Pastor's Perspective - A Baby's Hug

Dear FCC Family & Friends,

In the hustle and bustle of another tinseled Christmas season, are you struggling to get into the proper spirit? Maybe this story sent my way by my dear friend and former secretary Gena Mitchell will help you as it helped me. By the way, you’ll need about three minutes and about that many tissues. Merry Christmas ~

A Baby's Hug

We were the only family with children in the restaurant.. I sat Erik in a high chair and noticed everyone was quietly sitting and talking.

Suddenly, Erik squealed with glee and said, "Hi." He pounded his fat baby hands on the high chair tray. His eyes were crinkled in laughter and his mouth was bared in a toothless grin, as he wriggled and giggled with merriment..
I looked around and saw the source of his merriment. It was a man whose pants were baggy with a zipper at half-mast and his toes poked out of would-be shoes. His shirt was dirty and his hair was uncombed and unwashed. His whiskers were too short to be called a beard and his nose was so varicose it looked like a road map. We were too far from him to smell, but I was sure he smelled. His hands waved and flapped on loose wrists.
"Hi there, baby; Hi there, big boy. I see! ya, buster," the man said to Erik.
My husband and I exchanged looks, "What do we do?"
Erik continued to laugh and answer, "Hi" .
Everyone in the restaurant noticed and looked at us and then at the man ..
The old geezer was creating a nuisance with my beautiful baby.
Our meal came and the man began shouting from across the room, "Do ya patty cake? Do you know peek-a-boo? Hey, look, he knows peek-a-boo."
Nobody thought the old man was cute. He was obviously drunk.
My husband and I were embarrassed. We ate in silence - all except for Erik, who was running through his repertoire for the admiring skidrow bum, who in turn, reciprocated with his cute comments. We finally got through the meal and headed for the door.
My husband went to pay the check and told me to meet him in the parking lot.
The old man sat poised between me and the door. "Lord, just let me out of here before he speaks to me or Erik," I prayed.

As I drew closer to the man, I turned my back trying to sidestep him and avoid any air he might be breathing. As I did, Erik leaned over my arm, reaching with both arms in a baby's "pick-me-up" position. Before I could stop him, Erik had propelled himself from my arms to the man's.
Suddenly a very old smelly man and a very young baby consummated their love and kinship... Erik in an act of total trust, love, and submission laid his tiny head upon the man's ragged shoulder. The man's eyes closed, and I saw tears hover beneath his lashes. His aged hands full of grime, pain, and hard
labor, cradled my baby's bottom and stroked his back.
No two beings have ever loved so deeply for so short a time. I stood awestruck. The old man rocked and cradled Erik in his arms and his eyes opened and set squarely on mine. He said in a firm commanding voice, "You take care of this baby."
Somehow I managed, "I will," from a throat that contained a stone.
He pried Erik from his chest, lovingly and longingly, as though he were in pain. I received my baby, and the man said, "God bless you, ma'am, you've given me my Christmas gift."

I said nothing more than a muttered thanks.
With Erik in my arms, I ran for the car. My husband was wondering why I was crying and holding Erik so tightly, and why I was saying, "My God, my God, forgive me."
I had just witnessed Christ's love shown through the innocence of a tiny child who saw no sin, who made no judgment; a child who saw a soul, and a mother who saw a suit of clothes. I was a Christian who was blind, holding a child who was not.
I felt it was God asking, "Are you willing to share your son for a moment?" when He shared His for all eternity.

The ragged old man, unwittingly, had reminded me, "To enter the Kingdom of God, we must become as little children."

Live Simply & Contently.
Love Generously.
Care Deeply.
Speak Kindly.
And leave the Rest to God.

In the Fight To Be An Erik,

Steve Kiefer

Pastor's Perspective - A True Know-It-All!

Dear FCC Family & Friends,

Recently I have been reading and re-reading a classical work titled ‘The Knowledge of the Holy’ by A.W. Tozer – a thin and affordable book I highly recommend for anyone eager to acquaint themselves with the true majesty of God.

In his text Tozer reminds us that the Lord is omniscient. In other words, He possesses perfect knowledge. He knows all that can be known. He knows instantly and with a fullness of perfection everything that exists or could have existed anywhere in the universe at any time in the past or that may exist in the centuries or ages yet unborn!

Does that truth about God trouble you or soothe you?

Every one of us has a strong desire – no exceptions. You and I want to be fully known, and, to be loved unconditionally by the one who fully knows us – the building blocks of truest intimacy. Yet, many of us live in fear of disclosure of weaknesses and ghosts and injuries from our pasts. Therefore, it is the satisfaction of every yearning soul to read that “There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love” (1 John 4:18). Friends, only Jesus knows you fully with perfect knowledge and loves you unconditionally – and tells us not to be afraid – because He has already taken our punishment!

In closing listen to Tozer’s encapsulation of the knowledge, love and acceptance God offers every member of the human family – “…how utterly sweet is the knowledge that our Heavenly Father knows us completely. No talebearer can inform on us, no enemy can make an accusation stick; no forgotten skeleton can come tumbling out of some hidden closet to abash us and expose our past; no unsuspected weakness in our characters can come to light to turn God away from us, since He knew us utterly before we knew Him and called us to Himself in the full knowledge of everything that was against us.”

Anybody else smile after reading that?

Now THAT’S a Redeemer worth loving, worshiping and serving!

In the Fight,

Steve Kiefer

Pastor's Perspective - Who Are You Wearing?

Dear FCC Family & Friends,

So, what are you wearing tonight?

If your young ones are anything like mine, they woke up this morning excited about donning their costumes and knocking on doors as soon as possible. Emma, 9, is going as Princess Lea. Sam, 7, is a policeman. Abi, 7, is a hippy. And, Lily, 6, is Dorothy from the Wizard of Oz this year. Adorable!

Some of you are in businesses that require that you dress up today. While I was in the banking biz I dreaded this day. One year I came to work as a cowboy and felt crunchy all day long. It’s hard to talk to Mr. Smith about his investments when he keeps glancing up at your Stetson!

Did you hear about the drunk Halloween reveler in Germany who got mistaken for a corpse? Apparently a 24-year-old dressed very realistically as a zombie passed out on a train trying to get home and was unresponsive. Fellow passengers thought he had been murdered! The police were called in and quickly put two and two together. He was ordered to wipe off his make-up and continue his journey.

So, what are you wearing tonight? Paul told the Roman believers in 13:14 to “Clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ.”

The apostle was not challenging his ancient and modern readers to put on a Jesus costume, or just act like Jesus. Instead, he was challenging them to let the authentic life-changes that Jesus makes on the inside outside!

So, more importantly than ‘WHAT are you wearing’ is the question – WHO are you wearing tonight? Let’s humbly remove all doubt of who we belong to and what He is doing in our lives. Despite changing fads and trends – wearing Jesus is always fashionable. He’s the Designer of designers!

In the Fight,

Steve

Pastor's Perspective - Walking By Faith

Dear FCC Family & Friends,

Today the Lord showed me through a child the simplicity of what life and responding to challenges is all about. I couldn’t wait to share it with you.

Each Monday morning I take our six-year-old Lily to an appointment in Fairfield, while Michelle stays home to teach the other three. It’s always a kick just to spend that daddy and Lily time together. Sometimes we sing silly songs. Sometimes we talk about life and friends. Sometimes she pretends she’s asleep, knowing I’ll wake her with a good tickle at the next stop light. One thing is quite predictable. She always turns her seat warmer up to the maximum resulting in a playful phenomenon we affectionately call “hot bootie”! Guess you gotta be there.

Another thing is predictable. As we walk through the parking lot Lily always reaches up and holds my hand. This morning as were walking I looked down to see that Lily had her eyes closed as we walked, something she had never done before.

“Lily, your eyes are closed. Are they really shut?”
“Uh-hum”
“Why are they closed?”
“I trust you.”
“Aren’t you afraid of the moving cars around us?”
“No.”
“What if I walked you right into a curb?”
“You wouldn’t.”
“Why Lil?”
“Because Daddy, you’ve never done that before.”
“Okay then. Do you trust me to lead you through the door up ahead?”
“Uh-hum”
“Sure your eyes are shut?”
“Uh-hum”

When we walked into the building I looked down at her sweet blonde head and said, “Lily, open your eyes!” As she did an angelic smile swept across her face as she jumped up and down . “See Daddy, I knew I could trust you! You never let go.”

Friends, as we walk through the short breadth of this thing called life, many challenges abound. Sometimes unexpectedly like a car quickly backing up across our path comes the report of loss, diagnosis, devastation. Sometimes like hard jagged curbs come hardships, challenge, disillusionment, memories, heartache and personal pain. Yet through it all, our Father never releases our hand, but instead encourages us to walk by faith, to trust Him in the darkness. Although His track record of hand-holding is impeccable, we sometimes stumble in our assessment of His ability to lead us through. Yet, He continues to prove His unconditional father’s love for us daily.

Someday in every future of every person reading this who has put their trust in Jesus Christ, a time will come when suddenly the things of earth will fade away. All of its toils and snares will be a fast-fading memory. Ripped away forever will be our blindness in a place brilliant with the illumination of a Savior’s face. You’ll realize in a second that He not only made this place available to you, He personally held your hand and led you every step of the way until you were safely inside. Can’t you just hear His voice now? – “Open your eyes.” And throughout all eternity, you and I will celebrate an everlasting and unfading song of truth with the Redeemed – “Daddy, we knew we could trust you! You never let go.”

In the Fight,

Steve

Pastor's Perspective - Love Without Limits

Dear FCC Family & Friends,

The following is a high-impact story that Nicky Peterson sent my way. Though a bit lengthy, it’s well worth the read. This true account of grace in-action was found in the July 2007 issue of ‘In Touch Magazine’ and was written by Shannon Ethridge and Gary Jarstfer, two people whose lives intersected and changed forever through a devastating accident. My prayer is that it will move you deeply, and closer to the heart of our Father – a love without limits.

Shannon’s Story
It was early Wednesday morning, August 29, 1984. I kissed my mom goodbye and tossed my books and pompoms into the backseat of my little brown Plymouth Champ. It was the third day of my junior year at Greenville High School, but I never made it to school that morning. After driving a few miles down the country highway that led to the interstate, I reached for my lipstick and adjusted the rearview mirror for a quick application. Suddenly, I caught a glimpse of something moving, then felt my car jolt suddenly. Maybe it’s a farm animal out of its pasture, I thought. But I had a sinking feeling it was something much worse.

I got out of the car and ran to the back to see what I’d hit. The body of a curly haired woman was lying face down in the grass next to a mangled bicycle.
I began to tremble. I was about to turn her over to see if I could help her somehow, but I knew I had to call an ambulance immediately and couldn’t waste precious time.
Still in shock, I raced to a nearby house and begged to use the phone. I made two calls: first 911, and then my mom. “Just drive down the road until you see my car,” I told her. I couldn’t bring myself to say anything else.
As my mother and I waited with the unconscious woman for what seemed like eternity, despairing thoughts ran through my head. She’s probably someone’s mother . . . someone’s daughter . . . someone’s wife . . . how will I ever face her family after what I’ve done?
Forty-five minutes later, the ambulance finally arrived. “We’ll have to call a funeral home ambulance,” the paramedic said coldly. “She was probably killed on impact. There’s nothing I can do.”
As we left the surreal scene, I realized I still didn’t know the name of the woman whose life I’d just taken. But then a few hours later, I got a call from a man who introduced himself as Jerry Speight. “I live next door to Marjorie Jarstfer and her family,” he told me. “When I found out what happened, my pastor and I drove over together to tell Gary, Marjorie’s husband.” My heart sank. Marjorie’s family now knew what I’d done. They probably want me dead too. I’d already thought about killing myself anyway.
But Jerry went on. “I want you to know that the first thing Gary said was, ‘How is the girl? Was she hurt? Does she know it’s not her fault?’”
I couldn’t believe what I was hearing. How could his first response be concern for me, the one responsible for his loss?
“Gary wants you to come to his home tomorrow evening,” said Jerry. “He wants your families to meet one another.” How could I say no? But I dreaded the thought of such a meeting.

As I walked through the front door of the Jarstfer home the following day, I felt as if I was about to face a firing squad. But the next moment, I was stopped dead in my tracks. A big, burly middle-aged man was coming toward me—with his arms wide open.
There wasn’t even a trace of animosity in his eyes. Immediately I began bawling, and Gary gathered me into his arms, holding me tightly as my tears soaked his flannel shirt. “I am so sorry!” I kept repeating over and over. “I am so sorry!”
Gary ushered me into the living room and sat me down in a bay window as I continued to cry. “Shannon,” he said tenderly. “I want to tell you about Marjorie’s life. Together, we served many years with Wycliffe Bible translators. There was no limit to how much Marjorie loved God. She had such a close, intimate walk with the Lord. She actually has been telling me for a while that she was sensing that He would be calling her home soon. In fact, Marjorie even took out additional life insurance recently. And when she shared her testimony at church, she told everyone that she was ready to leave this earth and be with the Lord any day.”
How could a human being be close enough to God that she’d know when her time on earth was about to be up? I was completely amazed.
“Shannon, this accident may have taken us all by surprise, but it was no surprise to God. He was ready for Marjorie to join Him in heaven.” Gary couldn’t have told me anything more surprising, I thought, but then he did: he said he believed God had actually chosen me to be part of the final page of Marjorie’s life on earth. “He chose you because He knew you would be strong enough to handle this, and that is your responsibility. As a matter of fact, I’m passing Marjorie’s legacy of being a godly woman on to you. I want you to love Jesus without limits, just as Marjorie did. I want you to let Him use you for His glory, Shannon.”
In my 16-year-old mind, I couldn’t imagine what those words really meant. But I’ve spent the past 23 years contemplating them and trying to live up to them. As a Christian author, speaker, and lay counselor, I’m trying to carry that mantle of being a woman who loves Jesus beyond measure, just as Marjorie Jarstfer did.
Even though I grew up attending church and singing, “Jesus loves me, this I know,” I don’t think I ever really understood the depth of God’s mercy, compassion, and unconditional love until I met Gary Jarstfer. His response toward me, the very person who caused him indescribable pain and loss, has served as a vivid reminder that Jesus Christ endured all of that physical, emotional, and spiritual suffering on the cross—and yet His first concern is always for us, those who nailed Him there.
While neither Gary nor I would have chosen for the accident to take place, we both wholeheartedly testify to the truth of Romans 8:28: “All things work together for good to them that love God, to
them who are the called according to his purpose” (kjv). God didn’t say only the good things work together for our good. He said all things—the good, the bad, and the ugly—work together for our good. And He’s proven the reality of this scripture to me over and over again.

Gary’s Story
I recall the day of the accident as clearly as Shannon does. Although August 29, 1984, marks the day of Marjorie’s death, God also birthed something special in our hearts that day—a peace that passes all understanding (Philippians 4:7), a deeper trust in His sovereignty, and an unexpected friendship that would glorify God in a magnificent way for many years.
I well remember the 45-minute drive home after learning of Marjorie’s death. I contemplated one thing: How would Marjorie respond if the tables were turned? If I had been the one killed? I wanted whatever words I spoke to Shannon to be in accordance with God’s will for her life. I knew I bore a weight of enormous responsibility—if I said the wrong thing, it could be absolutely devastating. So I saw this opportunity to speak to Shannon as a chance to bless her, not blame her.
I had no idea what God would wind up doing in and through Shannon’s life. I’m absolutely overwhelmed, and so grateful for what the Lord has done. I never dreamed that she’d become a youth pastor, or abstinence educator, or an author who would touch so many lives in so many countries with her writing. It’s all so beyond anything I could have ever imagined at the time of the accident.
Marjorie was a teacher and an aspiring writer as well, and I know she would have been so pleased to see the kind of topics Shannon is tackling, encouraging women to live with integrity and to love Jesus without limits. Those are certainly messages that would have resonated with Marjorie’s heart.
Since the time of the accident, God has knit the hearts of our two families even closer together. Years later, when I moved to North Carolina and got engaged to my second wife, Betty Ann (a long-time
family friend whose husband was also killed in a car accident just six weeks after Marjorie’s death), Shannon was on our list of people to call as soon as possible about the good news. Through letters and e-mails, we’ve been delighted to support one another in our ministry and missionary endeavors. In fact, we consider Shannon one of our own daughters, and some of our granddaughters affectionately tell their friends about how “Aunt Shannon” was adopted into their family as a result of the accident.
I can be at peace with Marjorie’s absence on earth and presence in heaven because I know that God is working through her memory to bring glory to Himself - simply because we have chosen to live as Christ lived. We have chosen to bless rather than blame. We have turned tragedy into triumph. We have embraced God’s sovereignty, and declared that regardless of the pain that this life brings, we will forever remain completely His.

Pastor's Perspective - A Snake is a Snake

Dear FCC Family & Friends,

“It still gives me the creeps to think that son-of-a-gun could do that.” These are the words of Danny Anderson, 53, of Prosser, Washington, who recently learned a painful lesson – beheaded rattlesnakes can be dangerous!

According to msnbc.com, Anderson cut the head off of a 5-foot rattler and left it under his pickup. According to Anderson, “When I reached down to pick up the head, it raised around and did a backflip almost, and bit my finger. I had to shake my hand real hard to get it to let loose.”

The venom caused immediate swelling of the tongue as it circulated throughout his body. Fortunately Anderson received quick and efficient medical treatment and will make a full recovery. According to Mike Livingstone, a wildlife biologist, he has never heard of anyone being bit by a decapitated snake before.

This nasty, yet news-worthy incident reminded me of the time a young Judean shepherd cut the head off a giant in the Elah Valley. Not only did faithful David utterly defeat his foe with God’s mighty power, he took that necessary unpleasant step to ensure Goliath never got up and fought again.

I believe that these stories are good reminders that the enemy doesn’t give up easily. Though the devil was crushed (Genesis 3:15) and humiliated at Calvary and the tomb, he is still striking with fatal resolve. Sadly, once we taste victory in Christ, we either fail to aggressively cut his head off in our lives; or sometimes just as deadly, fall into the trap of foolishly thinking that he has just given up and won’t strike again.

To live the abundant life Christ died to give us, we must take the necessary steps to safeguard our new redeemed lives. Though crushed, the devil is still striking. Though fatally wounded, he is luring the world into thinking he is benign. Though his eternal fate is documented, there’s still a lot of fight in him.

Friends, let me remind you that greater is He that is in you (Holy Spirit) than he that is in the world (devil). But let me also remind you, a snake is a snake! Be careful out there.

This Sunday I will be sharing a message entitled ‘Get Up!’ from John 5. Come worship the living Lord with us during an unforgettable morning!

In the Fight,

Steve

Pastor's Perspective - Slow Down!

Dear FCC Family & Cherished Friends,

I have been greatly alarmed this summer by a disturbing and reoccuring news story happening across America - parents leaving their children in vehicles. Recently a man in Benecia forgot his small child was in the car and left him all day in the sweltering vehicle. The result was tragic and fatal. Last week in Arcade, New York a 5-month-old baby died after his mother forgot to drop him off at day care and left him in her hot car all day while she worked. This poor child was the 19th child to die in a hot car this summer according to Fox News.

Please join me in praying for these families. The guilt, associated with the grief of losing a child, must be an unimagineable nightmare.

Clearly the underlying culprits of this tragic trend are stress, fastlane living, lack of priority focus, and the distractions of modern technology - namely mobile phones. With so much to do and little time to do it, people have learned to accept and even embrace 'survival mode' as the societal norm. How many people do you see in any given day in Solano County trying to do too many things at once, all while talking to somebody on a phone? Perhaps I'm describing you. And guess who suffers? The kids do. Pathetically, the children of America have been reshuffled, misprioritized and forgotten - laid on the altar of ambition. Friends, we are so distracted by life, we're forgetting our greatest treasures from God - our kids!

These shocking headlines are evidential - we need to slow down. We need to trust God more. We must get still and get transparent and confess - "Lord, I'm overwhelmed. My priorities are doing a headstand, and as a result my family is suffering. Help!" Recently I challenged the church to stop being so dignified (ie. religious) and cry out. Get honest and real! He sees what you're doing and the warp speed in which you're doing it. Talk to Him! His promise is that if you'll make your relationship with Him the ultimate bend of your life, He'll take care of the stuff and details you're stressing over (Matthew 6:33). Friends, it's time to get back to basics - God and family.

In the midst of your daily stress, ask yourself, "Will this even matter in five years? Will I even remember it?" What we will remember is time we toiled needlessly, missing out on God and our family. Long forgotten are met deadlines; but never forgotten are missed-out times with our spouses and young ones.

I love you enough to challenge you to slow down. In all of your chasing, God is your answer. In this hot, high-speed vehicle we call 'life', your Father knows where you are, remembers you, and will never leave you behind.

This Sunday I'll be sharing practical real-life advice from 1 Kings 19 from the ministry of Elijah. Come hear about God's prescription for depression. Interested? I hope to see you there!

In the Fight

Steve

Pastor's Perspective - Unbreakable

Dear FCC Family & Friends,

Like many of you I have been horrified by the disturbing unimaginable images being shown over the airwaves of the bridge collapse in Minneapolis. A reliable span that stood for over thirty years broke apart during rush hour traffic last night, sending motorists to the Mississippi River below. Many stunned survived, however recovery efforts continue in this shocking event.

Living in the Bay area, bridges are a way of daily life for many in our FCC family. When we appraoch one, our thoughts are more concentrated on tolls than whether the thing will hold us up or not. We just assume that, "Hey, it's been relaible for many years. It's always gotten me from over here to over there." This news out of Minnesota might change that perception for awhile.

Let me share and identify a bridge I know personally that is absolutely unbreakable. The bridge I'm referring to is not an engineering feat of iron and concrete; but love, mercy and grace. The bridge that is unbreakable is Jesus Christ! He is the only God-endorsed connector that allows safe travel to God. Despite the claims of many such bridges, His blood-stained cross stands tall and reliable, grounded deeply in the bedrock of His unshakeable Word. It is safety high above the raging peril below. Yes, Jesus is the bridge - the only way from over here to over there.

"I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me" - John 14:6

Friends, the bridge is ready and your toll has been paid. The rest is up to you.

This Sunday I will be sharing more from the prolific ministry of the prophet Elijah. Hope to see you there!

In the Fight,

Steve Kiefer
www.1stchristianchurch.org

Pastor's Perspective - What a Church!

Dear FCC Family & Friends,

By the way, if I haven’t told you lately - I serve the greatest congregation west of the Mississippi!

During the last few weeks Michelle, the kids and myself have had a blast entertaining out-of-state family members. It’s been fun playing the role of tour guides, showing off the spectacular place the Lord allows us to minister. Of highest joy has been the honor of introducing them to you – our California kin. They thoroughly enjoyed meeting you and seeing firsthand why we rave about FCC and our little corner of the planet.

Earlier this week I took my niece Brittaney to San Francisco to Haight-Ashbury, a place she had studied recently in college. We found it to be quite groovy and far-out man! After checking out a few more places together, we started to smell something other than sourdough bread in the air – my clutch burning. Although we loved the many city hills, my little VW didn’t!

After allowing it to cool down a bit we started the trek back to Fairfield. On the Bay Bridge (of all places!) the car began to die and lose all forward momentum. Did I mention that we were in the far left-hand lane in rush hour traffic?! It’s amazing how zealous a prayer-life can become in such circumstances. I didn’t want my sweet young niece to worry, so I Kung-Fu gripped the steering wheel and ‘had a little talk with Jesus’ hoping He’d make it right. He did! By His loving kindness we got across many lanes onto the shoulder of the freeway before losing all power to move. Just a few hours earlier we had been laughing at Nehru jackets in store-fronts while devouring ‘Cherry Garcias’ in sugar cones, now we were stuck. My car had unexpectedly become a German-engineered paper weight!

It’s funny how the combination of proper perspective and God’s people make all the difference. Brittaney and I made the best of it. We had purchased a couple of bags of mini-doughnuts at Fisherman’s Wharf and quickly figured that if we each ate one a day, we could last through July! We laughed and made the best of it because we took an eternal perspective on things. Friends, in five million years when I’m just as alive as ever, a worn clutch will be a non-issue! Think about it.

Next, as mentioned, God’s people rallied and came through. I felt terrible calling anybody the first night of VBS. Being the loving, compassionate and resourceful one, our elder Mike Kleeman quickly attained a car dolly and he and his son Andrew came to the rescue. What a relief! Their attitudes were stellar as they worked efficiently in tandem to get us back on the road – towed, but on the road. Since then, several other FCC family members have offered mechanical advice and have even offered their own vehicles until the repair is completed. Wow, what a church!

In closing, as I mention frequently from the platform - we are not a perfect church. We are comprised of highly fallible people, who over the course of time predictably disappoint each other in one way or another. Our leaders likewise are not perfect. We’re human. We’re fallen. We’re a rag-tag lot who most likely cause our Father to do a whole lot of head-wagging. However, one thing I know – we’re sincere in our efforts to love God and others in ever-increasing ways. Wasn’t it Jesus who told us that it is by our “love” that the world would see our authenticity and take notice? Friends, perfection we lack. Love we’ve got!

In the Fight,

Steve

Pastor's Perspective - A Real Place?

Dear FCC Family & Friends,

Do you believe in a place called Hell?

In recent months Carlton Pearson, a prominent mega-church pastor in “Tulsa-rusalem” denounced the very existence of Hell; and in the process lost most of his members, his credibility and a stellar reputation. According to Pearson, a crisis of faith occurred when he could not reconcile a merciful God with a customized place of torture for unbelievers. He eventually denied the infallibility of the Bible and now views it as a book by primitive men about God, filled with mistranslations, political agendas, pagan leanings and human emotions. According to an ABC News report, Pearson states that people who believe in Hell create it for themselves and others. “People who believe in devils and demons become that in consciousness and they act it out.”

So, what do you believe? Consider the following.

According to Hank Hanegraaff, Jesus of Nazareth spent more time talking about Hell than He did about Heaven. In His infamous Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7) He warned about the dangers of Hell a half a dozen times. In His Olivet Discourse (Matthew 24-25) He repeatedly warned against the judgment to come. In His famous story of Lazarus and the Rich Man (Luke 16), He graphically portrayed Hell as a real place of unspeakable torment.

The whole idea of choice demands that we believe in Hell. Without Hell, there is no choice. And without choice, Heaven would not be Heaven.

Common sense tells us much about the reality of such an agonizing place. Without Hell the wrongs of murderers and tyrants would never be righted. Even ancient people knew this! David knew that for a time the wicked might appear to be getting away with it, but in the end the God of justice would prevail.

Lastly, if there is no Hell, there is no need for a Savior. Why would God Himself submit to the most agonizing torturous death for no reason? Without Hell there is no need for salvation. Without salvation, there is no need for a sacrifice. And without sacrifice, there is no need for a Savior.

Jesus used the worst place imaginable, Jerusalem’s stench-ridden burning dump, to describe and compare Hell – a place never created for people, but instead for the devil and his angels. People who go there will go there by their choice – not God’s! A bloody cross proves that point.

So, what do you believe?

Friends, Jesus lived a real sinless life, laid down His life on a real cross and died for our real sins; and three days later walked out of a real grave, so, you and I wouldn’t have to ever enter a real Hell, but instead enjoy a real indescribable eternity with God. Really!

To quote an ugly preacher I saw in the mirror this morning – “It’s dumb to go to Hell!”

In the Fight,

Steve

Pastor's Perspective - Redeemed!

Dear FCC Family & Friends,

Crown him with many…bones?! All Hail King…Elwood?!

Wake the neighbors, kids. Last night Elwood, a 2-year old Chinese Crested and Chihuahua mix was crowned ‘World’s Ugliest Dog’ in Petaluma. Often referred to as “Yoda” or “ET”, the dark colored and hairless canine is beyond description. All I can relay for your wildest imagination are the words - mohawk, bug eyes, and tongue. Let those imaginations run wild. Interestingly, Elwood’s owner, Karen Quigley, rescued the mutt just two years ago. According to Quigley, “The breeder was going to euthanize him because she thought he was too ugly to sell.”

That reminds me of another story.

A. J. Gordon was the great Baptist pastor of the Clarendon Church in Boston, Massachusetts. One day he met a young boy in front of the sanctuary carrying a rusty cage in which several birds fluttered nervously. Gordon inquired, "Son, where did you get those birds?" The boy replied, "I trapped them out in the field." "What are you going to do with them?" "I'm just going to toy with them, and then I guess I'll just feed them to an old cat we have at home." When Gordon offered to buy them, the lad laughed and exclaimed, "Mister, you don't want them. They’re no good. They're just little old wild birds that can't even sing very well. They aren’t worth anything." Gordon replied, "I'll give you $2 for the cage and the birds." "Okay, it's a deal, but you're making a bad bargain." The exchange was made and the boy went away whistling, happy with his shiny coins. Gordon walked around to the back of the church property, opened the door of the small wire coop, and let the struggling creatures soar into the blue.

The next Sunday he took the empty cage into the pulpit and used it to illustrate his sermon about Christ's coming to seek and to save the lost -- paying for them with His own precious blood. "That boy told me the birds were not songsters," said Gordon, "but when I released them and they winged their way heavenward, it seemed to me they were singing, 'Redeemed, redeemed, redeemed!'"

Friends, maybe like those field birds, you don’t sing very well or have been led to believe you’re not worth much. Or maybe like ol’ Elwood you have a whole lot of ugly in your past and have come pretty close to the edge. The cross of Jesus is proof that you matter greatly to the heart of God. As your pastor, let me remind you that it’s not about what you do; instead, it’s about what your Redeemer has already done for you!


In the Fight,

Steve

Pastor's Perspective - Ministering to the Minister

Dear FCC Family & Friends,

Please take a moment and pray for the Graham family. Yesterday Ruth Graham died. She was 87. In the very end she was surrounded by her husband, Dr. Billy Graham, and all five of their children. Dr. Graham said, “Ruth was my life partner, and we were called by God as a team. No one else could have borne the load that she carried. She was a vital and integral part of our ministry, and my work through the years would have been impossible without her encouragement and support.”

This week in Cupertino, I had the opportunity to be an audience member under the teaching of Dr. Henry Cloud. For two incredible days he and his associate, Dr. John Townsend, taught us leadership principles. Wednesday Cloud reminded us as pastors of how closely the vision and mission of our churches are tied to us personally; that we are the very “guardians” of them.

Recently and sweetly, several of you in the church have asked me, “Steve, as you strive to take care of the church, who is taking care of you? Who encourages you? Who is ministering to the minister?”

On a weekend where I could/should be writing about fathers, I felt a special spark to write about the one who ministers to the minister unlike anyone else in my life – my beautiful wife Michelle. Friends, she is the one who takes care of me and has been my strongest encourager for many years – even before I was a pastor. Without her I simply could not do what I do.

While Dr. Cloud reminded me that as lead pastor I’m a pillar-person of vision; the Holy Spirit reminded me, “Steve, you couldn’t be that person without another often overlooked pillar-person in the wings, your wife.” So, at FCC as I try to uphold a standard and Christ-honoring direction, God in His beautiful planning and forethought is using one of His precious daughters to uphold me!

Recent studies show that upward of 80% of pastor’s wives are discouraged and feel unappreciated. Yet, if you stop and think about it, their roles are absolutely foundational to the success of the churches in which they serve. As they go, so do their husbands; and as their husbands go, so does the church. Yesterday, even the greatest evangelist of modern memory reminded us that he couldn’t have done what he has done without his dear Ruth – his treasured teammate.

In closing, thank you for the opportunity to be your pastor. I adore what I do and still pinch myself that I get paid to do it! It’s a joy occasionally peppered with migraines, but I love it because I love you. Your sweet compliments continue to bless and encourage me tremendously. However, I want to remind all of you, there is an unsung pillar person in the wings who lovingly and patiently provides a unique ministry to me that allows me to do what I do day after day. For her life and influence I’m humbled and eternally grateful.

In the Fight,

Michelle’s Husband

Pastor's Perspective - No Perspective

Dear FCC Family & Friends,

When the top national story this week is Paris Hilton, to properly reflect the culture in which I live and minister, I decided - there is no 'perspective' this week.

Thanks for visiting! We'll try again next week.

In the Fight,

Steve

Pastor's Perspective - Desperate!

Dear FCC Family & Friends,

Since last weekend I have become a lay expert on the subject of tuberculosis; not because I wanted to, but because of a high-attention news story.

A 31-year-old attorney from Atlanta, Andrew Speaker, is currently being treated in Denver for the deadly disease. Speaker is being criticized globally for his recent decision to fly internationally – intentionally and needlessly exposing fellow passengers to this respiratory attacker. He denies that he knew about the seriousness of his condition and that he would have never put others at risk. As I’ve followed this story daily, the Lord reminded me of another infectious carrier who put others at risk found in the pages of the gospels – the woman with the issue of blood.

According to Matthew and Mark, for twelve long disheartening years, an unnamed woman suffered from an unnamed hemorrhaging condition. The Bible tells us that she completely emptied her piggybank on medical treatment and suffered greatly under the care of many doctors. Perhaps even more painful than her physical agony was her emotional torment. Her daily existence was wretched because she was shunned by everyone she came in contact with. According to Levitical law (Lev. 15:25-33) to have any physical contact with another human being meant defiling them and making them ceremonially unclean also. She was rejected, suffering and desperate for help and hope. And one day, hope came to town!

The Bible shares that when she knew Jesus of Nazareth was passing by, she intentionally put others at risk by fighting through the crowd to touch Him. Something strong rose up inside of her that He was her one and only answer, that somehow this Galilean prophet esteemed people over protocol. Her desperate condition warranted desperate measures. She risked what was wrong in man’s eyes for what was right in God’s – and won! Her miraculous premeditated encounter with Christ was just what the doctor hadn’t ordered.

Let me ask you an honest question. How desperate are you for Christ?

I’ve found that people who are truly desperate for something respond in desperation. They risk it all. They don’t allow people or things to separate them from their destination, their cure or their answer. They recognize that only Jesus Christ delivers and has the words of life. They are willing to get undignified if necessary to connect with Heaven, realizing He’s it. He’s the Ultimate. He’s ultimately it!

Friends, as your pastor and brother in the Cause, I’m recklessly desperate for Jesus Christ. I’m looking for some co-desperates to join me in church this Sunday.

Can I count on you?

In the Fight,

Steve

Pastor's Perspective - Come & See!

Dear FCC Family & Friends,

A zealous, soul-winning, young preacher recently came upon a farmer working in his field. Concerned about the farmer's soul the preacher asked the man, "Are you laboring in the vineyard of the Lord my good man?"

Not even looking at the preacher and continuing his work the farmer replied, "Naw, these are soybeans."

"You don't understand," said the preacher. "Are you a Christian?"

With the same amount of interest as his previous answer the farmer said, "Nope my name is Jones. You must be looking for Jim Christian. He lives about a mile down the road."

The young determined preacher tried again asking the farmer, "Are you lost?"

"Nah! I've lived here all my life," answered the farmer.

"Are you prepared for the resurrection?" the frustrated preacher asked.

This caught the farmer's attention and he asked, "When's it gonna be?"

Thinking he had accomplished something the young preacher replied, "It could be today, tomorrow, or the next day."

Taking a handkerchief from his back pocket and wiping his brow, the farmer remarked, "Well, don't mention it to my wife. She don't get out much and she'll wanna go all three days."

Having trouble reaching others for Christ? Here are some helpful hints for sharing Jesus with your family and friends – free of charge!

Pray for them daily.

Speak less and listen more.

Love and serve them condition-free. (In our ‘me-first’ age, it’ll freak em out!)

Live the life in front of them (Reminder: You’re not perfect and they know it and aren’t expecting it).

Stop speaking “Christian-ese” (see above joke)

Memorize and repeat this deep and profound theological and scholarly phrase – “Come and see!”

Don’t give up on them (Christ and others didn’t give up on you).

This Sunday I’ll be sharing the 9th installment of our Core Vales series – ‘Spirit of Excellence’. Let’s fill our building with white-hot worshipers ready to make a difference for His glory. Now that’s excellent!

In the Fight,

Steve

Pastor's Perspective - A Whale of a Problem

Dear FCC Family & Friends.

“Okay, three of you.”

For those of you who have never heard me preach, that is one of my signature lines – or ‘Steve-isms’. I usually say it when I ask the audience a question and the response is a bit lethargic. It also applies to the number of people in our area and across the nation currently unaware that two whales are lost in the Sacramento River nearby.

For the three of you who’ve been hunkered-down in a Himalayan snow cave this week, two humpbacks whales swam into San Francisco Bay and eventually wound up over 70 miles away in the Port of Sacramento, far from their Pacific home. Despite aggressive efforts by marine biologists, the tiring whales are not currently responding.

Although I love whales and all of God’s marvelous creatures; and am saddened that a mother humpback and calf are lost; I’m equally sad that people are more concerned about two whales in need of a GPS than the bigger more important picture.

Did you know that while live TV programming was interrupted, as live cameras looked for flukes and blowholes, live babies were aborted in Fairfield – just over by the mall? Did you know that as CNN positioned a chopper over Sacramento waterways for a ‘breaking news’ exclusive, down the road in Solano County new police bookings of juveniles are up 44%? While people trek down to the river with binoculars in hand hoping to see a dorsal fin, the country is dividing over a war, gas prices are skyrocketing, terrorists already within our borders are plotting, and most people can’t afford base-level healthcare for their families. Instead of talking about really important things, our watercooler discussions revolve around earth-moving topics like whether or not Paris Hilton’s jail sentence is too harsh.

Friends, what’s more important?
Confused whales, or confused values?
Tired whales, or tired awareness and alertness?
Lost whales, or lost souls?

Okay, three of you.

This Sunday I will be sharing Part 8 of our current Core Vales Series – ‘Family’. Hope you’ll bring your family for an inspiring morning at FCC!

In the Fight,

Steve

Pastor's Perspective - It's Never Too Late

Dear FCC Family & Treasured Friends,

Tomorrow in Hays, Kansas, Nola Ochs will be receiving her bachelor’s degree in history from Fort Hays State University. She began her college studies through correspondence to keep herself busy. Later she moved into student housing on campus. Joyfully she will complete her degree with a 3.7 GPA. That’s not too shabby for a woman who began her formal education when Herbert Hoover was president! Nola Orchs raised 4 sons, has 13 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren. By the way, tomorrow she will officially become the oldest person ever to receive a bachelor’s degree – at the young age of 95!

Crooner Tony Bennett did a surprise show at a retirement home back in the 80’s. After finishing his first song, his audience still looked quite bewildered. Bennett asked, “Don’t you all know who I am?” An old lady in the front responded, “No, but if you go up to the front desk they can tell you.”

Sadly, our society connects our “golden years” with that story and not so much with Nola Ochs! Yet, we find from Scripture that God has used, and desires to use each of us mightily for His glory in our latter years.

Let me remind you that Noah was 600 when he took his first cruise. Abram (Abraham) was a punk kid of 75 when he obeyed God to follow a promise. Moses was a spry 80 when the Lord gave him a divine assignment. And Caleb entered the promised land when he was a pimply-faced 80-year-old!

Our Creative Arts Director, Jeramy Sossaman, recently released a must-purchase CD entitled ‘It’s Never Too Late’. The Holy Spirit challenged him, inspired him and reminded him that with God it’s not over till it’s over! It’s never too late to chase your dreams and to take those first steps toward your unique place in God’s will and story.

Senior saints, hear my heart. We love you and need you. Sometimes, sadly, we fail to remind you of how important you really are – in our families and in our churches. Your life stories, life lessons, wisdom and encouragement are absolutely vital to younger generations. You still count. You still matter. Your lives are priceless and irreplaceable to us. Although you may have retired years ago, I challenge you to show us that Christian service is something you never get a gold watch from. Please let us learn from you. Though it seems like we’re not watching and listening, we are. Despite your aches and pains, take your rightful place in the family of God. Serve the Lord, and remind us with your lives that it’s never ever too late!

Thanks for the reminder Nola.

This Sunday I will be sharing a Mother’s Day message entitled ‘Endangered & Essential’. Bring your Mom to FCC for an inspiring encounter with the living Lord!

In the Fight,

Steve

Pastor's Perspective - Emergency Water

Dear FCC Family & Friends,

This week on FOXNews.com I read about the needless tragic death of Dave Buschow, 29, of New Jersey. Buschow died of thirst on a wilderness-survival exercise in the Utah desert. After hiking 10 hours in 100-degree heat without a drink, he began hallucinating so severely that he mistook a tree for a person. He finally dropped dead less than 100 yards from his goal – a cave with a cool pool of water. To add proverbial insult to injury, his guides observed the whole ordeal, yet refused to intervene and offer Buschow emergency water they were carrying! The hiker wasn’t told that there was life-saving water available, and his guides didn’t offer – not wanting him to fail the course he bought for $3,175.

Believers, before we wag our heads too vigorously at this news story, let’s really think about it. This is more than a current events blurb, it’s a parable if we’ll listen.

Thousands of people around us every day are stumbling through life’s desert – a harsh and unforgiving place. Each believes that if by their goodness and natural abilities they persevere, they will find ultimate satisfaction in the end. They know just enough to keep going, but not enough to acquire true hope. So, they push on, day after day - toiling. They hallucinate as they seek to survive, seeing good as bad and bas as good. Fatigued and falling, they eventually succumb – as their guides, the ones holding life’s remedy and hope, stand nearby and rationalize – “They asked for it.”

Jesus said, “If you believe in me, come and drink! For the Scriptures declare that rivers of living water will flow out from within” (John 7:38, NLT). Friends, Jesus Christ is the exclusive answer to a stumbling, lost and dying world! He alone is the “emergency water” the world is parched for! And guess who He left in charge to be His desert rescuers and guides?

If you can say three short words, “Come and see” – you qualify!

This Sunday I’ll be sharing an abbreviated message preceding INVOLVE 5:6 – ‘We’re Saved to Serve’ (Core Value #7). Hope to see you there!

In the Fight,

Steve Kiefer
www.1stchristianchurch.org

Pastor's Perspective - Rush to Judgment

Dear FCC Family & Friends,

A ‘Rush’ to judgment?

I shook my head when I read today that conservative talk radio host Rush Limbaugh on his April 19th broadcast identified Virginia Tech shooter Seung-Hui-Cho as “a liberal” repeatedly. Though I like Limbaugh, even as a fellow conservative, I just can not support him on this one.

Like many of you I was deeply disturbed by the media coverage of the massacre. While thirty-two bodies were yet to be identified and thirty-two families yet to be notified, fingers were already being pointed. Someone had to be blamed. Before the full blow of the news was allowed to resonate and grief to marinade, the college president and campus police were in the media crosshairs. Now, a week later, we are somehow led to believe that Cho did what he heinously did because of his misguided political persuasion. I just don’t buy it..

Friends, this was the worst mass shooting in US history! We’re still dealing with it – even in California. This is not the time to point fingers. It’s still too early. Let’s all be humans and grieve properly. This is not the time to blame or use a national tragedy as ratings-boosting fodder. These were real lives, cut way too short. The shooter’s political ideology and identification are irrelevant.

Want somebody or something to blame? Here’s my humble preacher’s opinion. Ready? Cho did what he did because he was a sin-fallen, sin-poisoned, and sin-perpetuating person living on a sin-fallen planet, processing through a sin-diseased brain sin-filled cultural and relational (mis)information, willfully manifested in the most senseless and sinful of ways.

Through self-imposed alienation from healthy, loving and meaningful relationships with Jesus Christ and others, he walked smack dab into the devil’s most proven and fatal of traps – isolation.

Rush, I just can’t get your back on this one. The deadly effect of festering isolation is not exclusive to conservatives or liberals. Satan is an equal opportunity bipartisan destroyer.

In the Fight,

Steve Kiefer
www.1stchristianchurch.org

Pastor's Perspective - Hokie Family

Dear FCC Family & Friends,

What a difference a week can make.

Like most of you, my heart breaks for the thousands personally impacted by the tragedy on the Virginia Tech campus. Just a few months ago I was in that neck of the woods immediately following my father’s heart surgery. Not only is it a beautiful and peaceful part of our country, nestled in the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains; but, I found the people of this region to be its finest feature. Most I met were hard-working, community-minded, wholesome folks who took great pride in their state, their history, their universities and their way of living.

This week I was sadly reminded that one of our own FCC family members is a VT graduate who spent six years of her life in Blacksburg – Lauren Parker. Lauren faithfully serves in our Creative Arts Ministry. She emailed me this week - “There are no words to express the way all of us around the world in the Hokie Family are feeling. Horrified, overwhelmed, shocked, sad, and speechless. We call each other and sit on the phone talking about how we don't even know what to say, how we couldn't have ever imagined feeling the pain we do, the sense of loss, the sense that our beautiful and beloved home will always have this shadow cast over it.”

In the midst of such needless violence and heartache, Lauren added to the delight of this head-wagging pastor, “God is at work on that campus despite the evil thing that has occurred. There are some amazing churches and Christian student organizations who are reaching out to support each other, the school and the local community, to be God's instruments shining light in the darkness, but they are in mourning as well and need to be girded by the strength of our prayers.”

What a gleaming reminder from Lauren, that in the middle of national darkness, the light of Jesus Christ’s love and hope still shines so brightly.

Please join us this Sunday as we take a few moments to pray for Lauren, the “Hokie Family” and the family and friends of those who left this life too early.

In the Fight,

Steve Kiefer
www.1stchristianchurch.org

Pastor's Perspective - The Ride

Dear FCC Family & Friends,

Yesterday I took my four little ones on a day trip to Mt. Diablo. For over two years now my family and I have enjoyed a beautiful view of the mountain from our back patio. Yesterday, with chamber of commerce weather and a few day-off hours on my hands, I loaded up the tater tots while Michelle stayed behind to spend time with a friend.

The day on the mountain together was very enjoyable for us all. From childhood I have always felt a strong magnetism toward mountains. As we read the Bible, we find that God loves mountains too, and used them in connection with many of His great feats of power, communication with mankind, and flagship showdowns and events.

From the summit we could see the entire Bay Area - from San Jose to the Sierras! The Holy Spirit reminded me of the time Christ was taken to the top of a high mountain and shown the kingdoms of the earth and tempted. However, at the end of the day, as I rewinded our time together in my head, and thought of all we experienced, the best part I concluded was the ride there.

On the way we swigged on water bottles, laughed loudly, told pathetic “knock knock” jokes, sang praise songs, sang really dumb songs, talked about things we wanted to do, discussed serious stuff, shared memories, shook our fists at the mountain tauntingly, and even enjoyed (limited) quiet. The ride was amazing – at least for Daddy.

Are you enjoying the ride?

Sometimes we get so caught up in the destination, that we miss experiencing the ride. There is nothing wrong with ambitions and goals, but what about the in-between times? Are you enjoying “on the way”? The ride is the little dash on every gravestone separating the birth date from the death date. That dash represents a lot.

My prayer for you is that that dash includes knowing and experiencing God, sharing and receiving with God’s people, enjoying your family and friends, living with contentment, speaking kindly of others (Imus!), making rich memories, having fun, and leaving a legacy of kindness and love.

You’ve heard the cliché, “Half the fun is getting there.” Wrong! With Jesus Christ – ALL the fun is getting there!

Ironocally, I’ll be talking about “fun” this Sunday while sharing Part 4 of our Core Values series. Come early to visit the 4th Watch (celebrating its 2nd anniversary!), attend Sunday School, and get good seats. WARNING! Sitting in the ‘Splash Zone’ (area in front of the baptistery) may result in wet clothes. We’ve had 21 baptisms so far in 2007, with more coming this weekend!

Don’t forget INVOLVE 5:6 on Sunday, May 6th!

In the Fight,

Steve

Pastor's Perspective - Buddha Boy

Dear FCC Family & Friends,

Today while perusing current events, I noticed an intriguing headline – ‘Buddha Boy Plans Live Burial’. I read on, as I hope you’ll do even now!

The report was about Ram Bahadur Bomjan, Nepal’s famed ‘Buddha Boy’. This teenager gained local, then international media attention when he suddenly surfaced under a tree in the Charkoshi forest in 2005. For nine months he meditated, sitting cross-legged allegedly without food and water in the same posture as the legendary Buddha. In short order, pilgrimages paying homage to the praying youth became the national rage. However, after many months he seemingly disappeared as quickly as he appeared.

Recently he resurfaced to the joy of his many followers, announcing his plan to embark on an even more challenging form of meditation – underground! Holy Mole Batman! His disciples have apparently dug a deep trench in which ‘Buddha Boy’ plans to descend. He will then be covered, voluntarily subjecting himself to extreme heat and cold. The objective of the burial is to master the senses and attain salvation, according to the report.

Friends, I’m not questioning the sincerity of this teenager or his disciples. Clearly they are trying to fill that spiritual void that every human being possesses and longs to fill – some way or another. However, as a Christian, I found this story to be exceedingly sad.

What Ram Bomjan, his faithful, and millions around the planet don’t seem to know or get is that Jesus Christ already subjected Himself to extreme discomfort to attain salvation for all of us! 1 Peter 2 tells us that “He Himself (Christ) bore our sins in His body on the tree, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; by His wounds you have been healed.”

So friends, just a reminder that true salvation doesn’t come from putting your faith in the one under the tree – but instead the one on the tree!

See you at INVISION 3:31 this Saturday! Check out our church website (www.1stchristianchurch.org) for details. Also, it’s not too late to sign-up for the 24-Hour Prayer event this weekend.

This (Palm) Sunday I’ll will be sharing with you our third ‘Core Value’. Come early for Sunday School (9:00A.M.), great 4th Watch coffee and good seats!

I Love You!

In the Fight,

Steve

Pastor's Perspective - "Little" Things

Dear FCC Family and Friends,

Funny how the Lord uses the little things to touch us in a big way.

Yesterday Michelle called me at the church to tell me that Lily was sick with a bug. Naturally I was saddened to know that the baby of our family was feeling puny. Fearing dehydration, my wife told me that because of the unpleasant manifestations of the illness that she was unable to load up the kids and go to the store. Seeing an opportunity to step into a phone booth and wear the big Daddy super-hero “D” on my chest, I broke away to buy our 5-year-old “Little” her favorite color of Gator-aid (yes, color). When I got home I saw that my dear bride was ill also with a fever and body aches. Sickness – the game the whole family can play!

Upon arriving home my heart broke when I saw Lily curled up on the couch – her sweet little head on a pillow and a bowl at her side. Clearly she felt terrible. Very lethargic, she let Daddy pray for her and then in a weak voice asked for a drink “with a straw.” Throughout the day she quietly dozed in and out of sleep.

After dark I noticed that our two family vehicles were still parked in the street in front of our home and needed to be pulled into the garage and driveway. Grabbing the keys I told Chelle that I was going to move the vehicles and that I’d be right back. As I was walking out the front door, surprisingly, Lily said, “Daddy, I want to go with you.” I replied, “Lily, you’re sick. Plus, I’ll be right back. I’m just moving the cars.” She insisted.

As we walked together down the walkway toward the street on a beautiful starry Fairfield night, Lily’s little hand grabbed mine. I looked down and saw nothing but blonde hair and a little swaying nightgown in the moonlight. In that unanticipated mundane moment, the Lord reminded me of the miracle of little things. For just a few fleeting minutes, my sick child wanted to spend time with her Daddy – no hidden agenda or motivation – just us – together.

Friends, are you waiting for the “big things” to come your way before lavishing your gratitude on God? If you are, you’re missing the miracles of the mundane – the supernatural in the obscure. I challenge you to look today for the fingerprints of the Lord in the “every day”. I encourage you to look for the Divine in the daily.

Funny how the Lord uses the little things to touch us in a big way.

In the Fight,

Steve Kiefer
www.1stchristianchurch.org

INVISION 3:31

Pastor's Perspective - JACKPOT!

Dear First Christian Church Family & Friends,

What could you do with 116 million dollars?

Today Ed Nabors, a Georgia truck driver stepped out of his cab of obscurity and into the limelight to claim half of the largest jackpot in U.S. lottery history - $390 million. Though I’m not promoting gambling, cussin, tobacco chewin or dating girls that do, let’s admit it – 116 million could help keep a lot of meat in the back freezer! According to the country’s newest millionaire, “I’m still numb.”

Winning the jackpot goes back to Bible days. One great rags-to-riches story is found in 2 Kings 7. Four men with leprosy were between a rock and a hard place. During a time of siege and famine, they found themselves in a true quandary. If they went inside their city, famine was devastating everybody and everything. If they did nothing they’d die right where they stood. Knowing that no good options were available, they chose a third avenue – surrender to the enemy and pray their lives would somehow be spared.

Been there? Done that? No good options available? Like the 2008 Election so far?!

Anywhoo, with death an almost certainty, our four leprous friends drag their feet into the enemy camp (no pun intended). However, when they arrive, the Arameans are gone! God had already emptied out the camp. So instead of finding a fatal sword’s edge, the four found a JACKPOT! As the enemy fled their camp they left behind a lottery of gold, silver, clothes, and food. The lepers were expecting death and instead found life!

Isn’t that how it is for us Christians? We deserved nothing from God. In fact, we deserved death! But by His amazing grace we got Jesus! We got forgiveness. We got life eternal. We got everything we didn’t deserve.

Immediately and predictably, the four begin hoarding and hiding. Finally they said to each other, “We’re not doing right. This is a day of good news and we’re keeping it to ourselves” – 7:9.

Reader, this is a day not of good news - but GREAT NEWS! I’ve read the end of the Book and we win! Salvation is available and free to every person today. Hope is ours for eternity today. Our Savior is alive today! What are we doing today?

This is not the time to hoard the gospel to ourselves. If we do, “we’re not doing right” by “keeping it to ourselves.” Christian, YOU’VE WON THE JACKPOT! Today is a day of good news!

This Sunday I’m sharing a message entitled “What Happens When You Die?” Mildly curious? What does the Bible say about death and your eternity? Does your soul just sleep? Will you play a harp forever? The answers from the book of Revelation will change your life! See you Sunday morning at 9:00 or 11:00 A.M.

Check-out the new church website for all current church news at www.1stchristianchurch.org.

Have you RSVPd for INVISION 3:31?

IMPORTANT! This weekend is DAYLIGHT SAVING TIME. Remember to SPRING AHEAD ONE HOUR.

In the Fight,

Steve Kiefer
Lead Pastor

Pastor's Perspective - Anna Nicole Smith

Dear FCC Family & Friends,

Send in the clowns! Am I the only one shaking a head over the three-ring media circus the death of model Anna Nicole Smith has created? While legal eagles soar from California to the Bahamas, this sensationalized contemporary tragedy just keeps getting bigger and bigger – while a body remains unburied and a baby remains genetically unclaimed. To add a proverbial insult to injury, our kids dying in Iraq, Iranian war intrusion, Russian muscle-flexing, mass starvation and our little friend up on the Korean peninsula become stories number six through twelve nightly. There’s got to be clowns!

Why does this sad story warrant such star-spangled attention?

Personally, I believe that Anna Nicole represented and embodied everything that we as Americans secretly or overtly are taught to chase, elevate and aspire to. I’ll explain.

Think about it. She was fashion, vanity, beauty, perfection, celebrity, popularity, image, sexuality, ambition, greed, rebellion, glamour, drama, defiance, unrestraint, and acceptance incarnate. Yet, look where all of that ‘chasing after the wind’ got her – a life cut short – sad – confused – bitter – alone.

Friends, I’m not piling on the memory of a dead media darling. Clearly she needed some bold and genuine Jesus-followers in her camp. Instead, in light of God’s Word, I see Anna Nicole Smith’s abbreviated life as a modern-day parable – a lesson and warning for all of us. Her death and the disarray of her past earthly life is proof that the ambitions of this world lead to nothing redeemably good or praiseworthy - that the wages of sin is still death. Is it any wonder that the Apostle John warned, “Do not love the world or anything in the world” (1 John 2:15)?

This Sunday I’ll be sharing a highly evangelistic message entitled “Watch!” Invite your unsaved family members and co-workers to accompany you. They’ll be glad you did.

Also, don’t miss our brand-new ADULT SUNDAY SCHOOL CLASS this Sunday at 9:00A.M. upstairs in the Library! The first study is entitled “The Jesus I Never Knew”. Contact Dave Gleason (dave@1stchristianchurch.org) at the church to sign-up.

Just a reminder – SIGNPOST #5 (Share) is coming Saturday, March 17. Sign-up this Sunday to secure your spot in the class. Seating is limited.

I Love You!

In the Fight,

Steve Kiefer

INVISION 3:31

Pastor's Perspective - Wool-Covered Fangs

Dear FCC Family & Treasured Friends,

Recently I read a couple of troubling news stories proving the troubling modern-day spiritual gullibility of countless thousands.

First I read about a cyber movement challenging young people to renounce their faith and deliberately blaspheme the Holy Spirit in an attempt to literally lose their souls. People who want a dvd copy of the pro-atheist film ‘The God Who Wasn’t There’ are encouraged to take the ‘Blasphemy Challenge’. They video record themselves renouncing Christ and particularly blaspheming the Holy Spirit – an unpardonable sin introduced in Mark 3:29. Then they post their video on Youtube.com for the entire globe to see. All for a dvd! As a praise report and counter-measure I endorse the website www.challengeblasphemy.com – a pro-Christ response to this disturbing movement.

Secondly I just read about a 61-year-old “pastor” in Miami named Jose Luis de Jesus Miranda, who unashamedly calls himself God. The former prisoner and heroin addict, known to his followers as “Daddy”, has thousands of followers in more than thirty countries. Sporting a “666” tattoo, four diamond-encrusted Rolex watches, and a fleet of armored Lexuses and BMws, de Jesus claims that he learned that he was Jesus incarnate when he was instructed by angels in a dream. His followers in Miami and Latin America disrupt evangelical worship services and smash crosses. De Jesus preaches that there is no devil and no sin. He also teaches that the Antichrist is the best person in the world! “Antichrist means don’t put your eyes on Jesus because Jesus of Nazareth wasn’t a Christian. Antichrist means do not put your eyes on Jesus Christ of Nazareth. Put it on Jesus after the cross” – de Jesus.

Although these are recent news stories, they aren’t new news! Jesus lovingly forewarned us a long time ago, “Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves” – Matthew 7:15. Likewise the Apostle Paul in Acts 20 while addressing elders of his day instructed, “Keep watch over yourselves and all the flock of which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers. Be shepherds of the church of God, which he bought with his own blood. I know that after I leave, savage wolves will come in among you and will not spare the flock. Even from your own number men will arise and distort the truth in order to draw away disciples after them.”

Friends, we live in a wooly-wolf-friendly world, filled with overt and veiled rebellious plots against Christ and the salvation He alone provides. As believers we must be alert at all times and measure those who represent Christ via teaching and leadership by their fruit – yes including me. Jesus told us all that good trees produce good fruit, and bad trees bad. Personally, I want to always pass inspection through sound teaching, continued education and accountability.

At FCC our desire is to provide a doctrinally sound, wolf-free environment for you and your family and friends; while simultaneously teaching you how to identify and expose wool-covered fangs all around us. In times like this, aren’t you glad you have a good and mighty shepherd named Jesus Christ?! Why not let Him know that today in words and deeds?

This Sunday I will be presenting part six of our message series ‘The Road to Recovery’. This weekend we’ll be discussing God’s way to repair and rebuild torn relationships. Invite your family and friends today to accompany you at 9:00 or 11:00 A.M. While you’re at it, throw in a lunch invitation!

INVISION 3:31

I love you!

In the Fight,

Steve

Pastor's Perspective - Valentine's Day (2007)

Dear FCC Family & Treasured Friends,

Happy Valentine’s Day!

History tells us that Valentine’s Day most likely originated to commemorate the anniversary of the death of St. Valentine, a Roman clergyman who was executed on February 14, 270 A.D., for secretly marrying couples in defiance of the emperor. Americans probably began exchanging homemade valentines in the early 1700’s.

The top ways we celebrate Valentine’s Day are through greeting cards (65%), a date night (44%), candy (38%) and flowers (32%). Did you know that California is the leading producer of flowers and candy? Although “diamonds are a girl’s best friend”, jewelry came in lowest at only 11%. Sorry ladies.

Some Americans live in romantic towns like Valentine, Nebraska and Texas; Love Valley, North Carolina; Loving, New Mexico; and Romeo, Colorado and Illinois.

And despite the rap marriage gets sometimes in our fast-paced, noncommittal society, 2.2 million weddings are performed in the US each year. That breaks down to an average of 6,000 a day! Of that number, 145,800 are performed in the Silver State of Nevada – although it ranks 35th in total population. Nothing better than having The King of Rock & Roll leading you through your nuptials!

The Bible has much to share on the subject of love. It remains the greatest valentine ever sent – as it expresses God’s unchanging and amazing love for you and me through Jesus Christ and over 7,000 trustworthy promises.

In 1 John 4:12 we read, “No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us and his love is made complete in us”. Here the aging apostle is reminding all of us that when we choose to love each other sacrificially and unconditionally, God’s love reaches its fullest expression - through us. When we truly love one another, the God who has never been seen becomes unmistakably visible – because He lives in us!

Want to show your family, friends and co-workers that God really exists? Love them! Want to prove to them that He not only exists but that He is gracious, loving and forgiving? Love them! Want be a part of God’s divine valentine delivery system to unsaved people around you? Love them! The one true God who is love lives in you. Let’s let Him out FCC!

This Sunday I’ll be sharing Part 5 in ‘The Road to Recovery’ series at 9:00 & 11:00 A.M. Come hear simple and practical ways to destroy ‘stinkin thinkin’ and cooperate with God’s life changing process for you.

Also, this weekend we’ll be sharing more about INVISION 3:31. Don’t miss a minute!

I love you!

In the Fight,

Steve

Pastor's Perspective - Working the Lord's Way

Dear FCC Family & Cherished Friends,

Although I’m not a big Indianapolis Colts fan, I am a big Tony Dungy fan. I remember years ago when he came to Tampa Bay as a relatively unknown and unproven commodity, and in short order turned a perennial losing franchise into winners. However, more important than the wins Coach Dungy brought to Tampa, was the man the Lord brought to Tampa. For years he was a glowing example of servanthood and true humility in a league synonymous with self-promotion and trash-talking (uhum..TO). Sadly, even after he left for Indy, his steady, quiet demeanor and the way he nobly walked through personal tragedy continued to inspire many – including this pastor.

Last Sunday evening as the global spotlight shined on Dungy, predictably this authentic man of God reflected the praise back to the Lord, his team and his community. When asked about the social significance of being the first African-American coach to hoist the famed Lombardi Trophy Dungy replied, “That means an awful lot to our country. But again, more than anything, I’ve said it before, Lovie Smith and I, are not only the first two African-Americans, but Christian coaches, showing that you can win doing it the Lord’s way – we’re more proud of that.” I believe him.

In the brutal and brash face-mask-grabbing environment that is the NFL, Dungy never raises his voice and never uses foul language. He is a rare spiritual salmon swimming against the strong current of the worldly norm.

Sunday evening his comments ran through my head and challenged me to challenge you with this question – Are YOU doing your vocation the Lord’s way?

Coming from the secular business world, I certainly understand and remember the temptations to exceed and meet expectations in a highly competitive world. Sometimes we tend to be lambs on the weekend and lions throughout the week, to make a living, be the bread-winners, and win the company incentive. Temptations included deception, compromise, intimidation, stress, greed and self-centeredness. Yet, Coach Dungy reminds all of us that in the workplace, there is a way to do it the Lord’s way; that Christian integrity is a 24/7 expectation from our Father.

Stressed-out? Worried? Stuck in the middle on the corporate ladder of success? Ask the Lord today to help you identify ways to do your job His way. Ask Him daily to empower you to do it for His glory – compromising nothing. Remember, you’re an ‘Employee of the Year’ just waiting to happen! Thanks for the reminder Coach.

Join me this Sunday at 9:00 & 11:00 for Part 4 of our current series ‘The Road to Recovery’. Our attendance last Sunday was 370 – so come early to for good seats and an unforgettable encounter with the Lord!

In the Fight (Together!),
Steve

Pastor's Perspective - Super Sunday

Dear FCC Family & Friends,

Are you ready for some football?! More importantly, where are you planning on watching the big game and what are you planning to eat? Are you planning on grilling or just ripping open bags?

As you know this Sunday is Super Bowl XLI featuring the Chicago Bears and Indianapolis Colts. Got a favorite? Sadly, very rarely does this hyper-hyped global event ever live up to its…well…hype!

News reports show that thousands of even marginal fans are currently making there way to the big game in Miami. Most have planned this event for at least a year. Thousands are aggressively bidding and grabbing up stratospheric-priced tickets on Ebay. Likewise, they have no problem or hesitation paying greatly inflated prices for lodging, transportation and souvenirs. And though I’m not an Old Testament prophet, I guarantee that nobody will be arriving late at the stadium. As a matter of fact, most will arrive early enough to tailgate, walk in when the gates open, watch every move as the teams warm-up, hang on every piece of pre-game entertainment, and call their family and friends gloating from the stands! The funny thing is that in five years, few of us will remember who played, what the score was, or where we watched the game. We might remember who sang the National Anthem or which beer commercial made us choke on our nachos! Again, the Super Bowl rarely lives up to its hype.

This Sunday the Creator of the Universe is coming to church. Where two or three are gathered in His name He promises to show up. Likewise the Bible says that He inhabits the praises of His people. Yep, God is coming to FCC this Sunday! The One and Only whose power and glory is beyond the scope of our highest human imagination and comprehension is visiting us this weekend. As you have witnessed, when His Spirit shows up and moves amazing things always happen. Real people get really saved. Real people get really delivered. Really discouraged people get really happy. Real praise goes up and real blessings come down! Yet, with all that promised and in-store, most of us will lack preparation and arrive late. Many will casually prepare to attend the evening before and meander into church at their own convenience. Friends, what does this convey to others? Most importantly, what does this convey to your Lord?

Let’s all show the Father that He deserves more preparation, forethought, discipline, and action than a football game we’ll all forget before spring comes! Isn’t He worthy? This Sunday the Creator of the Universe is coming to church. Yep, I’m ready for some football – but I’m more ready for God! How about you?

This Sunday I’ll be sharing Part 3 of the message series ‘The Road to Recovery’. A BIG EXCITING ANNOUNCEMENT is guaranteed!

Interested in going to Kenya? Join Anthony & Tricia Isayi in The 4th Watch at 12:45 this Sunday for a short informative meeting.

Don’t forget to RSVP or purchase your annual Valentines Banquet tickets this Sunday at the Welcome Center.

Also, our Signpost ministry is off and running! Signpost #3 with Dave Gleason meets this Sunday at 9:00 AM upstairs in the Youth Worship Center. Contact Dave at the church for details.

I love you!

In the Fight,

Steve Kiefer
www.1stchristianchurch.org