This is a prideful and selfish way to be.  Next we see Proverbs 18:6- "A fool's lips walk into a fight and his (or her) mouth invites a beating".  It is amazing to consider the amount of damage and destruction we can do with our tongue.  Wouldn't we (speaking to myself) be better off taking a moment to calm our emotions and submit what we are feeling to God before we turn loose of the weapon which is our tongue?  See, Proverbs 18:10 gives us an out- "The name of the Lord is a strong tower, the righteous run into it and are saved" This principle applies to all relationships.  Relationships with spouses, parents, friends, family, are all gifts to be treasured.  Let's be slow to speak and quick to run into that strong tower.
My challenge to you is to take an inventory of how often you are using your mouth as a weapon of destruction versus a tool of love and encouragement.  Be blessed.

Waiting on Him,
ML

Prove It!

You know that 3 word expression everyone throws around? We say it to our spouses, our kids, our parents, our close friends, and maybe even to people we barely know. You know the espression I am talking about. It's easy to say and maybe not so easy to do! I LOVE YOU! It rolls off of our tongues as easily as hello. But do we really mean it when we say it? Is it a genuine heartfelt expression of truth or just words? See, Jesus told us He loved us anthem He died for our sin. The point is, He proved His love through action, not in word only. In the book of John in chapter 13:34-35 Jesus is challenging us to love each other. He means to love in word and deed! Prove our love by loving with our mouths and with our feet. He goes on to say that others will know we are His because of this love. Give it a try today. Love like you never have before!
Waiting on Him
MlL

Michael P. Lane
Student Minister Grace Comm. Church
912.661.0548

Have You Left A Light On?

Remember the Motel 6 commercial?   Not sure why you would name a hotel with a number, and I digress...  The hook for the ad was spoken by a guy named Tom Bodett, a humorist and radio personality.  It went a little something like this... "And we'll leave a light on for ya".  Can you think of anything that would send a clearer message of welcome?  The implication is that no matter what time you arrive, no matter where you come from, no matter how long you plan to stay, no matter how much stuff you are bringing with you, we welcome you.  I want to stay at a place where I feel welcome don't you?  I remember driving through the night to go see my in-laws when the girls were small, ( the girls sleeping in the car was a blessing!)  When we arrived, often times at 2 or 3 in the morning there was always a light on for us.  I knew they were not only welcoming us but they were expecting us and excited about our arrival.  What an incredible message is conveyed with such a simple act.

Do you have any idea where Jesus desires to dwell?  His desire is to dwell within the hearts of His people.  In Psalm 132 King David talks about not laying his head down or even resting until he found a place for the Lord to dwell.  And now because of the provision of Jesus Christ and what He did on the cross, the dwelling place has been identified.  How awesome is that?  The search is over, no longer is there a curtain that separates us from the creator of the universe.  He wants to dwell within us.

But, have we left the light on for Him?  Does He know that we are welcoming Him and anticipating His arrival?  Or, have we allowed our desire to live like the world and pursue worldly things to illuminate the NO VACANCY sign in the window?  See, He will not force Himself on us.  We must surrender ourselves to Him and trust Him with our whole life, not just the parts we want to give Him... EVERYTHING!  He tells us in Matthew 16:24-25 that in order to go after Him, we must pick up our cross daily and follow Him.  He goes on to say that anyone who withholds their life from Him will lose it, but those who surrender their life to Him will save it.

Be encouraged today and know that Jesus loves you and is waiting with great anticipation to see that you have left the light on for Him, welcoming Him to come in and take up residence in your heart.

Waiting on Him,
ML

Imagine That!

I have a vivid imagination.  I have always had a very active and vivid imagination from the time I was a small child.  I remember as a little boy playing for hours with simple toys and being so content.  I remember spending time at my Grandma & Grandpa's house which bring back such fond memories.  I remember my Grandma used to help me make S.W.A.T. vests out of the old paper grocery bags.  She would use old fabric to make various other costumes.  I had my own apron that I would use to pretend to be a great chef while I "helped" her bake. (She was usually baking something for me!)  I even remember having an imaginary friend who was always close by.  Oh yes, I would talk to him and he would answer.

You know, as imaginative as I am, I never in a million years would have envisioned the life I am living today.  Oh, I had dreams and aspirations.  There was plans for college and law school.  There was wealth and material possessions.  There was success beyond measure... all according to the world standards.  But, God had other plans for me.  As only He can, He used a history of bad decisions and a life filled with selfishness and sin to be transformed into one of His servants.  See according to 1 Corinthians 2:9, "No eye has seen and no ear has heard and no human mind has conceived the things that God has prepared for those who love Him".  Please allow me to paraphrase this,  God has a way bigger imagination than you or I!  See, we are always going to be tempted to be satisfied by what the world has to offer, but God's plans for us are so much bigger.  I am so thankful that His plans for me won out over my own plans.  He knows what He is doing.

Can I challenge you this week to seek God's will for your life?  Will you just stop trying to be in charge of your own plan.  You do not have to settle for mediocrity any more.  God is waiting for you to run into His arms and allow His will to be fulfilled through your surrender and obedience.  Ask God to let you have a little glimpse of the plans He has for you!  Then run towards Him!

Waiting on Him,
ML

Won't You Be My Neighbor?

Remember Mr. Rogers? I know, I am dating myself. He was such a friendly guy. He always wore such nice cardigan sweaters and was so good at tossing his loafers from one hand to the other while changing into his sneakers for the show. I am not sure why that couldn't be done off camera. His shoes never had an impact on the show...Anywho, Mr. Rogers was one of the friendliest people I ever saw on TV. He loved everyone and always treated others well. I do not encounter a lot of people today that share that gift.

I think it is because we find ourselves caught up in our own little worlds, our own struggles, and we often forget to care about others much less share a heartfelt greeting. I am so guilty of this. Who has time to worry about other people? HELLO! Have you taken notice of all the things going on in my life? Cut me some slack. Wow. Seems pretty selfish. As I am studying through Romans, this is an (Just one of many) area that I am really being pressed to look at in my life. We have to keep in perspective what our purpose is on Earth. It is not to create wealth, it is not to amass material possessions, it is not to lavish ourselves with luxury. We are here to bring honor and glory to Jesus Christ and to tell others about Him. The bible tells us that the greatest commandment is to love Him with all of our heart, soul, mind and strength. Jesus goes on to say that the next greatest commandment is similar, love your neighbor as yourself. (Mark 12:29-31)


Will you take some time this week to pray about how you can love your neighbor. This does not literally mean the people who live next door, (Although they are included). It means to love all of those you encounter. People at work, at school, at Wal-Mart, etc. See, Jesus loves them and you and me so much, He died for us. Don't you want others to know the great joy that comes from knowing Him? In the passage below from Romans, Paul makes it clear that he understood this principle.

Romans 15:4-7
4For whatever was written in former days was written for our instruction, that through endurance and through the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope. 5May the God of endurance and encouragement grant you to live in such harmony with one another, in accord with Christ Jesus,6that together you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. 7Therefore welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God.

Waiting on Him,
ML

In other words...nothing

What a week!  My girls went back to school.  Hard to imagine I am old enough to have two daughters in high school.  Funny, I don't feel old!

This has been a hard week... There are several people I am close with that have experienced tragedies in their lives this week.  I am talking about things that just rocked their world.  I have a good friend who has an employee in his company who lost his mother to a violent act by his step-father.  Another dear friends parents were involved in a severe car accident and spent several days in the trauma unit. (God has already begun miraculously healing them).  For me, the thing that I am struggling with the most this week is the death of a child.

This family came into our lives about 12 years ago.  Through circumstances, Ame and I had a chance to minister to the dad and the two kids, a son and daughter who were probably about 6 and 9 or so.  They essentially became part of our family and it was that way for several years. About 6 or 7 years ago the dad and daughter moved to Indiana.  Monday night his daughter, a little girl who I watched grow up for several year died peacefully in her sleep.  I have wondered all of the standard things... Why, How, Really?  How selfish.  I cannot imagine losing a child at 18, just after graduating, already moved into her dorm room for her first year in college.  It breaks my heart.

But see, God is bigger than all of these tragedies.  God is in control, and for those of us that have a relationship with the king of kings, we know that "we can do all things through Christ who strengthens us." As I have prayed for all of these families and others this week I am reminded about the suffering of Christ on the cross.  He suffered and died as an atonement for our sin and arose on the 3rd day.  What an incredible act of love!  He continues to love each of us today.  Even (and especially) during difficult times.  He desires for us to run hard and fast to Him!  Will you?

I am reading in Romans this week and I read through one of my favorite passages. It says this in Romans 8:

³⁷ No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. ³⁸ For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, ³⁹ neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.


In other words... NOTHING can separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus... NOTHING.  Are you living under this promise today?


Waiting on Him,
ML

Shipwrecked?

Is your faith shipwrecked?  Have you lost control and run aground?  Maybe you have lost the ability to control the direction you are heading and you are headed for a disaster.  As I am reading in Acts about Paul's journey to Rome, I cannot help but think about how easy it is to take things into our own hands and ignore the leading of those who may know more than us.  This type of prideful behavior is the equivalent of taking a ship out to sea when your only experience comes from playing a sailing game on your Wii or Nintendo.  I like to do things my own way and at times I struggle with taking direction and leadership from others, even when I know they have more knowledge, wisdom and experience than I do.  Can you relate to this type of thinking?

In Acts chapter 27 we read about this trip that Paul is taking aboard Alexandrian ship headed for Italy.  Paul warned the captain that things were not going to end well and yet they pressed on.  In the end, they ended up throwing everything overboard even as Paul promised them that God would not harm even a hair on their head.  As usual, God kept His promise.  Go read the rest of the story.

How about you?  Do you have some baggage and cargo that you need to throw overboard?  Are there things in your life that are contributing to your impending shipwreck?  Get rid of them!  God desires to bring you gently to a place of peace in your life.  If you are willing to surrender all to Him, He will do just that.  Don't resist, give it up.  Paul told his fellow sailors in Acts 27:25- "So keep up your courage men, for I have faith in God that it will happen just as He told me"  God, the creator of the universe keeps His promises, I have faith that He will rescue YOU from whatever storm you are in.  Do you have that same faith?

Waiting on Him,
ML

Another Satisfied Customer

Thursday was a pretty cool day here at Snowbird.  We got to finish the project we began at the beginning of the week.  The weather was wonderful as we finished the last run of the ramp and put on the last coat of paint.  I cannot tell you what a blessing it was when Mrs. Dockery and her daughter came out to take a group picture with us.  Our kids as well as adults were so touched by her sweet spirit.  She was a little emotional herself at the act of kindness and she fully understood our motive of serving Christ by serving her.  We took a few moments to gather around her and pray God's blessing over her.  Just as we were getting ready to load up on the bus and leave, she took a walk down the ramp and proclaimed, "It works perfectly".  Isn't it just like Christ to use a sweet little old widow to bless a group of folks that were there for the sole purpose of blessing her!

Since we finished early we had some free time and went to visit a local hangout called Party Time.  It is an ice cream shop that we all rather enjoyed.  Many of our kids participated in some of the on campus activities when we returned such as the climbing tower, a couple of "extreme" swings and other things.

Our worship service last night was outdoors and included a very powerful skit that depicted the return of Christ.  The use of the horses, costumes and other effects made this a very powerful and compelling drama.  We ended the night by spending some time in the Prayer Chapel.  This was so far my favorite part of the trip. (except for the climb to get there, we are in the mountains!)  It was a chance to pray at specific "stations" fro everything from missionaries to family members.  Words will not do justice in describing this.

Needless to say it was very late when we went to bed but God's continues to provide sufficient rest and restoration.  Many of our guys got up early this morning to go on a 2 hour hike with one of our counselors before breakfast. After breakfast we will depart for our rafting trip which everyone is very excited about.

I had an opportunity to spend some one on one time with a couple of our kids yesterday and hear from them how God is moving in their heart on this trip.  I would ask that you continue to pray for each of us. I do believe that there is still some work to be done.  Please pray that some barriers that still exist with a couple of our students will be broken down.  Pray for healing in the hearts of a couple of others.  Pray for energy and strength for us old people as we strive to lead our students.  Thanks for interceding for us.

Waiting on Him,
ML

The Little Mission Team that Could!

I cannot imagine that it is already Thursday.  This week is flying by.  Yesterday was a great and very productive work day.  It was hotter than Tuesday but our kids kept right on working.  I am amazed at the work ethic they have.  Several of them took an opportunity to go inside to visit with Mrs. Dockery, the widow we are serving.  She is so sweet and the kids have enjoyed talking with her and hearing about her life.
Last night was so full of Jesus!  The guys and the girls were separated for our teaching and worship time.  I am not sure what the girls talked about but the guys were given some very hard truths and some very practical tools to live a life in pursuit of holiness.  Some of the information and statistics that were shared were very difficult to hear.  We were challenged to continue to wage war on our sin and on our flesh. We were challenged to guard our eyes from things cause men to stumble.  We were challenged to be in accountability relationships so that we can have help in this battle.  We ended our night in our small groups and had an opportunity to hear from one of our counselors about how he is helping a close friend win this battle.  We also agreed to take steps in order to minimize our exposure to anything that can challenge our integrity.

Today is our last work day and it will be a very challenging and fulfilling day.  Everyone is tired and some are very sore.  I am so proud of our kids and am excited to be a part of their lives and a part of this trip. Tomorrow we play!  White Water rafting trip begins at 10:00am.

Would you pray for us today?  Pray that we would be strengthened.  Pray that God will grant an extra measure of endurance and energy today.  Please also pray for the health of our team.  We have a couple of girls who have not felt well.  I am praying God would have them healed this morning.  Pray that we will continue to have opportunities to reflect Christ in all that we do.  Pray that any of our team who is holding back or waiting for the right time to surrender to Jesus would trust Him with their whole life today!  Thanks for your prayers this week.  They are certainly being felt.  Thanks for keeping up with the blog.

Waiting on Him,
ML

Hammers, Nails, Paintbrushes and the Gospel

Good morning from Snowbird Wilderness Outfitters in the mountains of Andrews NC.  This morning it is about 70 degrees with tolerable humidity.  What an awesome day we had yesterday.  After breakfast we had a very insightful time of teaching regarding Philippians Chapter 2 and we were all challenged to live a life of integrity.  We were reminded in Verse 13 of Chapter 2 that God works in each of us for His good pleasure.  We also were reminded that groaning and complaining does not honor God but that we should do all things as unto the Lord.

After our devotion we went to serve a sweet little lady name Mrs. Gwayne.  She is 88 years old and a widow and is just about as sweet as she can be.  She lives alone and has a hard time getting up the steps into her house.  So, one of the projects we are working on is a ramp.  We are also cleaning up and painting the exterior of her home.  Our kids worked for about 7 hours yesterday and we really made some good progress.  It is exciting to see them working together, learning new skills, enjoying the act of serving others.  

We ended our night with another powerful worship service and skit as well as another challenging message.  We were challenged to wage war on the sin in our lives.  To launch an all out assault on the temptations of the world that trip us up and compromise our walk with Christ.  We were encouraged to be aggressive in our defense of our integrity and to hold nothing back.  This was followed by a time of small group sharing and prayer.

Please continue to pray for us as we avail ourselves to what God desires to accomplish during the rest of our week.  I am really beginning to see the deepening of relationships within our team and a trust and transparency when sharing.  Thanks for the prayers that have already gone up on our behalf.  Jesus is at work here in NC!

Waiting on Him,

ML

Good Morning from Snowbird Mission Outreach Day 2

We have already been so blessed.  We arrived safely yesterday afternoon around 3:00.  As soon as we pulled on campus there were staff (all dressed in red SWO t-shirts) that invaded our bus and started introducing themselves sitting in our seats etc.  It was a very high energy welcome that everyone enjoyed.  They are very intentional about serving us, it is incredible.  They have a staff to student ratio of about 1:4.  So, for our group we have 3 young ladies and two young men who are dedicated to just our team for the week.  We eat together, sit in worship together, do small groups together and they will accompany us to our job site.

We begin our outreach this morning after breakfast and morning worship.  We will be serving an older lady (late 80's for all of you 50's and 60's out there reading).  We will be building her a ramp that will enable easy entrance into her home and we will also be painting inside of her home.   The kids are excited and ready to serve.  I can already see the relationships forming and the intimacy being developed as we spend this time together.

The tents we are in are... um... nice as tents go and the mattress on the bunk bed (Which I am thankful for) could stand to be a little more therapeutic.  Dinner was very good considering that they fed over 600 people in less than 2 hours.  We had a great time of praise and worship as well as a couple of very compelling skits followed by a message about living a life free from the bondage of sin.

Would you please pray for:
Continued relationship building in our team
Effectiveness as we minister to this lady this week
Opportunities for our kids to share about Jesus
Our Support Team- Tim & Jordan-Married and 5 weeks pregnant, Lucy- being pursued by a Godly young man for marriage, Hannah- A sweet young lady who loves the Lord, John- a 29 yr old guy who gave up "the good life" of multiple successful businesses to pursue his relationship with Jesus.
Our adults on our team as we pour into our students.

Thank you for praying for us and for telling others about how Jesus is using the young people of Grace Community Church to impact the kingdom for Christ!

Waiting on Him,
ML

Here I am, send me!



That was the response of Isaiah when the Lord asked who would go and do the work of ministry!  That was also the response of 22 of our young people in our Sr. High youth group when asked, "who will go to rural North Carolina and endure sleeping in a tent, working in the heat of the day, walking everywhere we go", all for the purpose of sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ.  We leave tomorrow at 7:00 am to make the drive and will then spend 5 days reaching out in the rural community of Andrews North Carolina.  we could be painting, mowing grass, repairing fence, scooping dog poop, (It could happen!) or any other number of things.  Most importantly, we will learning about serving others for the sake of Christ.  We will be intentional about seeking opportunities to tell others about the hope of our salvation.  We will do everything "as unto the Lord".

I have never seen a more willing group of servants.  They have given up part of their summer, part of their allowance, and much of their comforts of home not so they can get a pat on the back but so that they can draw attention to Jesus, the Lord of their life.  Will you pray for us this week?  Please pray that God will use each one exactly where we are to represent Him and all He has done for us.  Pray for our families who we will leave behind, some for the first time.  Pray for our protection.  Pray that God will allow us to impact others while we ourselves are being impacted by Him.  Finally, pray that we would return changed from when we left.

Check the blog during the week as I will be trying to keep you updated each day provided I have Internet access.  We love you and thank you for your prayers and support.

Waiting on Him,

ML

Dirty Feet, Clean Heart

So, next week at this time 21 of us (adults and youth) will be in rural North Carolina serving others. We will be participating in a mission outreach project in cooperation with an organization named Snowbird Wilderness Outfitters. We will be sleeping in tents, walking 6 miles (uphill both ways) to the bathrooms, enduring the elements. We do this willingly and joyfully. My heart is full to overflowing as I interact with our team and sense the excitement they have to go and take cold showers for a week. I have never seen a more servant minded group of kids. I am so encouraged by this upcoming generation. It is so important for us to mentor and teach them how to pursue an active and intimate relationship with a risen savior.

Last night we had a team meeting which was planned and designed to build trust, intimacy and unity with each other. We talked about how we were acting in obedience to go and serve others. We shared our hearts about why we were even going on this trip.

We had a practical lesson in humility which is what we all agreed needs to be our perspective on this trip. We want to serve others out of our humility and obedience. We prayed for brokenness for those who do not know Christ. We read and prayed over John chapter 13 and paid special attention to verses 12-17 ("12 So when He had washed their feet, taken His garments, and sat down again, He said to them, “Do you know what I have done to you? 13 You call Me Teacher and Lord, and you say well, for so I am. 14 If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet. 15 For I have given you an example, that you should do as I have done to you. 16 Most assuredly, I say to you, a servant is not greater than his master; nor is he who is sent greater than he who sent him. 17 If you know these things, blessed are you if you do them.") See Jesus had just finished washing His disciples feet and teaching them about humility. So, we washed each others feet last night and I cannot begin to tell you what a beautiful thing it was to see our kids humbled, on their knees in front of their brothers and sisters in Christ washing their feet.

Will you be in prayer for us? Will you pray that God will continue to knit us together as a ministry team to go and serve others? Will you pray for our effectiveness in proclaiming the truth of the gospel? Will you pray for our protection and also for our transformation?

Thank you.

Waiting on Him,
ML

Mud Puddle!

So, last night we had decided that after bible study that there would be a serious game of Ultimate Frisbee.  (This was determined on Sunday morning)  About 5:30 yesterday evening the sky turned loose and it poured!  Now, we have been unseasonably dry and the rain was certainly a welcome sight.  About 5:33 my cell phone started blowing up with calls and txt msgs.  Everyone wanted to know if we were still going to play ultimate.  See, I was not planning to play in the first place so I said, absolutely, game on.  This response was met with much enthusiasm.  The rain continued to pour and in they came for bible study dressed in thier best worst clothes prepared for a game of ultimate slip and slide frisbee, in the mud and muck.  I firmly believe if asked, those who played would gladly play again in the same circumstances.  See, our kids love to play ultimate frisbee, they love each other and they love Jesus.  Sometimes, love requires us to get messy.  But its worth it.

See, Jesus loves us so much that He was willing to get as messy as need be in order to show His love for us.  Are there people in your life who you love and minister to that require you to get messy from time to time?  Many years ago my wife and I led a small group and I remember my pastor at the time telling me, "Mikey, when you are messing with sheep, sometimes you get sheep stuff on ya!"  I have never forgotten.  But it is so worth it to see the transformation that occurs when we allow Jesus to use us to proclaim the truth of His gospel message.  Even when we get messy in the process.

Be encouraged today to worry less about your mess and more about how you can point others to Christ.  Remember, we have an obligation to be salt and light!

Matthew 5:13-16  (NKJV)

 
¹³ “You are the salt of the earth; but if the salt loses its flavor, how shall it be seasoned? It is then good for nothing but to be thrown out and trampled underfoot by men.
¹⁴ “You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. ¹⁵ Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. ¹⁶ Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.

Waiting on Him,

ML

Welcome to Wal-Mart!

When you walk into Wal-Mart or any other business that staffs a greeter to stand at the door and greet incoming customers, how do you respond?  Can you even begin to imagine the variety of responses they may receive in a given day?  I suspect that the reactions range from joyful all the way to down right mean.  This is just an assumption and not a scientific experiment.  As I consider this question, I am pondering how I personally react and respond when greeted by someone.  This causes me to expand my thought process into how I treat others like the cashier, or other customers who may be in my way while trying to look at the hot sauce shelf.  Maybe it is the customer walking down the middle of the parking lot while I am trying to get a vacant spot close to the store.  I then go on to consider how I react to the car that needs to make a last minute lane change to execute a right turn in front of me while en route.  Now I am ready just forget about writing this blog and find something else to do because I am feeling very convicted about how I even treat my family sometimes, and others I care deeply about.

Why is that that we (OK, I) have a tendency to forget the joy of salvation in Christ and treat people with such a sour attitude?  Are we not called to be imitators of Christ? (Ephesians 5:1- "Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children")  How are we (OK, I) supposed to effectively share the gospel of Christ if I struggle treating others with a loving heart?  Aha- It is a heart issue.  OK, I already knew this but needed a strenuous reminder this morning.  As I was doing my quiet time this morning and reading in a book called Pursuit of Holiness, (We are doing a youth bible study using this book. You should check it out) I was reminded that I need to understand the holiness of Christ and His desire to manifest that holiness in me to the extent that I am willing to submit to Him.  See, if I get too caught up in my own life, if I allow the things of this world to take my eyes off of Him, if I let the burdens of life prevent me from spending time with Him then my holiness, which is not mine but His, begins to wane.  When that happens, my joy of salvation begins to fade and I develop a sorry attitude which prompts me to treat others poorly. 

Bottom line is that I do not want to do this!  I want everyday to be about serving my savior!  I want to bring honor and glory to Him through all I say, think and do!  I want others to see Him living in and through me!  I can't do it alone! HE MUST DO IT THROUGH ME!  I MUST BE SUBJECT TO HIM!.

How about you?  How do you treat the greeter at Wal-Mart?  How are you expressing the joy of your salvation?  How is your daily one on one relationship with the savior?  How are you doing with the daily challenge from Monday?  God never misses an opportunity to bless the obedience of His people!

Waiting on Him,
ML

Take a Number!

Well, the inevitable Monday is upon us.  For most it is the start of the work week.  I usually try to take Monday's off but decided I needed to be in the office for a while today.  As I am praying this morning, I am struggling with how easy it is to drift away from what happened on Sunday and slip back into a routine that does not really include Jesus.  There are tasks to complete, deadlines, obligations, demands, responsibilities, and other "things" that compete for my time, energy and attention.  Can you relate?  The thing is, not all of these things are even bad or ungodly.  I am not talking about overtly sinful things, I am talking about real life day to day things that we as kids, adults, spouses and parents are called to do.  But the problem lies in how I prioritize those things.  Yes, see now I am going to get personal and maybe even step on some toes.  Life is not easy, we were not promised easy. James 1 in fact promised troubles.  What we MUST understand as a follower of Christ is that He wants our 100% devotion.  He is not interested in our leftovers. (Although, He accepts them if that is all we offer)  He does not want the obligatory 5 minute prayer as we fade off to sleep after pouring ourselves into the day. (Although, He listens if that is all we offer)  His desire is that we wake up with Him in mind, and offer Him the first part of our day.  How can we claim to desire His will for our lives if we don't even take the time to find out what that is?  How can we claim to walk in His power if we do not allow Him an opportunity to impart that power upon us. 

See, the thing is, too often I want to ask God to bless what I am doing when really I am supposed to DO what He is blessing.  I used to think that when I went into full time ministry I would spend hours in prayer and study and reading God's word each day.  I envisioned a complete transformation of how I would spend my days.  Surprise, even in ministry there are distractions and time hogs that I have allowed to trip me up and sabotage my time with my savior.  I have allowed too many things to come between Him and I.  I want to ask you to join me this week in a challenge.  Will you commit to begin your day by submitting to the Father?  Will you start each day by acknowledging Him, and spending time with Him?  I commit to do that this week and to not let anything come between me and that time with my savior.  Maybe you already have a set time each morning and that is an area you have given over to the Lord.  Will you pray for those of us that struggle in this area.  Pray that we would learn to discern between the urgent and the important.  Pray that we would stop asking God to take a number in order to spend time with us.  I hope you are encouraged today.  I would love to hear some feedback.

Psalm 118:24 says "This is the day that the Lord has made, let us rejoice and be glad in it".  Will you rejoice and be glad today?

Waiting on Him,

ML

Is your Lawn Green?

Those of us living in Southeast Georgia can attest to the extreme heat and dryness we have been experiencing.  For weeks now the temperatures have been tip toeing and even exceeding records from years and years ago.  Weather people are issuing heat advisories and warning folks to stay inside, stay hydrated, be careful not to become over heated.  They talk about the temperature and the "feels like" temperature.  I had a fella tell me the other day, "If it "feels like" 110 degrees, its 110 degrees"  I tend to agree.  We have been overwhelmed this week with smoke blowing in from wildfires that are active all around us. 
Hang in there with me for a minute. 

Everyday I drive into my subdivision and I see yard after yard.  There are some that are lush and green and well manicured and just a sight to behold.  Most at this time are a drab shade of brown, slightly unkempt.  Then there is mine, dead as a hammer.  It is beginning to look like a dirt lot.  If I were to water it, (which I don't to conserve water) I would have to water 6 hours a day to keep up with the heat.  So, I made a decision to let it be and come what may.  As it turns out, a dead lawn is my reward.  I am OK with that for now.  I got excited earlier this week because of a couple of pretty heavy rain storms.  More rain than we have seen in months.  I thought for a moment that maybe my lawn would revive, but it does not look promising.

Is your faith dried up and dying or maybe even already dead?  Do you find that it is just easier to let the cards fall where they will?  Did you know that just like an occasional rain shower will not provide sufficient moisture for my lawn, an occasional trip to church on Sunday morning will not nourish your soul?  You cannot expect to be in fellowship with Jesus if you do not position yourself to be fed.  The bible is very clear in Hebrews 10:25 that we are to be in fellowship with other believers. 

Here at Grace Community Church we have a heart to see people who love Jesus minister to other people who love Jesus.  We also have a heart to teach those that do not know Him personally, how to have a vibrant and eternal relationship with Jesus, the King of the Universe and the Savoir of us all.  Do not be satisfied with just getting dripped on occasionally, align with a local body of believers that teaches about Jesus Christ and allow yourself to be drenched by the Holy Spirit so that you may produce spiritual fruit that builds up the kingdom.  After all, that it what we are supposed to be doing while we wait in His return.  Are you ready?  He is ready for you!

^{Hebrews 10:23-25
23} Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who promised is faithful. ²⁴And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, ²⁵ not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.

Who Invented Forgiveness Anyway?

As a follower of Christ, forgiveness is at the very foundation of my faith.  Is the same true for you? Do we understand the full context of forgiveness and how it impacts our ability to have a relationship with Jesus Christ?  How about the way forgiveness impacts our eternity?  We have spent the last four weeks hearing from Pastor Charles about forgiveness and what the bible has to say regarding this topic.  Were you impacted by this series?  It has served as a great reminder to me, a reminder that I need to forgive.  I need to forgive each and every day and sometimes I need to forgive every five minutes. 

When I consider all I have done in my life that requires forgiveness I cannot imagine a life in eternity separated from Christ, the Forgiver!  See, I have spent the last three weeks trying to change my perspective about the sin in my life and how it impacts me.  I want to be more concerned about how my sin impacts Jesus!  I want to understand that when I have sin in my life that others are affected and that is not a good thing.  But more importantly, when I sin I break the very heart of God.  I want to be able to experience that same brokenness.  I do not want to throw around the word forgiveness like I throw around the word hello!  Forgiveness always comes at a cost, and for those of us that know Jesus as our personal savior that cost was death!  Death on a cross that was brutal and awful and painful and humiliating.  And He did it because He loved you and me and because He wanted us to be together with Him forever and ever.  We must understand the cost of forgiveness, and we must understand the importance of forgiveness.  We must understand the freedom that comes from forgiveness.  We must follow the example that was set for us by our savior.  Be reminded of what we read in the book of Colossians in Chapter 3:13
“bearing with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive”  There is a Godly example of forgiveness that is not open to interpretation and alteration.  Jesus forgives us and if He lives in us, we must overcome unforgiveness if we expect to experience all He has for us.  Sometimes it is not easy to forgive, remember, it was not easy to hang on a cross.  On a final note, please keep in mind, forgiveness is for the benefit and well being of the forgiver not the forgiven.  You are not having any impact on those that hurt you by harboring unforgiveness.  But, where do I start?  On your knees!  Ask the inventor of Forgiveness to help you get started.  Maybe you need to forgive yourself before you can extend forgiveness to others. I would love to pray with you and for you. 

Waiting on Him,

ML

Its Hard to Come Home...

Well,
It is so hard to imagine that a week ago we were on buses beaded to FL for SummerCamp. What an awesome week we had! It happens every year... months and months of planning, praying, rethinking, replanning, more praying, summer camp lands upon me like a ton of bricks. As usual, God works out the details that I try to struggle with. As usual, our students come through with signed release forms and balances due. As usual, an incredible team of adult leaders raise their hands and say "here I am, send me". Then they take time off of work or time away from family and they come serve in ministry. As usual, my wife stands by my side and fills the gaps and helps with my shortcomings. As usual our church family prays fervently and gives generously so nobody has to stay home. And... as usual, God was waiting on us when we got there. He had prepared the hearts of our hosts and the worship team and our speaker. He prepared the weather and the local people we would encounter.

And as usual, the lives of our students were changed. At least 4 of them were changed for eternity and several others commited to regain what they had allowed to fade. As usual, God was smiling at the work He did through the obedience of His people. As usual I am humbled by having the blessing of youth ministry as my life's work.

Waiting on Him,
ML

Michael P. Lane
Student Minister Grace Comm. Church
912.661.0548

Hang on For Life

Can you believe that we are in Day 3 of camp?  Why is it that 1 week of schools seems to drag on for 3 ½ months and 1 week of camp goes by in less than 15 minutes?  I am not ready for it to be over.  I am not ready for us to go back home and get back into our same old routines.  I am not ready to stop living life by the lake with the boats, tubes, skis and kayaks.  I am certainly not ready to leave the relationships that I have been allowed to build here, or the worship and teaching we have experienced. But, we have responsibilities and lives back in Rincon so tomorrow we will have our final session and head home.  So…, what are you going to do differently when you get back home?  Will you continue the sale old ways, doing the same old things, thinking the same old thoughts and living the same old life?  Or, will you take to heart what you have heard this week?  Will you remember those passages from Galatians, John, Matthew, Acts and others?  Will you apply these principles in your life?

As I was driving the boat yesterday and pulling the kids around on tubes, floats and hot dogs I began to think about how similar our walk with Christ is to being behind the boat.  See, there are a number of factors that determine how long the ride will last.  There is the condition of the water, the speed of the boat, the skills of the driver (Mine were great), other riders.  In life, we are faced with rough waters making a relationship with Christ difficult.  Jesus is driving the boat and He has all the needed skills.  Others in life can either encourage and build up or they can move around and make the tube get flipped over.   See, you need to keep your eyes firmly fixed on the driver and regardless of what circumstances are, HANG ON FOR LIFE!  Just know, when you get flung off and shot across the water, Jesus will circle around and pick you up.

mr mike  

FLAT TIRE-INFLATED GRACE

Well, day 1 of camp is officially behind us.  Where to begin?  What an amazing day we had yesterday here in Lake Placid FL.  This is a beautiful place on Earth that God has created and we are thankful that we get t spend a few days enjoying it. 

So yesterday our plan was to spend the morning doing some community outreach here in LP.  A local pastor here had arranged some projects for us to work on before the group from the other church arrived.  So as we get ready to leave one of my adult leaders, notices that one of the rear tires on the bus he is driving is dry rotted and has lost all of its air.  Now, it has dual wheels and the inner tire is fine.  We determine that is it safe to drive the 1.5 miles to the meeting place and then we will get it taken care of.  So as we are forced to change plans due to transportation issues we end up setting up a car wash at the local church.  This is a free car wash where no donations are accepted.  We talk about how hard it will be for some folks to accept a free gift.  We discuss how sometimes the person giving is the one being blessed.  I emphasized how important it was for people to understand that the Jesus in us compelled us to serve them in this way.

So, we are referred to a local tire shop by the pastor and when we arrive he had already called so we were expected.  The owner greeted us outside, knew the exact tire we needed. (It takes 4 days to order and receive this type of tire)  He happened to have a used tire in exactly the size we needed.  At this point he asked his employee to stop what he was working on and take care of the bus tire.  So in 20 minutes or so we were ready to go.  When I asked the total he shook my hand and said to have a great week!  I began to argue and insist that he allow me to pay him and his words stopped me in my tracks as he squeezed my hand a little harder he said, “Be blessed”.  Wow, who am I to argue with the guy trying to be an extension of God’s grace.  You know, some people have a really hard time accepting a free gift. 

Waiting on Him,

ML

Howdy Stranger!

Well, I am sorry that it has been so long.  I have truly missed sharing what God has been doing.  It has been a craze 6 weeks and I will not make any other excuses.  What I will do is tell you that GCC Student ministry has arrived in Lake Placid FL for our summer camp.  If you have not been to this facility, you should check it out.  It is beautiful

We have along with us 34 students and 9 adult leaders.  What a blessing to see so many willing servants and so many students that desire a closer with with HIM.  We will be joined later today by some students from First Baptist Church of Rincon and will spend the next 4 days with them.  Our theme this week is "Turning the World Upside Down for Christ" based on Acts 17:6.  In addition to worship, teaching, fellowship and studying God's word, we will be boating, skiing, tubing, kayaking, canoeing, swimming and just having more stinkin' fun than the law should allow!

So, if you have a few minutes each day this week, will you please pray for our adult leaders and our kids.  Pray that God would reveal himself to us in a mighty way.  Please check back soon for more updates.  I promise to not stay away so long!

Waiting on Him,

ML

Wet Paint

I have about a dozen of my students here to paint the exterior of our 2 youth buildings.  You know what excites me about this?  They are not here because they love to paint.  They are not here because they love working in 89 degrees with 150,000% humidity.  They are here for a couple very important reasons. 
1. They love Jesus and hence they are willing to serve in the kingdom even if it means painting in the heat.
          Ephesians 6:7 tells us to, "Serve wholeheartedly, as if you were serving the Lord, not people"

2. They love being together.  They truly cherish their brothers and sisters in Christ and enjoy the                     fellowship.     
             1 John 1:7 " But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin."

3. They want to be good stewards with the resources God has given us.                                                              
          1 Peter 4:10 (B)¹⁰ "as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms"

On top of this, the youth rooms are going to look awesome and allow us to show our kids that we value them enough to make sure they have a suitable place to assemble.  I love Grace Community Church!

What a privilege to see the hand of God forming and fashioning our next generation into Men and Women of God. 
God thank you for allowing us to see you at work in the lives of young people.  Help us not to be a stumbling block to them but rather empower and equip us to pour into them and to be a Godly example for them.  Selfishly, I thank you for allowing me to be in ministry and have a front row seat.  I am living a dream!  Amen.
Waiting on Him,
ML

OH GOODY- More trials!!

James 1 verse 2 tells us to "consider it great joy whenever you experience various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance"  Ok, so it's not enough to consider it joy, we have to consider it GREAT joy?  Really?!!  Well, I seem to struggle with this.  Anyone else?  Who like to have trials?  I much prefer smooth sailing.  I want everything to go my way the first time.  I want traffic to cooperate, the check-out line at Wal-Mart to move faster, peace and harmony in my home, enough money to pay bills and still have fun on the weekends.  You know, just the basics.  Is that too much to ask?  Seems like there might be a little bit too much, I, ME, MINE in this list of wants.

As I read through James 1 this morning I am again reminded that it is NOT about ME! (or you, I hate to be alone!)  We sure want it to be about us don't we?  I felt relieved when I continued on past the great joy part and got to the part about the long term benefits of trials.  See, in verse 1 it did not say "IF" you have various trials but rather "WHENEVER" you have various trials.  The implication here is that trials WILL indeed come. 

We have to decide whether we will allow those trials to mold and shape us into the men and women God desires for us to be or will we allow them to derail us and cause us to be seperated from our Lord and Savior?  James 1 goes on to give some wise counsel about dealing with these trials and promises wisdom if we will only ask and then beleive in faith.  Are you ready to face the next challenge?  Are you ready to grow through it?  Are you ready to be joyful in the midst of it? 

God, thank you for your word.  Thank you that you make provision for us and that you help us to grow closer to you during difficult times when surrender ourselves to you.  Help us to count it joy when you refine our faith with trials and help us to ask in faith for your wisdom.  Make us a bright light in a dark world.  Amen.

Waiting on Him,

ML

Resurrection plus 3 days

I am back from a short get away with my family.  We celebrated my oldest daughter's 16th birthday with a trip to Florida.  While there we toured Kennedy Space Center and the Brevard Zoo in Melbourne.  I am so glad to be back in the office and am looking forward to what the Lord has in store for the remainder fo this week.  It is amazing how a couple of days away from the office can seem like weeks.  I feel very disconnected and kind of like I may have missed something!

I am also feeling somewhat deflated because I did not make time with my Jesus a priority while we were away.  I have missed our quiet times in the morning and our talks about His Word.  I am missing that still small voice.  How are things with you?  Has the excitement of the Easter celebration worn off like a new toy at Christmas?  I am so thankful that Jesus does not put me aside like I do to Him some times.  He never stops paying attention to us.  He never stops being excited about seeing us live lives that are pleasing to Him.  He is always right there by our sides.  I have (re)learned valuable lesson this week.  Jesus is on vacation with us.  We do not leave Him at home like the pet fish and dogs and cats.  He tells us as much is Matthew 28:20b- "And lo I am with you always, even until the end of the age" 

God I pray that you will help me to remember to take you with me wherever I go.  Thank you that you do not leave.  I am so thankful that when I came to you this morning, you were waiting, patiently, lovingly and willingly.  Help us to continue to celebrate your resurrection until we see you again!  Amen.

Waiting on Him,
ML