SAFE @ FIRST

big lessons from a long sermon

2010-07-24T13:59:00.000-07:00

INTERNATIONAL ISSUE FRIDAY JULY 23 2010

all night church service - long winded preacher sends man to his death; then revives him

The passage in Acts 20:7-12 (CLICK HERE TO READ THE PASSAGE) amused me in a peculiar sort of way, before I was a preacher. Not so much after. Many years ago, as a child and then into my earlier teen years, I would use this passage to support my weekly complaint that preachers were blind when it came to reading the clock or their audience. How tragic that Paul's boring and long sermons would cause a young man to snooze and tumble out an open window to his death. I thought it was even more tragic that the Apostle would bring him back to life to endure more teaching until midnight!

But now as a preacher myself, I understand the principle: of course one maximizes a teaching opportunity to expand so as to take up all that the space/time continuum makes available! It is simply good stewardship!

Seriously, here is what impresses me even more than the long sermon or the amazing miracle:

1.) The Christians did not need a magnificent, ornate cathedral for worship. A crowded, warm upstairs room would suffice. Many lamps made for a hot, oily oxygen depleted atmosphere and hypnotic flickering of burning lamps could easily put people to sleep. I have seen great church buildings in North America and Europe, with steeples and windows and organs and carvings that take your breath away. But I have also seen firsthand open air, rough hewn, shanty town style worship centres that fill to overflowing with faithful, joyful and eager worshipers, attentive to the preaching of the word, receptive to the Holy Spirit breath of God. Any physical space can become holy. Any place can become church.

2.) Does this passage not tell us something about the hunger of these Christians? Their eagerness to learn is amazing! My cultural background betrays my desire for quick religious services. Do westerners have short attention spans? Is our hunger for physical food and Sunday recreation greater than our hunger for spiritual food? This is not an attempt to make all who live by their hero Eutychus feel guilty. I am just curious. I read in Acts 20 of people who gave up a whole night to hear a preacher/evangelist talk on and on - and they chose this! Perhaps that is the real miracle here.

miracle CPR during sermon

2010-07-24T13:52:00.000-07:00

International Issue Saturday July 24 2010

miracle CPR does not slow preacher down

We all know the unofficial motto/reputation of the Post Office: we deliver your mail through rain, sleet, snow and ice; we deliver through hurricanes, earthquakes, and vicious dogs growling.

Similarly, for Ministers, we deliver our sermons through all kinds of distractions. We will not be slowed down by bats, cats, heat, cold, crying, coughing, snoring, eating. We will not be distracted by knitting, fighting, sneezing, laughing, and yes, even gas leaks!

I have seen it all through 30+ years of preaching, survived it all, and conquered it all! But never have I had an Acts 20:7-12 incident! (You can read about the Apostle Paul & Eutychus here).

Yes I have preached late at night. Yes I have preached by lamp light and candle light. Yes I have preached in a crowded room. And, yes, I have preached very long sermons. I have had people escape out windows but never fall out windows to their death! And I have not hugged someone and brought them back to life, not physically anyway. But I have seen the spiritually dead breathe new life! Ephesians 5:14 "Wake up from your sleep. Climb out of your coffins, Christ will show you the light.” The Message)

Some sermons may put you to sleep & some sermons may wake you up! Sermons, by divine design, are to wake people not kill people!

I know the tragic fall and the amazing resurrection miracle 'steal the show' in this story, but here is another not so obvious lesson I learn from the story: Paul is not distracted from his purpose. He is there to make the most of a short 7 day stay in Troas. He has so much to teach & tell. He rushes downstairs, does the miracle CPR, then has a snack, and gets back to work. A preacher who notices the need, addresses it quickly, and then returns to task.

Paul would write to Timothy: "Devote yourself to preaching and to teaching. do not neglect your gift ... be diligent in these matters ... persevere in them, because if you do, you will save both yourself and your hearers". (1 Timothy 4:11-16) Paul knew these things to be true.

Some will argue, and rightfully so, that I take a preacher’s point of view on this passage. What about the poor unfortunate audience, enduring such a lengthy presentation? And without the high-tech of video and power point! But here is my point: these people knew that God’s word spoken through Paul’s words brought hope and life. It was spiritual food they sought, and spiritual life they got. We are told in verse 12 that the people left “greatly comforted”. Wherever you attend church tomorrow, whoever is your preacher/teacher, watch not the watch but rather watch for God’s encouragement.

have you read THE SHACK?

2010-07-17T09:58:00.000-07:00

International Issue July 16 2010

Questioning The Tough Stuff or, Finding God in the Shack
a ‘connect’ small group study in August

• Does God forgive everyone? Will there be child abusers and other ‘bad people’ in heaven? I’m not God, so how am I supposed to forgive like God? August 4

• Is God really a family of three? How can we ‘get our heads around’ the complex mystery of the Trinity? August 11

• Where is God in senseless, innocent suffering? Does God even care? Doesn’t he have any power to prevent tragedy? August 18

• How do we resolve the age-long tension in the ongoing battle between good and evil? How am I supposed to respond? Where is the church in all of this? August 25

A ‘preview’ pot-luck supper meeting at the home of Verna & Jim Brown will be held Wednesday July 28 at 6:00 pm, 19 Union Street, Brockville (613-342-9583)

Meetings will be at the First Presbyterian Manse, 12 Church Street, Brockville, (Doug & Yvonne Johns 613-345-7105) Wednesdays at 7 pm August 4,11,18,25.

Each meeting will ‘stand on its own’ and the study/discussion will not presuppose a prior reading of THE SHACK. However if you did read the book you will have a specific framework to assist you in thinking through these tough questions.

If you cannot attend, you are invited to follow the discussion on the blog http://shacktoughstuff.blogspot.com/

The Shack, William P. Young, Wind Blown Media, 2007
Finding God in the Shack, Roger E. Olson, Inter Varsity Press, 2009

hot enough for you?

2010-07-08T10:54:00.001-07:00

International Issue July 8, 2010

Proverbs 11:25
A generous person will prosper; he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed.

John 4:14
Jesus said, “whoever drinks the water I give him will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life”.

Psalm 23:2
He leads me beside still waters.

Proverbs 36:5-9
Your love, O Lord, reaches to the heavens, your faithfulness to the skies. O Lord, you preserve both man and beast. You give them drink from your river of delights. For with you is the fountain of life.

2 Peter 3:11-13
You ought to live holy and godly lives as you anticipate the day of God. That day will bring about the destruction of the heavens by fire, and the elements will melt in the heat. But with his promises we are looking forward to a new heaven and a new earth.

Revelation 7:14-17
God’s people who have come out of the great tribulation are now before the throne of God and he who sits on the throne will spread his tent over them. Never again will they hunger or thirst. The sun will not beat upon them, nor any scorching heat. For the Lamb at the centre of the throne will be their shepherd; and he will lead them to springs of living water.

Well, as you may have heard, Ontario, along with much of the North East United States, is enduring a very steamy hot and humid heat wave. It is physically draining and can make some people irritable, tired and even ill. It really slows the pace of life down. It is difficult to concentrate and productivity suffers.

So I thought a few verses and photos might help.

Unpacking the Revelation 7 passage:
Take a moment to open your Bible to Revelation 7:13-17 … It is in Jesus that there is the picture of ultimate care – provision and protection – distress relief, suffering assuaged. The burning thirst that comes with tribulation is replaced by the refreshing waters of life. No stagnation, no poisoned or putrid waters to endure. BUT WAIT, THERE IS MORE! (I sound like one of those TV super sales guys) It’s not just the gift of good times. The memory of pain and suffering will be mercifully removed as well. How many people suffer in the present, and cannot face the future, because of the past? Too many! Eternal consolation results from “God wiping every tear from their eyes” (7:17, 21:4) Bad memories, bad dreams, haunting head images – these will never make you cry again. Refreshed and washed, constantly being refreshed and washed. Kind of a cool thought on a hot day.

Be careful, be blessed

Doug

2010-07-06T15:01:00.000-07:00

International Issue Saturday July 3, 2010

I just wrote biblical summary of “A 30 second primer on prayer: when, what, how” - find it on our church website quickly: click here

“CAN THE CHURCH REALLY HELP US?”

Many today are seeking a rich spiritual life. Unfortunately, many of these will never consider looking to church to find it. There is an intentional aversion to all things “churchy”. So it seems logical to ask this question: “Can church really help us?”

Some Helpful Quotes:
“It is a theological impossibility to not be part of the church if you are a follower of Jesus”. – Dan Kimball, author of They Like Jesus But Not The Church

“Church is not a place to go, simply another meeting, but the way God has chosen to make himself known in our world.” – Ed Stetzer, President of Life Way Research

“All aspects of a church worship service act as team exercises that get Christians ready for the real game of living in the world.” – The Most Rev’d Robert Duncan, Anglican Archbishop in North America

Click here to move to the series site.

I would love to hear your brief comments on how your church has helped you, still helps you …. What in a worship service means the most to you? …. Could you live without your church? …

Leave a comment on the series site or email me at revdj@ripnet.com

Free books: June’s winner has been announced. Three books to be given away in July. See the details at the bottom of our church website home page. Click here.

2010-06-28T12:48:00.000-07:00

International Issue Monday June 28 2010

Hi everyone!

• Just 48 hours until free book giveaway …. Click here http://www.brockvillefirst.com/ and scroll down to bottom of page for details. So far most of the entries for the draw have come from India and the USA. C’mon Brockville.

• Hope you had a great weekend! Ours was absolutely terrific. On Saturday we held a daylong event with Patrick Voo, PCC Minister from Barrie, as speaker, and Bob Cates as entertainer (see http://www.comedyinmotion.com/ ). They brought excellence to an A+ amazing seminar titled “U R the Message”, a theme based on The Message translation of 1 Thessalonians 1:8.

The word has gotten around. Your lives are echoing the Master's Word, not only in the provinces but all over the place. The news of your faith in God is out. We don't even have to say anything anymore—you're the message!

The Howard family youth praise band was exceptional as well. Kathleen Howard led a great mass choir. (And the MC was pretty good too. :-) )

• Yesterday we were blessed to celebrate a “Children’s Sunday” in our worship. The children led us in prayer, Scripture reading, Bible stories and assisted with Communion. It was so cool to have them participate, feel at home, show their love for the Lord – and then we crossed the road to the Court house Green for a picnic and games. Sunday was terrific!

did you feel the mtns tremble?

2010-06-24T12:34:00.000-07:00

International Edition Thursday June 24 2010

So we get a real earthquake yesterday afternoon and I feel nothing; I must be absolutely alert-challenged, insensitive, and totally unaware. Hmm - probably not the first time some of you will say. My loving daughter Amanda responded to this reflection by saying “Is this a "no comment" moment???? LOL. Sorry u missed it!”

I thought immediately of the song going through my head ever since we started a Monday small group on “The power, people and practice of prayer”. Part of the study is to view George Otis Jr.’s ‘Transformations’: accounts of city transformation because churches prayed together in unity. Quite powerful. I love this song! Here are the lyrics:

Did You Feel The Mountains Tremble?

Did you feel the mountains tremble?
Did you hear the oceans roar?
When the people rose to sing of
Jesus Christ the risen one

Did you feel the people tremble?
Did you hear the singers roar?
When the lost began to sing of
Jesus Christ the risen one

And we can see that God you're moving
A mighty river through the nations
And young and old will turn to Jesus
Fling wide your heavenly gates
Prepare the way of the risen Lord

Open up the doors and let the music play
Let the streets resound with singing
Songs that bring your hope
Songs that bring your joy
Dancers who dance upon injustice

Did you feel the darkness tremble?
When all the saints join in one song
And all the streams flow as one river
To wash away our brokeness

And here we see that God you're moving
A time of Jubilee is coming
When young and old return to Jesus
Fling wide your heavenly gates
Prepare the way of the risen Lord

Today I want to give you some ‘bite-sized’ pieces of wisdom, reflection. Might be something here that resonates with you. If not, just press delete. I won’t tell the authors.

What's the difference between someone who thinks money grows on trees & someone who thinks the universe created itself? - Jim Gustafson

Some people are naturally bent towards stealing your joy. Don't base your life or ministry around those people. Don't do it! - Ron Edmondson

The important thing is this: To be able to sacrifice what we are for what we could become. - Charles DuBois

“How can you worship a homeless Man on Sunday and ignore one on Monday?” ... Sign outside St. Edward's Cathedral Philadelphia
- @Liturgy

Hope you are having a great day!

Doug

people of prayer

2010-06-24T12:14:00.001-07:00

International Edition Wednesday June 23 2010

Are there some people in your life who inspire you to pray? Or perhaps you are that inspirational person of prayer for someone else. The Bible has so many examples of people dedicated to prayer. The skeptic asks "why pray?" I think, among other things, that prayer is a reflection of our respect for, our dedication to, and our dependence on, the Lord. What do you think?

Take 60 seconds to read about three brief examples by clicking here.

got the power?

2010-06-24T12:11:00.001-07:00

International Edition for Saturday June 19 2010

Prayer Power –
A friend who pastors in Delhi reminded me just this week that their church survives only by prayer. As I listen to him speak of desperate challenges, of people who are beaten and abused for attending church, of people oppressed by disease, poverty and evil spirits, I can only shake my head in shame for the North American church. My problems are trivial besides life and death struggles there. And they turn to prayer time and time again. At General Assembly I heard a pastor from North India speak. A few years ago he and many Christians were falsely accused by extremists and held in jail for numerous months. They prayed. Canadian Presbyterians prayed. God's power was made evident. Hmm.

How do you respond to this title to one of Philip Yancey's books? Prayer: does it make any difference? (Zondervan, 2006) Yancey says "I have learned that Christians who have no access to earthly power truly believe prayer gives them access to a greater power. They see prayer as our strongest weapon against invisible forces." (see Ephesians 6:10-20) He quotes Karl Barth: "to clasp the hands in prayer is the beginning of an uprising against the disorder of the world." In this book there are accounts from history showing how prayer played a significant role in the removal of oppressive regimes in Romania and Poland, and that oppressive image, the Berlin wall.

Take a moment to see the same power of prayer at work in the early church. Peter in prison - and then the church prayed on his behalf (Acts 12); Paul and Silas praying in a Philippian jail (Acts 16). Tremendous results! Let's turn the power on shall we?

inspired

2010-06-24T12:06:00.000-07:00

International Edition Friday June 18 2010

It was my honour to be asked by the Presbytery of Seaway-Glengarry to be one of six commissioners (3 clergy, 3 elders) to the 2010 General Assembly. This year the Assembly met in Sydney, Cape Breton, Nova Scotia – Cape Breton has some incredible scenery and wonderful hospitality, so it was not difficult at all for me to accept this denominational duty with joy. And I was so pleased that my wife Yvonne could clear her work schedule and accompany me. We met up with colleagues and friends from our past, and were delighted to hear their stories of God’s blessings through the years. We also listened to accounts of how other churches are responding to the challenges of doing faithful ministry in a diverse and secular culture.

General Assembly is the highest decision making body in our denomination, and meets annually. One-sixth of a Presbytery’s clergy and lay elders are sent each June. The week is filled with worship, discussion, debate, guest speakers and social events. Some of the business before this year’s assembly:
• Should lay pastors be allowed to administer communion?
• How can the PCC better encourage the planting of new and innovative churches?
• A decision to approve 3 terms to describe the PCC’s view on Scriptural authority: necessary, sufficient, reliable
• A decision to approve the 3 PCC seminaries offer a special program for parish nurses
• Passionate discussion over a lack of funding to support Synod/Regional resource workers
• Passionate discussion on how much extra coursework should be required of ministerial candidates applying from non PCC schools or other denominations
• Passionate discussion on how best to encourage Palestinian Christians caught up in the middle of conflict with Israel
• A decision to continue the practice of holding annual General Assemblies
• An evening devoted to Truth & Reconciliation with First Nations people, with particular focus on the PCC history with native residential schools

The theme for the week:

The Moderator, The Rev. Dr. Herb Gale, declared the focus for his year of service: generosity “I invite you all to make this the Year of Living Generously” he said. “I invite you to sail into the future on the ship called Generosity”.

For more detailed information you can begin by going to this site: http://www.presbyterian.ca/

Personal reflection:
Through my 31 years of ordained ministry I have been to 7 Assemblies (two in Hamilton, as well as one in Ottawa, Cornwall, & St. Catherines ) … the people of Cape Breton went all out to create an incredibly hospitable environment. They planned some wonderful excursions for the free afternoon/evening on Wednesday; the Monday night banquet was amazing with lobster dinner, down-east fiddle music and a special performance by the world famous Men of the Deeps; the daily worship was varied in liturgy and musical styles, and inspirational. Yvonne and I connected with so many people and we left quite encouraged and renewed. Thanks to all the congregations that cover the tasks of ongoing ministry back home so that their elders and ministers can periodically contribute to the life and mission of our denomination in this manner.

We chose the excursion to Baddeck and the Alexander Graham Bell Museum. So much more than the telephone! He and his wife were so creative! He partnered with others keen on adventure and new discovery. I was inspired to take more risks and be open to the seemingly impossible.

When assembly ended we travelled to Fortress Louisburg on an absolutely gorgeous day to be by the ocean. In Sydney one night we also got to see 65 foot sailing yachts arrive in harbor from the second to last leg of an ‘around the world race’. Incredible dedication and courage shown by these crews. How can we not be amazed at what teamwork can accomplish?

We drove through New Brunswick and were graciously received by friends from one of our former churches: Mike & Deb Flewelling near Woodstock and Margie & Jack Rogers near Moncton. It was a real joy to also spend much of the week with John & Shari Green from Vancouver Island, a contact that goes way back to our Timberline Ranch days!

Rejoice with us as we say “I’m so glad I’m a part of the family of God”.

Blessings,

Doug

but following God seems difficult

2010-06-24T12:00:00.000-07:00

Thursday June 3, 2010

Character is never developed, strength is never built, maturity never attained without resistance. I am guilty of wanting the easy way, way too often. To be a leader is particularly risky. The public can complain. The team can betray. The friends can disappear. Moses, Jesus and so many others have the scars and stories to back this up.

Following God is Hard Because…

Following God is hard because… He will call you to do something that will stretch you faith.

Ezekial had it tough. Not only did God call him to warn his people about their impending judgment (never a fun topic), but God also told him that they are a rebellious and stubborn people. What a bummer. Can you see him getting ready for this speech? Talk about a hostile audience.
Here is what God tells Ezekiel:

4 The people to whom I am sending you are obstinate and stubborn. Say to them, ‘This is what the Sovereign LORD says.’ 5 And whether they listen or fail to listen—for they are a rebellious house—they will know that a prophet has been among them. 6 And you, son of man, do not be afraid of them or their words. Do not be afraid, though briers and thorns are all around you and you live among scorpions. Do not be afraid of what they say or terrified by them, though they are a rebellious house. 7 You must speak my words to them, whether they listen or fail to listen, for they are rebellious. 8 But you, son of man, listen to what I say to you. Do not rebel like that rebellious house; open your mouth and eat what I give you.” (Ez. 2:4-8 NIV)

What a poor pep talk. God doesn’t even try to sugar coat things for Ezekiel. He says, “Do not be afraid, though briers and thorns are all around you and you live among scorpions.” Briers, thorns, and scorpions – way to freak a guy out!

Whenever we decide to follow God, we must be prepared to have our faith stretched. God understood that this was not an easy challenge for Ezekiel. This was not going to be a popularity speech by any stretch.

God also knows that when He calls you and I to a task, it is going to stretch us as well. That’s the point.

What is God calling you to do? Take courage from Ezekiel’s story. Read verse seven and apply that to your situation. Yes, it is going to be tough. Yes, people may not what to hear what you have to say, but God is saying, “You must speak my words to them.” God has called you for a purpose. Now pursue it!

Following God is hard because He will call you to do something that will stretch you faith.

This devotional comes from http://dustinbates.org/

running on empty?

2010-06-24T11:53:00.000-07:00

Tuesday June 01 2010

I found the devotional thought below on jonathanpearson.net. I think it is worth sharing here. Hope it ‘speaks’ to you.

I think these thoughts based on Matthew 14:13-21 (read it here) have implications for anyone concerned about their church:

1. churches that seem to be running close to empty on the resources gauge
2. churches that seem reluctant to try new things
3. churches that think the challenge is too large
4. churches that are not used to a ‘desperate trust’ kind of faith
5. churches wanting to experience excess but are unwilling to access what they already have

Please remember these principles next time you are in a church meeting.

Have a great day,

Doug

1. People should never leave our church/our lives hungry for the Gospel.
It’s our job to be sure that they have what they need when they leave.
We can’t send people away wanting truth when they’ve just sat through our service or witnessed our life.

2. Commit what you do to Christ and you’ll never run out.
No matter what you’ve got, or what you’re doing, commit it to Christ and He will use it.
You won’t run short.
You won’t have to scrum to find more.
Christ always takes what we sacrificially give and makes it more than enough.

3. Reaching people requires action, hard work, and taking risk.
The disciples really had no clue how much food they had when they started giving it out.
The disciples did, however, obey Christ with action in faith that there would be enough food to go around.
No matter what your calling is, you must act in order for it to be accomplished.
Never use prayer as an excuse for inactivity.

4. Do your part in faith and leave the results up to God.
Ultimately, you can’t work hard enough to make something successful.
No matter how hard you try, you’ll never accomplish anything if you depend exclusively on yourself.
There comes a time in everything when you just have to simply trust God.

poignant image

2009-03-06T16:06:00.000-08:00

Please check out this amazing image!

We are in the middle of 40 Days of Love here at FPC. This means we have 45 people reading the same book on a daily basis, meeting weekly in a small discussion group to view the video teaching of Pastor Rick Warren, and then on Sunday mornings with the entire church family, we explore the implications of 1 Corinthians 13.

So last Sunday our title was “do your words love?” The question is answered by reviewing the kind of words we use in our relationships. The Bible tells us to ….

1. Love people with honest words (1 Corinthians 3:6, Ephesians 4:15)
2. Love people with careful words (Proverbs 15:1, 16:28, 21:23, Ephesians 4:26, 27,)
3. Love people with building words (Proverbs 12:18, 25, 16:21, Ephesians 4:29)

Words are so powerful that they leave deep footprints. Many of us have been wounded by careless and/or vicious words. We all know what it is like to ‘say the wrong thing’, but the toothpaste is already out of the tube!

You may make your living talking, or you may live to talk; you may ‘yearn to yap’ when it’s better to ‘shut your trap’ or you might be the master of the small ‘sound-byte’; - it does not matter how much or how little you speak: it does matter how you speak.

And this graphic is now forever etched in my mind. Take a moment and let it speak to you too.

tough homework

2009-03-03T13:58:00.001-08:00

So I just posted on my ‘Facebook’ page how difficult our church homework for this week seemed. I asked everyone on Sunday to commit to praying Psalm 19:14 every morning for a week. I reflected that it is not the praying that is tough, it is meaning this prayer that is the tough part!

Praying it with integrity and resolve, that is the key. We all suffer from “heart and mouth disease”. So I went back to the 40 Days of Love Reading for day 8. Here is the answer that Tom Holladay gives us:

“Christianity is not trying harder; Christianity is trusting Jesus. I need the power that only Jesus can give.”

I’m thinking 40 Days of Love is so good every church should be doing it!
Have a good week.

Doug

40 Days of Love "hype" part #2

2009-01-27T09:36:00.000-08:00

volume 3 ... issue 02 .... January 27, 2009

Right now we are beginning the search for Hosts and Navigators.

What is a HOST?
Have a heart for people
Open your home
Serve a snack
Turn on the DVD

What is a Navigator?
Someone who will gently lead the discussion time in a sensitive and non-threatening manor, one who takes on the oversight of the group for six weeks.

Potential Hosts and navigators should contact Rev. Johns as soon as possible.

Congregations involved in similar campaigns report a resurgence of spiritual enthusiasm, a sense of common identity and purpose, and new initiatives in the areas of fellowship, outreach and mission. Rick Warren, Lead Pastor of Saddleback Church has designed the program. Rick is well known for his best-selling book The Purpose Driven Life, his ‘Aids work’ in Africa, and the one giving the Invocation Prayer at the historic Presidential Inauguration on January 20, 2009.

40 Days of Love 'Hype'

2009-01-27T09:29:00.000-08:00

VOLUME 3 - ISSUE #1 ... JANUARY 27, 2009

There can be no question that “LOVE” is at the centre of our faith. The challenge comes when we try to translate what we believe into the way that we live. We can help each other with this. In fact God wants us to work together on this project. This is what Hebrews 10:24,25 says:

“Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds. Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another”

So February & March will be devoted to this focus - Sunday morning teaching, daily readings, and multiple small groups. There are even ways to get the children involved in the campaign. Think of how helpful, uplifting and motivating it will be to have so many of our congregation zeroing in on the ‘heart of God’ at the same time. Both our church and our community will benefit so much.

The small groups will meet weekly, starting right after Valentines Day, for six weeks. Multiple groups will allow for maximum congregational participation – timeslots to fit your schedule.

You will be given an opportunity to register your commitment to this 40 Days of Love Campaign between February 01 and February 15.

Right now we are beginning the search for Hosts and Navigators.

2008-11-15T12:59:00.000-08:00

Saturday November 15, 2008

Hi everyone!

I have got one more theme in this ‘unstoppable’ series: it is the idea of momentum. The buildup of energetic forward motion. I am no physicist, but I know momentum when I see it – feel it. I have experienced it in sports, on stage, in my car, and yes – in churches. And I have been known to have a good dose of skepticism, pessimism (I say reality) – and still I know what momentum is all about! One of the toughest jobs of the coach, and the Minister, is to generate momentum and sustain that momentum. I guess that is where God steps into the equation. The church is His responsibility, not mine. I am to be responsive, get in the flow of the spiritual current He sets up, and help others to jump in and keep moving.

Have you ever sat on an inner tube/raft and floated down a manmade lazy river, or better yet, a mountain stream. Sometimes the ride is faster than other times. Sometimes the river changes direction and there may be an adjustment needed, riding up against the abrasive wall/shore until the current catches you again and whips you along to new places.

I think the church is like this. Throughout history there were some tough and rough spots, places where the river might hit against barriers that were, at first glance, just too much trouble to penetrate or circumvent. Persecution, corruption, apathy – and yet the church of Jesus has survived it all! One of our hymns tomorrow says it perfectly: “crowns and thrones may perish, kingdoms rise and wane, but the Church of Jesus, constant will remain; gates of hell can never ‘gainst that church prevail, we have Christ’s own promise, and that cannot fail”

Jesus spoke of His Kingdom having momentum, energetic forward motion. I want our congregation here in Brockville to sense this as we move towards celebrating 200 years of ministry in 2011. All of you, though, look around, watch some of the churches in your town, read some Christian magazines, surf the net, see how God’s people are moving ahead in a tough world, just like the church in the New Testament book of Acts. There are many reasons to grow discouraged and fall into the grip of irrelevance. But instead take heart, be encouraged, and join those who follow Christ all over the world and be part of His momentous momentum. I hope I can explain it adequately tomorrow.

Like many of you, I succumbed to the grip of a bad cold this week, and it really slowed me down. My head is fuzzy, my body is slow (I know, some of you think that is my status at normal times) and I need to rest for tomorrow. Check out all the unstoppable themes and outlines at www.churchunstoppable.blogspot.com

Have a great Sunday wherever you choose to worship

Doug

2008-10-25T14:57:00.000-07:00

Saturday October 25, 2008
… in this issue:
- Olympic gold medals
- Rick Mercer
- Reformation Sunday
- invitations

So did you miss my comments last week about our Thanksgiving weekend adventures and encounters? How cool was it to have dinner with Adam Kreek (and even hold the Olympic Gold medal) on Friday night and then watch live and up close the filming of Rick Mercer on Lake Muskoka on Sunday afternoon. I thought they truly tied into the teaching. One was serious and one was just plain silly. But both spoke of unstoppable courage and unstoppable confidence. You can check out how I develop these thoughts by going to www.churchunstoppable.blogspot.com

Last week I lifted four church activities observed in the Book of Acts that we must approach with courage and confidence – and some of them make us uneasy. Please take 30 seconds to familiarize yourself with this stuff (click here). Know it and live it, and I promise you it will change how most churches do business.

The fires of the Christian Church have burned for twenty centuries! The Holy Spirit of God has infiltrated people’s hearts with a desire to boldly stand against all foes. Unflinching courage in the face of incredible odds, Jesus keeps His church on the move. This series ties in with our recollection of the Reformation tomorrow. We look back over the years and see how believers took a stand against evil, injustice, even Satan himself, even the church itself! And while great leaders worked so hard to ‘keep the main thing the main thing’, and to make available the Bible in the language of the common people, we stand on guard today. Let us not be lulled into forgetting that it was the call to follow Jesus that got the church moving. Let us not forget that wrestling with the Scriptures enables us to see how God wants His influence to flood our families and communities. Let us not forget that the gospel message must be sounded clearly, so that those who hear can both understand and respond.

So that brings us to the whole matter of inviting guests. What is it about invitations that catch our attention? What invitations turn us off? Why do some of us never rsvp? How does the invitation sender feel when it is just ignored?

If your church is not an ‘inviting church’, it needs to be. If it is, I want to hear from you. What is it about your congregation that makes it so? Give us some ideas on how to do this thing of ‘inviting’ well. Go to the safe@first blog right now and leave a brief comment. (click here)

Over the next few weeks I am going to suggest why I think this series, along with the one I will offer early in 2009 will go a long way in helping you understand what I am asking of God for in our church here in Brockville. If FPC is not your home, my guess is that you will be able to apply the same principles to the church you serve.

Really, the questions are pretty simple:
• What kind of church do we read about in the New Testament?
• What kind of church went before us?
• What kind of church are we now?
• What kind of church do we want to be?

FPC: You can view church announcements here.

Until next time, hear these words from our Lord: “On this rock I will build my church and the gates of hell will not overcome it.” If you are united to Christ and His church by virtue of your faith profession, just like Peter here in Matthew 16:18, then nothing you are going through right now will take you down. You are loved by Jesus, kept by Jesus. Have you ever read the last half of Romans 8?

I am doing my best at staying unstoppable through Christ who is my strength. Sure, sometimes it is difficult – and that is when His spirit and His church takes over. So thanks for being the church.

Doug

2008-10-04T15:30:00.000-07:00

Saturday October 4th, 2008

So we are back from a few hectic weeks! Here’s how I spent that time:
• Officiated at two out-of-town weddings
• Officiated at the funeral in Toronto of an uncle
• Spent time in two Mississauga hospitals at the bedside of a very sick brother
• Celebrated the 60th wedding anniversary of my parents and Yvonne’s parents (Yvonne’s parents were visiting from Creston, BC for two weeks)
• Sold our house on the Severn River and moved out 6 years of ‘stuff’

I was so glad to get back to our church last Sunday! What a great sense of support and encouragement I sensed from the people here. (wherever your spiritual home base is, I trust you experience that same sense of community). I was also excited to see many visitors at worship – hope you are praying every week for God to prompt you to invite family and friends -, and the enthusiasm of the children was inspiring. Let me tell you how I was blessed by the many of you who, at the invitation of the Mission & Outreach Committee, stayed for Coffee Hour to hear the update on Youth Unlimited’s first month of a trial ministry in a new location. I stood with one of our new families (two parents, four young children, in Canada only a year) during the two presentations and their hearts were really moved. Immediately they wanted to help. The response to the call for volunteers was amazing. On Friday Joan had five helpers with the Mom’s program – this is a ‘God thing’ as women from The Pier Christian Church, The Reformed Church and First Church came together right here to counsel, encourage, mentor, & feed young mothers and their children in our community. I see a direct link to the subject matter of our current series on The Good Samaritan. Anyway, all this to say that I hope you see, God has something refreshing and stimulating every time His people gather. Pray for the Holy Spirit to meet you tomorrow.

So here is the big question #1: how do you ‘keep your head’ in the midst of the roller coaster of life? When you feel overwhelmed? I would love to hear your thoughts on this tough question. What works for you? Jump to the safe @ first blog and enter your advice.

Big question #2 (choose one of the following):
• How much does it cost?
• Is there not something a little less expensive?
• Do you think the price tags got switched?
• Do you really think I’m prepared to pay that much?

Tomorrow I want to teach one last message in the series about the Good Samaritan. It should amaze/inspire/motivate us when we see this kind man foot the bill for a rescue of someone he is supposed to hate! He goes beyond the call of duty by expending his own resources to clean, carry and ensure the convalescence of the victim. Those of us in church leadership often get maligned for saying this, but nevertheless it is true: Ministry requires money. Your congregation needs you to finance its programs generously. It is worth it when we see even one life rescued from hurt, grief, anger, loneliness, discouragement, guilt, … And as tomorrow is “World - Wide Communion Sunday” how easily this lesson on cost links to the Sacrament.

Big question #3 – Did anyone listen? The story in Luke 10 begins with an expert in the law asking Jesus some questions. Jesus turns the tables and asks questions himself (a good teacher eh?) the scene ends with Jesus speaking some ‘easy to say harder to do’ instructions: GO AND DO LIKEWISE. While people in the church have known this Good Samaritan story for a long time, I suggest that the ending is not so well know. As this law expert departed, and as those standing in ear shot buzzed over the discussions, do you think some complied with the command? Does the picture below convey the reality of some who listen to Jesus? We can only speculate, for Luke does not take time to tell us what happened later.

Listen and live out the ‘Good Sam’ lessons and watch your life change, watch your church grow, watch your neighbourhood change.

You can read all four outline notes and my ‘top 10’ by going to www.agoodneighbour.blogspot.com

Hope you will be at your church tomorrow.

Doug

Ps: #1 A Reminder from the Presbyterian Women of First Church: Don’t forget to get tickets to the special dinner planned for Friday October 24
Ps #2 A Reminder from Mission & Outreach: Your continued support of the Loaves & Fishes project is amazing! This special restaurant reaches so many people in need of a good meal, and your donations of food items on the first Sunday of each month (tomorrow) and/or financially through special designations in your offering envelopes is all part of heeding the lessons of the Good Samaritan teaching. Thanks.

2008-09-08T14:18:00.000-07:00

MONDAY SEPTEMBER 8, 2008

IN THIS ISSUE

• OUTDOOR SERVICE & PICNIC UPDATE
• POST SCRIPT TO PART #1 OF “welcome to the neighbourhood”

So, “ye of little faith”, yesterday’s outdoor worship service and picnic turned out just fine. The weather was good – even a little too hot in the sun (some of us have sunburn!) … and the expert chauffeur service from the parking lots to the picnic site? – what can I say? Gloria & Hugh Bates drove those golf carts like they knew what they were doing. Thanks Marianne for arranging those … and to all my volunteers who helped with the Good Samaritan skit – wow! You made the Bible come to life. (I saw Pastor Kevin today, and he seems to have healed ok.) … Dale, the relay games were exciting, the children were fun to watch, our Angola youth (Ada & Pedro) sure know what to do with the soccer ball eh? … the Bocce players were really into it and our sound technicians made things run smoothly. Kathleen on guitar chose some appropriate songs to sing …..SO THANKS TO EVERYONE FOR MAKING IT A GREAT DAY!!!! Check out some photos of the Good Sam skit at www.wwwfirstplace.blogspot.com click here watch for more pics to get posted during the week!!

3 CRIMES post script:

Here’s what I learned:

• Love, care, ‘neighbouring’ is so much more than observing; it is ‘doing’
• ‘avoidance’ is too often a ‘default’ reaction
• Jesus ended the story with this instruction: “go and do likewise”
• People really hurt – all around us – hurt in many different ways

Homework: recall how someone stepped into the picture of your troubled life & stooped to calm, care, and rescue (kind of like Jesus, right?) … look for an opportunity to ‘pay it back’ { actually, the new term these days, is ‘pay it forward’}

Have a great week!

Doug

2008-09-08T12:12:00.000-07:00

Most people have some familiarity with the story Jesus tells - the phrase "Good Samaritan" is used in our culture, in newspaper headlines etc. The story in the Gospel of Luke has a few surprises. Stop and think about the first surprise (and no one spends much time on this): Jesus does not take an opportunity to lecture about the rising crime rates of the day. He does not 'write a letter to the editor' complaining how changing demographics are ruining the small town feeling of the local community - No, the first surprise is that two crimes quickly follow the mugging. What blinds us to the pain and trouble of those around us? Why is it so difficult to respond to those in need? What excuses can we really offer? Let's explore the familiar story for a few weeks and ask God to make us more like the Samaritan. Will you join me?

________________________________________

RALLY SUNDAY - OUTDOOR WORSHIP & CONGREGATIONAL PICNIC
SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 7 @ 10:30 AM @ ST.LAWRENCE PARK (UPPER LEVEL)

So, will you be there? Bring your own lunch ... perhaps call up someone who lives on their own and invite them to join your family. Bring your lawn chairs and/or blankets, soccer ball, frisbees ... Games and fun for all.

What if it rains? If it is raining, too wet or too cold, we will meet in the Church Hall. I will check out the park by 9:00 am and make a decision shortly after. Watch for an email from me around 9:30 am. and I will confirm the location. People can call the church after 9:45 am on Sunday morning and speak with Marianne if unsure. (613-345-5014)

Services available at the site: washrooms, transportation from the parking lot to the worship/picnic site for those who have difficulty walking.

If you need a chair or a lunch, we can help: please call the church office by Thursday (today) (613-345-5014)

________________________________________

Interested in taking THE ALPHA COURSE but have trouble with a weekday evening? Perhaps "Alpha Express" is better for you. We are thinking of offering this on Sunday mornings before worship on Sundays. Dale is willing to hold a special study & discussion with the older young people, and we are checking into child-care possibilities too. This would be a family event - and yes, we will serve you breakfast! Dale and I want to talk to you about all this. So come on Sunday September 14th and meet with us at coffee hour after worship. Also invited into the discussion would be any 'alpha graduates' who might be able to assist with the hospitality.

NOTE: The full Alpha Course may not be run again until 2009, so if you have not taken this 'First Church Core Course' yet, this just might be for you. We will make it happen if we get enough interest.

________________________________________

LOAVES & FISHES SUNDAY - this week - Sept. 7 - thanks for bringing your food gifts to the service (either at the park or the church).

who says the Bible is out of date?

2008-08-30T11:25:00.000-07:00

Some critics and skeptics quickly and casually dismiss the Bible as being ‘out of touch’ & ‘out of date’. I beg to differ. Here’s just one example.

All of us will admit, though never in detail and never in public, that there are many times when we do/say/think things that … (a) we know hurt others (b) we know break God’s heart (c) go against our express inner desire to avoid in the first place. – and the reverse is true: we don’t always do the things that … (a) we know will help others (b) we know will please God (c) we have intended to do.

(Read the paragraph again if you need to – it is confusing, but true for us all.)

Here’s the thing: This frustration has been going on since creation. Even with God in our life, we still struggle. Exactly what the Apostle Paul said in Romans 7 is our experience: I have the desire to do what is good, but I cannot carry it out. For what I do is not the good I want to do; no, the evil I do not want to do – this I keep on doing…What a wretched man I am! We get so frustrated! We know what the Christian is supposed to do …. Like when the computer acts up: we know what it is supposed to do, but sometimes it seems to have a mind of its own.

Any surprise then, that a prayer we find in the Psalms and another one from Luke need to be made into our prayers on a daily basis?

Psalm 19:14 = May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, O Lord my Rock and Redeemer.
Luke 18:13 = “Lord, be merciful to me, a sinner”.

In the chaos of those unholy moments, turn your eyes on Jesus, the one who forgives and offers another chance. Looking forward to seeing you tomorrow at worship. The teaching outline can be found here. Other safe @ first mailings can be found here.

DJ

2008-08-25T14:05:00.001-07:00

We are back from 12 days of holidays (from which we now need a rest!!! – I will tell you more in the days to come). I am working on my thoughts for tomorrow morning – a short two-part new teaching series will begin on a topic that I think speaks to us all.

Have you ever felt like your life swirls about you in a whirlwind of chaos and you can hardly keep your head on straight or your wits about you? Has God abandoned us? Are we out of touch with the divine presence of His Holy Spirit? Do we have to wait until the storm ends to regain spiritual balance? I hope you will be attentive to what God has for you in this series.

Tomorrow: part #1 based on Psalm 139 and James 1.

Wherever you might be tomorrow, take a few minutes to attend worship.

Doug,
ps. I really would like to hear some personal story stuff on how you have experienced God in the “messes” of life (or perhaps you wish to ‘air’ the questions you have because the chaos of life is killing you – share your thoughts on the series blog www.chaoscanbesacred.blogspot.com

Doors & More

2008-08-09T14:51:00.000-07:00

in this issue:
• 1.More reflections on OPEN DOORS
• 2.One of the Bible’s most famous verses
• 3.Why I’m ‘pumped’ about this Sunday’s worship
• 4.A working holiday?

#1

• An Open door to God’s eternal kingdom – Jesus has made a way, built a bridge, issued a banquet invitation – let’s walk in and be part of the ‘party of grace’ - Revelation 3:8,20
• Open doors for ministry and preaching – bringing Jesus to lives that are hurting and in need – 1 Corinthians 16:9, 2 Corinthians 2:12, Colossians 4:3 This is why we exist. God calls us to walk through the doors and touch people with His love. Always alert, always looking, always praying: God open a door for ministry today.
• Open Doors for hospitality – welcoming people into our homes and lives – Read Matthew 25:31 – 46 (it’s all about sheep and goats – those who live for Christ in practical ways, feeding the hungry, giving a drink to the thirsty, inviting strangers in, clothing the naked, caring for the sick, visiting the prisoner… and when we do it for the least of these brothers of Jesus, we do it for Him!)
• Open Doors for faith - when we see revival, new people choosing to follow Jesus, especially in large numbers, it is natural for us to desire the credit. But the bible clearly states that God opens these doors. When Paul and Barnabas returned from their missionary journey, they reported to the church in Antioch (the church that had supported them, sent them out, welcomed them back – their ‘home church’)”all that God had done through them and how He had opened the door of faith to the Gentiles.” – Acts 14:27
• Open Doors of Heaven – this is where blessings and provisions come from in abundance! In Psalm 78:23-29 God opens heaven’s door to rain down manna. Enough to satisfy completely! In Malachi 3:10 we are invited to see God come through on His promises: see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that you will not have enough room for it.
• Open Doors to safety, salvation, abundant life – as the Good Shepherd, Jesus is also the Door of the sheepfold – there are some good reasons we want to listen to the voice of Jesus! John 10:7-10

X X X X X X X X X X

#2

Behold I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with him, and him with me. – the words of Jesus to the Church of Laodicea (Revelation 3:20)

A famous verse and a famous painting! And it is a pivotal part of the teaching text for Sunday August 10, 2008. It seems that people always want to direct our eyes to one unique/peculiar aspect about this door – take a close look and see if you can identify what is missing - I’ll comment on Sunday. It is also popular to apply the verse to individuals: that is, “Jesus wants to be part of your life. Why not invite Christ in?”
I don’t think this understanding is at all inappropriate. However, the context is Jesus speaking to a church in desperate need of a ‘turn-around’. So this is as much Jesus knocking on the door of a church as he is knocking on the door of your heart. Inquisitive minds ask: “So what’s the deal with Laodicea? How are they functioning so that Jesus is in fact shut out?” …. If Jesus was looking for a church, He would look for a church where He is welcome. He would also look for a church that was either hot or cold! Find out more in Revelation 3:14-22. I’ll explain what the hot & cold is all about. It may surprise you.

This series blog: www.churchreportcards.blogspot.com

X X X X X X X X X X

#3
Summer has been a blessing with a wonderful Alpha reunion evening on Tuesday of this week – it followed a July success – DYD (Discover Your Design). And we finish a teaching series this Sunday with a look at one of the most quoted Scriptures from the New Testament! I anticipate good things every Sunday. I routinely ask God by His Spirit to touch the lives of each person who attends. God’s people are meant to be together, not apart. So come and be “the church together!” Look for a couple of additional items this week. First: we will say a public ‘thanks’ to someone who has carefully and joyfully ministered to the youngest of our congregation on a weekly basis – Margaret Frith will have her last official Sunday as our Nursery Worker. Come and wish her God’s blessing as she heads off to Queen’s University. Second: The Governing Session held a special meeting this week to consider a way that we can leverage our resources for more effective Christian ministry in the downtown core of Brockville. The Bible calls us to be alert to open doors for ministry and mission, so it is with a sense of excitement that I tell you to look for a special announcement on Sunday to this end.

X X X X X X X X X X

#4
Yvonne and I are off to Alberta and BC on holidays. We leave very very very early on Monday, flying from Ottawa to Calgary. Three of our four children live in Calgary, and we have not been there in 3 years. We look forward to seeing Karis (Glen), Hannah (Peter) and Caleb. Then we will travel to Creston BC where we used to live, and where Yvonne’s parents reside. I have a wedding to officiate at on Saturday August 16th. On Sunday the 17th I will preach in the morning at St. Stephen’s Presbyterian (where we served 1994 - 2002 and then do a baptism of a friend in the Goat River Sunday afternoon. We’ll spend a few more days back in Calgary and be home very very very late on Friday August 22nd. So we only miss one Sunday and I am pleased that one of our Governing Session members, Mr. Quentin Robinson, will be the guest Minister on August 17th. Thank you in advance for encouraging and supporting Quentin’s ministry.

X X X X X X X X X X

I trust you will have a good weekend – will I see your pic in tomorrow’s newspaper as the winner of the rib eating contest at Ribfest today?

Looking to a good Sunday,
Doug

Alive and Anticipating

2008-08-02T13:02:00.001-07:00

Saturday August 02, 2008

Hi everyone!

It continues to be a weird summer here in Eastern Ontario, with hot humid weather and rain/lightning/thunder almost every day. I trust you are surviving – no better than that – thriving as you enjoy vacation time, family time, outdoor time. Soon Yvonne and I will be heading to Calgary Alberta and Creston British Columbia for two weeks. I’ll tell you more about that next week – it will be both recreation and ministry.

Last Sunday at Church was so cool as we welcomed many visitors. What a blessing to welcome guests from Temperance, Michigan; Palm Springs, California, West Virginia; Woodstock, Ontario; Manitoba … and we have a new family with four children who have just moved here from Scarborough … I’m excited that they all chose to be at First in Brockville! (mini lecture time: I sure hope you are making the same effort to attend a church when you are on vacation! It is always good to visit new congregations and pick up some new ideas, it refreshes your soul to worship in new ways, and it blesses other churches when they receive guests. So remember to pick up a copy of the worship bulletin to give me upon your return – I like to see what is happening in other churches.)

Actually the ‘blessing high’ continued all week. We held our final DYD (Discover Your Design) class on Tuesday, and the graduates were all agreed on how marvelously this has improved their walk with the Lord and focused their desires to serve more effectively. And then the informal memorial service for Lilo Schilkin at St. Lawrence Lodge on Thursday was inspiring and comforting. Thanks to First Church people who attended.

And it is not over. Next Tuesday, August 5, we hold our “Alpha Reunion”. It will be a pot-luck dinner (bring lots, some of us get real hungry on Tuesdays!) at the Manse (12 Church Street) @ 6:30 pm. We will watch a new DVD teaching presentation by Nicky Gumbel and have some informal discussion. Please Note: THIS IS OPEN TO ALPHA GRADS AND THEIR GUESTS. We want to spread the word on how great this experience/program is and plant the ‘participation seed’ for the next time the course is offered. If no one has yet invited you, I am doing that now. You can come as the guest of Yvonne and Doug okay? Come check it all out.

x x x x x x x x x x

So this was last week’s theme. The church in Sardis was in dire straits, but not yet shipwrecked. There was still some hope – but it would require an ‘attitude adjustment’. Isn’t it strange how we all want it to be someone else, some other ‘sleepy’ church to go through such repentance/renewal/priority transformation. Drowsiness, laziness, pride: they are all ‘bed partners’ constantly hitting the snooze button when God gives his wake-up call. Personally, I consider church # 5, Sardis, and church #7, Laodicea, to be the ones receiving the harshest words from Jesus. The Sardis Church had taken on the non-life of its famous cemetery! Reputation can carry one right to the grave yard! But there was still hope that the faithful few could influence and work some spiritual CPR.

Tomorrow I am pleased to dwell on some more positive news: ‘Open Doors’ of ministry and promise. Have you ever heard these words from the powerful hymn The Holy City? “Jerusalem, Jerusalem, sing for the night is o’er….” Right out of this Scripture in Revelation 3 and another we will read tomorrow, Revelation 21. I want to motivate us to look forward, to anticipate. I’m pumped about this message and will devote a few more hours of prep & study tonight. Hope you will join us tomorrow at 9:30 am, or for those of you not in Brockville, I trust you will take a few minutes to give your allegiance to God at your own local church. Enjoy this long weekend.

Doug Johns

give till it hurts?

2008-03-08T16:55:00.000-08:00

I’m not sure I like that statement—the one that suggests you’re not really giving until you feel some kind of pain ...as if I must strain my shoulder or throw out my back putting my offering in the plate on a Sunday! Doesn’t the Bible say something about cheerful giving anyway? I guess it is easier to feel joyful about giving that doesn’t really cost us anything. But does ‘giving that costs’ have to be painful? I am so amazed at Jesus, who continued to give even through the pain of crucifixion. He gave forgiveness to his executioners, grace to a criminal on a cross next to him, loving care and provision to his mother—all while bearing the sins of the world!!! This should motivate us to be generous and joyful in our giving! Tomorrow’s teaching will explore some of these themes
Click here now to go to the glad not grumpy site.
As I drove Yvonne to work this morning, in yet another raging blizzard, I thought about people who really live lives in “blizzard-like” stress and trials. They long for something better, a “March Break” escape from life’s struggles. Most will never get to fly to warmer climates though. Most can’t expect to win some divine lottery that frees them from problems. So do we have anything to offer them? Easter people hold on to the promise & hope Jesus offers: we can say—”It’s Friday, but Sunday’s coming!” Know someone who needs to hear this ‘gospel’? (gospel = good news) Who are you going to invite to our Easter services? Your personal invitation may be just what they have been waiting for!

Love, life, and Lent

2008-02-15T09:04:00.001-08:00

Volume 2 Issue 6 February 14, 2008

So it’s the day everyone is supposed to treat their sweet-heart to a special expression of love. And the cynic in me says we really treat the retailer with revenue! And the grumpy part of me says that this is a really tough day for those who have lost a partner or are suffering through a relationship that is attempting to run with the wheels off. (more on this in a moment).
What about St. Valentine? There exists some ambiguity over ‘feast days’ to honor him and the multiple saints with the same name. And like Christmas, did the church ‘take over’ a secular holiday, or has secular society taken over a church holiday? Either way, the topic of the day is devotion & love!

Like history?
Click here for more detail

Continued below …..

New: follow the links to jump to the full Bible verses

Page 2

Those of us who are blessed with healthy, loving relationships—let’s be quick to praise God our Father who gives such good gifts (James 1:17). For those of you who now live on alone, treasure with thankfulness your memories (Philippians 1:3). And may each of you reading this today be aware of God’ magnificent love sent your way in Christ (Ephesians 3:17-19).

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Now what about Lent? First of all, we know it is not in the Bible. So it is definitely something the church established at a later time to encourage/enhance worship and devotion prior to the Easter celebration. One or two days of fasting prior to Easter is attested in the 3rd century. In 325 you get the first reference to a 40 day fast, and it may have been linked to a preparation time for candidates to be baptized at Easter. Part of the Church held it for 3 weeks, and another for 7. The Roman church moved from 3 weeks to the 40 day period in the 7th century. The 40 days is no doubt linked to the 40 day fast by Jesus at the start of His ministry.
There will be more to mention about Lent. But let’s stop right now and ask the question: can and should the church insist that Christians adhere to Lent? After all, we know that the best devotion is fostered through voluntary allegiance. The Lord is looking for love expressed freely, purely, honestly …
Religious duty can easily become deadly ritual. Jesus is now looking for true spirit-worshippers and not those who go through the motions of form (John 4:19-26). The object of observing Lent is to focus not on the observation itself, but on the true object of that observation. So here is what I say: if a specific spiritual discipline promotes/assists devotion, join with some others of like mind and go for it! If, for whatever reason, that discipline gets in the way of spiritual growth, then let it go and seek another approach. Switch things around from year to year to keep things fresh if necessary. Don’t feel guilty about this—just as you should not force your good experience with Lent on others.

Others would like to know what you think. Jump to the blog now and leave your comments.

Doug

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or call 613-345-5014

from memory to momentum

2008-02-09T12:37:00.000-08:00

Volume 2 February 08, 2008 Issue 5

I flunked physics but I think I can guess at this: progress and growth first require the application of some form of energy/inertia/force. For a business or organization, and yes, even a church, that can come from competition, desperation, fear, survival, vision, enthusiasm, resolve … For the Israelites and King Saul, David’s victory over Goliath was just what was needed to get over the courage and faith blockage. Something good had happened which changed the climate of their souls and spurned them to movement.

Sometimes we get ’stuck’, spin our wheels, and then give up. When we view the victories and treasure the triumphs things move!
(continued below …)

Brockville readers click here to stay up to date with Church news
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or call 613-345-5014

Here is how the Bible describes the turn-around: “When the Philistines saw that their hero was dead, they turned and ran. Then the men of Israel and Judah surged forward with a shout”. When you get discouraged remember to remember! Get the photo albums out. Call an old friend. Visit the town or church where something great took place in your life. My wife Yvonne is in the business of assisting people collect, organize, and preserve their memories through photos, journaling and scrapbooking. She often refers to this as “faith-booking” when she is working with Christians.
I think memory can be a huge force behind motion. What are your thoughts? Oh, and one last thought about momentum: it is contagious. I guess the same can be said of ‘stuck’.
*******************
Sometime during the next week I hope to set up a new
LEADERSHIP BLOG. Check it out http://www.leadershipfirst.blogspot.com/
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In subsequent issues I want to comment on the whole subject of LENT. In the 21st century, unless you are entrenched in the culture of the Christian Church, and more particularly in churches of the liturgical persuasion, Lent is really a foreign concept. I will confess my experience, and therefore my operating bias: Lent is not high on my personal radar. And I am not really into using it as a time to deprive myself of good things in life, or to insist on wearing our ‘somber suits’ so the world can see how sad we are (actually Jesus had some strong words about this, particularly in regard to fasting) - so perhaps that is why I will be preaching for 6 weeks on the subject of JOY starting Feb. 17. Don’t get me wrong, for believers, Lent can be a powerful way to prepare for Holy Week. But for the unchurched, it is quite confusing and often irrelevant. More to come on this.
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Make the effort to attend worship at the church of your choice tomorrow. God may just have something for you.

Doug

MORE ON MEMORY

2008-02-04T12:11:00.000-08:00

Volume 2 February 04, 2008 Issue 4

I wonder how it felt for David; the giant taunts the God of Israel and haunts the people of God. David was offended by the vulgar profanity he heard from Goliath, but he had not experienced the daily humiliation Saul and his army endured for 40 days! I’m sure they had monster—type nightmares as they tried to sleep each evening. On the other hand David’s dreams were of victory dances over the lions and bears he had slain as a shepherd. Rehearsing these battles in his mind and some periodic nostalgic glances at the trophies on his shelf prepared him for one of the biggest challenges to date. That’s the ministry of memory: reassurance in the present and confidence in the future ... Danger’s snare does not scare because God is there!

And He will continue to be there. Recall the word of promise Jesus gave His followers when He left them with the task/ mission to baptize, teach and make disciples? “I will be with you always, to the very end of the age.” (Matthew 28:20)

Hints for keeping your spiritual memory sharp:
· try journaling, noting answers to prayer and God’s help in times of trouble, testing, difficulty
· Count your blessings, ‘name them one by one’
· Don’t neglect communion
· Copy out some Scripture verses on post-it notes and place them on your refrigerator, bathroom mirror, above the kitchen sink, on your dashboard
Recall, so as to stall your giants.
Avoid their attack by keeping track!

Have a great week,
Doug

HOW'S YOUR MEMORY?

2008-02-04T06:53:00.000-08:00

Volume 2 February 02, 2008 Issue 3
It was really all quite humiliating. We had the Howard and Charlton families visit. I was playing video ‘memory games’ with some of the kids—and it was absolutely no competition!

Those children were so quick—oh to have such a keen memory! A good memory will not only score you points in the Veggie Tale Zap-It video game, it is a boost to your professional, social and spiritual life. Tomorrow I want to teach from just a couple of verses in the famous David & Goliath story and show how the importance of memory is promoted. We will learn about the advantages of ‘getting a-head’ and living with it in the zone of memory.

But let me warn you of a dangerous rut some of us fall into: getting stuck in the zone of memory. Living in the past, focusing on the ‘spiritual museum exhibits’, pining for ‘the good old days’ - all these can divert us from the present. Yes, our walk with God today can be and should be inspired by the past, but we cannot expect to make any progress or see any growth if we have pinned our boots so deep into the soil of memory that we are stuck. The Bible has lots to say about memory. I believe it is one of God’s ways of propelling us onto new victory, doing His work with renewed vigor. Even when we take communion we look back to look ahead (1 Corinthians 11:23—26).

Here’s to a good future because of good memories.

Doug

into the battle

2008-01-26T13:43:00.001-08:00

SATURDAY JANUARY 26, 2008

Hello, and welcome to another day of risk and adventure! I know, we probably don’t consider our lives to be that interesting, really nothing at all compared to the celebrities of the modern day sports and entertainment world, rather dull compared to the thrilling lives of Biblical heroes. We don’t get the exposure, the fame, the attention, or the big salaries. So it is natural for us to think from time to time that our lives are being played in the ‘minor leagues’, where things don’t matter that much.

Don’t believe that lie. When Jesus talks about Godly concern for birds and flowers He is affirming divine interest in all He has designed – including you. Your life is not lost to him, never are you hidden from His gaze. And everyday God is calling you to the adventures of faith, the risks of trust. There are always opportunities and events that require us to live in the zone of God’s best.

Sometimes to get the best we must face the worst. For forty consecutive days Goliath taunted King Saul and his people and his God. Giants like Goliath hide behind various disguises – but they have this in common: they call to us daily; they humiliate and harass until they break us or engage us in face to face battle.

So now it is time to take action. David is well prepared – he has done everything necessary to enter the ‘zone of adventure’. We have discussed getting ready for battle (purpose, focus, preparation). Now it is time to consider the battle itself: what to do on ‘game day’ (part #4); how to celebrate success (part #5); how to keep up the momentum (part #6).

I believe adventure/battle is not just for individuals – it applies to churches as well. One of the quotes that I keep on the wall in my office, in order to inspire me beyond mediocrity, comes from Ed Young of Fellowship Church in Grapevine Texas.

“Doing church should be an adventure – tossing aside the tame and tired to pursue God-sized dreams with boldness and creativity.”

How dynamic is that quote. I know personally of churches that have courageously embraced this sentiment. Tragically I also know from personal experience that many churches refuse to enter this zone of adventure, and pay a heavy price! If you are into exploring the web, check out Ed’s church www.fellowshipchurch.com

In researching the graphics for this week’s topic, I came across a church logo that was too cool to ignore – so I incorporated it into the slide below. Interestingly enough, the name of the church catches my interest immediately: Adventure Community Church … you know, if I was not a church-goer, but saw a sign or ad with this name, I would certainly be intrigued. You can check it out this Phoenix Arizona church at www.adventurecc.org I may share a little more about both FC & ACC tomorrow morning.

Blessings,

Doug

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are you ready for battle?

2008-01-26T13:37:00.000-08:00

Friday January 25, 2008

Hi friends,

I hope this email finds you doing well. For those of you reading this while lounging in warmer climes, I hope you are not burdening yourself by exerting excessive sympathy for the rest of us trapped in the cold and snow of Simcoe county or Eastern Ontario. Because we just love to shovel and freeze. We thrive on challenge!

What has been challenging you recently – and I mean more than the weather. Some health issues perhaps? Or financial strain? Possibly relationship stress? These things turn up in our lives from time to time – like giant goliaths ready to destroy us! “Impossible odds for any victory on our part” is what goes through our minds. Our emotions unravel, our faith fizzles and our soul ‘sings the blues’. Oh, I know there are a few of you out there who triumph every time, unscathed, no battle scars. But the rest of us know exactly how Saul and his people felt as they trembled at the taunting from Goliath and his Philistine army.

Conveniently David arrives on the scene to be the savior. He is partly prepared for this role because of his faithful obedience and success in the past. He is further prepared when he is willing to say no to King Saul’s suit of armor and stay with what he is confident/comfortable in – not someone else’s attire, but what he knows God has gifted him with: a strong faith in the Lord; a strong faith in his ability with the sling. For David, that is all that is needed.

Popular business wisdom stresses ‘dress for success’. I don’t know about you, but I can usually see through the man or woman who is ‘dressed’ in such a way to make me think (fool me ?) they are operating at a certain level of competency while their words and presentation clearly suggest something much less. I could purchase new skates (everyone takes a good look at mine and laugh – they belong in a museum!), I could buy an Ottawa Senator’s sweater and attempt to join the team in the race for a Stanley Cup. You won’t be seeing me on HNIC tomorrow night – even if I wear the right uniform. (now, perhaps a Toronto Maple Leaf sweater….no, not even the lowly leafs would take me).

David was offered a new uniform to make him better. He had the courage and wisdom to say no.
It is so silly to think … “if only I could preach like Billy Graham, lead a church like Bill Hybels, write a book like Chuck Swindoll or Max Lucado, be courageous and creative like Carey Nieuhof…”. I am who I am, gifted by God’s Spirit according to divine design, strong in His strength! That is all I need. Last Sunday as I preached looking out at our congregation that included three good Ministers, I thought how foolish it is to think that if I borrowed Kevin Smith’s Hawaiian shirt, Allan Duncan’s Hebrew Bible, and James-Peter Jones’ robe, I could then be ‘Mr. Super-Pastor’! David refused to be dressed like someone else. And we learn from him.

So all that I have been reflecting on was part of our teaching last Sunday. We now move into the second half of what I consider to be a truly amazing Old Testament story with 21st century application. Prepared for the big fight, now let’s get this game going!

Lord willing, tomorrow I will offer a few observations as we move into the zone of adventure.

On a personal note, thanks for being understanding, supportive and concerned as I have fought this pneumonia over the last three weeks. I am thankful that I have not had to miss any Sundays. While I have been confined to home mostly, I have managed to get sermon themes prepared through Easter and outlines and bulletins through February 10th. It has not been totally unproductive. Yvonne has also been ‘doing battle’ with some health concerns – we are quite the pair!

Blessings in Christ,

Doug

Ps. For further devotional reading after you have looked at 1 Samuel 17, check out Ephesians 6:10-18.

OUR CHAOTIC WORLD

2007-11-11T11:45:00.001-08:00

VOLUME 1 ISSUE 16
SATURDAY NOVEMBER 10, 2007

The next few days are likely to become quite emotional as the community draws together tomorrow for the annual Remembrance Day ceremonies, and then on Tuesday November 13 for the funeral of slain RCMP officer Constable Douglas Scott. The downtown – courthouse - cenotaph area, along with the various churches in close proximity, will become quite busy and then, for a few moments, quiet, as the tragedy of war and lives lost in service to a country fill our thoughts. Both events will make us reflect on the peace and prosperity of our little corner of the world – we are indeed blessed.

Both events will also point us to various corners of our country, our world. There are so many places where our people served and suffered. Years of violence at a level most of us thankfully will never experience firsthand. We saw men and women off to war in foreign lands, often at very young ages. And these Canadians are still so appreciated in many small towns and cities across the ocean, places we’ll likely never visit. Peace is sought, preserved and prayed for.

But the subject of peace is not just something for foreign lands. The need for peace shows up in the people of our country too. Now, our city of Brockville will be forever linked with a small and obscure community on Baffin Island. Violence is not restricted to the large urban centres. Living can be risky anywhere. Serving the people and preserving their peace means encountering people who do not know peace themselves.

In a sense there is some similarity here with Christians, for we too seek to assist, encourage and bring hope to people who are restless, often searching. Showing the peace & love of Christ can call for sacrifice; it can mean moving in areas of uncertainty or places where we are uncomfortable; and we cannot always predict the reaction. If we are really convinced that the peace we have in Jesus is good, we’ll enlist and serve, no matter how high the cost.

A quick glance at a concordance (a dictionary of where to find any word in your Bible) will show a long list of verses about peace.

A few for you to reflect on:

* Jesus said peacemakers are blessed (Matthew 5:9)
* We have peace with God through Jesus (Romans 5:1)
* God has called us to live in peace (1 Corinthians 7:15)
* In Jesus we have peace that is beyond describing (Philippians 4:7)
* Peace is something Jesus clearly said He offers (John 14:27)

Tomorrow I teach on heaven, God’s eternal house of peace. Click on “when the roll” to see more.

So tomorrow we’ll do a few special things at our 9:30 am worship. You will also have an opportunity to participate in this moving service by coming forward with your poppy and placing it on a cross of remembrance.

Our church will also be central to the RCMP funeral service on Tuesday. It will be closed to the public but we are pleased to be of help and offer hospitality.

Brockville people – you can view some of our important announcements by clicking news

Blessings to you all,

Doug

DO YOU KNOW THE WAY?

2007-11-11T10:56:00.000-08:00

VOLUME 1, ISSUE 15
Tuesday November 6, 2007

The way to heaven? Can anyone really know for sure? Some scoff, some question, some avoid, some argue, and some embrace by faith. Some invent novel ideas, some look for evidence, some refuse to believe anything, some believe every new idea that shows up on Oprah, and some take Jesus at His word. Where are you in all this?

Do you know the way to heaven? Just using that phrase makes some uncomfortable. Some refuse to think about until the 11th hour. Some seem arrogant in their convictions. Some just have an assurance that is rock solid. Again the question: - Where are you in all this? I say why wait until the hearse is coming to figure out where you stand on this.

Jesus talks in words of calming reassurance in John 14, words of hope and promise. Something better is in the future. Specifically Jesus talks about His Father’s house – a place with many rooms. And there is one for you! Read more by clicking on
heavenbound.

(note to those of you in Brockville and area: remember it is Remembrance Sunday and our worship will be at 9:30 am)

Doug

BUSTED HALOS

2007-10-27T07:59:00.000-07:00

VOLUME 1 ISSUE 14
NOVEMBER 1, 2007

I don’t know about you, but sometimes I get a little stressed over the expectations others seem to force on me. I like a little breathing space once and a while. Just because I am a Christian, somehow I am supposed to be the perfect saint. It’s not that I set out to be bad – intentionally inconsistent and inconsiderate – or anything like that, but I’m not perfect! My halo is broken, sometimes missing!

I don’t mind God having those expectations of me, and even have Him remind me on occasions. The difference then is this: I know He also offers grace and forgiveness, something I don’t always receive from the world (and even the church). Now common sense tells me that I can’t use grace as an excuse for irresponsibility, which would be to mock God, and I don’t want to do that. I’m just seeking a little recognition, that this side of heaven, you are not likely to be thinking of me on November 1st! A saint I ain’t!

All Saints Day comes from the feast kept on November 1 in what we call the western branch of Christianity, and on the first Sunday after Pentecost Sunday in the eastern branch. Its origins are uncertain. A hymn as early as 359 refers to a commemoration of all martyrs on May 13 and a sermon a few years later shows that the church in Antioch remembered its martyrs on the Sunday after Pentecost. Eventually the feasts included remembering the saints. Sometime between 731 and 741 Gregory III dedicated an oratory on November 1 “to all the saints”.

There is certainly know harm in being inspired by the lives of Christian servants who have demonstrated great courage in persecution and trial, who have left us a marvelous example of how to live by faith (check out Hebrews 11 sometime). But through history certain Christians have been ‘officially’ designated as saints. Some Christians even pray to these saints, and assign some kind of divine influence in their lives. I would urge some careful thought here, for I want my theology to match up to Scripture. The Bible makes it clear that all who follow Christ are really saints, set apart unto God, consecrated and holy. So I guess with that understanding you can call me “Saint Doug”.

Dear friend and saint – have a good day!

Ps. all you First Brockville saints should click firstplacenews to stay up-to-date.

Unsubscribe at anytime by emailing revdj@ripnet.com

WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 31, 2007 - VOLUME 1 ISSUE 13

Oct. 31, 1517

So what is on your door today? Who will be hanging around your doorstep tonight? Back in 1517 the church door was the local bulletin board, and people would stop to get caught up on community news.

The Castle Church door in Wittenberg is now famous because a bold, controversial monk nailed 95 theological statements to that door October 31, 1517. Martin Luther’s document was shot through with outbursts of outrage and anguish. You could hear his heart’s pain as he documented current church policy and practice that didn’t match up with Scripture. Martin was outraged that the church was deceiving the common people.

His biggest concern was the sale of indulgences – promises that your loved ones would spend less time in purgatory if you did penance and/or made a donation to the church. Luther, who studied the verses of the New Testament carefully, knew there could be no Biblical foundation for such a scam. Christ alone forgives. Proper penance requires repentance not priestly confession. The treasure of the church is God’s grace. And so on he wrote, 95 theses in all.

It was a gutsy move. No blind allegiance to the church in this guy!
His goal was not to force a breach with the papacy, nor to found a new denomination. He simply wanted to get on with making the truth of Scripture known to all. Luther was troubled that the church seemed to be the biggest roadblock to this task. Martin saw a scandal, drew it to the Pope’s attention, and was confident that that scandal would be suppressed.

The result? Six months later church leaders began to attack Luther and his ideas, calling him a heretic. But the groundswell of enthusiasm, freedom and devotion to the Scriptures could not be extinguished!

So while you are tempted to think about kids and candy tonight, remember that this day is famous for a courageous act that still inspires Christian leaders to be true to Scripture, to obey God’s leading, and challenge the stale and sometimes rotting status quo.

Here’s to all of you who will nail the important stuff to your wall today!

Doug

SATURDAY OCTOBER 27, 2007 - VOLUME 1 ISSUE 12

WILLING TO PROTEST

FREDERICK III (the wise) (1463 -1525) had his court at Wittenberg. It was a place of artistic and musical activity. He founded the University of Wittenberg in 1502 and to it came Martin Luther in 1511.

Nick-named “the wise” for his reputation for justice and fair play, it was Frederick who had Luther whisked off to the castle after the ‘worms diet’. Wartburg was to be a refuge for the radical leader of what was fast becoming a religious reform movement of international impact - through much of Germany and into the Scandinavian countries.

In March 1522 Luther was able to return to Wittenberg and continue his relentless efforts in theological writing. His desire was to raise the level of Christian understanding among the common people.

Perhaps his greatest single achievement (other than fostering a renewed appreciation of the doctrines emphasizing salvation by grace alone through faith) was getting the Bible into the language of the people. His New Testament translation from Greek to German came out in September of 1522, the entire Bible in 1534.

The Lutheran branch of the Reformed Church is considered moderate/conservative when measured against some of the developments in Switzerland and parts of France. People like Zwingli and Calvin took bigger steps away from the Roman church.

The term ‘Protestant’ relates back to the Diet of Speyer in 1529 where 14 German Princes representing various autonomous city governments ‘protested’ a renewed effort by Emperor Charles V to enforce the Edict of Worms and take seriously the mandate to suppress Lutheranism. They were known as ‘the Protestors’ – and a movement was named.

Protestants believed that they were rediscovering the Christianity of the New Testament which had been obscured by the innovations of medieval Catholicism. Some of the Reformation beliefs were:
*Scripture only
*Salvation by faith, not works
*Assurance of salvation
*Priesthood of all believers

So tomorrow, when you go to worship on Reformation Sunday, be thankful for those who have gone before us. Recognize their willingness to risk, their desire to stand firm on Scripture, their resistance to intimidation, threats and control.

Doug

Luther's Bible

Wartburg Castle

Coming next week: What really happened on Oct. 31 1517?

FRIDAY OCTOBER 26, 2007 - VOLUME 1 ISSUE 11

Sunday October 28 is when the Christian Church reflects on the events of history known as the REFORMATION. You have probably heard of people like Martin Luther and John Calvin.

One of the important events for Martin Luther came in the year 1521. The “diet” was an official church gathering of important leaders, and this one was called by Charles V, (1500-1558; Holy Roman Emperor, King of Spain). A pestilence in Nuremberg made it necessary to hold the meeting elsewhere, and the city of Worms was chosen. So it is just a fluke of nature that gave us this attention-getting Reformation event we so affectionately refer to as THE DIET OF WORMS.

The agenda’s main item was ‘what do we do about Martin Luther?’ On April 17 Luther was asked to recant his books and teaching. At his request, he was given 24 hours to think about his response. His response on April 18 is the stuff of which courage and dedication is made!

“Unless I am convinced by the testimony of the Scriptures or by clear reason (for I do not trust either in the pope or in councils alone, since it is well known that they have often erred and contradicted themselves), I am bound by the Scriptures I have quoted, and my conscience is captive to the Word of God. I cannot and will not retract anything, since it is neither safe nor right to go against conscience. I cannot do otherwise, here I stand, may God help me, Amen.”

What happened next? Martin Luther continued to insist on the authority of Holy Scripture. On April 26 Luther left Worms for his home in Wittenberg. En route he was kidnapped and taken to Wartburg Castle. The Edict of Worms dated May 8, 1521, declared Luther an ‘outlaw’, together with his adherents.

The story continues tomorrow.

As people of The Reformation, take your stand with similar boldness.

Doug