Pastor's Perspective - 2011 Means go.

On your mark.

Get set.

go.

In 2011 we at First Christian are getting intentional about motion. We realize and embrace that most of the people God created and loves are outside of our four walls.

The Lord is in the streets and neighborhoods. He’s already in our workplaces. He’s with the marginalized and discarded everywhere, beckoning His people to move, to come, to care, to go.

Our commitment is to embrace our calling as –

Restorers – people inspired to confront brokenness and give the world an authentic and inspiring glimpse of the redemption Christ will ultimately bring.

Artists – people made in His image sharing His creative attributes, desiring to add beauty in the world we live in His name and for His renown.

Our missional measurability is not in church growth, but Kingdom growth; not in ‘who’s here?’ , but ‘who’s missing?’; not in money kept, but money given away; not in God blessing us, but in us being a blessing to the world; not in trying to be anybody else in Kingdom, but instead being the people and church God intentionally created us to be.

go. is others.

go. is obedience.

go. is life.

Pastor's Perspective - What's Impossible?

For nothing is impossible with God - Luke 1:37

What a comforting truth this angelic commentary must have been to a 'greatly troubled' Mary so long ago. Somehow the Word was going to become flesh. Some way the uncontainable was going to become a zygote. Mysteriously the One who cares for humanity would entrust Himself to humanity's care. The voice that spoke worlds into being would limit His vocabulary to coos and cries. Though her shock was immense and her understanding limited, by faith Mary trusted what Gabriel told her - that God can do whatever He wants, with whomever He wants, whenever He wants, without asking permission first! And a Galilean virgin simply responded, "May it be to me as you have said."

Wow.

This Christmas, do you believe that God can do the "impossible" in your life? In your marriage? In your family? In your circumstances? In your church? In your witness and service for Him?

Remember! "Impossible" is only in our vocabulary.

Pastor's Perspective - An Odd Baby Gift

A Sunday School teacher was telling her class of fourth-graders the Christmas story about the Three Wise Men bringing gifts to Baby Jesus. A little girl who had recently become the big sister of a brand-new baby brother said, “Well, I guess gold and all that stuff are all right, but I’ll bet Mary really wished somebody had brought some diapers!”

Although the time of the actual arrival of the Wise Men is debated among scholars, the gifts they brought the Christ child are clear. Most shocking and perplexing is the gift one had the audacity to bring – myrrh. In ancient times, myrrh was a fragrant lotion or anointment that was closely identified with death and the unpleasant practice of embalming. At a glance, this seemed to be quite a gift-giving disaster of judgment. What would Miss Manners say about bringing such a grisly gift to a young couple celebrating the arrival of their firstborn? Knit booties, yes. Embalming fluid, no! Yet, this unidentified traveler from the east delivered a gift that accurately identified the real reason the child had come in the first place - Jesus came to die.

Nothing stirs up more emotion in the human mind as the volatile mixture of children and death. Children are the manifestation of life, energy and vibrancy. The two do not mix. Young ones seemingly are impervious to peril. Our blood turns cold when we hear about a child dying – a life cut short. The grief is immeasurable. Yet, make no mistakes about it, the central figure of nativity scenes across Solano County came to die a death and pay a penalty none of us could pay – individually or collectively.

My challenge to you is to stop and look closely at the nativity scene gracing your living room or lawn. No, really look at it. Peer beyond the lowing cattle, the bowing shepherds, the regal magi, the smiling parents and the swaddling clothes. I challenge you to see the nativity scene for what it really is – a divine rescue – evidence of sin’s devastation – evidence of a God’s amazing grace and unfailing love. In the manger is not just the sweet cuddly fodder of Hallmark cards. It’s so much more! In Bethlehem’s manger lays your sins and mine, my salvation and yours.

Merry Christmas!

Thanksgiving 2010

This Thanksgiving 2010, I’m grateful…

For a wife who still captivates me and lavishes and builds me with honor.

For children who draw in me fathomless depths of love, pride and joy.

For parents who in tandem expertly created colossal memories from miniscule words like ‘home’ and ‘family’.

For family members, near and far, who warm me in the ceaseless glow of belonging.

For friends who shimmer with loyalty and shower with levity.

For a congregation that faithfully and fearlessly embraces challenge and marches.

For a staff that reaches in with transparency, reaches up with expectancy, and reaches out with humility.

For an eternal Father who shepherds me.

For a risen Son who saved me.

For an indwelling Spirit who shapes me.

Simply put, I am a man rich beyond measure and blessed beyond human merit.

I’m grateful.

Pastor's Perspective - Spam, Pop Tarts & Life

It was a carnival alright, but there wasn’t much splendor in it.

This past weekend the cruise ship Carnival Splendor left Long Beach filled with passengers ready for adventure and excitement. They got both! An engine room fire caused all power in the floating luxury hotel to be lost. In other words, no propulsion, no hot water, no air conditioning, no lights, no usable elevators (on a 9-deck boat), no hot food, no casino, and worst of all, no hot coffee! Imagine backed-up toilets, pitch black interior cabins, and nothing but cold food. According to news reports, Navy helicopters flew in nutritional substitutes for the much-anticipated and well-advertised steak and lobster – Spam and Pop Tarts!

Today six tug boats pulled the ship into harbor in San Diego. According to honeymooner Sabrina Klinge, “It was supposed to be this beautiful cruise and it turned into a nightmare.”

Ever feel like Sabrina?

You had life well-planned and vividly envisioned. Your future was to be an excursion-filled and exotic succession of scheduled arrivals and glamorous photo opportunities. You fantasized about who you would share life’s cruise with, the financial freedom and abundance you would have on board, and the seamless ease you would experience. Life was meant to be a tropical boat ride, marked by pampering, indulgence, recreation, beauty, relaxation, convenience, momentum and motion. But instead, something happened below decks – somewhere, somehow. A phone call, a diagnosis, a notice, a pink slip, a ‘Dear John’, a knock on the door, a tragic suddenly, a weather anomaly, a drunken swerve, a scandal exposed, a note on the counter and an empty closet. Life was to be sirloin, not Spam!

Been there?

What I have found in my 47 years is, life is filled with personal engine room fires, resulting in powerlessness, disillusionment, and a whole lot of drifting.

Many sweet and sincere Christians out there try to make things better, but in actuality only make things worse. In the midst of smoldering emotional and physical disability, we come running with our self-righteous confectionized clichés like, “You’re too blessed to be depressed!” How inhumane. How utterly goofy! Jesus never gave bumper sticker advice. Instead, I read that He stopped, He sat, He touched, and He even cried. So often, because of our own uneasiness, though well-intentioned, we simply say the wrong stuff. I’m reminded that before the cross-examination by Job’s friends, the Bible tells us that for a week they simply sat with him on the ground during his extreme suffering. I think we represent Christ best when we simply sit and say little – cry with instead of explain.

Friends, I hate to break it to you, but in the middle of suffering, we as believers don’t have all of the answers. So, stop trying to be clever and pragmatic; like that will somehow dissolve all of the pain we see all around us in the world. Our job is to simply be real, to show love, and just be there. Suffering people don’t need our, “I know exactly what you’re going through”s. What they need is to know that they are not drifting alone.

Simply put - There are no quick packaged answers for a hurting world. We are frankly incapable of providing the thorough forensic report of why certain tragedies happen, though we love to espouse our theories. Likewise, we are blinded to how long another’s suffering will last. The only true answer and hope we can offer those powerless, those being violently tossed on life’s cruel and towering waves, is the cross of Jesus Christ.

The cross is God’s epic remedy and clarion call to our fallen and chaotic planet – “I see you. I haven’t forgotten you. I know what you’re going through. I care more deeply than you’ll ever know. I have made a way for you to overcome and have hope and courage in this life, no matter what you’re going through. I’m with you. I’ll never leave you. There’s more. There’s better. Trust me. I won’t let you down. I won’t let you go. I love you. My Son’s death is the evidence of my love for you.”

For many here in Solano County, life has turned from a beautiful cruise into a nightmare. As the church – the living, breathing, reaching, touching manifested Body of Christ – let’s offer the drifting masses more than clichés and three steps on how to overcome cruises gone bad! Let’s offer them us - our presence. Let’s offer them what we have received by faith – the grace and hope that comes only from an old rugged cross.

Pastor's Appreciation

I’m not sure if the same month we elevate ‘spooky’ and pastors has any connection! Typically, October is designated as ‘Pastor Appreciation Month’. I’m not sure where it began and how long it’s been around. Naturally, we as humans all like to be appreciated in some way or another now and then. Like most pastors I know, we believe we are divinely called to what we do, whether appreciated demonstratively or not. However, it does feel kinda warm and snuggly to know that what you pour your life into daily connects with somebody out there. We do what we do ultimately for the Lord and His glory, but a ‘That a boy’ now and then admittedly doesn’t hurt. We were people before we were ‘pastors’!

As I thought about ‘Pastor Appreciation Month’ 2010, I thought about the most overlooked and sometimes most undervalued and underappreciated demographic in our churches. Without this faithful group, there would be no pastor, much less a month to appreciate him in. That group I’m referring to is pastors’ wives. Clearly, without the continual love and prayers, encouragement, support and honest treasured advice from our spouses, we could never do what we do.

The Lord certainly knew what He was doing when He gave Michelle to me as my friend, wife, children’s mother, and cherished ministry partner. For years I’ve told so many, “I get the paycheck, but Chelle is the best minister in the family!” I believe that to be true even today. She not only is an amazing homeschooling mom of four, she runs our household with great efficiency, always has time for family and friends in need, juggles several ministry responsibilities at FCC seemingly effortlessly, and continues to be my greatest confidant and advisor. Over our many years together, she has proven time and time again that she is as reliable as the day is long. If there is anybody on this green garden planet who has my proverbial ‘back’, it’s my bride of almost seventeen years. She is my ‘Proverbs Thirty-One’ gal! Michelle will be the first to tell you, “I didn’t marry a preacher. I married a banker!” She’s right! However, her divine transformation from a banker’s wife in Tampa to a preacher’s wife in California has been her husband’s joy and sweetest gift, for which I will always be exceedingly grateful.

Simply put, anything appreciation-worthy this month is sweet – but must be shared. I could not do what I do without someone humbly and faithfully serving in the proverbial shadows. I know it, and I don’t acknowledge it nearly enough.

I once heard someone say, “Behind every great man is a great woman, laughing hysterically!” I’m certainly not a great man. Anything perceived as “great” is Christ in me. But one thing I do know, I have one great wife.

So, to all you amazing pastors’ wives out there, ‘Happy Pastor’s Appreciation Month!’ You’re the true heroes, and each congregation’s greatest blessings.

Pastor's Perspective - The Field of Solitude

Last Sunday I shared a message titled ‘Four Fields’. You can give it a listen at 1stchristianchurch.org, then Media, then Podcasts. I told our rain-soaked faithful that in preparation for the palace, God slowly and intentionally developed David’s heart in the fields of solitude, obscurity, monotony and humility. Late last month, I was reminded of the importance of time spent with our heavenly Father in the field of solitude. Let me tell you about it.

One year ago this month, the Lord put it on my heart to do something I’ve always wanted to do – write a book. He not only gave me the biblical text to write from, but through my amazing congregation’s loving generosity, a laptop to write it on! Since then I have taken two excursions alone to some dear friends’ cabin home in the Sierra foothills. Last month was one of those getaways. My plan was to string together a few days of marathon writing. However, my first morning there, God reminded me that His plans are far greater in purpose, and trump mine every single time.

My first morning waking up was a glorious one. The temperature outside had dipped dramatically, and the sound of a chattering squirrel outside my bedroom window was a welcomed alarm from my typical one back in Fairfield. My game plan was a simple one – eat a quick bowl of cereal, drink a couple of cups of black coffee, grab a quick chapter out of the Old Testament, and commence to pecking. As I ate and read about the prophet Samuel’s unwavering dedication to the Lord, I sensed God’s unmistakable presence move in around me. I moved my bowl aside, and lowered my head to the dining room table, bracing myself in fear and reverence. Over the course of the next few minutes I began to share my heart with the Father in a trickle of confession, repentance and soul-yearning. Before I knew it, the trickle was a fast-running stream, and within minutes Niagara. If anyone would have come in during that time they would have thought ‘He’s coming apart!’ yet, in reality, God was putting me back together.

After what seemed like an eternity, I looked up at the three empty chairs around the table in which I was sitting. In an unanticipated moment and revelation, I began to envision the chairs being filled, each with a divine member of the holy Triune. I leaned across the table at the chair at the head of the table opposite myself and began speaking openly to God the Father specifically. I acknowledged His greatness, His creativity, His power, His love and grace in overwhelming adoration. Thankfulness rose up high and loud. My worship then turned into confession and transparency, with sobs of sorrow, pleadings of restoration and grace. I then looked at the chair to my left, God the Father’s right, and began verbalizing my love and appreciation for His cross, and my regret for making my life and ministry at times about anything other than His life-giving death and resurrection; then allowing the joy of His salvation to wash over me. After a long period of time, I turned to the chair on my right. I thanked Him for His leading, His invaluable place in the Trinity, and acknowledged how desperately I needed Him, all while asking Him to forgive me for the many times I had grieved His holy character. Many more things happened at that table, frankly too holy to describe.

A few times I tried to lift myself from the table, but to no avail. After each tear was cried, every sin confessed, every desire verbalized, and my heart was fully yielded, over three hours had flown by. At that point I didn’t want to leave that place, that table, that seat. And then it all hit me. Friends, it was so obvious that I gave voice to it – “Father? This isn’t about a book is it? You just wanted time with me.” At that beautiful truth Niagara rushed again, at the reality that the Universe Creator mysteriously and scandalously, wanted to spend time alone - just with me. (I’m choking-up even now as I remember it.)

Friends, I know that a whole lot changed in me since that morning in the mountains. I don’t know everything that was done in me. All I do know is, I can’t get close enough to Him, through His Word and time in prayer. And, I’ve never been so excited about ministry! Even a few others have noticed that there is something new and renewed in me. I am certain that I would have never had that priceless exchange with my Father in the day-to-day routine of home and office. It required intentionally getting away and at least allowing Him the opportunity to speak and move.

David spent a lot of time alone with God. When nobody else seemed to really care or notice, his heart was being touched and deepened for the rich things of the Almighty. Only after serving faithfully in the field of solitude could he truly be ready for the palace.

Have you spent time alone with God lately?

Will you?

What's the Minimum?

"..I will not sacrifice to the Lord my God burnt offerings that cost me nothing." - 1 Kings 24:24b

We live in a society that wants much, but wants to only give the minimum to receive it. Here King David was offered something to give God that would cost him nothing; yet, his wisdom and relationship with the Lord detained him from doing the easy or convenient thing. David knew..

No sacrifice = No honor
No sacrifice = No blessing
No sacrifice = No personal growth

Just a reminder before Sunday that God deserves more than our freebies, leftovers and minimums. If we are to reflect authentic Kingdom ambassadorship, we've got to swim against the stream of societal norms and shift our thinking from "How little?" to "How much?"

The cross of Jesus Christ is proof that God is not a 'minimum' Giver!

Pastors Perspective - Rescued!

As I peck this, the rescue of 33 trapped Chilean miners continues. Last night I sat emotionally transfixed watching each miner emerging from his tomb of seventy days! The joy, elation and reuniting continues to be an international human interest event that none of us can ignore. After the initial cave-in back in early August, there was no word of any survivors for seventeen days. Then a note came from below informing the world that they were alive. For two and a half months these men kept their hopes alive and took amazing care of one another, sacrificing that they all might live.

As a pastor this story is rich with spiritual significance. At one time in all of our lives as Christians we were all trapped in the darkness of sin. Unlike the situation in Chile, our situation was not an accident, but deserved. Hopeless and helpless we wandered in the darkness, alive but in all reality, dead. Then a light shined into our lives. The note we received indicated that a rescue had already taken place in Jerusalem a long time ago, and that although we were dead, our divine Rescuer was alive, well and able to deliver us!

Another inspiring reminder from this event down in South America, is the way these men have taken care of one another. Some were older and weaker, but the stronger helped the less viral, ensuring that they all emerge alive together as they have. Over the course of seventy days, hope at times must have waned. Yet, they encouraged the floundering that help was on the way, that they could make it, and that better was just ahead. In other words, these miners did an exceptional job of reminding us in the church what it means to be the church.

Lastly, we as modern-day believers in Christ are reminded that like these miners we have each been set free.

Where were you when Jesus came to your rescue?

He came to me in despair, divorce, cancer, infidelity, infertility, rejection, isolation, depression, and trial. We don’t lack for deep and ominous mines do we?

Are you in any of those mines right now?

Maybe you’re trapped in addiction, grief or disillusionment.

Jesus knows where you are and He can rescue you, if you’ll let Him. No matter where you are and how long you’ve been trapped there, Christ wants to bring you from the darkness into His marvelous light!

Catalyst 2010

What an amazing time I had at Catalyst 2010 last week in Atlanta! Michelle and I were blessed to have Derrick and Sierra with us for an unforgettable experience. The focus was 'The Tension is Good.' We were refreshed, challenged, comforted, affirmed, rejuvenated, burdened, inspired, and stretched all within the scope of a few days. As a matter of fact, we've already pre-purchased our tix for next years event! Yep, its really that good. I'm hoping and praying that more from FCC will join us.

I'm glad to be back home. I really missed my kids and congregation. I'm so eager to implement within our amazing leadership team a vision that will bring Christ greater glory here in northern California. This is our generation and watch. Now is our time to reach and restore.

Pastor's Perspective - Easy Allegiance

"But I tell you who hear me: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you." - Luke 6:27

Who ever said that being an authentic disciple of Christ was 'easy'?

Jesus challenged those 'who hear', then and now, to do things that fly directly into the flightpath of our fallen flesh-focused nature.

Why?

Because He knew that to truly be His meant to imitate all that He taught and personally modeled throughout His earthly ministry - even on the Cross. Because He knew that grace is the anti-venom that destroys the bitter root of resentment we all tend to grow and feed. Because He knew that it would be amazingly difficult to hate people we pray for continuously. Because He knew some commands were so contrary to our flesh that it would require His direct help and intervention by the Spirit in order to succeed - leaving Him with all the glory.

Just a reminder, that being an authentic disciple of Jesus Christ isn't about easy - its about obedience! Easy allegiance is no allegiance at all.

Join us this Sunday to take 'The Right Step' - 9 & 11AM.

1stchristianchurch.org

Pastor's Perspective - Blameless

In the land of Uz there lived a man whose name was Job. This man was blameless and upright; he feared God and shunned evil. - Job 1:1

The Bible states that..
Job was blameless.
Noah was blameless.
Zechariah & Elizabeth were blameless.
David was blameless.
New Testament church leaders are called to be blameless.
Christians are called to be blameless.

Blameless = If someone brought an accusation against you, nobody would believe them.

Are you blameless?

Living blamelessly is a lifestyle - a walk - a consistency - "mundane" - yet precious to our heavenly Father.

Pastor's Perspective - Burned Biscuits

I received this from one of my dear sisters here at FCC, Linda House. The author is unknown. It was simply too good not to pass along. Enjoy it and let it be a timely reminder for all of us that graciousness is one of our strongest family resemblances in God’s big family.

When I was a kid, my Mom liked to make breakfast food for dinner every
now and then. And I remember one night in particular when she had made
breakfast after a long, hard day at work. On that evening so long ago,
my Mom placed a plate of eggs, sausage and extremely burned biscuits in
front of my dad. I remember waiting to see if anyone noticed! Yet all
my dad did was reach for his biscuit, smile at my Mom and ask me how my
day was at school. I don't remember what I told him that night, but I
do remember watching him smear butter and jelly on that biscuit and eat
every bite!

When I got up from the table that evening, I remember hearing my Mom
apologize to my dad for burning the biscuits. And I'll never forget
what he said: "Honey, I love burned biscuits."

Later that night, I went to kiss Daddy good night and I asked him if he
really liked his biscuits burned. He wrapped me in his arms and said,
"Your Momma put in a hard day at work today and she's real tired. And
besides - a little burned biscuit never hurt anyone."

Life is full of imperfect things and imperfect people. I'm not the
best at hardly anything, and I forget birthdays and anniversaries just
like everyone else. But what I've learned over the years is that
learning to accept each others faults - and choosing to celebrate each
others differences - is one of the most important keys to creating a
healthy, growing, and lasting relationship.

And that's my prayer for you today. That you will learn to take the
good, the bad, and the ugly parts of your life and lay them at the feet
of God. Because in the end, He's the only One who will be able to give
you a relationship where a burnt biscuit isn't a deal-breaker!

Pastor's Perspective - Righteous Anger

When Saul heard their words, the Spirit of God came upon him in power, and he burned with anger. - 1 Samuel 11:6

So many are deceived by the notion that the presence of the Holy Spirit in them and on them manifests in such a limited spectrum, and often in such self-blessing/edifying ways. In this instance, the same Spirit we have, caused Israel's first king to get a righteous indignation about something worth getting angry about.

Reminder: There are STILL things in our homes, communities, nation and world worth getting angry about.

Have you prayed lately that the Holy Spirit would provoke a righteous anger in you?

I dare you.

Pastor's Perspective - Who Do You Fear?

'Why do you honor your sons more than me by fattening yourselves on the choice parts of every offering made by my people Israel?' - 1 Samuel 2:29 NIV

In this verse God is speaking to Eli the high priest. Eli's two sons (Hophni & Phinehas) also served as priests in Shiloh with their elderly father. However, they were wicked and self-serving; taking the best of the offerings given by the people to God. Eli knew about their disobedience and irreverence for God and did absolutely nothing; resulting in his sons' deaths, and a family curse.

I'm (Steve) troubled by the fact that so many self-identified "Christian" parents deal with their children in fear instead of faith. Fear is playing the "what if" game. "What if I make my children go to church with me. Maybe they will resent me later." "What if I discipline my children sternly. They might hate me later in life." In contrast, faith is simply taking what God said in His Word at face-value and doing it "what if"-free!

When it comes to church attendance and biblical discipline, do you honor your children more than God?

Remember! God called you to be the parent. If you want your kids to honor God throughout their lives, it begins with you honoring Him.

I look back on the many times my parents made me go to church as a kid, and love them for it. I remember being disciplined many times as a child, and I'm a better man today for it.

Friends, God knows what He's doing! Fear Him more than your children. They'll thank you some day for it.

Pastor's Perspective - VIP Pass

For if, by the trespass of the one man, death reigned through that one man, how much more will those who receive God's abundant provision of grace and of the gift of righteousness reign in life through the one man, Jesus Christ. – Romans 5:17

On October 25th I joined 97,000 of my closest friends down in the Rose Bowl to enjoy one of my favorite bands on the planet – U2. A former church member, dear buddy, and Bono fanatic named Jeff Maclean had invited me to join him; and the opportunity to see the boys from Dublin was too intoxicating to pass up. Our seats were only seventeen rows up, directly across from the monstrous stage, in the middle of a section packed with young LA celebs. Before the concert began, Pastor Rick Warren rocked my night by stopping on our row for an unanticipated chat (a divine confirmation I’ve included in the ‘Introduction’ of the book I’m currently writing – Songs from the Pit).

About midway through the band’s exhilarating set, Jeff returned after making a pit stop upstairs, with a cat-that-ate-the-canary grin. While making his way back to our seats, a man he didn’t know stopped him and asked him if he would like a couple of VIP passes. Being a smart college boy from Florida, Jeff took .3 seconds to decide, and accepted! After high-fiving till our 40-something shoulders were dislocating, we flashed our lanyards at the field security dude, and like giddy teenagers again, watched the rest of the concert just two rows from the front of the stage, literally looking up to see the band. To cite one of the band’s songs – Magnificent.

That night as we left Pasadena, we couldn’t help but bask in what a great surprise the Lord had orchestrated for us. I believe God found great pleasure as our heavenly Father in providing two of His sons with a cool opportunity. Just being there in a record-breaking event would have been enough. But, if there is anything I’ve learned about my Father is that He is a lavishing parent with impeccable timing. In an effortless love gesture, He filled our hearts with gratitude, praise and a reminder of His reality and presence.

I love the above verse because it reminds me of that night. It reminds me that in one man, Jesus Christ, we are each offered an unmerited gift, that allows each member of humanity a VIP pass into God’s majestic eternal presence – if we’ll just believe – if we’ll just trust Him – if we’ll just take it!

Will you?

Have you?

Friends, I’m hungry for the day when I’ll stand before another stage - a throne – not for a band – but before the Lamb. Now that will be magnificent!

Pastor's Perspective - A Kind & Encouraging Letter

The following is a letter I recently received from an out-of-state guest who came our way a few weeks ago. It is a kind, encouraging and beautiful description of God's presence in our weekly gatherings, and the ministry excellence of those who serve with me. Thank you Gerald!


Pastor Steve,

I was recently working in Birds Landing, California and had a Sunday to explore the region. It was a grand day, full of sun and just cool enough for a jacket. I took the drive to San Francisco, went straight thru the beautiful downtown area and proceeded to the Golden Gate Bridge. There, I walked out on to that magnificent structure with thousands of other people and spent an hour or so just taking in the view, snapping several shots and even grabbed a sandwich to enjoy while I gazed. It is almost unbelievable what people were able to build so many years ago (1930’s) and is still awesome today. I then drove across the bridge and headed north to a State Park to see the California Redwoods that I had heard about all my life back in Illinois. The Parson Jones tree stood 310’ tall and was 1300 years old. It was so large that I had difficulty trying to take good pictures of it. The entire forest was filled with these giants, each one 3-4 times larger than any tree I had ever seen. Such a wonderful walk among nature, so quiet and the majestic trees were an unforgetable experience. It’s no wonder the native Americans thought they were of a holy design. I then drove by the Infineon Racetrack, such an exciting “road race” for us Nascar fans. I just couldn’t leave the area until I had seen this track that we in mid-America only hear about on Race-day.

The day had been absolutely fantastic, I really enjoyed all the sights and sounds of California but, the best part of the day happened earlier that morning in Suisun City at the First Christian Church (your church). I gathered with 100 strangers (brothers and sisters in Christ), as we worshipped the Lord through inspirational songs, we heard testimony from the song-leader about a trial in his life that was just too hard for most people to talk about, yet he and his family got through it with strength that only the Lord could provide. I watched the congregation pour out their hearts to Jesus in worship, praising Him, honoring God and allowing the Holy Spirit to work in their lives. God’s Spirit did “witness to our spirit” just as the Bible says. I saw people from many races and creeds come together under one roof, one house, one accord. We sang, we worshipped, we listened, we were taught, we were strengthened, we were glad. This time in my day meant more than all the rest combined. We surely serve an awesome God.

Gerald Brown

White Construction, Inc. - Indiana

Pastor's Perspective - Sky Stress

Like many of you, I’ve been thoroughly entertained by the recent media attention Steven Slater, a flight attendant with JetBlue, is receiving. While the actual investigation is still ongoing, this we do know – Broseph lost it! With an abrasion on his dome, profanity in his mouth, a microphone in one hand and a brew in the other, he slid into pop culture infamy. Apparently he had choked-down ‘the customer is always right’ for the very last time, and just flipped. Though I don’t endorse his actions, there is still enough uncrucified in me to somehow relate and live vicariously through this toe-headed sky dweller. Plus, I can relate through experience.

Back in the mid-80’s I was a flight attendant with the now defunct Eastern Airlines, based in Atlanta. After getting offers from TWA and American Airlines, I settled on Eastern because as a boy I idolized astronauts and former moon-orbiter Frank Borman was its CEO. Immature reasoning yes, but at twenty-two immaturity was my forte. I also chose the profession because I was single, unattached, loved meeting and serving people, and visiting exciting ports of call – at least that’s what I snowed my interviewers into believing. It worked! I packed my bags, left my hometown of Tampa in the rearview mirror and headed to General Sherman’s big trophy. There I quickly found that working in a speeding metal tube at 35,000 feet with the general public was anything but glamorous. With deregulation, airliners became just Greyhound buses with wings. The sex appeal of the sixties was over. I realized that truth working a packed breakfast flight up to Pittsburgh one morning. There were more passengers than time. Trays of half-eaten pancakes were being thrown at me in the galley to store before landing. I never did get all the maple syrup off of my cordovan loafers.

Like Steven Slater I had some high stress flights.

My very first flight was from Miami to Los Angeles as a trainee. Somewhere over Arizona the captain called me up to the cockpit and asked me to count every unused coffee filter bag on the wide body. Trained in flight school to do everything the captain asks, I responded obediently. Galley to galley I went. My stress level was peaking as I counted. While descending into the City of Angels, I reported the exact coffee bag count to a cockpit crew that by this time was laughing hysterically at me! Then it hit me. What in the world does the captain of an airliner need with that information?! After having a chuckle, they awarded my zeal and embarrassment by letting me sit in the cockpit jump seat for landing.

On my first trip out here to San Francisco, on our flight back to Atlanta our R3 door became dislodged on an A300 Airbus – my door of responsibility in an evacuation. Still in our climb out of the Bay Area, I had to remain calm, relocate passengers, and assure them everything would be just fine as we dumped tons of fuel over the Sierras to get down to a proper landing weight. We landed in San Francisco, where I immediately thought about a raise after my knees stopped knocking.

On one flight I had a passenger pass away, and had to pretend he was alive for a short period of time, so not to alarm surrounding passengers – not easy to do when the man was sitting under the movie screen! I did ask for a raise after that one.

And I’ll never forget the way the lady in first class screamed at and berated me when I accidentally spilled a plate of hot marinara-smothered noodles all over her beautiful white silk outfit. Did I mention we were flying into JFK and she was a New Yorker? After her, the most sadistic drill instructor would be Wilford Brimley.

I only gave flying three years of my life. Steven Slater did it a lot longer. I imagine, from my passenger point of view, the industry has only gotten more and more challenging over the years. So, I’m not throwing any rocks at him. He reached his limit and became story one on the Nightly News – not very admirable, but very human. So speaking as one fallible human being to a cyber world readership, let me encourage you to always try to walk a mile in someone else’s shoes before you cast a stone at them. If you’ll take the time to look down you’ll probably see a hint of maple syrup.

Pastor's Perspective - The Lighthouse

If I had a dollar for every time I used the term “If I had a dollar” I’d have a lot of dollars! Seriously, if I had a dollar for every time someone came into my office over the last six years and commented on my wall hanging, I’d have a sweet slush fund.

When we first came to FCC, my amazing wife helped me remodel my office (something I’m very ready to do again). We ventured over to Emeryville to the Mecca of affordable and contemporary furniture goodies and accessories – IKEA. There we found the print that I have looked at almost daily for over half a decade.

Practicing an open-door policy (except on my Tuesday sermon prep ‘cave days’), I enjoy the spontaneity of guests that drop in for a quick hug, “How’s it going?”, and prayer. Whether sitting or standing, guests always comment on at least one of two things – my many photographs of family and friends, and, the large print on my wall. “I love that. Is that a painting or a photograph? Did the guy in the picture survive? He looks so calm. I’d be scared to death. I think I’ve seen this print before. Really neat.” I have to admit, though it’s a fixture in my daily life as pastor, I still find myself looking at it with wonderment, especially the tiny figure standing near the railing. Tired of just nodding in agreement at my guest’s observations, I spent some time recently getting the cold hard facts. Thanks Google!

The debate of whether the image is a painting or photograph is now officially over. It is an actual photograph, taken by 58-year-old French photographer Jean Guichard. (Hey, wasn’t that Ricky Bobby’s nemesis?). Guichard is known internationally for his extensive interest in and collection of lighthouse images around the world. In 1989, in the middle of a fierce Atlantic tempest, he rented a helicopter and flew to photograph La Jument, a lighthouse built in 1911, 300 yards off of Ushant Island, off the coast of Brittany (northwestern France). Trapped in the lighthouse, along with several others, was operator Theodore Malgorne. Intrigued and thinking the sound was a rescue helicopter, Malgorne courageously opened the door and stepped outside near the railing. Seeing that it was not help, but instead a nosey photographer, he stepped back inside the lighthouse and closed the door just in time. A massive wave engulfed the 101-year old lighthouse, captured in seven sequential photographs worth checking out at www.alphapix.com/animvague.shtml#jument . To answer another guest question, the man was amazingly unharmed – but barely.

For years, I’ve thought, “That picture is a sermon. It’s a message my feeble words could never ever properly preach or convey.” It beautifully, but terrifyingly captures the ability to be shielded and safe in the midst of the worst tempest imaginable – an ever-present reality for many people I know, love and pastor.

Though I don’t think I could ever properly capture this image in a sermon, there is a Bible verse that captures Guichard’s famous frame perfectly – ‘The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe’ – Proverbs 18:10.

Friends, the name of the Lord is Jesus Christ. Only He offers you true peace inside as everything around you is crashing.

In the photo, He isn’t the angry wave, the helpless Malgorne, or the voyeuristic Guichard.

Jesus is the lighthouse.

Is He yours?

Pastor's Perspective - No More Vuvuzelas!

THE FOLLOWING IS A SNEAK PREVIEW OF MY ARTICLE APPEARING IN THE DAILY REPUBLIC THIS SUNDAY:

Dear Mr. Obama,

My solution to the current oil crisis in the Gulf of Mexico is a simple one. Melt every vuvuzela in South Africa into a heavy cap and lower over plume.

You’re welcome!

S. Kiefer
Northern California

Well, today is the big day! It’s the day when even the most nominal soccer fans will pull up a chair and adopt grass-stained terms like ‘pitch’, ‘boots’, ‘nil’ and ‘that’s a lovely ball’. Most will watch the standard popular television coverage, while conveniently assuring the Spanish coverage is one quick remote click away for the entertaining post-score “Goooooooaaaaaal!”. Likewise, sometime during the match, fathers nationwide will proudly remind their disinterested children of the time “daddy snuck one by the goalie” when he was about their age (Translation: He toe-balled a shot from point-blank range past another frightened child when the score was already out-of-hand.) Strap-on your shin guards kids, it’s the final match of the 2010 FIFA World Cup!

Growing up the grandson of an Adolf, and son of a Klaus, soccer was my earliest passion sport. Ample yellowing photos and Zapruder-quality footage evidence the fact that even while in a height-chair, soccer balls were being gently bounced off my soft-spot by happy (and slightly inebriated) German relatives. It worked! I played the sport all of my life with great pride, including high school and into my college years. My position of choice was goalkeeper. Why? I adored soccer, but I found something formidable and foul about it all – namely running! Plus, I liked wearing a different shirt than the rest of my roster mates. In the late 70’s I actually donned a London cabbie’s cap over my curly mullet (ie. ‘curllet’) while I played. I pray I’m in Heaven long before my children unearth the incriminating photos.

Admittedly, at 47 I’m a bit of a snobby soccer purist. I believe there are some nuances in the game that make Pele rumble! To me, soccer balls should still be patchy and black & white. No rings or fancy ovals – patches! Soccer cleats should only be one color – black. All other colors are an abomination – especially fluorescent tangerine sherbet. Likewise, goalkeeper shirts are supposed to be long-sleeved, and their shorts are to also be long, not Walt Frazier thigh-huggers. Lastly, from the stands, only the following four sounds are permissible: cheering, booing, whistling and singing. Horns of any type are red-card offenses! Personally, after today’s big match, I will miss those vuvuzela stadium horns like I miss a carbuncle lancing. The constant annoying droning might be an effective and more humane water-boarding alternative. After watching (listening to) my first match back on June 11, I voluntarily called the FBI and confessed my part in helping hide DB Cooper!

Okay Steve, you’re a pastor. Say something religious and profound.

Admittedly, when I hear those loud bee swarm horns, I’m soberly reminded of a challenging verse the Apostle Paul shared a long time ago – ‘If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal’ (1 Corinthians 13:1). My interpretation the last month would be something like this – ‘Steve, being a local pastor, preaching well, leading a growing congregation, and writing (semi-cogent) articles for the ‘Daily Republic’ are as meaningless and annoying as a blasting vuvuzela, if you don’t genuinely love people from your heart.’

Jesus shared and modeled that dazzle doesn’t win the day. Isaiah tells us that there was nothing physically magnetic about him (53:2). He was born and grew up in relative obscurity, a labor worker’s kid. His lifestyle for majesty was meager at best. Even in death, his tomb had all the ownership of rented bowling shoes. According to our competitive contemporary high-gloss standards, there was nothing dazzling about the lamb of God. However, what set Him apart and stratospherically above was his limitless supply of unbridled unconditional love! Simply put - Nobody loved the way Jesus loved. And for those in this day and age who take his ambassadorship seriously, no other quality or standard will suffice. Jesus said, “By this all men will know you are my disciples, if you love one another” (John 13:35). According to Jesus, love is our undeniable family resemblance and greatest evidence of his power and presence - not the highly-spiritualized trappings of the eyes and flesh.

The prophet Burt (Bacharach) said it best, ‘What the world needs now is love sweet love.’ This is the local clarion call and focus of many ministries in Solano County starting today as they kick-off the Fairfield-Suisun Cities of Love campaign; a refreshing ecumenical endeavor to simply love and serve the community in which the Lord has kindly and divinely placed us.

In closing, the Old Testament foretold about the Messiah (Christ) that, “A bruised reed he will not break, and a smoldering wick he will not snuff out..” (Isaiah 42:3). Just as in Jesus’ day, Solano County does not lack for bruised and smoldering people. Countless are bruised by hurts, habits and hang-ups – barely hanging on. Others are smoldering wicks, living in the reality of deep regret, remembering when their lives glowed with greater hope. Prophecy predicted it and Christ modeled it, by refusing to snap-off hanging reed lives and extinguishing dying ember realities. Instead, with action and effort he loved people right where they were, and changed their lives immeasurably forever.

As modern-day subjects of such a compassionate King, our mandate is to simply love people authentically with the heart and zeal of the Savior who first loved us – anything else is a droning vuvuzela powered by hot air.

It Starts with Us...ME!

Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a disgrace to any people. - Proverbs 14:34

As we talked about on Sunday, the church is the only hope for America. We must be the restorers of the breech through our return to righteousness. True national revival must begin in the body of Christ! We must see our vital role in restoration as more than mere church attendance. We must do 2 Chronicles 7:14. Our revival begins and happens as each of us experience the freedom only Jesus Christ offers. Its hard to help others when we are trapped beneath the rubble of accepted unrighteousness living.

As we get free individually, the church gets free. As the church gets free, it moves, changes and flavors lives, communities, states, and ultimately a nation. Therefore, the first step is taking a long honest look at the person in the mirror.

Remember, its not about government - its about the church. We've been waiting on Washington DC to change and do something; when the Bible tells us that Washington DC is waiting on us!

1stchristianchurch.org

Pastor's Perspective - 'Peace, Peace'

They dress the wound of my people as though it were not serious, 'Peace, peace,' they say, when there is no peace. - Jeremiah 6:14

In this verse God was expressing to the prophet Jeremiah His extreme displeasure with the religious leaders of that day. These shepherds preached a sugar-coated message - light on sin. Instead of leading the people with the black & white mandates of God, they instead followed the people and preached only the ear-tickling and non-offensive version. As Israel's great Shepherd, it burdened God that His undershepherds were not communicating and policing His holy standards. Therefore, His flock was lost, scattered and sick - and their leaders were to blame.

As a modern-day undershepherd, I'm appalled by colleagues who preach only 'Peace, peace,' when our churches and society are under spiritual assault and in turmoil. I see more preachers trying to be hip than holy; riding the wave of every evangelical fad ripping their way. And just like in Jeremiah's day, the sheep suffer and the Great Shepherd seethes.

Friends, whether it's 'cool' or not, there is still a heaven to gain and a hell to shun. There is good news to be shared; however, what makes the good news good news is its contrast with bad news. Jesus preached on the subject of sin - shouldnt we?

As church leaders in a seeker-friendly craze, let's refuse to forget that God has spoken - and He didnt stutter! Its not about the number on your attendance chart; its instead about courageous leadership sharing and living the truth consistently in love.

Remember, leaders who follow sheep stink. Just look at their shoes! Let's instead strive for 'beautiful feet' (Romans 10:15).

Pastor's Perspective - Getting Even

Do not take revenge, my friends, but leave room for God's wrath, for it is written: "It is mine to avenge; I will repay," says the Lord. - Romans 12:19

So many of us are consumed daily with the toxic thoughts and motivation of 'getting even'. Paul here tells his readers to get on with life; that part of believing in God is believing that He sees everything and that He is a God of perfect justice. The cross is proof that trespasses don't go unpunished in His spiritual economy.

So, if someone has offended you, step aside and let the Lord step in. You'll sleep a whole lot better tonight if you will.

Pastor's Perspective - Close Enough

'If you are pleased with me, teach me your ways so I may know you and continue to find favor with you..' - Exodus 33:13a

During my devotional reading yesterday, I found this beautiful little prayer by Moses. In it he expresses a deep heart-felt desire to know God more. Let's face it. He had already experienced the presence of the Lord in ways few every had before him - burning bush, ten plagues, sea dividing, manna from heaven. Yet, for Moses it wasn't enough.

Israel's great lawgiver knew that relationship with the Almighty didn't just happen passively; but that it took humility, intentionality, and an authentic hunger.He knew that if God could be sought, He could be found. In other words, he refused to let the opportunity to know a knowable God slip by!

What are you doing today to know God more?

What are you willing to do this week to press-in and learn His ways?

For you, how close to God is 'close enough'?

Pastor's Perspective - Surely This Man

And when the centurion, who stood there in front of Jesus, heard his cry and saw how he died, he said, "Surely this man was the Son of God!" - Mark 15:39

He had seen countless others agonize. He was well accustomed to the groans and cries; criminals in their last moments cursing angrily or groveling for sympathy with none to be found. To him this man was like all the others; a criminal, a thief, an insurgent, a threat against Roman colonized peace. To the centurion, the man on the middle cross just represented work, duty, nothing more. Yet, as the hours outside the tall Jerusalem wall passed, he observed something quite unusual from the stipes above him as he 'stood there in front of Jesus'. No cursing, instead forgiveness. No self, instead others. No faltering, instead focus. No helplessness, instead hope. No victimization, instead victory. No pointless, instead purpose; leaving the perplexed Roman with no other feasible conclusion other than - this man he just crucified was exactly who he said he was - the Son of God.

Have you intentionally stood in front of Jesus lately?

Observed through Scripture how He died?
What He said?
What He suffered?
How He responded?
What He offered?

I'm confident that if you will, you'll echo the same conclusion of this changed and quoted soldier from antiquity.

Pastor's Perspective - Shoe Leather Gospel

How beautiful on the mountains
are the feet of those who bring good news,
who proclaim peace,
who bring good tidings,
who proclaim salvation,
who say to Zion,
"Your God reigns!" - Isaiah 52:7

Year ago I heard an elderly preacher make the statement while holding his worn Bible aloft, "Folks, this is a shoe leather gospel." In other words, the good news of the grace Christ offers does not permeate humanity by some passive spiritual osmosis. It requires action, proactivity, surrender, availability and the willingness to go. That when Jesus said, "Go ye", He meant "Go ME" - and me going means motion.

Recently my wife Michelle took the above photo of her feet and our four youngest children's feet on the beach in Monterey. I love this image because I adore my family and yes, their feet! Everything about the five people in the photo is beautiful, appreciated and important to me. Their tootsies represent their uniqueness and attributes. Likewise, their feet represent their journeys, and our ability to do like together. I simply love their feet.

Paul reminds us in Romans 10:15 that there is another Father who loves His children's feet - especially when those feet are moving cooperatively with His Spirit to make a difference in our various communities; sharing with them the love and message of Jesus Christ.

So, what do your feet look like?

Pedicures are helpful, but humble obedience to share this hope-giving good news, according to the Bible, makes them beautiful! Ours is a 'shoe leather gospel'.

Join us this Sunday at 9 & 11am.

1stchristianchurch.org

Pastor's Perspective - Ancient Longings

For I tell you the truth, many prophets and righteous men longed to see what you see but did not see it, and to hear what you hear but did not hear it. - (Jesus) - Matthew 13:17 NIV

As modern-day believers, we are abundantly blessed. We have the full and infallible story of Christ's incarnation, earthly ministry, redemptive work on the cross, resurrection, and present ministry as exalted high priest. Similarly, we have the narrative accounts of the proliferation and actions of the first century church. In other words, we possess the fullest story of the good news! Simply put, our Bibles are canonical gifts, gifts that we too often approach with great casualness. However, Jesus here reminded His followers then, and now, that many faithful people before them/us died in faith, looking forward to the advent, ministry and reign of a promised King and kingdom like no other. They lived with great hope and anticipation of the truths and events we so often take for granted - evidenced by dusty unopened Bibles.

Let me ask you..
What are you doing about what you've seen?
What are you doing about what you've heard?
How about with what you've read and experienced firsthand?

Friends, what the ancients longed for, we have experienced!

Let's honor Christ and the inspiring anticipating faith of the ancients together. We've have the good news! Share it with someone today.

What is a demon? Can a Christian be demon-possessed?
Throughout the gospel accounts, Jesus had several power-encounters with demons. This Sunday I'll be sharing a message about spiritual warfare titled 'Know Your Enemy'. Hope to see you at 9 or 11am!

Please pray for our Mexico team currently on the field.

1stchristianchurch.org

Pastor's Perspective - "Mother Nature"?

"Do you hunt the prey for the lioness
and satisfy the hunger of the lions

when they crouch in their dens
or lie in wait in a thicket?

Who provides food for the raven
when its young cry out to God
and wander about for lack of food?
"Do you know when the mountain goats give birth?
Do you watch when the doe bears her fawn?

Do you count the months till they bear?
Do you know the time they give birth? - Job 38:39-39:2 NIV

Just a friendly reminder before you take your well-deserved summer vacation -

"Mother Nature" does not exist. Never did.

"Mother Nature" is really GOD!

Let's give Him directly, by name, the honor, praise and appreciation for the works and genius of His hand.

1stchristianchurch.org

Pastor's Perspective - Stuff I've Never Seen

I was young and now I am old, yet I have never see the righteous forsaken or their children begging bread. - (David) Psalm 37:25

Righteousness is God's standard for a holy life. The only way to acquire and live a holy life is to give God our unrighteousness and exchange it for the righteousness of His Son - Jesus Christ - which He freely offers each of us today through His cross. Through that adoption process, we become children of the Most High God; a grace that guarantees His guarded loving care.

David reminds us here that righteousness comes with an amazing benefits package! The Lord will not forsake the righteous or abandon us in our time of need. To do it would violate His character, something impossible for Him do. His love is unchanging and never fails!

Bottom-line: God cares about you - and you are absolutely helpless to do anything about it!

Pastor's Perspective - So Who Are You Wearing?

Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. - Colossians 3:12

What look are you sporting these days?

It's hilarious to me how the fashion fads of my youth have come back full circle. The bushy bangy Efronian hair? I rocked that in the 70's; not because it was cool, but because hair gel hadn't been invented yet! Likewise I wore those hip concert t-shirts of legendary bands you find at Old Navy, not because it was faddish, but because I actually saved my money, bought tickets and went to the concerts! Jeans, watch/wristbands, sneakers, sunglasses - nothing new under the sun Solomon.

Though fads are obviously cyclical, there is a look that every follower of Jesus Christ should sport that never goes out of fashion - the garments and accessories of compassion, kindness, gentleness and patience - the trend He started and the look He rocked.

So, what look are you sporting these days? Do you need a Colossians 3:12 makeover?

Why not start today? Heaven will dig it there, people need it here, and it won't break your bank account!

Pastor's Perspective - Ready Reserve

You also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him. - (Jesus) - Luke 12:40

Back in the mid-80's I flew for (the now defunct) Eastern Airlines in Atlanta. As a junior person straight out of flight school, I lived on 'ready reserve' several times a month. Ready Reserve was the status by which during certain specified days, from the time the airline called me, I had exactly 50 minutes to be at the airport and ready to go. So, on those days, I ensured that my flight bag was properly packed, I was well-groomed, my business at home was up-to-date, and that I was never disconnected from Eastern's ability to reach me - pagers back then. As a much younger version of me, I actually liked those ready reserve days. There was the constant adventure of wondering, 'When will I be called? " and "Where in North America will I be resting my head tonight?"

Here in Luke's gospel, Jesus instructs us to live life on 'ready reserve'. To be ready to travel, to be responsible and have our business updated here below, and to stay well-connected to Him. The difference for us as believers is, every day is a ready reserve day.

Are you ready to travel?

Only lives authentically connected to Jesus Christ truly are.

The great news is, if you are living every day on ready reserve, you can know where you'll lay your head tonight!

Pastor's Perspective - Almost Persuaded

As Paul discoursed on righteousness, self-control and the judgment to come, Felix was afraid and said, "That's enough for now! You may leave. When I find it convenient, I will send for you." - Acts 24:25

As a child growing up in the church, I remember singing an old hymn titled 'Almost Persuaded', a classic about procrastination. In Acts 24 we read about the poster boy for feet-dragging, a guy named Felix. We learn that as the apostle Paul began to share the message of truth and grace with him, Felix became very uncomfortable and used his authority to simply dismiss the imprisoned apostle.

As teachers of the Word, we sometimes hear comments like, "That really stepped on my toes", or "You must be reading my mail". This typically and humorously indicates that the Holy Spirit masterfully played His part and bridged truth with a human heart, oftentimes resulting in a sense of conviction and discomfort. Governor Felix was confronted by Paul's message and instead of allowing the sword of the Spirit to penetrate his heart and begin a new and exciting chapter of a lifetime, he cut and ran.

Friends, let me remind you that there is truth; and that truth sometimes can be confrontational. Jesus said that He came not to bring peace but a sword! In other words, to appreciate the 'good news',we first need to stand face-to-face with the bad news - that we're on a dead end road.

If you're experiencing a strong sense of discomfort and conviction when you hear the truths of the Bible shared, don't run like Felix! That toe pressure most likely is the Spirit of the Lord proving His strong love for you and His divine desire to lead you into a new relationship with God the Father through Jesus Christ the Son.

What a tragic epitaph for any of us - 'Almost Persuaded'. Stop procrastinating and yield today! God loves you and there's nothing you can do about it.

Pastor's Perspective - Lay Hold of It!

'From the days of John the Baptist until now, the kingdom of heaven has been forcefully advancing, and forceful men lay hold of it'. - (Jesus) - Matthew 11:12 (NIV). The King James states it this way - 'the violent take it by force'.

Ever associate being a Christian with the words 'forceful' or 'violent'?

I would assume that you would most likely associate being a modern-day believer with the words 'loving', 'gracious' and 'gentle'. However, here in the very first gospel, Jesus Himself said that His kingdom does just happen passively. Instead, its advancement comes with great resistance; and only those aggressive and passionate about it advance its hope-giving torch. This requires power, vigor, determination and courage in every believer in every congregation.

As I shared with both audiences on Sunday, this gospel is NOT about a mamby pamby Jesus, requiring a mamby pamby allegiance. Its about full unashamed dedication - not for the faint of heart, but the strong of Spirit.

Remember,for Christ and us today, the cross of suffering comes BEFORE the resurrection!

Pastor's Perspective - The Quicksand of Idolatry

'Go and cry out to the gods you have chosen. Let them save you when you are in trouble!' - Judges 10:14

Dateline Suisun City June 2010: God STILL hates idolatry.

The very first of the 'ten commandments' was/is - 'You shall have no other gods before (besides) me.' (Ex. 20:3). From the very beginning our heavenly Father has hated and warned us against the lethal trap of idolatry in its many forms. Idolatry is placing our dependence, satisfaction, fulfillment, worship and sense of well-being in anything created. Since God is the one and only non-created being/entity, He is the only One worthy of our gratitude and adoration. Only He can give us what we need the most in life. Whenever we put those needs in a person, place or thing other than God (ie. created things), its called idolatry - and God STILL hates it.

Are you looking to another person for your daily joy? Maybe a spouse?
Are you placing your sense of self-worth in a career or paycheck?
Are you devoting the best of your time, talents and resources to a hobby?

Reminder: People, spouses, careers, paychecks & hobbies are ALL created things. Each is incapable of delivering your deepest needs.

The Lord Himself reminds us here in Judges 10, only HE can help us stand in the predictable times of challenge that come our way. All other ground is quicksand.

Join us this Sunday at FCC @ 9 & 11AM!

1stchristianchurch.org

Pastor's Perspective - One Step from Perfect

“I thought he beat the throw. I was convinced he beat the throw, until I saw the replay.” These were the humble post-game words of 54-year-old veteran umpire Jim Joyce last night, after admittedly missing a vital call, in what is certainly popular water cooler talk today for even nominal sports fans.

Last night the Detroit Tigers sent starting pitcher Armando Galarraga to the hill to face the Cleveland Indians. Up until the final inning, the 28-year-old was pitching a perfect game. A perfect game is one resulting in the other team going hitless; a feat only accomplished by 20 pitchers since Cy Young did it first in 1904.

On a routine ground ball throw to first base, Joyce called Cleveland’s Jason Donald safe. As clearly seen on replay, Donald was one step from the base – a clearly missed call. As the stadium erupted in boos, Galarraga’s perfect game came to an abrupt and controversial end. Joyce emphatically said he was wrong and later in tears hugged Galarraga and apologized. The pitcher forgave him and was very gracious.

During today’s game, in the spirit of forgiveness, Galarraga brought his team’s lineup card to Joyce who was the home-plate umpire. The two shook hands, as the Tiger fans applauded wildly. Joyce was clearly tearful by the kind gesture. Tigers manager Jim Leyland said afterward, “This is a day for Detroit to shine.”

As a communicator of biblical truths, I found this story to be one rich in metaphor; one transcending sports and simple human interest. It’s a story about how we strive for perfection, and how short we fall – sometimes due to the faults of others. It’s a story of guilt being acknowledged and confessed, setting the table for forgiveness and graciousness to be served-up almost scandalously. It’s a story of life, falleness and redemption.

Paul the apostle wrote, ‘God made him who had no sin (Jesus Christ) to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.’ (2 Corinthians 5:21). Righteousness means God’s standard for a holy life. Although we strive for perfection, we all fail miserably! We came into the game spiritually injured, unable to pitch a perfect God-pleasing life. We all desire to be good enough and acceptable to God, usually resulting in outward expressions of charity, benevolence and goodwill. In our efforts to be compatible with His holiness, we conveniently don religious masks, adopt our own code language (Christianese), and paste on the veneer of righteousness. However, no true heart change or transformation takes place. This religiosity results in pride, segregation, isolation, and an unyielding spirit – the spirit of the Pharisees – a spirit openly condemned by Jesus.

Friends, God knows you’re not perfect. Do us all a favor and take off the mask and drop the King James dialect! He knows that you came into the world with a nature that is carnal and self-seeking. He knows that no matter how hard you try to climb up his standard ladder, you’d slide down awkwardly in a heap. God knows you’re not perfect. That’s why He did all the perfect stuff for you! Before any of us were born, and destined to languish hopelessly in our separation from Him, God sent His Son Jesus Christ to do for us something we could never do for ourselves – satisfy God’s standard of justice. And according to Paul, when we personally put our trust and obedience in His completed work on the cross, we get His right-standing before God – we get His perfection – our sinfulness and incompatibility for His sinlessness and compatibility. In Christ, we get perfection. In Christ we get righteousness!

Listen.

With the help of an embarrassed umpire, Armando Galarraga missed perfection by one base runner’s step.

With the grace of God displayed through a bloody cross, you can gain perfect righteousness with one step. That one step is to do with God what Jim Joyce did with a forgiving pitcher last night – confess your guilt and say you’re sorry. God won’t forgive what we won’t own. The good news is He never turns away those who come to Him with a contrite and unmasked heart.

Why not get your name on God’s lineup card today? We’ve all blown the call. But in Jesus Christ alone, we can experience authentic restoration, His perfect rightstanding with God, and the wild applause of Heaven.

This is a day for Jesus to shine - through you.

Pastor's Perspective - They're Not Ready

Last week I watched a very moving documentary online called ‘Beyond the Gates of Splendor’. I highly recommend everyone watch it (available on hulu.com) This 2002 film told the story of five American missionaries and their families who back in the 1950’s attempted to share the good news message of Jesus Christ with a remote and unreached people group – the Waodani of Ecuador.

Through a strong fraternity of faith, a mutual calling, and great courage, these young missionaries left their comfortable and promising careers in the US and relocated their families to the harsh Ecuadorian jungle. With passion and creativity they located and made contact with a tribe known worldwide for their violence, toward each other and especially foreigners.

After making contact expressing their goodwill, and having that goodwill reciprocated, the five missionaries took the ultimate leap of faith and landed on a small strip of river beach in January 1956. While their young families prayed and anxiously waited in their jungle homes, the men experienced positive contact initially with the indigenous tribe. However, hope suddenly waned, when the plane and radio contact did not return. An international story quickly developed and a group from Life Magazine was hurriedly dispatched to Ecuador to cover the story. There they found the speared bodies of the missionaries in the riverbed.

For me personally, the most moving part of the documentary was when it was revealed that the missionaries had several loaded guns with them. However, they made it abundantly clear to their families before leaving that if attacked by the Waodani, they would not use them. Their simple and haunting explanation? “They’re not ready for Heaven; and we are.”

Friends, the Apostle Paul wrote, “I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.” (Galatians 2:20) Paul was expressing something riveting – that he was already dead! In other words, the old Paul, with his old selfish and sinful nature and agenda was deceased, and the new Christ-indwelt Paul was on the scene – fully alive in Christ.

These five brave missionaries all realized some things we as modern-day believers sometime forget – that lost people matter greatly to our King; that comfort cannot be our objective in life; that if you’re truly new in Christ (ie. the old self is dead), His mission and story are the greatest things worth living, and yes, dying for.

Who around you is not ready for Heaven?

Remember! Dead folks don’t fear death any more, and care nothing about rejection and their reputations. Bottom-line: You can’t really kill somebody already dead.

Well are you?

Pastor's Perspective - Draft Picks

The NFL Draft begins today.

As you know, this is the time of the year when all 32 professional football teams, after months of scouting, film-watching, bowl-attending, combines, campus visits, and interviews, offer their official invitations to the best college players in the country. After accessing their individual team needs, the teams analyze the best players “on the board” to meet those positional needs. After agreeing on each of their selections, that player is contacted, announced and celebrated.

I can only imagine what the folks two thousand years ago thought of the tiny team Jesus assembled. Personally, I would have never chosen the twelve He chose with my dozen draft picks. First of all, I would have never had two brother combinations. Family issues can get so messy sometimes. Plus, one set of brothers were known as ‘sons of thunder’ – hot-heads! Likewise, I would have never selected a tax collector with one of my picks. They were already despised. Who needs that kind of locker room headache? To augment team friction, let’s throw in a zealot! Hating all things Roman, he would have especially hated the tax man – a pawn for the emperor. To add to that, Jesus’ team seemed a bit fishermen-heavy for my likes. One guy was a doubter. One fella was a bit of a snob, prejudiced about anything good coming out of certain villages. And one saw through dollar sign lenses. No thank you! Jesus, what were you thinking? I’ll give you a D+ grade at best for the utilization of your draft picks. Didn’t you analyze their scouting reports?

Recently I pulled-up my old ‘Scouting Report’:
Steve Kiefer. 5’10” 190lbs. Johnson Bible College (Knoxville).
Continually struggles with impatience, pride, impulsiveness, inconsistency, frustration, stress, prioritization, resentment.
Married twice. Divorce and infidelity discovered in family history.
Early history of drugs, alcohol, sexual misconduct, multiple regrettable episodes.
Recommendation: Not worthy of a draft pick. Too damaged. A liability. A reach.

For three consecutive seasons, each of Jesus’ selected teammates drew penalties and fumbled the ball frequently; yet, all, except for one, eventually died for their coach and team leader and performed and played splendidly for His glory.

Let me remind you that Jesus is still assembling a team! He isn’t looking for perfect, cleaned-up, highly-projected personnel with impeccable credentials. Nor is He looking for flash, pedigree, IQ, media good-looks or self-confidence. Instead, He’s looking for the ones most often overlooked – the down & outers – the rejected – the injured – the weary – the disillusioned - the humble – the “real”.

Friends, let me remind you that only God’s grace destroys your old scouting report and replaces it with a team jersey and starting position.

Are you currently on His team? If not, there’s room on the active roster just for you. Announce it today and start a celebration!