My family and a few fellow church members went to see the new movie "Courageous" Sunday after worship. POWERFUL is what keeps coming to my mind!!!!
It is an incredible story of a group of men, in a very difficult job as law enforcement officers--who are all family men in one way or another--who begin to see how desperate they need to lead their families in a Godly way! I think this movie is as critical to the need for Godly men to lead their families well--as the importance of Godly marraiges that "Fireproof" advocated!
If you have not seen the movie, go take your family today. And men--brothers--let us all start today fresh--in leading our families the way God calls us to lead them! Many blessings will flow for generations to come!
Wednesday, October 12, 2011
Sunday, July 31, 2011
New Seasons and Life Transition
God so often does as He will do and takes us all on amazing journeys if we are willing to take the ride! Almost 8 years ago, I took a ride with God that required me to step out of the restaurant business that I'd known for so long and to go back to school to get finish my education and work in full time ministry.
I had no idea then that I'd ever have the opportunity and privilege to teach and baptize dozens and dozens of people and share Jesus with many others. I never dreamed then that I'd plant a new church and oversee an aggressive evangelistic ministry and a congregation at the same time.
In my early days of ministering to the poor and to the broken and to the unchurched, I never dreamed of the hardships and struggles that serving God in such a capacity would have on me and my family. I never realized the sacrifice a minister/missionary must go through if they are truly committed to reaching lost as well as to God's people who are members of the body/church. I plan on trying to be a help to younger men in the future who may impart on such a journey--to make sure they pace themselves.
I look back on so many big moments during my time as a full time minister and local missionary. A wedding at a hospital bed of a man dying, who him and his fiancee wanted to make their 16 year relationship right with the Lord. Many one on one Bible studies of people seeking something better. Midnight baptisms of those ready to turn their life over to Jesus who did not want to wait! I remember baptizing a couple and their two teen age sons one night at midnight and then marrying that couple a week later. Hugging, loving on, and singing with many hungry people at our Tuesday morning food pantry. I remember so many funerals I preached, some of Christians--some of non-Christians. The non-Christian funerals were so painful, but nonetheless important for the planting of seeds for those loved ones remaining alive. I remember late night visits to an apartment where a loved one just died of a drug overdose or some other gut wrenching, awful tragedy. Many hospital visits when my encouragement seemed almost feeble compared to what those folks were going through. Leading worship times with a bunch of kids that I loved deeply, but wanted to whip everyone of them for being so rowdy and wild when I thought they should have known better. I remember the years we had our two apartments next to one another at Allenhurst--and so many of our members and Allenhurst residents feeling like those apartments were their special refuge where they could feel closer to God. I remember all kinds of local Christians as well as Christians from congregations as far as Lincoln, Nebraska coming to help us share Jesus at places like Allenhurst and Peachtree Apartments. I remember many children over the years that Christi and I came to love as our own children! I remember many classes I taught and sermons I preached--where I was so hoping some would "get it" and understand how much God loved them asd wanted a closer relationship with them! Some of those messages I preached, I remember preaching them out on the grounds of Allenhurst or Peachtree Apartments with all kinds of people either out there with me or standing outside their apartment doors or windows curious about all this "Jesus" talk! :)
But of all those memories, I am most encouraged to remember so many people who were once in full rebellion towards God--who are now living faithful for the Lord--who have undergone supernatural changes because of the living Jesus Christ within them! I CAN ASSURE YOU, SUCH MOMENTS AND THERE ARE MANY--MAKES ALL THE WORK AND SERVICE WELL WORTH IT!!!!! GOD DOES SUCH WONDERFUL THINGS!!!!
However, a few months back I could tell that perhaps the Lord wanted to do some different things and we were not able to keep our funding at the church for me to be able to continue to draw a full time salary. I began to work part time back at CiCi's Pizza South Mesquite--where I first became a Christian back in 1996 developed so much as a man, a leader, and a Christian over the years. And just recently, I became the General Manager of that restaurant.
While I am still the senior minister overseeing At The Cross Church, there is much I am no longer able to do in terms of time with people, time to go out and fundraise, time to spend just getting to know new faces at the apartments or other parts of Mesquite where we try to take and introduce the Gospel Message of Jesus Christ! Fortunately, it appears like God is slowly but surely sending more good workers and leaders to help carrying things forward!
While in some ways I am sad to no longer be in that full time ministry role, I know its also much better for my family! I have three teen aged kids who need more and more of my focus and they and my sweet wife must now be my first line of ministry! I'd love to say that as a minister working hard to bring many lost souls to Christ--I often failed at giving my own family what they needed! I am enjoying the new challenge of running a business again and being more focused on my family.
So I will still be preaching some, helping to over see the flock, and other ministry duties--but I won't be able to give that work the time I once did.
However, I will continue to be a tireless fighter for encouraging churches to get of their pews and go take the Gospel into all parts of Mesquite where the children living there will have little hope for a better future. I will continue to be an advocate for the poor, the hurting, the sick, the broken, and the little guy! I will continue to speak out loudly about things I know are bad for Mesquite and for the Christian Community as well. I hope to be able to one day help other men who feel called to go take Jesus to the rougher parts of Mesquite or in their respective communities--SO NO ONE IS LEFT BEHIND SIMPLY BECAUSE NO ONE TOLD THEM OR SHOWED THEM THE LOVE OF JESUS CHRIST! Lord willing, we will one day be able to rebuild Mesquite as Nehemiah rebuilt the walls of Jerusalem!
I hope to be able to help other churches strengthen their evangelistic efforts and maybe assist new church planters on some of the "dos and don'ts" of such works.
I hope to be able to develop a closer relationship with God that I may have sometimes missed out on the past few years because I was too worried about everyone else's relationship with Him but not my own or my family's. But we all learn as we travel down the road. I have learned much. It has truly, truly been a great honor to serve God in the capacity I have these past few years. I look forward to new ways of serving Him in the future!
Special thanks to so many who have helped financially or with boots on the ground in our work these past few years! Special thanks to my sweet wife and our children for all they have endured and sacrificed with me and the service they have rendered to Jesus the past few years!
Now we move forward and the dream of many lost souls finding Jesus continues and a better life while disciples of Christ are here in this world.
Come have lunch or dinner and see me at CiCi's Pizza. Or come worship with us at At The Cross Church on Sundays at 1pm. Either way, Heaven is sure gonna be awesome!
Grace and Peace,
Bruce
I had no idea then that I'd ever have the opportunity and privilege to teach and baptize dozens and dozens of people and share Jesus with many others. I never dreamed then that I'd plant a new church and oversee an aggressive evangelistic ministry and a congregation at the same time.
In my early days of ministering to the poor and to the broken and to the unchurched, I never dreamed of the hardships and struggles that serving God in such a capacity would have on me and my family. I never realized the sacrifice a minister/missionary must go through if they are truly committed to reaching lost as well as to God's people who are members of the body/church. I plan on trying to be a help to younger men in the future who may impart on such a journey--to make sure they pace themselves.
I look back on so many big moments during my time as a full time minister and local missionary. A wedding at a hospital bed of a man dying, who him and his fiancee wanted to make their 16 year relationship right with the Lord. Many one on one Bible studies of people seeking something better. Midnight baptisms of those ready to turn their life over to Jesus who did not want to wait! I remember baptizing a couple and their two teen age sons one night at midnight and then marrying that couple a week later. Hugging, loving on, and singing with many hungry people at our Tuesday morning food pantry. I remember so many funerals I preached, some of Christians--some of non-Christians. The non-Christian funerals were so painful, but nonetheless important for the planting of seeds for those loved ones remaining alive. I remember late night visits to an apartment where a loved one just died of a drug overdose or some other gut wrenching, awful tragedy. Many hospital visits when my encouragement seemed almost feeble compared to what those folks were going through. Leading worship times with a bunch of kids that I loved deeply, but wanted to whip everyone of them for being so rowdy and wild when I thought they should have known better. I remember the years we had our two apartments next to one another at Allenhurst--and so many of our members and Allenhurst residents feeling like those apartments were their special refuge where they could feel closer to God. I remember all kinds of local Christians as well as Christians from congregations as far as Lincoln, Nebraska coming to help us share Jesus at places like Allenhurst and Peachtree Apartments. I remember many children over the years that Christi and I came to love as our own children! I remember many classes I taught and sermons I preached--where I was so hoping some would "get it" and understand how much God loved them asd wanted a closer relationship with them! Some of those messages I preached, I remember preaching them out on the grounds of Allenhurst or Peachtree Apartments with all kinds of people either out there with me or standing outside their apartment doors or windows curious about all this "Jesus" talk! :)
But of all those memories, I am most encouraged to remember so many people who were once in full rebellion towards God--who are now living faithful for the Lord--who have undergone supernatural changes because of the living Jesus Christ within them! I CAN ASSURE YOU, SUCH MOMENTS AND THERE ARE MANY--MAKES ALL THE WORK AND SERVICE WELL WORTH IT!!!!! GOD DOES SUCH WONDERFUL THINGS!!!!
However, a few months back I could tell that perhaps the Lord wanted to do some different things and we were not able to keep our funding at the church for me to be able to continue to draw a full time salary. I began to work part time back at CiCi's Pizza South Mesquite--where I first became a Christian back in 1996 developed so much as a man, a leader, and a Christian over the years. And just recently, I became the General Manager of that restaurant.
While I am still the senior minister overseeing At The Cross Church, there is much I am no longer able to do in terms of time with people, time to go out and fundraise, time to spend just getting to know new faces at the apartments or other parts of Mesquite where we try to take and introduce the Gospel Message of Jesus Christ! Fortunately, it appears like God is slowly but surely sending more good workers and leaders to help carrying things forward!
While in some ways I am sad to no longer be in that full time ministry role, I know its also much better for my family! I have three teen aged kids who need more and more of my focus and they and my sweet wife must now be my first line of ministry! I'd love to say that as a minister working hard to bring many lost souls to Christ--I often failed at giving my own family what they needed! I am enjoying the new challenge of running a business again and being more focused on my family.
So I will still be preaching some, helping to over see the flock, and other ministry duties--but I won't be able to give that work the time I once did.
However, I will continue to be a tireless fighter for encouraging churches to get of their pews and go take the Gospel into all parts of Mesquite where the children living there will have little hope for a better future. I will continue to be an advocate for the poor, the hurting, the sick, the broken, and the little guy! I will continue to speak out loudly about things I know are bad for Mesquite and for the Christian Community as well. I hope to be able to one day help other men who feel called to go take Jesus to the rougher parts of Mesquite or in their respective communities--SO NO ONE IS LEFT BEHIND SIMPLY BECAUSE NO ONE TOLD THEM OR SHOWED THEM THE LOVE OF JESUS CHRIST! Lord willing, we will one day be able to rebuild Mesquite as Nehemiah rebuilt the walls of Jerusalem!
I hope to be able to help other churches strengthen their evangelistic efforts and maybe assist new church planters on some of the "dos and don'ts" of such works.
I hope to be able to develop a closer relationship with God that I may have sometimes missed out on the past few years because I was too worried about everyone else's relationship with Him but not my own or my family's. But we all learn as we travel down the road. I have learned much. It has truly, truly been a great honor to serve God in the capacity I have these past few years. I look forward to new ways of serving Him in the future!
Special thanks to so many who have helped financially or with boots on the ground in our work these past few years! Special thanks to my sweet wife and our children for all they have endured and sacrificed with me and the service they have rendered to Jesus the past few years!
Now we move forward and the dream of many lost souls finding Jesus continues and a better life while disciples of Christ are here in this world.
Come have lunch or dinner and see me at CiCi's Pizza. Or come worship with us at At The Cross Church on Sundays at 1pm. Either way, Heaven is sure gonna be awesome!
Grace and Peace,
Bruce
Sunday, July 17, 2011
Thank You Highland Oaks Church of Christ!
I took a break today from my home church to go visit my wonderful brothers and sisters at the Highland Oaks COC congregation and was so filled full of good spiritual feeding and felt much love!
When you work in mission work--and I believe my work the past few years has been primariliy local mission work--its often easy to forget what we once knew in our former church lives of being surrounded by at least fairly mature Christians who long to grow in the Lord and who have a certain amount of understanding of God's word. So often missionaries can feel alone. But Highland Oaks, who has been a strong partner in our work in Mesquite--has always done such a wonderful job of making me, my family, and our mission work not feel alone! But instead the Highland Oaks family has done so much for At The Cross Church of Christ--and the mission work we do at places like Allenhurst and Peachtree Apartments! Not only have the HO family helped us over and over with needed funds--but many of their members have helped us with kids and youth, our weekly food pantry, and other mission work needs!
The HO family has also been such a blessing to my family personally. Any time my family has gone through a crisis since I've been in ministry, their elders and other members have surrounded my family and loved us through that time!
Whenever I visit and worship with the HO family, they make me feel as if I am one of their members!
I thank God for the HO family! I believe one day--a number of people just in our area of mission work in Mesquite--will drive by that congregation--and tell their children--those people at that Highland Oaks Church played a big role in our family serving God today!
What a legacy!
I thank God for the Highland Oaks family!
When you work in mission work--and I believe my work the past few years has been primariliy local mission work--its often easy to forget what we once knew in our former church lives of being surrounded by at least fairly mature Christians who long to grow in the Lord and who have a certain amount of understanding of God's word. So often missionaries can feel alone. But Highland Oaks, who has been a strong partner in our work in Mesquite--has always done such a wonderful job of making me, my family, and our mission work not feel alone! But instead the Highland Oaks family has done so much for At The Cross Church of Christ--and the mission work we do at places like Allenhurst and Peachtree Apartments! Not only have the HO family helped us over and over with needed funds--but many of their members have helped us with kids and youth, our weekly food pantry, and other mission work needs!
The HO family has also been such a blessing to my family personally. Any time my family has gone through a crisis since I've been in ministry, their elders and other members have surrounded my family and loved us through that time!
Whenever I visit and worship with the HO family, they make me feel as if I am one of their members!
I thank God for the HO family! I believe one day--a number of people just in our area of mission work in Mesquite--will drive by that congregation--and tell their children--those people at that Highland Oaks Church played a big role in our family serving God today!
What a legacy!
I thank God for the Highland Oaks family!
Friday, April 29, 2011
Random and Reflective Thoughts From A Church Planter
Four years ago, when we planted At The Cross Church of Christ--man I was on a mission! I had already been on a severe high the previous two plus years of leading what used to be the Nehemiah Ministry at Allenhurst Apartments and later Peachtree Apartments were added as well. I had been a part of dozens and dozens of people who had been exposed to Jesus and they were excited and we had a lot of Bible studies, baptized a lot of people, and while we saw our shares of heartache--TIMES WERE GOOD!!!! We were gonna teach the Gospel to and baptize every lost family in Mesquite!
Then we planted a new congregation that would be a transition we thought at the time, of the ministry rolling into a new congregation that was designed to be a place where many folks around Mesquite--after being exposed to the Gospel--who might not normally fit in the typical church--could find a home and feel accepted. Those early days of being a new church planter after having already been running hard leading a tough apartment ministry were quite challenging. I think I learned some very poor leadership and work habits during those days that are now catching up with me both physically, mentally, and even spiritually. Back then it was just a few of us from established church backgrounds, with a lot of new Christians including many kids and there was much to do! I remember many worship services of me leading singing and doing the preaching as well. I remember many Sundays of going and picking up a bunch of kids and a few adults from the apartments for Sunday worship and then handling most of the worship service and then getting all those kids back home and still try to interact and communicate with the rest of my flock including new visitors. Then I'd roll my thoughts back around to start preparing for the next Sunday, making visits at Allenhurst, preparing for Tuesday afternoon tutoring at our church apartments, Wednesday night Bible class, trying to find the time for one on one Bible studies-- and the list goes on and on!
Then there were early situations where I had new Christians who would get involved with sin and I'd ignore it as long as possible--wanting to be understanding that new and older Christians alike are gonna stumble. But a situation would come up where we could no longer ignore the blatant sin that person or persons were involved in--and as soon as I would try to lovingly pull that brother or sister or couple aside to express that they needed to get out of that sin and that we wanted to help--I'd get just blasted and those folks would get angry and then leave the church--and my heart breaking! Lord knows that happened too many times. And of course, there are simply some things Bible college can't prepare a shepherd leader for in terms of dealing with the flock. I was so new at such a role and even though I often sought the wisdom of older and wiser spiritually mature men--it was still such a challenge. In fact, even today, it is sooooo unpleasant to hold adult Christians accountable for their behavior. Early on, we had a leadership team--but I'm simply learning that even veteran church leaders are not always apt to jump into dealing with situations that are "bloody and messy" if you will. So lets just say such things about leadership are just tough! However, if I could go back and do it again--I'd still offer just as much love, mercy and grace--but I'd apologize a lot less and be a lot more up front and honest about what God's word says about almost every situation in which His people might be faced! We live in a society today that so often says "No one should ever bother or question me in what I do." So, I'd often grieve over the loss of a family that we had labored so hard to help and then they'd leave after the lesson was over. So many new Christians are slowly trying to come out of a world that says: "I'm accountable to no one." Even though we know even Jesus was accountable to His Father. The Kingdom of God and the Lord's Church are simply not places to practice democracy and self-focus. Every Christian is subject to spiritual leadership. It takes a lot of time for people to really start changing and transforming.
Lord knows the many situations of members' lives I'd lay awake thinking about and praying for God to intervene in ways I simply could not. Lord knows how often I'd start questioning and wondering what mistakes I'd made that caused us to lose this family or that person. I've learned by the grace of God--that sometimes--really often times--it has nothing to do with the preacher or church leadership or even other members. So often God's people get so caught up in spiritual warfare and they struggle so much to just keep the motivation to even be around other Christian people.
So many benevolence matters that I often felt I needed to handle myself--especially if that person or persons seemed to be growing spiritually or if their children were heavily involved with our ministry. We will touch some on benevolence later in this series.
And in the middle of all those matters, I was constantly trying to find more volunteers and workers from other congregations to help us--as well as trying to constantly raise money for the work. I could tell early on, our tithes would always be a real challenge. And praise and honor to our mighty God Almighty for always providing and providing for the workers in His harvest field! I could tell so many faith stories about how God is such a wonderful and faithful provider!
So many wonderful things to reflect on, and yet so many mistakes I know we and I made throughout this process. And yet, I rejoice on some of those mistakes because God has been using to them to train and equip me for future kingdom service! I'll share more about some of my mistakes and learning curves over the past few years in my next blog edition.
Then we planted a new congregation that would be a transition we thought at the time, of the ministry rolling into a new congregation that was designed to be a place where many folks around Mesquite--after being exposed to the Gospel--who might not normally fit in the typical church--could find a home and feel accepted. Those early days of being a new church planter after having already been running hard leading a tough apartment ministry were quite challenging. I think I learned some very poor leadership and work habits during those days that are now catching up with me both physically, mentally, and even spiritually. Back then it was just a few of us from established church backgrounds, with a lot of new Christians including many kids and there was much to do! I remember many worship services of me leading singing and doing the preaching as well. I remember many Sundays of going and picking up a bunch of kids and a few adults from the apartments for Sunday worship and then handling most of the worship service and then getting all those kids back home and still try to interact and communicate with the rest of my flock including new visitors. Then I'd roll my thoughts back around to start preparing for the next Sunday, making visits at Allenhurst, preparing for Tuesday afternoon tutoring at our church apartments, Wednesday night Bible class, trying to find the time for one on one Bible studies-- and the list goes on and on!
Then there were early situations where I had new Christians who would get involved with sin and I'd ignore it as long as possible--wanting to be understanding that new and older Christians alike are gonna stumble. But a situation would come up where we could no longer ignore the blatant sin that person or persons were involved in--and as soon as I would try to lovingly pull that brother or sister or couple aside to express that they needed to get out of that sin and that we wanted to help--I'd get just blasted and those folks would get angry and then leave the church--and my heart breaking! Lord knows that happened too many times. And of course, there are simply some things Bible college can't prepare a shepherd leader for in terms of dealing with the flock. I was so new at such a role and even though I often sought the wisdom of older and wiser spiritually mature men--it was still such a challenge. In fact, even today, it is sooooo unpleasant to hold adult Christians accountable for their behavior. Early on, we had a leadership team--but I'm simply learning that even veteran church leaders are not always apt to jump into dealing with situations that are "bloody and messy" if you will. So lets just say such things about leadership are just tough! However, if I could go back and do it again--I'd still offer just as much love, mercy and grace--but I'd apologize a lot less and be a lot more up front and honest about what God's word says about almost every situation in which His people might be faced! We live in a society today that so often says "No one should ever bother or question me in what I do." So, I'd often grieve over the loss of a family that we had labored so hard to help and then they'd leave after the lesson was over. So many new Christians are slowly trying to come out of a world that says: "I'm accountable to no one." Even though we know even Jesus was accountable to His Father. The Kingdom of God and the Lord's Church are simply not places to practice democracy and self-focus. Every Christian is subject to spiritual leadership. It takes a lot of time for people to really start changing and transforming.
Lord knows the many situations of members' lives I'd lay awake thinking about and praying for God to intervene in ways I simply could not. Lord knows how often I'd start questioning and wondering what mistakes I'd made that caused us to lose this family or that person. I've learned by the grace of God--that sometimes--really often times--it has nothing to do with the preacher or church leadership or even other members. So often God's people get so caught up in spiritual warfare and they struggle so much to just keep the motivation to even be around other Christian people.
So many benevolence matters that I often felt I needed to handle myself--especially if that person or persons seemed to be growing spiritually or if their children were heavily involved with our ministry. We will touch some on benevolence later in this series.
And in the middle of all those matters, I was constantly trying to find more volunteers and workers from other congregations to help us--as well as trying to constantly raise money for the work. I could tell early on, our tithes would always be a real challenge. And praise and honor to our mighty God Almighty for always providing and providing for the workers in His harvest field! I could tell so many faith stories about how God is such a wonderful and faithful provider!
So many wonderful things to reflect on, and yet so many mistakes I know we and I made throughout this process. And yet, I rejoice on some of those mistakes because God has been using to them to train and equip me for future kingdom service! I'll share more about some of my mistakes and learning curves over the past few years in my next blog edition.
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
The Secrets of Jonathan Sperry
Tonight my family and I watched an incredible and most powerful movie that every Christian ought to watch! Its a story about a man who befriends neighborhood boys one by one--and eventually winds up having a weekly Bible study with 20 or so boys--all of whom seem to become Disciples of Christ. Four boys in particular, wind up later on all being involved in ministry in some way--and one being a full time pastor. The movie is a powerful reminder that it doesn't take a college degree in ministry or to work for a church full time--to make a major impact for the Kingdom of God--and for many precious souls God longs to be with Him for eternity! It gives me chills to think, what if--just on every street there was one Christian who opened up their home regularly for chats about the Lord, counseling/prayer opportunities for the hurting, and Bible studies. Imagine how differently our communities and neighborhoods would look and feel? Imagine if each of us began to tell others about how Jesus has changed our lives. Imagine! " Then the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go. When they saw him, they worshiped him; but some doubted. Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” (Matthew 28:16-20, NIV).
Monday, February 28, 2011
Getting Recharged
Some weeks back, as I was on the verge of being at almost burn out again and struggling to discern several big issues concerning my congregation, the outreach work we do in Mesquite, and my family at home--I stepped back and took a 40 day semi-sabbatical. I say "semi" because there were some days that I did some church/ministry work--but I nonetheless stepped back quite a bit from the day to day operations of the church. God blessed us with a young man named Spencer Gunnels who is our Associate Minister now and Spencer was able to take on a number of administrative tasks I handled for the last few years. Spencer also was able to take on planning Sunday worship and between him and some other wonderful brothers, they split up the preaching. After so many years of often feeling alone (human wise that is), I felt so thankful God had sent me a Timothy if you will! I could speak volumes more of the blessing this young man has been to me and the mission work we do in Mesquite! Spencer is full of fire and passion for the cause of Christ!
During my 40 days, I didn't pray and fast as much as I'd planned along with other important spiritual disciplines. I did however, take some extra intentional time with my family and paid attention to some extra details here and there regarding my children and it was a great blessing! I took some extra time to just shower my wife with love and adoration. I did a lot of chatting with God. I took some extra time to catch up with old friends and relatives. I did a lot of reading. And I was able to do a few service projects in the community that is tied in with the Nehemiah Mesquite Mission--although the cold weather kept those projects to a minimum.
One of the issues I was trying to discern, was if I would need to eventually become a bi-vocational minister who preaches and ministers and works a secular job as well. Sort of like Paul who not only planted churches, preached, and wrote half the New Testament--but who also made tents for a living on the side. So I started working some shifts a couple of days a week at my old job as a CiCi's Pizza Manager in South Mesquite. I was quickly reminded of how much I used to enjoy being able to serve guests and give good service and be free to talk about the Lord and evangelize when I was a manager there all those years past. Getting my feet back into secular work has also reminded me of how much God values hard work and us being productive with our hands. It has given me such a tremendous respect again for people who get out each day and work hard to provide for their families and honor the Lord. I think every preacher/minister out there ought to spend some time regularly working a little in the work force just to keep touch with reality.
While I was on my sabbatical, God definitely spoke to me about the fact that it is time I began living out my victory in Jesus! What I mean is simply, I spent too many years thinking I had to immerse myself into those I ministered to's daily lives. And while all that wasn't bad and I learned a lot and there were some impactful relationships and discipling that took place--too often I was putting myself out there as a subsitute for God and His word--without realizing I was doing that. And it took a great toll on me and my family. What I thought at times was shepherding, was basically babysitting some adults and some kids who were simply not ready to change and really give their lives over to Jesus. Not in every case--but too many. So I have learned now to put boundaries in place and accept that there are some things I have to allow the Holy Spirit to do--that I am definitely not Jesus! Good for the Kingdom! But again, God's name was constantly praised and we all learn new things daily! Many people over the last 6 years at Allenhurst and Peachtree Apartments, and other parts of Mesquite as well as many Facebook Friends--have heard much about the good news of Jesus Christ! And there is much more to come!
Now that Allenhurst Apartments is going to be handing us our new church apartment soon, we are most excited and revved up to get going with that renewed work! Spencer Gunnels will be spearheading that new project!
There is more exciting news to share, but I need to go do a little devotional with my family--which means I need to get off the computer and leave my office. But I know this--GOD IS SOOOOO GOOOOOOOD ALL THE TIME!!!
Grace and peace be upon each of you!
Bruce
During my 40 days, I didn't pray and fast as much as I'd planned along with other important spiritual disciplines. I did however, take some extra intentional time with my family and paid attention to some extra details here and there regarding my children and it was a great blessing! I took some extra time to just shower my wife with love and adoration. I did a lot of chatting with God. I took some extra time to catch up with old friends and relatives. I did a lot of reading. And I was able to do a few service projects in the community that is tied in with the Nehemiah Mesquite Mission--although the cold weather kept those projects to a minimum.
One of the issues I was trying to discern, was if I would need to eventually become a bi-vocational minister who preaches and ministers and works a secular job as well. Sort of like Paul who not only planted churches, preached, and wrote half the New Testament--but who also made tents for a living on the side. So I started working some shifts a couple of days a week at my old job as a CiCi's Pizza Manager in South Mesquite. I was quickly reminded of how much I used to enjoy being able to serve guests and give good service and be free to talk about the Lord and evangelize when I was a manager there all those years past. Getting my feet back into secular work has also reminded me of how much God values hard work and us being productive with our hands. It has given me such a tremendous respect again for people who get out each day and work hard to provide for their families and honor the Lord. I think every preacher/minister out there ought to spend some time regularly working a little in the work force just to keep touch with reality.
While I was on my sabbatical, God definitely spoke to me about the fact that it is time I began living out my victory in Jesus! What I mean is simply, I spent too many years thinking I had to immerse myself into those I ministered to's daily lives. And while all that wasn't bad and I learned a lot and there were some impactful relationships and discipling that took place--too often I was putting myself out there as a subsitute for God and His word--without realizing I was doing that. And it took a great toll on me and my family. What I thought at times was shepherding, was basically babysitting some adults and some kids who were simply not ready to change and really give their lives over to Jesus. Not in every case--but too many. So I have learned now to put boundaries in place and accept that there are some things I have to allow the Holy Spirit to do--that I am definitely not Jesus! Good for the Kingdom! But again, God's name was constantly praised and we all learn new things daily! Many people over the last 6 years at Allenhurst and Peachtree Apartments, and other parts of Mesquite as well as many Facebook Friends--have heard much about the good news of Jesus Christ! And there is much more to come!
Now that Allenhurst Apartments is going to be handing us our new church apartment soon, we are most excited and revved up to get going with that renewed work! Spencer Gunnels will be spearheading that new project!
There is more exciting news to share, but I need to go do a little devotional with my family--which means I need to get off the computer and leave my office. But I know this--GOD IS SOOOOO GOOOOOOOD ALL THE TIME!!!
Grace and peace be upon each of you!
Bruce
Sunday, February 20, 2011
Influence
I took a break from my congregation today--something more preachers need to do more often--and my family and I visited Spring Creek Community Church. The message from Pastor Keith Stewart was on "Influence," a series he was beginning today. I was most moved by the message and what God was telling everyone in that assembly.
He mentioned a quote from a man whose name now escapes me, how there are 5, not 4 Gospels. There is Matthew, Mark, Luke, John--and then there is each of us. Many lost people out there today--may not read the first 4 Gospels any time soon--but they will read us. What will they read?
Pastor Stewart was talking about our great need in this country and even within the Kingdom at times to "persuade" or just "Be right." What good is it to be "Right" if we can't do it in love?
Who will be motivated to hear the Christian message if it is delivered in harshness or rudeness?
Paul tells us in 1 Corinthians 13, that "Love is not rude."
Let us share God's word with non-believers with love, sweetness, and kindness. Even if they don't grab hold of that word immediately--keep loving them and being kind. For God is love!
We don't just need more civlity in politics and government--we need it desperately in the Kingdom of God and within the Lord's Church!
Here is the sermon link if you'd like to here it: http://www.springcreekchurch.org/series2011/i_current_series.html
He mentioned a quote from a man whose name now escapes me, how there are 5, not 4 Gospels. There is Matthew, Mark, Luke, John--and then there is each of us. Many lost people out there today--may not read the first 4 Gospels any time soon--but they will read us. What will they read?
Pastor Stewart was talking about our great need in this country and even within the Kingdom at times to "persuade" or just "Be right." What good is it to be "Right" if we can't do it in love?
Who will be motivated to hear the Christian message if it is delivered in harshness or rudeness?
Paul tells us in 1 Corinthians 13, that "Love is not rude."
Let us share God's word with non-believers with love, sweetness, and kindness. Even if they don't grab hold of that word immediately--keep loving them and being kind. For God is love!
We don't just need more civlity in politics and government--we need it desperately in the Kingdom of God and within the Lord's Church!
Here is the sermon link if you'd like to here it: http://www.springcreekchurch.org/series2011/i_current_series.html
Monday, December 6, 2010
ARCHER FAMILY MISSIONARY SUPPORT REQUEST
Dear Family and Friends,
As we approach 2011, I have been working very hard to raise funds for the outreach ministry I've led here in Mesquite the past 6 years--based on the concept of Nehemiah rebuilding Jerusalem--and the church I lead the past 3 and a half years that was a result of what we once called the Nehemiah Ministry. Since I began that step of faith out of the business world those 6 plus years ago--I have seen God do absolutely amazing things!
I have personally had the privelige of teaching and baptizing over a 100 people--several who are now faithfully serving Christ and who are now out evangelizing and planting seeds. I've got to see numerous people who were once living in absolute rebellion to the Lord--who did not fit into society or into churches--who have since been transformed by the power of Jesus Christ! Parents are parenting better, spouses are better loving spouses, addictions have stilled or slowed, anger has turned to love, and there are so many stores I could share. Of course, there are many heartbreak stories too--but God is still to be praised through it all!
Recently, we have revived and put what once was the Nehemiah Ministry--into a renewed very aggressive evangelistic (that is practical and flexible in terms of how we reach different kinds of people in the community) work--and we now call it the Nehemiah Mesquite Mission. One of the purposes of this work is to bring in more and more Christians from the community to help us reach the entire City of Mesquite one day--especially the areas where there is poverty and real brokenness and children who have no Christian parents to teach them about the Lord's ways. This renewed Nehemiah work--is currently under At The Cross Church of Christ--our congregation--but will eventually be a 5013c. This allows us to better shepherd and equip the members of At The Cross--who are mostly new Christians--and better disciple them. At The Cross will still be very evangelistic in nature--but as The Nehemiah Mesquite Mission grows--At The Cross will hopefully soon have some of the pressure taken off it it with the many masses we currently serve--by getting more help from Christians in the community who may not want to join At The Cross Church--but could still help us in our community outreach work.
The three primary areas are are working and serving in, in Mesquite are: Allenhurst Apatments, Peachtree Apartments, and The Valley View Heights Neighborhood near the Rodeo--a low income neighborhood thats been infested for years with decaying homes, crime, and other struggles. Because of God's power and grace, progress continues to be made in all three areas! One day Lord willing, we will be in many apartment complexes and low income neighborhoods!
But to keep all this going--I need to be able to still provide for my family. Our primary funding we had for the first 3 years of our church plant is gone--we are still grateful for it though!!! We had a grant from a church last year that helped fund my salary through this coming February--which we are also sooo grateful for!!! So I am seeking just as a foreign missionary woulld (I am a local missionary)--funds for my family's provision for 2011. If you could support us in 2011 with a monthly support of $200, $100, $50, or even $25. Or if you could just make a one time contribution--that would also be a blessing.
My work goes beyond my congregational service and our community outreach. I also handle a number of weddings and funerals each year for families who have no church home--who look to me for help--and these are wonderful seed planting opportunities.
My family had some tough attacks from Satan in 2009 and 2010, but there have also been many blessings. Christi continues to be a great support to me and a wonderful mother to our kids. Jaici is now 13 and in 8th grade. Jayden is 11 and is a 6th grader. And our newest addition, Bryson Anthamatten--my best friend Shawn's son--who passed away last December--is part of our family now--and a great blessing to us. Bryson is 13 also.
If you can help for next year and support our work--you could start sending your support in January if you want--or anytime you desire. Make checks out to At The Cross and send to:
429 S. Walker
Mesquite, Tx 75149
Or you can use our paypal if its convenient from our website: http://www.atthecrosscofc.org/
Please continue to keep my family and our work for Jesus lifted up in prayer.
Blessings,
Bruce Archer
Bruce Archer
At The Cross Church of Christ--Minister
Nehemiah Mesquite Mission--Servant Leader
(972) 834-7099
Dallas Christian College 07
http://soulsavin.blogspot.com/
http://kinderamerica.blogspot.com/
"Love One Another"
As we approach 2011, I have been working very hard to raise funds for the outreach ministry I've led here in Mesquite the past 6 years--based on the concept of Nehemiah rebuilding Jerusalem--and the church I lead the past 3 and a half years that was a result of what we once called the Nehemiah Ministry. Since I began that step of faith out of the business world those 6 plus years ago--I have seen God do absolutely amazing things!
I have personally had the privelige of teaching and baptizing over a 100 people--several who are now faithfully serving Christ and who are now out evangelizing and planting seeds. I've got to see numerous people who were once living in absolute rebellion to the Lord--who did not fit into society or into churches--who have since been transformed by the power of Jesus Christ! Parents are parenting better, spouses are better loving spouses, addictions have stilled or slowed, anger has turned to love, and there are so many stores I could share. Of course, there are many heartbreak stories too--but God is still to be praised through it all!
Recently, we have revived and put what once was the Nehemiah Ministry--into a renewed very aggressive evangelistic (that is practical and flexible in terms of how we reach different kinds of people in the community) work--and we now call it the Nehemiah Mesquite Mission. One of the purposes of this work is to bring in more and more Christians from the community to help us reach the entire City of Mesquite one day--especially the areas where there is poverty and real brokenness and children who have no Christian parents to teach them about the Lord's ways. This renewed Nehemiah work--is currently under At The Cross Church of Christ--our congregation--but will eventually be a 5013c. This allows us to better shepherd and equip the members of At The Cross--who are mostly new Christians--and better disciple them. At The Cross will still be very evangelistic in nature--but as The Nehemiah Mesquite Mission grows--At The Cross will hopefully soon have some of the pressure taken off it it with the many masses we currently serve--by getting more help from Christians in the community who may not want to join At The Cross Church--but could still help us in our community outreach work.
The three primary areas are are working and serving in, in Mesquite are: Allenhurst Apatments, Peachtree Apartments, and The Valley View Heights Neighborhood near the Rodeo--a low income neighborhood thats been infested for years with decaying homes, crime, and other struggles. Because of God's power and grace, progress continues to be made in all three areas! One day Lord willing, we will be in many apartment complexes and low income neighborhoods!
But to keep all this going--I need to be able to still provide for my family. Our primary funding we had for the first 3 years of our church plant is gone--we are still grateful for it though!!! We had a grant from a church last year that helped fund my salary through this coming February--which we are also sooo grateful for!!! So I am seeking just as a foreign missionary woulld (I am a local missionary)--funds for my family's provision for 2011. If you could support us in 2011 with a monthly support of $200, $100, $50, or even $25. Or if you could just make a one time contribution--that would also be a blessing.
My work goes beyond my congregational service and our community outreach. I also handle a number of weddings and funerals each year for families who have no church home--who look to me for help--and these are wonderful seed planting opportunities.
My family had some tough attacks from Satan in 2009 and 2010, but there have also been many blessings. Christi continues to be a great support to me and a wonderful mother to our kids. Jaici is now 13 and in 8th grade. Jayden is 11 and is a 6th grader. And our newest addition, Bryson Anthamatten--my best friend Shawn's son--who passed away last December--is part of our family now--and a great blessing to us. Bryson is 13 also.
If you can help for next year and support our work--you could start sending your support in January if you want--or anytime you desire. Make checks out to At The Cross and send to:
429 S. Walker
Mesquite, Tx 75149
Or you can use our paypal if its convenient from our website: http://www.atthecrosscofc.org/
Please continue to keep my family and our work for Jesus lifted up in prayer.
Blessings,
Bruce Archer
Bruce Archer
At The Cross Church of Christ--Minister
Nehemiah Mesquite Mission--Servant Leader
(972) 834-7099
Dallas Christian College 07
http://soulsavin.blogspot.com/
http://kinderamerica.blogspot.com/
"Love One Another"
Sunday, October 17, 2010
Authentic Worship Today
Today was such an awesome day the Lord gave us! Today At The Cross Church of Christ left our building and had our worship service on the grounds of Peachtree Apartments. We had so many residents including many children join us--it was so beautiful! I preached a message called "Whats The Bottom Line?" from 1 John 4. I drove home--that Christ's desire for all of us as He hung on the Cross--was not for us to be "good church folks." It was for us to love one another well--that anyone who loves--knows God. Anyone who does not love--does not know God.
Of course, we know its just a tad more complicated than that--for we know that even pagans and non-believers love their family members. But they don't understand true love--agape love--UNCONDITIONAL LOVE! Thats the kind of love God wants us to understand.
Very special thanks to the brothers from Saturn Road Church of Christ and First United Methodist Church in Mesquite for helping to provide a cookout of hamburgers and hot dogs for everyone!
There have been many hard days since I began this ministry 6 years ago--but days like today when you get to see people who live in poverty and struggle--get to see how wonderful Jesus truly is--MAKES IT ALL WORTH IT!
May the Lord bless each of you today!
Bruce
Of course, we know its just a tad more complicated than that--for we know that even pagans and non-believers love their family members. But they don't understand true love--agape love--UNCONDITIONAL LOVE! Thats the kind of love God wants us to understand.
Very special thanks to the brothers from Saturn Road Church of Christ and First United Methodist Church in Mesquite for helping to provide a cookout of hamburgers and hot dogs for everyone!
There have been many hard days since I began this ministry 6 years ago--but days like today when you get to see people who live in poverty and struggle--get to see how wonderful Jesus truly is--MAKES IT ALL WORTH IT!
May the Lord bless each of you today!
Bruce
Monday, October 4, 2010
Tellling Jesus "To Hit The Road Jack, And Don't Ya Come Back...!"
I was reading this weekend from Matthew 8 where Jesus healed the two demon possessed men by driving the demons into the herd of pigs--who all were thus killed by going off a cliff! Then in the last verse, we see where neighbors and villagers then pleaded with Jesus to leave the area!??
Interesting, how they had witnessed the Son of God do something good for men and drive demons out--and yet--they wanted Him to leave? Now maybe some of them did not realize who Jesus truly was? We don't fully know. But we know that to date--over and over Jesus had done nothing but good for people! And perhaps over the fear of losing economic gain--these folks--after witnessing Jesus do something good--asked him to leave?
Do we ever do that? Do we ever subconciously ask Jesus to leave when we really want to focus on other things? Do we sometimes without realizing it--ask our Savior to leave when we don't want to be bothered by His ways when they interefere with our desires and our agenda? The good news is--HE never stops loving us and never stops gently knocking on our doors so HE can come back into our lives--no matter how often we may ask HIM to hit the road! What a beautiful and loving Savior Jesus is to us!
Embrace these words from the book of Job:
"Stand still and consider the wondrous works of God!" (Job 37:14).
I love each of you dearly!
Bruce
Interesting, how they had witnessed the Son of God do something good for men and drive demons out--and yet--they wanted Him to leave? Now maybe some of them did not realize who Jesus truly was? We don't fully know. But we know that to date--over and over Jesus had done nothing but good for people! And perhaps over the fear of losing economic gain--these folks--after witnessing Jesus do something good--asked him to leave?
Do we ever do that? Do we ever subconciously ask Jesus to leave when we really want to focus on other things? Do we sometimes without realizing it--ask our Savior to leave when we don't want to be bothered by His ways when they interefere with our desires and our agenda? The good news is--HE never stops loving us and never stops gently knocking on our doors so HE can come back into our lives--no matter how often we may ask HIM to hit the road! What a beautiful and loving Savior Jesus is to us!
Embrace these words from the book of Job:
"Stand still and consider the wondrous works of God!" (Job 37:14).
I love each of you dearly!
Bruce
Thursday, August 12, 2010
At The Cross Update
It has been a very exciting summer for those of us serving the Lord through At The Cross Church of Christ. God has been doing awesome and incredible things as usual! There has been a lot of change and transformation of our ministry this summer.
OUR APARTMENT MINISTRY
We began the summer with the realization that the ministry at Allenhurst Apartments that was once so flourishing, had slowed down tremendously and we no longer had the energy and excitement it once had. We lost about 5 families that had lived at Allenhurst for a long time who could no longer pay their rent or had to move for other reasons. As we lost those families, I noticed more and more that the newer families that were moving in had less and less interest in what we were offering and the child population has continued to decline the past several months there. So when the owners told me back in May that they were definitely raising our rent--I simply felt like God was telling me that what we had done and seen at Allenhurst the past 5 years, was meant to be done at other apartment complexes in Mesquite. So we began to make plans to let our two church apartments go after June--which we did--and now all our operations are out of our building--FOR NOW!
This last spring we did not do our annual big cookout/funfest at Allenhurst for the first time in 5 years--simply because we've also lost a few of our good worker families who had grown tired of the work and ministry we do and they went back to more traditional church settings--and given our tightening funds--I just did not think we could easily sustain such an activity this last year--not too mention again, the lower child population at Allenhurst.
Balch Springs Church of Christ spent a few days helping us do some work at our building and we had a joint Sunday evening devotional with them in early June. Then a week later, The Heartlands Church from Lincoln, Nebraska joined us again for a week for their mission trip. They did wonderful work on our building during the day and awesome mission/discipling work at Allenhurst and Peachtree Apartments at night! Along with a big dinner/worship service on the grounds of Allenhurst (a couple of weeks before we shut down our two church apartments). Those young Nebraskan Christians were sooooo wonderful!! Watching them love on so many adults and children unconditionally and so fired up to show and share Jesus with everyone!
We still take a van through Allenhurst during the week and on Sundays and we still spend time there each week just visiting people and loving on them--but slowing our operations at Allenhurst has finally allowed us to really work Peachtree Apartments a lot harder and more consistently. We moved our Wednesday night dinner/Bible class to Tuesday nights at our building now. So the last few weeks, I have been picking up several kids from Allenhurst and dropping them off at the building and then running down the street and picking up a "FULL" van load from Peachtree--mostly kids but a few adults! These are children who really live in a rough environment! We serve dinner at 6:30 and those kids are so glad to get it--and then class at 7pm. Once a month, we don't have class and we do something fun for the kids. Like recently we had a "Teen Surge" night for all our teens and pre-teens. A brother named Jairus Withrow, who is a very talented musician, Christian rapper, worship leader and more--did some fun Christian rap and music that is somewhat relative to the culture of the young people we are ministering to--and then my old co-worker from CiCi's Pizza Sean Maness, who grew up in a low income apartment complex in Mesquite--gave a great kid friendly devotional talk! We are finding more and more, that WE SIMPLY HAVE TO DO THINGS OUT OF THE BOX--THAT DIFFERENT CULTURES OF PEOPLE TODAY CAN RELATE TO--SO THEY CAN GRASP AND GET THE GOSPEL MESSAGE!!!! That night we had over 40 kids and it was wonderful!
We are hoping to do some on site activities soon at Peachtree--like a back to school cookout. My summer intern, Jonathan Brooks from Harding University, and I went a couple of nights a week and just walked through both Allenhurst and Peachtree and said hi to folks and made friends. Speaking of Jonathan, it was a blessing to have his help. Although I don't look at interns as workers to help us--I look at them as an opportunity to give them as much exposure for future kingdom leadership/ministry roles. Jonathan sat in on some Christian marital counseling, some one on one Bible studies, taught every age group within the congregation Bible class, preached two different Sundays, made shepherding and outreach visits with me, and participated in every Sunday worship service in one capacity or another. He got to see some difficult people/bloody sheep situations. And he took a group of our kids to church camp for a week this summer. I am very proud of Jonathan. This Sunday we are having a special lunch honoring his service.
OUR WOMEN'S MINISTRY
A year ago I said our teen ministry which was going through a really rough time was our weakest link. Then a few months later, I looked closely at our women's ministry which had once flourished--was really hurting and had become our weakest link. I prayed and prayed for God to give some of our new sisters in Christ--some older, more mature Christian sisters to love on our women and provide some mentoring. Those prayers have been answered! God has since sent several of the sweet sisters again--from Highland Oaks Church of Christ to be a blessing to our women and they have a breakfast/devo once a month and other activities.
PRISON/JAIL MINISTRY
For years my family has written a brother in Christ who is in prison to keep him encouraged and occasionally put some funds on his books so he can get basic necessities. We have recently been involving our teens and younger kids in writing him and now we are going to start including other prison inmates in our regular love correspondence. If you have a loved one or a friend in prison and they need some encouragement, get us the mailing info and we will gladly encourage them.
FOOD PANTRY/CLOTHES CLOSET
Our food pantry has continued to grow--not just in clients, but in volunteers. Every week we have several sweet sisters from Highland Oaks Church of Christ who help us in that work. However, we are in the process of changing up both our food pantry and really all our benevolence ministry service. We are working to move into a new ministry that provides the good samaritan approach, but also at some point requires some giving back in work or service--so we do not hurt people by enablement. We'd covet your prayers as we pray and work through preparing for this new approach.
Please continue to pray for our work. We need to raise $75,000 by spring of next year so we can do the following:
1. Continue with at least one full time person (which has been me thus far)
2. Be able to go into a new apartment complex (not Allenhurst or Peachtree) and build infrastructure and rent an apartment like we once did at Allenhurst and be able to pay a part time minister to help with that work. I am currently looking at Hickory Tree Apartments not far from our operations and praying about that complex.
3. Continue to be able to provide some benevolence to the many poor families we work with and serve.
Please also be praying for God to keep not only sending us part time workers from other congregations--which are wonderful! But to send us a few more families from a church background who can put their lot in with us full time--who can serve, work, and tithe--so one day we are not so dependent on outside funds.
If you can give, please send checks (made out to At The Cross) to:
429 S. Walker
Mesquite, Tx 75149
Or you can give through our paypal--just go to our website at: http://www.atthecrosscofc.org/
There is much, much more work yet to be done in Mesquite! Many, many lost souls yet to reach! But all things are possible with God!
Love in Christ,
Bruce
OUR APARTMENT MINISTRY
We began the summer with the realization that the ministry at Allenhurst Apartments that was once so flourishing, had slowed down tremendously and we no longer had the energy and excitement it once had. We lost about 5 families that had lived at Allenhurst for a long time who could no longer pay their rent or had to move for other reasons. As we lost those families, I noticed more and more that the newer families that were moving in had less and less interest in what we were offering and the child population has continued to decline the past several months there. So when the owners told me back in May that they were definitely raising our rent--I simply felt like God was telling me that what we had done and seen at Allenhurst the past 5 years, was meant to be done at other apartment complexes in Mesquite. So we began to make plans to let our two church apartments go after June--which we did--and now all our operations are out of our building--FOR NOW!
This last spring we did not do our annual big cookout/funfest at Allenhurst for the first time in 5 years--simply because we've also lost a few of our good worker families who had grown tired of the work and ministry we do and they went back to more traditional church settings--and given our tightening funds--I just did not think we could easily sustain such an activity this last year--not too mention again, the lower child population at Allenhurst.
Balch Springs Church of Christ spent a few days helping us do some work at our building and we had a joint Sunday evening devotional with them in early June. Then a week later, The Heartlands Church from Lincoln, Nebraska joined us again for a week for their mission trip. They did wonderful work on our building during the day and awesome mission/discipling work at Allenhurst and Peachtree Apartments at night! Along with a big dinner/worship service on the grounds of Allenhurst (a couple of weeks before we shut down our two church apartments). Those young Nebraskan Christians were sooooo wonderful!! Watching them love on so many adults and children unconditionally and so fired up to show and share Jesus with everyone!
We still take a van through Allenhurst during the week and on Sundays and we still spend time there each week just visiting people and loving on them--but slowing our operations at Allenhurst has finally allowed us to really work Peachtree Apartments a lot harder and more consistently. We moved our Wednesday night dinner/Bible class to Tuesday nights at our building now. So the last few weeks, I have been picking up several kids from Allenhurst and dropping them off at the building and then running down the street and picking up a "FULL" van load from Peachtree--mostly kids but a few adults! These are children who really live in a rough environment! We serve dinner at 6:30 and those kids are so glad to get it--and then class at 7pm. Once a month, we don't have class and we do something fun for the kids. Like recently we had a "Teen Surge" night for all our teens and pre-teens. A brother named Jairus Withrow, who is a very talented musician, Christian rapper, worship leader and more--did some fun Christian rap and music that is somewhat relative to the culture of the young people we are ministering to--and then my old co-worker from CiCi's Pizza Sean Maness, who grew up in a low income apartment complex in Mesquite--gave a great kid friendly devotional talk! We are finding more and more, that WE SIMPLY HAVE TO DO THINGS OUT OF THE BOX--THAT DIFFERENT CULTURES OF PEOPLE TODAY CAN RELATE TO--SO THEY CAN GRASP AND GET THE GOSPEL MESSAGE!!!! That night we had over 40 kids and it was wonderful!
We are hoping to do some on site activities soon at Peachtree--like a back to school cookout. My summer intern, Jonathan Brooks from Harding University, and I went a couple of nights a week and just walked through both Allenhurst and Peachtree and said hi to folks and made friends. Speaking of Jonathan, it was a blessing to have his help. Although I don't look at interns as workers to help us--I look at them as an opportunity to give them as much exposure for future kingdom leadership/ministry roles. Jonathan sat in on some Christian marital counseling, some one on one Bible studies, taught every age group within the congregation Bible class, preached two different Sundays, made shepherding and outreach visits with me, and participated in every Sunday worship service in one capacity or another. He got to see some difficult people/bloody sheep situations. And he took a group of our kids to church camp for a week this summer. I am very proud of Jonathan. This Sunday we are having a special lunch honoring his service.
OUR WOMEN'S MINISTRY
A year ago I said our teen ministry which was going through a really rough time was our weakest link. Then a few months later, I looked closely at our women's ministry which had once flourished--was really hurting and had become our weakest link. I prayed and prayed for God to give some of our new sisters in Christ--some older, more mature Christian sisters to love on our women and provide some mentoring. Those prayers have been answered! God has since sent several of the sweet sisters again--from Highland Oaks Church of Christ to be a blessing to our women and they have a breakfast/devo once a month and other activities.
PRISON/JAIL MINISTRY
For years my family has written a brother in Christ who is in prison to keep him encouraged and occasionally put some funds on his books so he can get basic necessities. We have recently been involving our teens and younger kids in writing him and now we are going to start including other prison inmates in our regular love correspondence. If you have a loved one or a friend in prison and they need some encouragement, get us the mailing info and we will gladly encourage them.
FOOD PANTRY/CLOTHES CLOSET
Our food pantry has continued to grow--not just in clients, but in volunteers. Every week we have several sweet sisters from Highland Oaks Church of Christ who help us in that work. However, we are in the process of changing up both our food pantry and really all our benevolence ministry service. We are working to move into a new ministry that provides the good samaritan approach, but also at some point requires some giving back in work or service--so we do not hurt people by enablement. We'd covet your prayers as we pray and work through preparing for this new approach.
Please continue to pray for our work. We need to raise $75,000 by spring of next year so we can do the following:
1. Continue with at least one full time person (which has been me thus far)
2. Be able to go into a new apartment complex (not Allenhurst or Peachtree) and build infrastructure and rent an apartment like we once did at Allenhurst and be able to pay a part time minister to help with that work. I am currently looking at Hickory Tree Apartments not far from our operations and praying about that complex.
3. Continue to be able to provide some benevolence to the many poor families we work with and serve.
Please also be praying for God to keep not only sending us part time workers from other congregations--which are wonderful! But to send us a few more families from a church background who can put their lot in with us full time--who can serve, work, and tithe--so one day we are not so dependent on outside funds.
If you can give, please send checks (made out to At The Cross) to:
429 S. Walker
Mesquite, Tx 75149
Or you can give through our paypal--just go to our website at: http://www.atthecrosscofc.org/
There is much, much more work yet to be done in Mesquite! Many, many lost souls yet to reach! But all things are possible with God!
Love in Christ,
Bruce
Thursday, July 29, 2010
A STORY OF HOPE
There is a lady I went to Jr. High and High School with named Robyn Terrill. I didn’t know Robyn well in school, but began to get to know her a couple of years ago on Facebook. Most of the posts I’d see from her always seemed very negative and she seemed so miserable. Whenever I tried to say something encouraging to her, I’d often get a sarcastic response back from her. It was as if she could not believe anyone would just be kind for the sake of being kind.
As the months went by, I began to see a slow softening of Robyn’s heart. We began to message some back and forth and she expressed to me that she was living with family member near the metroplex and had recently become a Christian. As we spoke more, Robyn shared that she had lived in Los Angeles for a number of years and had led a very rough and sinful life. Then a few years ago, she got pregnant and she realized she had to make some changes. What we know now is that God was working His plan out through her life.
As the final months of 2009 wound down, Robyn was fearing she would not be able to stay where she was much longer and she so hated to leave the church she was at and have to up root her and her daughter to San Antonio to go live with her mother, who was also having a lot of struggles. But she did have to go to San Antonio, and myself and others were trying to figure out how to help this woman and her child find a better life. We prayed and we prayed and we prayed! And Robyn waited patiently on the Lord. Oh, not without some real frustration, anger, fear, and anxiety like we all have when we are living on the edge. Then one day, a sister from my congregation whose son was going to go live at Medina Children’s Home mentioned to me about Medina. Medina is a wonderful place where single mothers in difficult situations and children who need a fresh start can go live and have a second chance at life. I immediately could not believe that I had not thought of Medina?
I called a dear brother named Richard Brown from Highland Oaks Church of Christ who is a Medina Representative in the Dallas area and he started the ball rolling. I also spoke to a brother down at Medina who was very helpful and he started dialoging with with Robyn. After a few weeks of Robyn going through process and BY THE GRACE OF GOD—ROBYN AND HER DAUGHTER BELLA GOT INTO MEDINA!
Since then, Robyn and her daughter’s lives have been so blessed! They have a wonderful church home, a stable living environment, a job, daycare, and an overall heavenly Christian community in which to live! Only our God can take such difficult situations and turn them into such a beautiful story of hope! I'm reminded of the story of Ruth.
Robyn praises our God non-stop everyday! She has such a grateful heart and she knows that “her redeemer lives!” I have no doubt that one day Robyn will be a tremendous asset to the Kingdom of God and be a great source of support for many young women who will be going through difficult struggles!
What a mighty God we serve! HE is mighty to save!
As the months went by, I began to see a slow softening of Robyn’s heart. We began to message some back and forth and she expressed to me that she was living with family member near the metroplex and had recently become a Christian. As we spoke more, Robyn shared that she had lived in Los Angeles for a number of years and had led a very rough and sinful life. Then a few years ago, she got pregnant and she realized she had to make some changes. What we know now is that God was working His plan out through her life.
As the final months of 2009 wound down, Robyn was fearing she would not be able to stay where she was much longer and she so hated to leave the church she was at and have to up root her and her daughter to San Antonio to go live with her mother, who was also having a lot of struggles. But she did have to go to San Antonio, and myself and others were trying to figure out how to help this woman and her child find a better life. We prayed and we prayed and we prayed! And Robyn waited patiently on the Lord. Oh, not without some real frustration, anger, fear, and anxiety like we all have when we are living on the edge. Then one day, a sister from my congregation whose son was going to go live at Medina Children’s Home mentioned to me about Medina. Medina is a wonderful place where single mothers in difficult situations and children who need a fresh start can go live and have a second chance at life. I immediately could not believe that I had not thought of Medina?
I called a dear brother named Richard Brown from Highland Oaks Church of Christ who is a Medina Representative in the Dallas area and he started the ball rolling. I also spoke to a brother down at Medina who was very helpful and he started dialoging with with Robyn. After a few weeks of Robyn going through process and BY THE GRACE OF GOD—ROBYN AND HER DAUGHTER BELLA GOT INTO MEDINA!
Since then, Robyn and her daughter’s lives have been so blessed! They have a wonderful church home, a stable living environment, a job, daycare, and an overall heavenly Christian community in which to live! Only our God can take such difficult situations and turn them into such a beautiful story of hope! I'm reminded of the story of Ruth.
Robyn praises our God non-stop everyday! She has such a grateful heart and she knows that “her redeemer lives!” I have no doubt that one day Robyn will be a tremendous asset to the Kingdom of God and be a great source of support for many young women who will be going through difficult struggles!
What a mighty God we serve! HE is mighty to save!
Saturday, June 26, 2010
Dare To Dream
Fellow Workers in Christ,
What I am going to share here, is going to challenge and stretch some of you who are in church leadership. But God did not call us to be comfortable! He called us to obey Him and live our lives to give Him great honor and glory!
I believe 2011 is going to be a very special year for the Lord. I believe deep in my spirit that He is calling all of us to real action, the kind in which we have never seen before! Jesus is coming back one day! Look around the community in which you live, and see the many, many of lost people amongst us! We know the Lord has said that He does not want one person to perish.
Brothers and sisters in Christ--while we as congregations are busy looking for a new youth minister, or raising funds to remodel our facility, or meeting to address some behavior issues with kids during the worship service, discussing while the utility bills are too high, looking for a new pulpit minister, deciding on rules for our new children's ministry, who will have keys to the new youth center we just built, how we will do VBS next year and a whole host of other things we do in churches--(which all are certainly important)--LOST PEOPLE ALL AROUND US ARE HEADED FOR HELL AND MORE YEARS OF A MISERABLE LIFE TIL THEIR DEATH--AND THEY ARE NOT BEING REACHED FOR CHRIST!
We all talk about evangelism and reaching the lost--but what is the fruit of our labor? And are we really laboring with all we have to bring in lost people? Or do we find ourselves spending most of our time around other saved people and being involved with lots of church activities--and never finding ourselves around unchurched people? JESUS DID NOT SUFFER AND DIE ON THE CROSS SO WE COULD LIVE NICE LIVES WITHIN THE CHURCH THE REST OF OUR LIVES! In fact, Jesus tells us that "to those who much is given, much is expected! Jesus has given us the ultimate gift of salvation, He expects us to live our lives in grattitude for that gift and He has commanded us to go share our hope with others who don't yet have that hope!
I'm a dreamer. I dream big things. We need to be dreaming big things on God's behalf! We need to be risk takers for the Lord! What if we dreamed this big dream?
Fellow Church Leaders--what if we dreamed a dream that for one year--we would set aside all projects and issues before the church--and would focus entirely on our congregations going out and reaching the lost of our community? Just take a moment to think and dream about how that would look........
What if every congregation in each community canceled their Sunday services at the building at least once a month and went to a neighborhood or an apartment complex where they would appear to be little Christianity--and had their worship in that place and invited all those living nearby to join them? What if once a month we canceled our Wednesday night service/classes and went to the same type of place and just knocked doors and said hi to everybody or had a cookout and served families living in that area or place?
What if our congregations asked their memberships to bring furniture, appliances, and all other household items they no longer need--and have a "free" sale if you will--where the neighborhood people could come get things they need for their homes--and all of this would be done in the name of Jesus Christ? Spring Creek Community Church in Garland recently did this.
What if each of our congregational memberships were constantly looking for opportunities to make friends and contacts that would give them the opportunity to show love and share Jesus with those people they meet? What if our members took their Bibles with them everytime they went to a restaurant to eat--but not shove Jesus down people's throats--but just show love and kindness in such a way that foodservers and other employees would eventually be asking those members questions? Many times I have had my Bible with me when I ate dinner somewhere and often by me just being real friendly--I was asked questions about my Bible or maybe that person was having a rough day and asked me if I would pray for them.
What if each of our congregations had members who would adopt retail stores like Wal-Marts and became regular shoppers and faces at those stores and made friends with all the employees and maybe had lunch or dinner often at the snack bars of McDonalds within those stores and became regular known and welcome customers? Imagine how many of those employees would be so happy to see those church members come in because they'd know that those Christians would offer them much love and kindness and the aroma of Christ!
What if each of our members started having Bible studies in their homes one night a week where they invite their neighbors to come and make it a comfortable and casual environment for those folks who are not quite ready to come into our church buildings yet? Or what if our members had a devotional in their front yards and a cookout and invited neighbors once a week or month? What if our members became the "ministers" of their streets--and were in regular contact with all the neighbors on their street--and everyone on those streets would know they could count on our members for prayer and love and support?
What if employers or supervisors or folks in leadership positions in the work force began to love their employees as more than just people who work for them--and looked for opportunities to minister to them? I have a lot of experience in this area. Without violating certain work place rules or crossing certain lines of people's personal space--when I was a restaurant manager, I wound up teaching the Gospel to and baptizing many employees who worked for me over the years! As did my old boss at CiCi's Pizza when I was working for him early on before I was a Christian! WE CAN USE OUR WORKPLACE AS CHRIST'S WORKBENCH!
What if every Saturday morning/afternoon, each congregation had a rotating group of workers who were knocking doors in neighborhoods inviting people to church or just saying hi and showing them love in the name of Jesus?
Just imagine if every member in every congregation were using their gifts to show Jesus love to unchurched people and share the truth about Jesus with many people each week where they live?
These things and soooo many more relational and easy things we could do to reach people that would eventually lead to conversations about Jesus--WE COULD DO! THIS IS VERY DOABLE! To just give one year of our lives and the lives of our congregations to reach lost people with all we have in us! And of course, with the Lord's help!
Imagine in one year--if we set everything else aside for one year--to be local missionaries--and our congregations fully devoted to reaching the lost for just one year--IMAGINE HOW DIFFERENT THE SPIRITUAL LANDSCAPE OF OUR COMMUNITIES WOULD BE????
Just imagine and dream for a moment.......
Imagine the many new faces that would be a part of our lives, headed to Heaven with us! Imagine the blessings that would flow for all of those who went out and followed Christ by reaching lost people!
So how would we do this?
It would first start with church leaders fully committing themselves to lead by example and call out and inspire the flock to follow them! Sheep will follow good shepherds! If they sheep see church leaders not just handling matters of the church--but also getting involved in people's lives and bringing in unchurched people and out evangelizing themselves--the members will follow that example!
And with a lot of prayer and asking God to lead and guide such an effort--MANY, MANY PEOPLE COULD BE TRANSFORMED TO BECOME MORE LIKE JESUS AND SPEND ETERNITY WITH HIM! In fact, by just committing one year of our lives to this--GENERATIONS OF PEOPLE FROM HERE ON OUT--COULD ONE DAY SPEND ETERNITY WITH JESUS!
Dare to dream fellow Christians! Dare to step out of our comfort zones! Dare to obey and follow Jesus Christ and His example!
Dare to dream--AND THEN GO!
If myself our my congregation At The Cross Church can help your congregation to go live out the Great Commission--we will partner with you arm and arm and go spread the Gospel with you!
Why not? Jesus is coming back. Let us show our true faithfulness to Him when He comes back and take many with us home when He returns!
Why not?
Why not?
LETS GO!
Bruce
What I am going to share here, is going to challenge and stretch some of you who are in church leadership. But God did not call us to be comfortable! He called us to obey Him and live our lives to give Him great honor and glory!
I believe 2011 is going to be a very special year for the Lord. I believe deep in my spirit that He is calling all of us to real action, the kind in which we have never seen before! Jesus is coming back one day! Look around the community in which you live, and see the many, many of lost people amongst us! We know the Lord has said that He does not want one person to perish.
Brothers and sisters in Christ--while we as congregations are busy looking for a new youth minister, or raising funds to remodel our facility, or meeting to address some behavior issues with kids during the worship service, discussing while the utility bills are too high, looking for a new pulpit minister, deciding on rules for our new children's ministry, who will have keys to the new youth center we just built, how we will do VBS next year and a whole host of other things we do in churches--(which all are certainly important)--LOST PEOPLE ALL AROUND US ARE HEADED FOR HELL AND MORE YEARS OF A MISERABLE LIFE TIL THEIR DEATH--AND THEY ARE NOT BEING REACHED FOR CHRIST!
We all talk about evangelism and reaching the lost--but what is the fruit of our labor? And are we really laboring with all we have to bring in lost people? Or do we find ourselves spending most of our time around other saved people and being involved with lots of church activities--and never finding ourselves around unchurched people? JESUS DID NOT SUFFER AND DIE ON THE CROSS SO WE COULD LIVE NICE LIVES WITHIN THE CHURCH THE REST OF OUR LIVES! In fact, Jesus tells us that "to those who much is given, much is expected! Jesus has given us the ultimate gift of salvation, He expects us to live our lives in grattitude for that gift and He has commanded us to go share our hope with others who don't yet have that hope!
I'm a dreamer. I dream big things. We need to be dreaming big things on God's behalf! We need to be risk takers for the Lord! What if we dreamed this big dream?
Fellow Church Leaders--what if we dreamed a dream that for one year--we would set aside all projects and issues before the church--and would focus entirely on our congregations going out and reaching the lost of our community? Just take a moment to think and dream about how that would look........
What if every congregation in each community canceled their Sunday services at the building at least once a month and went to a neighborhood or an apartment complex where they would appear to be little Christianity--and had their worship in that place and invited all those living nearby to join them? What if once a month we canceled our Wednesday night service/classes and went to the same type of place and just knocked doors and said hi to everybody or had a cookout and served families living in that area or place?
What if our congregations asked their memberships to bring furniture, appliances, and all other household items they no longer need--and have a "free" sale if you will--where the neighborhood people could come get things they need for their homes--and all of this would be done in the name of Jesus Christ? Spring Creek Community Church in Garland recently did this.
What if each of our congregational memberships were constantly looking for opportunities to make friends and contacts that would give them the opportunity to show love and share Jesus with those people they meet? What if our members took their Bibles with them everytime they went to a restaurant to eat--but not shove Jesus down people's throats--but just show love and kindness in such a way that foodservers and other employees would eventually be asking those members questions? Many times I have had my Bible with me when I ate dinner somewhere and often by me just being real friendly--I was asked questions about my Bible or maybe that person was having a rough day and asked me if I would pray for them.
What if each of our congregations had members who would adopt retail stores like Wal-Marts and became regular shoppers and faces at those stores and made friends with all the employees and maybe had lunch or dinner often at the snack bars of McDonalds within those stores and became regular known and welcome customers? Imagine how many of those employees would be so happy to see those church members come in because they'd know that those Christians would offer them much love and kindness and the aroma of Christ!
What if each of our members started having Bible studies in their homes one night a week where they invite their neighbors to come and make it a comfortable and casual environment for those folks who are not quite ready to come into our church buildings yet? Or what if our members had a devotional in their front yards and a cookout and invited neighbors once a week or month? What if our members became the "ministers" of their streets--and were in regular contact with all the neighbors on their street--and everyone on those streets would know they could count on our members for prayer and love and support?
What if employers or supervisors or folks in leadership positions in the work force began to love their employees as more than just people who work for them--and looked for opportunities to minister to them? I have a lot of experience in this area. Without violating certain work place rules or crossing certain lines of people's personal space--when I was a restaurant manager, I wound up teaching the Gospel to and baptizing many employees who worked for me over the years! As did my old boss at CiCi's Pizza when I was working for him early on before I was a Christian! WE CAN USE OUR WORKPLACE AS CHRIST'S WORKBENCH!
What if every Saturday morning/afternoon, each congregation had a rotating group of workers who were knocking doors in neighborhoods inviting people to church or just saying hi and showing them love in the name of Jesus?
Just imagine if every member in every congregation were using their gifts to show Jesus love to unchurched people and share the truth about Jesus with many people each week where they live?
These things and soooo many more relational and easy things we could do to reach people that would eventually lead to conversations about Jesus--WE COULD DO! THIS IS VERY DOABLE! To just give one year of our lives and the lives of our congregations to reach lost people with all we have in us! And of course, with the Lord's help!
Imagine in one year--if we set everything else aside for one year--to be local missionaries--and our congregations fully devoted to reaching the lost for just one year--IMAGINE HOW DIFFERENT THE SPIRITUAL LANDSCAPE OF OUR COMMUNITIES WOULD BE????
Just imagine and dream for a moment.......
Imagine the many new faces that would be a part of our lives, headed to Heaven with us! Imagine the blessings that would flow for all of those who went out and followed Christ by reaching lost people!
So how would we do this?
It would first start with church leaders fully committing themselves to lead by example and call out and inspire the flock to follow them! Sheep will follow good shepherds! If they sheep see church leaders not just handling matters of the church--but also getting involved in people's lives and bringing in unchurched people and out evangelizing themselves--the members will follow that example!
And with a lot of prayer and asking God to lead and guide such an effort--MANY, MANY PEOPLE COULD BE TRANSFORMED TO BECOME MORE LIKE JESUS AND SPEND ETERNITY WITH HIM! In fact, by just committing one year of our lives to this--GENERATIONS OF PEOPLE FROM HERE ON OUT--COULD ONE DAY SPEND ETERNITY WITH JESUS!
Dare to dream fellow Christians! Dare to step out of our comfort zones! Dare to obey and follow Jesus Christ and His example!
Dare to dream--AND THEN GO!
If myself our my congregation At The Cross Church can help your congregation to go live out the Great Commission--we will partner with you arm and arm and go spread the Gospel with you!
Why not? Jesus is coming back. Let us show our true faithfulness to Him when He comes back and take many with us home when He returns!
Why not?
Why not?
LETS GO!
Bruce
Monday, June 21, 2010
CALL TO ARMS
Dear Fellow Workers in Christ,
As I was reading through 1 Kings today, I came upon Solomon's prayer of dedication after the building of the great Temple:
Then Solomon stood before the altar of the LORD in front of the whole assembly of Israel, spread out his hands toward heaven and said: "O LORD, God of Israel, there is no God like you in heaven above or on earth below—you who keep your covenant of love with your servants who continue wholeheartedly in your way. You have kept your promise to your servant David my father; with your mouth you have promised and with your hand you have fulfilled it—as it is today (1 Kings 8:23-24, NIV).
I know that when I look around my surroundings of run down apartment complexes and our old building and all the people we serve--many who don't appear to be much when it comes to the human idea of worth and value. And maybe some of you do some side ministry work such as jail ministry or reaching out to people where you live etc. And yet, I look back over the last few years as we have had the privelige to teach to Gospel to and baptize over 100 people--and have planted the seeds of the "Good News" to many more--I FEEL MORE FULFILLED AND BOLDER THAN IF WE HAD BUILT TWO TEMPLES THE SIZE AND MAGNITUDE OF WHAT SOLOMON BUILT!!!!!
I don't mean that in a boastful way at all--God gave Solomon what he needed to build that temple--and HE gave us what we needed to spread the Gospel as far as we have so far in Mesquite! God has not asked us to build HIM a building of bricks and mortar and steel. HE HAS ASKED US TO GO TELL PEOPLE ABOUT HIS SON!
THERE ARE MANY MORE IN OUR COMMUNITY AND IN YOUR COMMUNITY LEFT TO REACH! God has kept HIS promises to us just as HE did to Israel during the time of this prayer Solomon prayed. Let us show our heartfelt grattitude for HIS faithfulness to us--by helping many lost people come to know Jesus Christ!
Grace and Peace,
Bruce
As I was reading through 1 Kings today, I came upon Solomon's prayer of dedication after the building of the great Temple:
Then Solomon stood before the altar of the LORD in front of the whole assembly of Israel, spread out his hands toward heaven and said: "O LORD, God of Israel, there is no God like you in heaven above or on earth below—you who keep your covenant of love with your servants who continue wholeheartedly in your way. You have kept your promise to your servant David my father; with your mouth you have promised and with your hand you have fulfilled it—as it is today (1 Kings 8:23-24, NIV).
I know that when I look around my surroundings of run down apartment complexes and our old building and all the people we serve--many who don't appear to be much when it comes to the human idea of worth and value. And maybe some of you do some side ministry work such as jail ministry or reaching out to people where you live etc. And yet, I look back over the last few years as we have had the privelige to teach to Gospel to and baptize over 100 people--and have planted the seeds of the "Good News" to many more--I FEEL MORE FULFILLED AND BOLDER THAN IF WE HAD BUILT TWO TEMPLES THE SIZE AND MAGNITUDE OF WHAT SOLOMON BUILT!!!!!
I don't mean that in a boastful way at all--God gave Solomon what he needed to build that temple--and HE gave us what we needed to spread the Gospel as far as we have so far in Mesquite! God has not asked us to build HIM a building of bricks and mortar and steel. HE HAS ASKED US TO GO TELL PEOPLE ABOUT HIS SON!
THERE ARE MANY MORE IN OUR COMMUNITY AND IN YOUR COMMUNITY LEFT TO REACH! God has kept HIS promises to us just as HE did to Israel during the time of this prayer Solomon prayed. Let us show our heartfelt grattitude for HIS faithfulness to us--by helping many lost people come to know Jesus Christ!
Grace and Peace,
Bruce
Monday, June 14, 2010
EXCITING DAY FOR AT THE CROSS--AND MY FAMILY
This is a note I sent to my congregation:
Good Morning ATC Family and Extended Family,
Sorry I did not get out an e-mail to all of you this morning like I normally do to start the week. I was helping the Heartlands group get set up--and then we had to go to court for Bryson's custody hearing--AND GOD ANSWERED PRAYERS!!! He will not be going anywhere! Oh how our God is sooooo gooood!!! Bryson's grandfather, Tom Anthamatten received temporary managing conservatorship with the ability to direct where Bryson lives--which will continue to be me and Christi's home. The mother will get monthly visits if she chooses--but it has to be in Mesquite. We are very thankful!!!
And more good news! The Heartlands group got a lot of good work done today at our building--including some needed floor repairs in the older building we normally use! Then tonight they were with us (all 29 of them) and we had a beautiful time at Peachtree Apartments!! They passed out Jesus Lights (boxes of light bulbs to remind every family of the light Jesus shines) and one of our church fliers. Before that, we had a short devotional on the grounds where I shared about Peter and John getting to experience the Transfiguration with Jesus in Matthew 17--and how we all get to often enjoy the mountain experience in our worship assemblies, at camp, at retreats etc.--but sometimes we need to come off the mountain as Jesus did--and continue to share and evangelize and help others one day get to experience the light and hope of Jesus Christ!!! We had several kids from the aparments participate in our devotional and then they followed us all around the complex. After all the Jesus Lights had been passed out--we then had the opportunity to pray with a couple of folks who were having some struggles and then we walked around and sang hymns and we prayed over every building in the complex. Its been several months since we did that at either complex we serve at and it felt so good--like authentic Christianity! The Spirit was moving tonight at Peachtree!
Tomorrow night we will be doing the same thing at Allenhurst followed by a fun activity with the kids there. Come join us at 7 at Allenhurst. Wednesday night we will have our devotional on the grounds of Allenhurst below the church apartments and then a cookout like last year. Thursday night at 7pm we will have Spencer and Jairus with us doing some Christian rap along with a devotional--that will be a joint fellowship with the Heartlands Family--GOD LOVES UNITY! Invite a friend--we will have a meal immeidately after our worship time.
Tomorrow morning we will be providing a lunch for the Heartlands family and all the food pantry folks who come in. I am looking forward to some good fellowship. All this starts at 10:30. Come join us if you are free!
I am very excited right now--and very thankful to our Lord! LETS GO REACH MANY LOST SOULS BROTHERS AND SISTERS!!!!
Love in Christ,
Bruce
Good Morning ATC Family and Extended Family,
Sorry I did not get out an e-mail to all of you this morning like I normally do to start the week. I was helping the Heartlands group get set up--and then we had to go to court for Bryson's custody hearing--AND GOD ANSWERED PRAYERS!!! He will not be going anywhere! Oh how our God is sooooo gooood!!! Bryson's grandfather, Tom Anthamatten received temporary managing conservatorship with the ability to direct where Bryson lives--which will continue to be me and Christi's home. The mother will get monthly visits if she chooses--but it has to be in Mesquite. We are very thankful!!!
And more good news! The Heartlands group got a lot of good work done today at our building--including some needed floor repairs in the older building we normally use! Then tonight they were with us (all 29 of them) and we had a beautiful time at Peachtree Apartments!! They passed out Jesus Lights (boxes of light bulbs to remind every family of the light Jesus shines) and one of our church fliers. Before that, we had a short devotional on the grounds where I shared about Peter and John getting to experience the Transfiguration with Jesus in Matthew 17--and how we all get to often enjoy the mountain experience in our worship assemblies, at camp, at retreats etc.--but sometimes we need to come off the mountain as Jesus did--and continue to share and evangelize and help others one day get to experience the light and hope of Jesus Christ!!! We had several kids from the aparments participate in our devotional and then they followed us all around the complex. After all the Jesus Lights had been passed out--we then had the opportunity to pray with a couple of folks who were having some struggles and then we walked around and sang hymns and we prayed over every building in the complex. Its been several months since we did that at either complex we serve at and it felt so good--like authentic Christianity! The Spirit was moving tonight at Peachtree!
Tomorrow night we will be doing the same thing at Allenhurst followed by a fun activity with the kids there. Come join us at 7 at Allenhurst. Wednesday night we will have our devotional on the grounds of Allenhurst below the church apartments and then a cookout like last year. Thursday night at 7pm we will have Spencer and Jairus with us doing some Christian rap along with a devotional--that will be a joint fellowship with the Heartlands Family--GOD LOVES UNITY! Invite a friend--we will have a meal immeidately after our worship time.
Tomorrow morning we will be providing a lunch for the Heartlands family and all the food pantry folks who come in. I am looking forward to some good fellowship. All this starts at 10:30. Come join us if you are free!
I am very excited right now--and very thankful to our Lord! LETS GO REACH MANY LOST SOULS BROTHERS AND SISTERS!!!!
Love in Christ,
Bruce
Thursday, June 10, 2010
Loving People Where They Are At
I love Max Lucado's book "Just Like Jesus" where the cover caption basically reads "God loves you just where you are at, but He won't leave you there--He wants you to be just like Jesus." This statement is so critical!
For several months, my ministry work revolved around numerous events and outreach campaigns and planning as well as constantly trying to shepherd new Christians and dealing with crisis after crisis of hurting people.
Lately, I have been trying to get back to basics of just going out and loving on people and spending time with the poor, the forgotten, and those who have little background in church. Once or twice a week, I have been going out with our intern Jonathan Brooks to just talk to folks we see at Peachtree and Allenhurst Apartments. Not to mention, I am trying to teach simplistic discipling and evangelism to young men who are seeking a future in ministry. And we are not knocking doors, we are just walking around and when we see people out--we just say hi to them and remind them who are we are and just try to over time--make them feel comfortable and earn their trust.
Some of these folks are very sinful people (like all of us were before Christ). Some of them are not very nice people and don't much care for church people. However, what I keep finding year after year is this: When you just love people unconditionally and treat them with kindness and don't try to be "too churchy and preachy"--many eventually begin to have softened hearts. Some will eventually obey the Gospel and become Christians--and some will not. But its not my job or your job to convert people or save them. Its simply our job to love them where they are at and where they have come from--and teach them God's life changing word!
Are there some folks who need the Lord nearby where you live or near your church that you could go love on and show kindness? Are there some people you know who so long to be accepted and cared for? Remember that we have all come from a place we don't want to talk about--but Jesus' redeeming blood saved us--and by you loving people where they are at--they may eventually be saved also!
For several months, my ministry work revolved around numerous events and outreach campaigns and planning as well as constantly trying to shepherd new Christians and dealing with crisis after crisis of hurting people.
Lately, I have been trying to get back to basics of just going out and loving on people and spending time with the poor, the forgotten, and those who have little background in church. Once or twice a week, I have been going out with our intern Jonathan Brooks to just talk to folks we see at Peachtree and Allenhurst Apartments. Not to mention, I am trying to teach simplistic discipling and evangelism to young men who are seeking a future in ministry. And we are not knocking doors, we are just walking around and when we see people out--we just say hi to them and remind them who are we are and just try to over time--make them feel comfortable and earn their trust.
Some of these folks are very sinful people (like all of us were before Christ). Some of them are not very nice people and don't much care for church people. However, what I keep finding year after year is this: When you just love people unconditionally and treat them with kindness and don't try to be "too churchy and preachy"--many eventually begin to have softened hearts. Some will eventually obey the Gospel and become Christians--and some will not. But its not my job or your job to convert people or save them. Its simply our job to love them where they are at and where they have come from--and teach them God's life changing word!
Are there some folks who need the Lord nearby where you live or near your church that you could go love on and show kindness? Are there some people you know who so long to be accepted and cared for? Remember that we have all come from a place we don't want to talk about--but Jesus' redeeming blood saved us--and by you loving people where they are at--they may eventually be saved also!
Friday, June 4, 2010
SIMPLISTIC DISCIPLING
Last night myself and our summer intern were walking around Allenhurst and Peachtree Apartments. Our intern has no desire to go serve in a traditional church and preach to saved people every week--he has a hunger to work with the "lesser of these" and those who have no church background. The same kind of people Jesus spent most of his time with and served. As we walked around Peachtree, it was so refreshing.
For one, we were really working that complex hard last summer, until my family went through a rough time and I was just way over extended going several nights a week in ministry. But I saw several families and individuals who remembered me and their smiles were so uplifting to me. Of course, there are always a few who seem a bit intimidated by church people and awkward at first. But usually, if you just show them unconditional love and kindness, they soften up pretty quick.
I met a young man named Jose who had just moved here from Chicago. He was tatooed from head to toe and looked as if he had lived a most interesting life. He said he would not have stayed alive much longer in Chicago due to a bad gang situation. When we first approached him, I thought he might be a bit defensive and uncomfortable. And yet, he seemed so happy that we took the time to talk to him and enjoyed being made to feel special--as he is--all of us God created are special! Early on in Genesis we are told clearly that we are made in God's image! We left Jose with a big smile on his face, and I pray that the name of Jesus is still resonating in his head--as thats who we wanted him to really know about--not us. I explained to our intern--that while I always have my Bible in my hand--my first goal is to just make friends with people and earn their trust. Then they are more open to hearing about Jesus!
Are there some parts of your community like Allenhurst or Peachtree Apartments you and your church can go evangelize and show love to people who need that love so desperately! It will bless you and your congregation immensely! God is ready to do big things in your community! Are you ready to go?
Remember Jesus' instructions of what we call The Great Commission:
Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age" (Matthew 28:18-20, NIV).
For one, we were really working that complex hard last summer, until my family went through a rough time and I was just way over extended going several nights a week in ministry. But I saw several families and individuals who remembered me and their smiles were so uplifting to me. Of course, there are always a few who seem a bit intimidated by church people and awkward at first. But usually, if you just show them unconditional love and kindness, they soften up pretty quick.
I met a young man named Jose who had just moved here from Chicago. He was tatooed from head to toe and looked as if he had lived a most interesting life. He said he would not have stayed alive much longer in Chicago due to a bad gang situation. When we first approached him, I thought he might be a bit defensive and uncomfortable. And yet, he seemed so happy that we took the time to talk to him and enjoyed being made to feel special--as he is--all of us God created are special! Early on in Genesis we are told clearly that we are made in God's image! We left Jose with a big smile on his face, and I pray that the name of Jesus is still resonating in his head--as thats who we wanted him to really know about--not us. I explained to our intern--that while I always have my Bible in my hand--my first goal is to just make friends with people and earn their trust. Then they are more open to hearing about Jesus!
Are there some parts of your community like Allenhurst or Peachtree Apartments you and your church can go evangelize and show love to people who need that love so desperately! It will bless you and your congregation immensely! God is ready to do big things in your community! Are you ready to go?
Remember Jesus' instructions of what we call The Great Commission:
Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age" (Matthew 28:18-20, NIV).
Saturday, May 15, 2010
THE CHRISTIAN ATHEIST
I recently wrote a post regarding how difficult it is for many Christians to develop an intimate relationship with God. Whether it is an older Christian who sits in the pews everytime the doors are open at a traditional church or a Christian who is in a newer Christian at a more progressive and evangelistic congregation--both often struggle with the same problem--they don't really know God!
There is a book I am reading called "The Christian Athiest" by Craig Groeschel. Groceschel is a pastor who once almost lost his relationship with God--because for years he had served God--but never really knew God! That may sound kinda crazy, but how many of us have actually experienced such things? My wife (who is not ashamed to express this) has struggled with just that struggle in the past. And I see many young people who also struggle with this--they attend church and youth activities--but they really struggle to really have a conversation with God.
I often deal with Christians in my congregation or other walks of life that I minister to--who just absolutely struggle--because when the storms of life hit (albeit often Satan)--they don't immediately turn to God and seek HIM and cry to HIM and praise HIS name constantly! Instead they turn to the world! And then their struggles and pain and heartaches just get worse--because they get the wrong medicine if you will?
Where are you? How is your relationship with God? I mean honestly? Not the standard response we give because we don't really want anyone to know how broken we are. But a "REAL" and honest response that allows ourselves and God to really see what needs to be healed. Well really, God already knows. But HE CAN ONLY HELP US IN OUR REALITY, NOT OUR FAKENESS!
Whenever I help one of our members or just anyone who has a sin struggle or some other kind of problem--I always make it clear that their real problem is not their sin or what appears to be attacking them--but instead--their real problem is their lack of relationship with Jesus!
I encourage all of us to keep really seeking to get to know God! I encourage all of us to begin a series of conversations and dialogues with HIM! If you need to cry or gripe or complain--TELL HIM! He can handle it! If you need to spend more time in God's word--so your spirit is constantly being reminded of a way to live--that will give us more peace and joy and less stress--then open up that "life giving word!"
An elder at another congregation who has been a mentor to me for many years once said this statement to me that was so incredibly thought provoking and really changed my entire outlook on ministry--he said this: "I don't care how much someone goes to church or does good works or can quote the Bible. Either people know the Lord or they don't!" Wow! I am not taking that statement and applying it to many well meaning and sincere Christians who love God, but maybe lack some in their relationship with HIM. But I think it is worth at least pondering for each of our own relationships with the ONE who created us?
What do you think? Are you or someone you know showing the fruit of a "Christian Athiest?" It doesn't have to stay that way!
"They claim to know God, but by their actions they deny him" (Titus 1:16).
There is a book I am reading called "The Christian Athiest" by Craig Groeschel. Groceschel is a pastor who once almost lost his relationship with God--because for years he had served God--but never really knew God! That may sound kinda crazy, but how many of us have actually experienced such things? My wife (who is not ashamed to express this) has struggled with just that struggle in the past. And I see many young people who also struggle with this--they attend church and youth activities--but they really struggle to really have a conversation with God.
I often deal with Christians in my congregation or other walks of life that I minister to--who just absolutely struggle--because when the storms of life hit (albeit often Satan)--they don't immediately turn to God and seek HIM and cry to HIM and praise HIS name constantly! Instead they turn to the world! And then their struggles and pain and heartaches just get worse--because they get the wrong medicine if you will?
Where are you? How is your relationship with God? I mean honestly? Not the standard response we give because we don't really want anyone to know how broken we are. But a "REAL" and honest response that allows ourselves and God to really see what needs to be healed. Well really, God already knows. But HE CAN ONLY HELP US IN OUR REALITY, NOT OUR FAKENESS!
Whenever I help one of our members or just anyone who has a sin struggle or some other kind of problem--I always make it clear that their real problem is not their sin or what appears to be attacking them--but instead--their real problem is their lack of relationship with Jesus!
I encourage all of us to keep really seeking to get to know God! I encourage all of us to begin a series of conversations and dialogues with HIM! If you need to cry or gripe or complain--TELL HIM! He can handle it! If you need to spend more time in God's word--so your spirit is constantly being reminded of a way to live--that will give us more peace and joy and less stress--then open up that "life giving word!"
An elder at another congregation who has been a mentor to me for many years once said this statement to me that was so incredibly thought provoking and really changed my entire outlook on ministry--he said this: "I don't care how much someone goes to church or does good works or can quote the Bible. Either people know the Lord or they don't!" Wow! I am not taking that statement and applying it to many well meaning and sincere Christians who love God, but maybe lack some in their relationship with HIM. But I think it is worth at least pondering for each of our own relationships with the ONE who created us?
What do you think? Are you or someone you know showing the fruit of a "Christian Athiest?" It doesn't have to stay that way!
"They claim to know God, but by their actions they deny him" (Titus 1:16).
Friday, May 7, 2010
The Struggle With Being Intimate With God
If you read John 15, it is hard not to see that for us to be able to enjoy the abundant life Jesus promised--we can't just attend church or go feed the homeless from time to time. We have to "stay connected to the vine" as Jesus says. Often I watch my children avoid intimate prayer and discussion with God and I so want them to be able to have that joy and peace that such a relationship offers.
God does not just want "duty prayers" at church on Wednesdays or Sundays. He wants our hearts, He wants our undivided attention!
But I am noticing more and more--as I minister to new Christians and even Christians who have were baptized 5, 10, even 20 or 30 years before--struggle to have an intimate relationship with Christ? And it is killing families and relationships! It is preventing many Christians from ever having the kind of real peace and joy and purpose God intended them to have. It makes sin struggles sooooo much more difficult to ever overcome.
Why is this?
Why are so many Christians avoiding a relationship with Christ? If we read the Psalms, we see a wonderful example of how David communicates with God. Whether he was upset, angry, fearful, or rejoicing--David shared everything with God! God so wants that relationship with us also!
We need to be teaching new Christians how to serve yes--but also how to have a personal relationship with their Savior! There are so many blessings that flow from such a relationship.
Romans 12:1-2 tells us:
Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God—this is your spiritual act of worship. Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.
God does not just want "duty prayers" at church on Wednesdays or Sundays. He wants our hearts, He wants our undivided attention!
But I am noticing more and more--as I minister to new Christians and even Christians who have were baptized 5, 10, even 20 or 30 years before--struggle to have an intimate relationship with Christ? And it is killing families and relationships! It is preventing many Christians from ever having the kind of real peace and joy and purpose God intended them to have. It makes sin struggles sooooo much more difficult to ever overcome.
Why is this?
Why are so many Christians avoiding a relationship with Christ? If we read the Psalms, we see a wonderful example of how David communicates with God. Whether he was upset, angry, fearful, or rejoicing--David shared everything with God! God so wants that relationship with us also!
We need to be teaching new Christians how to serve yes--but also how to have a personal relationship with their Savior! There are so many blessings that flow from such a relationship.
Romans 12:1-2 tells us:
Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God—this is your spiritual act of worship. Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.
Don't we want to have renewed minds that no longer keep us stuck in the muck and the mire? Don't we want to finally move past the life of "KNOWING JUST ENOUGH ABOUT CHRISTIANITY TO BE MISERABLE!" But instead be able to really be transformed into being more and more like Jesus everyday? Don't we want to not constantly be wondering which way to go or struggling with trying to make a decision? Wouldn't life be so much easier if we could more often discern and know what God's will is in every situation?
Such a life of blessings and not a lot of chaos and frustation is available to us--when we actually build a relationship with Jesus. If we do not make the effort to have that relationship, we constantly struggle with all kinds of crap!
Thursday, May 6, 2010
How Godly Men Need To Treat Women
I preached a message Sunday called "What God Can Do With A Little Love And Kindness" from Ruth chapter 3. I was so moved at the kind of Godly man Boaz was, that I used that focus for a talk I gave to our men and boys that night at our men's fellowship.
I reminded our men/boys that we need to be seeking now how to become the kind of Godly men that all women will look at us like fathers, big brothers, and sons--and not what the world tells us to look like--which is often men looking at women like they are meat and useable creatures! THATS NOT WHAT GOD CREATED WOMEN FOR! Our young men need to be learning now how to one day lead their families--and how to treat their wives and daughters. Too many men have destroyed the image of God as a father because their daughters have never seen God in their fathers or adult male figures in their lives. We as Christian men, need to change that image and with God's help and guidance--we can!
It always makes me so sad that so many girls have grown into women and all they know about love--is that they have to give something of themselves to get it--something that was meant to be for a Godly marraige! THATS NOT LOVE! So many scars are left--such as insecurity, feelings of little self-worth, problems with intimacy and a general lack of trust for most men. And I am not even talking about girls who have been sexually abused! Thats a whole other struggle of pain! I am talking about women who felt that to have the love of a man--they had to go ahead and give up their innocence. AND ITS JUST A BIG LIE!
Our women should be treated like princesses--DAUGHTERS OF THE GREAT KING OF ALL KINGS! Thats how God created them!
As we approach Mother's Day--let us, the men of the Lord's Church--be focusing more and more on becoming the kind of men who treat their wives with honor and respect and value the critical role they play in God's kingdom and in our homes. Lets prepare our daughters to one day look for Godly men who could one day lead their families towards heaven--not just some guy who is "fun, wild and cool."
Let us become "Kinsman Redeemers" as Boaz was to women and girls who have never had any Godly men in their lives. And let us help them see that our God is a wonderful Father who is prepared to lavish lots of goodness and love on His daughter children. Let such girls and women see the love of a Fatherly God through us!
I reminded our men/boys that we need to be seeking now how to become the kind of Godly men that all women will look at us like fathers, big brothers, and sons--and not what the world tells us to look like--which is often men looking at women like they are meat and useable creatures! THATS NOT WHAT GOD CREATED WOMEN FOR! Our young men need to be learning now how to one day lead their families--and how to treat their wives and daughters. Too many men have destroyed the image of God as a father because their daughters have never seen God in their fathers or adult male figures in their lives. We as Christian men, need to change that image and with God's help and guidance--we can!
It always makes me so sad that so many girls have grown into women and all they know about love--is that they have to give something of themselves to get it--something that was meant to be for a Godly marraige! THATS NOT LOVE! So many scars are left--such as insecurity, feelings of little self-worth, problems with intimacy and a general lack of trust for most men. And I am not even talking about girls who have been sexually abused! Thats a whole other struggle of pain! I am talking about women who felt that to have the love of a man--they had to go ahead and give up their innocence. AND ITS JUST A BIG LIE!
Our women should be treated like princesses--DAUGHTERS OF THE GREAT KING OF ALL KINGS! Thats how God created them!
As we approach Mother's Day--let us, the men of the Lord's Church--be focusing more and more on becoming the kind of men who treat their wives with honor and respect and value the critical role they play in God's kingdom and in our homes. Lets prepare our daughters to one day look for Godly men who could one day lead their families towards heaven--not just some guy who is "fun, wild and cool."
Let us become "Kinsman Redeemers" as Boaz was to women and girls who have never had any Godly men in their lives. And let us help them see that our God is a wonderful Father who is prepared to lavish lots of goodness and love on His daughter children. Let such girls and women see the love of a Fatherly God through us!
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