The Morning Drive

A Reminder

2010-10-22T13:29:00.000-05:00

Just a reminder to read my blog at The Morning Drive . I will delete this blogger account next week. I moved the blog back in May 2010. All my old posts from this blog are on that site. If you are a follower of this blog, please change your follow to the new blog.

Thanks,

Scott

Moving

2010-05-12T08:19:00.000-05:00

Not me; the blog. I am still working with the Church of Christ in Parrish, Alabama and have no plans to move - in fact, the elders warned me not to be looking :-). However, beginning today, May 12, 2010 all new posts (and hopefully all archives) for The Morning Drive will move to WordPress. The blog will still be The Morning Drive but with a new location . Please make note of this change and redo (renew) subscriptions, rss feeds, and blogrolls accordingly. When you stop by take a look a the archives.

Blogger has been a good starting place for me for the last year plus, but it is time to move on. WordPress offers a cleaner page and a few extras that I think I am going to like.

I will keep this blogger account open for sometime in case I want a secondary blog ;-)

Thanks,
Scott

Sport of the gods

2010-05-11T09:33:00.000-05:00

This Spring Andrew, age 12 #70 in this picture, decided to go out for football. His team will have a Jamboree this Thursday. It will be his first organized football game.

This morning at breakfast we joked about what archaeologists would say about football if they dug up a stadium 5,000 years from now.

Here were the possibilities we came up with:

1. They might consider the stadium to be a temple or place of worship (every town has one).

2. They would suppose that the team mascots (Oakman Wildcats) would be city or regional gods.

3. What we know as players would be participating in battle to honor their god and to show their devotion to him (her).

4. The cheerleaders could be thought of as high priestesses (my son almost shot milk through his nose at the thought) who lead the worship. "We are the Wildcats, mighty, might Wildcats . . ."

5. The fans are the worshipers praying to their god for victory confirming his acceptance of their sacrifice.

6. The concession stand is where worshipers can procure grain, animal, and synthetic sacrifices to offer to their god by leaving portions in the stadium (worship arena).

Why else might sports (football, baseball, basketball, softball, etc) be confused as our national religion by those who study us in the future?

Scott

My Prezi

2010-05-10T13:37:00.000-05:00

This is my first attempt at a Prezi presentation. We are not set up to use Prezi with our current system at Parrish, but I wanted to see what a Prezi would look like so I built this one around the Mother's Day Sermon from 05.09.10.

Scott

May 9 Am Beauty Mother on Prezi

Will You Pray?

2010-05-10T09:53:00.000-05:00

Thank you. Thank you for your prayers; I covet them. If not for the prayers of the faithful, what could we accomplish. Prayer does so much for us as Christians. Paul describes the armor that Christians wear and emphasizes that that armor is incomplete if not for prayer (Eph 6:11-18). Life has a way of bringing us down. Satan is a master at pulling us away from what is right and good. The cares of this world choke at us as weeds do vegetables in a garden. But God has not left us defenseless. God gives us the privilege to approach Him in prayer. "Since then we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus, the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin. Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need." (Heb 4:14-16- esv).

I ask you to do me a favor: Pray for me. Pray for me to be effective as a minister, consistent as a Christian, responsible as a husband, an example as a father, and compassionate as a friend.

Praying Always,

Scott

Top Ten Math Puns

2010-05-06T08:49:00.000-05:00

These two words seem incongruous: Math and Humor. Maybe my math teachers thought my answers were funny sometimes, but as a student math AND humor? Last night after Bible Class, Teresa Kitchens (a member at Parrish and a Math Teacher at Walker High School) knowing my warped sense of humor shared a list of 31 math puns. What follows are my favorite ten of the list:

10. How do you know a plant belongs to a math teacher? - It has square roots.
9. Why do math books cry? - They have lots of problems.
8. When do mathematicians die? - When their number is up.
7. What is the longest piece of furniture? - The multiplication table.
6. What is a metric cookie? - A Gram cracker.
5. Why do math teachers talk to themselves? - They think the students are listening.
4. Two's company, three's a crowd, what are four and five? - Nine.
3. What did the math major mean when she called her blind date 288? He's 2 gross.
2. What is a polygon? - A lost parrot.

And the number one math pun for the day . . .
1. What is an occupied bathroom on an airplane? a hypotenuse (high - pot - in - use).

Scott.

OK, here is one more just for today since you can't get enough math humor - How do you know God loves math? - He told Adam and Eve to multiply, the fourth book in the Bible is called Numbers, and his followers put "+" signs on His churches.

Teeth Cleaning

2010-05-05T09:40:00.000-05:00

Yesterday morning, I went for my sixth month dental appointment. I sat there having religious discussions, giving marital advice, and talking about child rearing while my mouth was wide open and Tracy was scraping my teeth.

I do not have a fear of dentist, nor do I have issues with someone working in my mouth. I try to listen to the advice my dentist and hygienist give. I remember one bit of advice the Dr. Buchanan, my child-hood dentist gave. "Scott, you need to brush and floss the teeth you want to keep." Do I need to mention that he was blunt if anything?

Preventative dental care. That is why I brush and floss regularly. That is why I visit my dentist twice a year. That is why I avoid habits that damage teeth. These examinations pay off in preventing future major issues.

To bring a spiritual application to this I point us to 2 Cor 13:5 where Paul instructs us to examine ourselves to see whether we are in the faith.

What do you do to "examine yourself" spiritually? How can I know that I am "in the faith?"

Scott

Sweetwater Church of Christ

2010-05-03T08:39:00.000-05:00

I had a great visit with the good brethren at Sweetwater. Below is a link to the Sunday AM message (I wanted to embed but blogger is not letting me embed from ustream) . It is a long video (32 minutes). I wanted you to see what the good folks at Sweetwater are doing with video. This is a congregation of about 30 members and the are doing great things.

Scott

http://www.ustream.tv/recorded/6619074

Real Power

2010-04-30T09:38:00.000-05:00

Springtime in Alabama is a time of change. Flowers bloom, trees bud, sun shines, rain falls, and occasionally a surprise in the form of a late snow. This season presents quite a quandary, and not just for the weatherman. Most of us face the issue of what to wear each morning. We check the weather on television or even online, but we can never be sure if we are right.

Take, for instance, just this morning. I chose to wear a light jacket on this morning as I walked to deliver a message to my wife at the school and then to the Post Office before walking home. During that short walk, the wind began to blow across my face and through my thin jacket. I began to have negative thoughts about my decision to walk, and to question the reliability of the local weather forecast. I felt as if the wind had a mind to blow my coat away, I pulled it a little tighter around me and began walking a little faster.

When I was approximately half way between the school and the Post Office, I began to get warm. The sun decided to come out to play. Oh how good the sun’s warmth felt on the back of my neck! Oh how nice that warmth felt as I continued my trek! By the time I reached the Hadder's Pharmacy I had to stop, not to catch my breath, but to take off my jacket. What the wind failed to do with its force, the sun accomplish with gentle warmth.

This event reminds me of a certain fable concerning a conversation turned contest between the wind and the sun. The wind in the fable did boast to the sun of its power, and did try and fail to remove a man’s coat by force. The sun however prevailed, by warming the man so that he removed his own coat.

This story is like the story of God. God, although He has the power, does not use this power to force us to do His will. God in love, being love, gently warms our hearts through the sacrifice of His Son (John 3:16-17). In another place John records, “In this the love of God was made manifest among us, that God sent his only Son into the world, so that we might live through him. In this is love, not that we have loved God but that he loved us and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins” (1Jo 4:9-10 – ESV).

This story also contains instruction for us. How do we influence people? Many times we try to force our opinions (correct or not) on others. We feel or think we know what is best for them and we tell them so in no uncertain terms. If we force them to listen and close our ears to their thoughts and beliefs, we can not lead them to truth, they only tighten their coats of doctrine more tightly around them and quicken their pace to get away from us. What if, what IF, we tried to gently warm them with the truth of God’s love? What if, what IF, we let God’s love flow through us and warm their hearts? What if, what IF, we let our light shine on them instead of shining the light in their eyes? Remember Jesus’ words, “In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven” (Mat 5:16- ESV). Look again to the context of John’s words in 1 John 4:

“We are from God. Whoever knows God listens to us; whoever is not from God does not listen to us. By this we know the Spirit of truth and the spirit of error. Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God, and whoever loves has been born of God and knows God. Anyone who does not love does not know God, because God is love. In this the love of God was made manifest among us, that God sent his only Son into the world, so that we might live through him. In this is love, not that we have loved God but that he loved us and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins. Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another” (1Jo 4:6-11 - ESV).

Take note of those around you, and let God work His power through your life, as you let your light shine, and act in love to those nearby.

Singing and Understanding

2010-04-28T08:47:00.004-05:00

Recently, Cole's dad, Rick shared a very interesting story with me. But first let me give you some background.

Rick grew up attending a charismatic church, that uses popular style musical accompaniment, soloists, choirs, etc. in worship. Rick was one of the soloists. Rick married, Gina who grew up attending a non-denominational acapella Church of Christ. Rick attended with her often, but remained loyal to the way his parents raised him. A few years ago Rick and Gina began attending with us. After a few months, Rick said he had some questions for me. We met in my study before worship on Sunday afternoon. He questions were great but that is another blog. He surprised his family and to the delight of all here, he came forward and obeyed the Gospel that evening. Rick now leads in worship in many different areas and teaches our young teens on Wednesdays.

Now back to Cole. Because Rick's family (parents, brothers, etc) are still part of the other group Cole and his brother Brooks will occasionally visit with family and attend worship where they assemble. After one such visit, Cole told Rick and Gina, "That was a cool church. They had a band with drums, guitars, it was great!" Rick asked Cole a simple question, "What songs did they sing?" "I don't know," Cole replied, "but it was awesome."

After the conversation had changed Cole interrupted, "We did sing, 'It is Well with My Soul,' it was good too." Rick later discovered that the reason Cole remembered that one song was it was the only one the whole congregation sung acapella. The message came through when the instruments were silent.

Now I wonder how Eph 5, Col 3, and 1 Cor 14 would fit into this event?

Scott

Competition

2010-04-26T10:12:00.000-05:00

Hello, my name is Scott, I am a recovering competitor. . .

Competition is addictive. Competition drives the American business model. Competition runs deep in the heart and soul of many people. Can you finish this jingle from years gone by, "My dog's better than your dog . . ." I admit, wholeheartedly that I am a competitor. I like to win when I play basketball, I like for the team I support to win championships. But competition can often get in the way of positive outcomes.

When local Churches of Christ compete for members, feelings suffer, accusations fly, and fellowship crumbles. When Churches come to realize they are autonomous and can work together, we accomplish more for the Lord's cause. When a program focuses on the outcome of competitions then the effectiveness of that ministry suffers. When a program focuses of the mission of Christ (rescuing the lost, serving others, etc.) we are not in competition, but in cooperation.

Without fail, when I mention that I am "against competition," someone will try to tell me that most of life is competition. The usual arguments include competing with other men for the affection of the one I would eventually marry. I did not feel I was in competition with any other men. Amy and I formed a friendship, that slowly moved to a romantic attachment, that quickly and naturally became exclusive. Until the day, I proposed to her and she accepted, we were both open to the fact that if either one felt that our relationship was not going to last, that we had the right and responsibility to end it. Once we said, "I do" however, the relationship became completely exclusive.

A second argument is that as a preacher, I competed for the role of ministry where I am currently located. There were other men looking at my current position, and the elders were considering other men for this work. Did I desire that those men lose to me? No! I came looking at the opportunity here and allowing the folk here to see if I fit what they were looking for. If so, then I was open to move. If not, then I would continue where I was and be open to other opportunities that God would have me pursue. I did not compete for this position, I came as myself and let things work as they would.

More recently, someone suggested that I am in competition with Satan for souls. At first I had no answer. As I thought more about this my answer is this: God is at war with Satan. Satan is destroying souls and lives. God wants lives rescued from the disaster that Satan causes. I am not competing with Satan, if I do, I lose by a long shot, "Wide is the path that leads to destruction and many there will be that find it." Maybe this is narrow-minded of me, but I see my role as seeking to rescue folks from sin, not win an argument with them. I present an offer of salvation through the only avenue that can save them - Christ (John 14:6) and let them decide for themselves. I plant the seed and in some cases water the soil or young growth, but it is God who gives the increase. God battles Satan and the victory is His in Christ (1 Cor 15:57).

In our family when we play card games, board games, and other similar games, we play for the fun of the game and the conversations that occur as we play. I don't win a lot of games, we do not even finish games, but we have fun being together. I repeat my belief that competition can often get in the way of more positive outcomes. I am trying for a less competitive life. Am I completely free of competition? No. I still compete with myself to improve myself to do my best and I take that one day at a time and I still struggle when I am playing a game with someone who is super-competitive. I just have to ask myself, "what does it matter in the end?"

What are your thoughts on competition?

A Working Retreat

2010-04-22T09:09:00.000-05:00

Today is Thursday and my first blog of the week. I suppose an excuse is in order.

I had a great opportunity to drive six hours to the Great Smokey Mountains and stay in the cabin pictured to the left. I spent Monday evening, all day Tuesday, and Monday morning with 10 other ministers from Alabama, Tennessee, and Kentucky. Not only were we from differing states, we were also from different areas of ministry. So were full-time preaching ministers, some were youth ministers, a couple were bi-vocational ministers, and more than one entered ministry somewhat unplanned. We had one key thing in common: A love for the Lord and His Church. That is what brought us together, along with an email inviting us.

There was a special project that the host asked us to work on and I hope our input and efforts will continue to be of value to him. But there was a side benefit or two. We all went not knowing who would be there. I was not sure I would know anyone except the host. We went not knowing all the details but we went on faith. While there old friendships grew and new ones formed. our common bond in Christ provided great fellowship. I could not help but think ho great heaven will be when we meet up with all the saints from years gone by and years to come. I look forward to seeing you there.

Scott

Re-Thinking Church

2010-04-16T08:48:00.000-05:00

A lot of good religious folks are talking about the church, and are rethinking and redesigning the church. This May 1 and 2 the congregation at Sweetwater, TN will host a series of meetings designed to help us "Think About the Church." If you are close by or are traveling through, please stop in. Below is the advertisement for this series of meetings. Oh, by the way, I am the guest speaker :-)

Scott

Bank Loans

2010-04-14T08:23:00.000-05:00

Enjoy this story of a Bank Loan for a Trip to Europe:

A man from Alabama walked into a bank in New York City and asked for the loan officer. He told the loan officer that he was going to Paris for an international redneck festival for two weeks and needed to borrow $5,000 and that he was not a depositor of the bank.

The bank officer told him that the bank would need some form of security for the loan, so the Redneck handed over the keys to a new Ferrari. The car was parked on the street in front of the bank. The Redneck produced the title and everything checked out. The loan officer agreed to hold the car as collateral for the loan and apologized for having to charge 12% interest.

Later, the bank's president and its officers all enjoyed a good laugh at the Redneck from the south for using a $250,000 Ferrari as collateral for a $5,000 loan. An employee of the bank then drove the Ferrari into the bank's private underground garage and parked it.

Two weeks later, the Redneck returned, repaid the $5,000 and the interest of $23.07. The loan officer said, 'Sir, we are very happy to have had your business, and this transaction has worked out very nicely, but we are a little puzzled. While you were away, we checked you out on Dunn & Bradstreet and found that you are a Distinguished Alumni from the University of Alabama, a highly sophisticated investor and Multi-Millionaire with real estate and financial interests all over the world. Your investments include a large number of wind turbines around Sweetwater, Texas . What puzzles us is, why would you bother to borrow $5,000?

The good 'ole Alabama boy replied, Where else in New York City can I park my car for two weeks for only $23.07 and expect it to be there when I return?

His name was BUBBA.

How Many Bags?

2010-04-13T09:11:00.007-05:00

Not long ago while at a local pharmacy, the young lady behind the counter noticed I lived in Oakman. "I grew up there and graduated OHS," she said. Then she mentioned folks she went to school with and we made some friend connections. Then she asked if I knew one of the former principals of OHS. When I admitted I did, she laughed and told me to tell him that he was a "two-bagger."

I did not know at the time what a "two bagger" was. I inquired and she let me in on the story. Here is the pun: This young lady was about the same age as the principal's children and were friends with them. He would jovially tell them when they were double dating to be sure to wear a paper bag over their heads so their dates would not know how ugly they were. He would sometimes tell them to wear two bags just in case one ripped.

I remember when the loyal New Orleans Saints fans wore bags in the 1980's. They were protesting a poor performing team. There was also a stand-up comedian in the late 1970's who wore a bag on his head and called himself the "Unknown Comic." These people wore bags to hide their identity for one reason or another.

I wonder how many bags we wear? Do we have bags that we wear to hide our Christianity from our co-workers, schoolmates, or fellow athletes? Do we have bags we wear when we are around other Christians to hide who we really are? Can we become a "two or three bagger" just to cover ourselves in the case that someone begins to tear away one bag? Are we ashamed to let people know who we really are?

Learning from a Teacher.

2010-04-12T08:56:00.000-05:00

Let me introduce you to my favorite 1st Grade Teacher. She was not my teacher when I was 6, nor did she teach my son's 1st Grade class (she was teaching 6th grade then). We struck up one of our many conversations about teaching and preaching as we were returning from a "working vacation." Yes, I am married to this teacher, I continual learn a lot from Amy's wisdom and insight even after almost 21 years of marriage.

Discussing how some of us who preach generally approach a topic or sometimes a situation within a congregation, she said that in the church we need to change from only using "spraying and praying" in our attempt to teach the truth. To "spray and pray" is an un-choked shotgun approach. We do this when we preach a sermon or teach a class and hope that those who need to hear the message will get it. We "spray" the message out and "pray" it reaches hearts.

Instead, she gave an alternative approach: "Reaching and teaching." This method is knowing the individuals of the congregation and reaching them with lessons to help them. We can accomplish this is smaller classes aimed at particular age or social groups (singles, young marrieds, etc) and most effectively working with people on an individual level.

The more I thought about this the more I realized this is what Jesus did much of the time. Consider how he taught the woman at the well, Nicodemus, Zacchaeus, and His apostles. This is also the approach Aquila and Priscilla used to teach Apollos.

Thank you Amy, for reminding me how to be more effective as a preacher, teacher, and Christian who is concerned for the salvation of all.

The question is, "How can we best "reach and teach" instead of "spray and pray"?

Who is Jesus Anyway?

2010-04-06T08:43:00.003-05:00

Jesus and the New Testament penman ascribe a number of titles and names for Jesus. Each of these terms in some way define who Jesus is and at least part of His purpose for coming to dwell with man. Below are fourteen titles (names) in alphabetical order.

Jesus is the:
1. Bread of Life - Jn 6:35
2. Christ - Matt 16:16
3. Good Shepherd - Jn 10:10-11
4. Immanuel - Matt 1:23
5. High Priest - Heb 4:15
6. King of Kings - Rev 19:16
7. Lamb of God - Jn 1:29
8. Light of the World - Jn 8:12
9. Lord - Acts 2:36
10. Messiah - Jn 4:25-26
11. Savior - Acts 13:23
12. Son of God - Heb 4:14
13. Son of Man - Jn 12:23
14. Teacher - Jn 13:13-14

Which titles (one or more) stand out as very meaningful to you, and why?

Scott

Passover

2010-04-05T09:29:00.018-05:00

As our Jewish friends complete the Week of Feasts (Passover, Unleavened Bread, First Fruits), I shared a sermon yesterday on the Passover and our connection to it as Christians. Here is the slideshare version below. Some of the formatting from my original changed in the uploading process.

Apr 4 A M Passover

View more presentations from Scott McCown.

Here is the outline with a few more details:

Passover

• Acts 12:4 – Pesach – paska - Easter in KJV / Passover in ESV
• Lev 23:4-8

• After centuries in Egypt deliverance had come for Israel.
• The first 9 plagues are over 10th is on the way.
• Early spring and Moses gathers the elders of the people together.
o In 10 days the people were to:
o Take a spotless male lamb of a year old
o Separate it from the other livestock for four days on the `4th slaughter it.
o Dip hyssop broom in blood and paint awning and sides of doorway with blood.
o God would Passover (pay-sak) the house where He saw the blood.

Passover by the time of Jesus Day
• Week of feasts not just one day
• Passover day
• Feast of Unleavened Bread
• Feast of Firstfruits

NT Passovers
• Jesus at 12 – Luke 2
• Jesus with disciples – Luke 22:7-13.

Lessons and Comparisons
Leaven
• Matzah – Unleavened bread is a part of Passover
• Passion traditions
o On the night before Passover the father does a final search for leaven in the house.
o By candlelight he sweeps any remaining breadcrumbs into a wooden spoon using a goose feather.
o Crumbs, feather, and spoon are bagged and burned outside the house in the morning.

• 1 Cor 5:6
o Take pains to remove sin from our lives.

Participants sing Hymns during and after Passover
• Matt 26:30
• Tradition suggests one of those hymns was Ps 118.
• Notice verse 22 – stone that is rejected (Lk 21:17).
• Jesus is that cornerstone

Jesus is the Lamb of God
• Jn 1:29
o Remove our sin (leaven)
o Provides blood for sin

• He was Sanctified (separated) for God’s purpose – Jn 5:30
• He was Sinless (spotless) – 1 Pt 2:22; 2 Cor 5:21.
• He was (is) Sacrificed – Heb 7:26-27.
• He provides Salvation – Acts 4:12.

Paul’s statement – 1 Cor 5:6-8.
Your boasting is not good. Do you not know that a little leaven leavens the whole lump? Cleanse out the old leaven that you may be a new lump, as you really are unleavened. For Christ, our Passover lamb, has been sacrificed. Let us therefore celebrate the festival, not with the old leaven, the leaven of malice and evil, but with the unleavened bread of sincerity and truth.

Scott

I Love Children!

2010-04-02T07:24:00.000-05:00

Last night, Amy and I made a quick run to the local dollar store so she could pick up a few things for school. As we were at the cash register, a young mother and her preschool age daughter walked in. As Mom selected a shopping cart this precocious four year old asked,"Can I push the buggy, Momma?"

"Yes, but stay with me." The mom replied.

"O.K., because I am pushing I pick out the stuff!"

I stifled I laugh! This little preschooler had figured it out. The one who controls the cart is the shopper and gets what she wants!

How often do we try to manipulate co-workers, spouses, friends, etc to get what we want? Is that fair?

Scott

Care for the Demanding

2010-04-01T09:30:00.000-05:00

We had a Tom Cat named Boots, he is a roamer, we are not sure where or if he is at this moment. We also had a stray, Little Bit, who adopted us and had two litters of kittens before she died defending the second set from a pack of stray dogs. Of her litters of kittens, there is still one that stays around our house. It is not a domesticated cat, it will not let us come near it and hides when it sees us. However, this cat expects -- demands -- a bowl of food in the morning, and we feed it. Admittedly, I get frustrated that this cat, to whom we have given ardent devotion in the form of free shelter and free food does not return that devotion by allowing us to pet or play with it. This cat is far from its parents -- Boots would let you pick him up and carry him anywhere. He liked to climb in laps and nap or just be petted. Little Bit was wild when she came to us, but warmed up to us and would rub against us and came to the point where she would climb up in our laps if we were sitting on a step or on the ground.

This particular offspring of Boots and Little Bit remind me of a passage in Judges 2:7-11. Here the penman records that as long as Joshua and the elders that were with him remained the people were faithful to God, but as time went on there arose a generation that did not know Joshua or those elders, and did not remember what God had done in delivering the people from Egypt, through the desert, and into a land ready for them. This group forsook God for idols and did what was right in their own eyes.

Concerning this propensity of people someone said, "We are always and only ONE GENERATION away from apostasy." Maybe that is why God told the people in Deut 6:4-9, "Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is one. You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might. And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise. You shall bind them as a sign on your hand, and they shall be as frontlets between your eyes. You shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates."

Parents we need to teach our children about God and remind them of the blessings that are in Christ.
Parents we must train our children to be godly in their lives while they are young.
Parents we should nurture them (lead them) in the Light.

What do you do to help your children become more and more like Christ?

Scott

Are You Covered in Debt?

2010-03-31T08:54:00.000-05:00

That is what the radio commercials ask every day. Do you have over $10,000 dollars in credit card debt, then call ____________. The President signed a bill provided relief to big businesses, where is your relief? We can help you get out of debt so you can live the life you deserve.

Like most of you I have debt. I have a mortgage on my home, I am in the process of paying off a second vehicle, and some small loans that we have a plan to pay off within 9 months. I also have one debt that leaves me feeling helpless. This debt is so large that I know for certain that no "debt relief" company can handle it for me. This is the debt I owe God. I owe Him for creating me, I owe Him for paying for my sin. You know the scriptures, "The wages of sin is death." "All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God." I am in the negatives so much that I can NEVER work my way out! But thanks be to God that my balance sheet looks better than I just described. Written on the top of my balance sheet is "Paid in Full, by Account of my Son."

Jesus, the Son of God, the Sinless man who was also God, paid the way for me to come to God. Paul says it something like this, "God made Him who had no sin (debt) to become sin (indebted) for us that we might become the righteousness (state of being debt free) of God in Him." (2 Cor 5:21).

How did I acquire this debt relief? Simply. I did the same thing God asks of you. By faith, put on Christ. - Gal 3:26-27.

Are you covered in debt or are you living debt free?

Scott

Lost?

2010-03-30T08:57:00.000-05:00

Three weeks ago, Andrew (age 12) and I changed the oil on my truck as well as the fuel filter. There is a trick to changing the filter so that you do not spray fuel over yourself and your son. That trick to relieve the pressure is in the "repair manual" I keep in the garage. But I could not find my manual. The last time I used it was for a brake job. I knew where it was supposed to be, but it was not there. I had lost my instruction book, I even wondered if I had thrown it away or if it was in the "yard sale" pile. I spent more time looking for that book than I did on the fuel filter, which I changed anyway and did not relieve the pressure properly. I despise losing things.

When I was about my son's age, my parents took us to that Wonderful World in Orlando. My older and younger brothers went one direction with Mom while Dad and I went a different way. When Dad and I finished our ride, we were to meet the other three at a certain shaded area. We arrived early and I convinced Dad to let me go to the restroom around the corner. Making my way back to Dad, I came to realize I was on the other side of the Park -- I was in Frontier Land headed toward Liberty Square instead of Adventure Land. Once I realized I was lost and calmed down, I decided I had made a wrong turn at the water fountain. I ran back to where I went wrong, and ran to the meeting spot. Mom and my younger brother were there waiting nervously. Dad and my older brother had gone to look for me. This was decades before cell phones and family service radios, we had to wait for them to get back before we could go on.

I share these two events to introduce you to two similar events in the Old Testament:

1. Josiah in 2 Kngs 22:13, "Go, inquire of the LORD for me, and for the people, and for all Judah, concerning the words of this book that has been found. For great is the wrath of the LORD that is kindled against us, because our fathers have not obeyed the words of this book, to do according to all that is written concerning us." When the workers discovered the lost book of God, the king knew they had to return to following that law.

2. Hosea 14:1-2, "Return, O Israel, to the LORD your God, for you have stumbled because of your iniquity. Take with you words and return to the LORD; say to him, "Take away all iniquity; accept what is good, and we will pay with bulls the vows of our lips." Like Israel, when I was lost, I had to return. I had to admit I was wrong in the direction I was going and turn around to find my father.

Lost? Find the Book, and come home.

Vacation Bible School is Coming Soon

2010-03-29T10:18:00.000-05:00

Here is a pictorial review of our VBS since 2005. At the end is an advertisement for VBS 2010 - Journey to Egypt: Digging into the Life of Joseph.

Enjoy and come be with us.
Scott

What are Your Answers?

2010-03-25T08:26:00.000-05:00

I love God because . . .

Universal Care

2010-03-24T08:29:00.000-05:00

Universal Health Care, Insurance requirements, penalties, etc: I am not sure what to say or think about this new policy in the United States. Like Majority Leader Pelosi suggested, I guess we will find out what is in this bill now that it is passed into law. However, I am concerned about forcing folks to purchase insurance and the ultimate cost to our nation and to individual consumers. One friend was correct when he suggested that we simply trust God no matter what.

I want to tell you about a greater care package available to you. It is the Universal Spiritual Health Care Package. Jesus offers this USHC system though His agency, "I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life, no one comes to the Father except by Me," (Jn 14:6).

The Spiritual recommendations of this policy promote spiritual growth in the following way: "For this very reason, make every effort to supplement your faith with virtue, and virtue with knowledge, and knowledge with self-control, and self-control with steadfastness, and steadfastness with godliness, and godliness with brotherly affection, and brotherly affection with love. For if these qualities are yours and are increasing, they keep you from being ineffective or unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ." (2 Pet 1:5-8).

Following this Spiritual Health Regimen produces great Spiritual benefits, "But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. . . . But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law." (Gal 5:16, 22-23).

One feature of this USHC policy that lifts it high above any other plan is that the premium is paid in full by the policy writer (Acts 20:28; Phil 2:5ff; Rom 5:7-8).

Consider this policy for your Spiritual Health.

God on the Mountain

2010-03-23T08:33:00.000-05:00

Last night, my family and I attended Curry Church of Christ to fellowship with our brethren there and to hear a message from a dear friend and fellow Faulkner Alumni - Neal Pollard. The theme of Curry's meeting is Mountain Top Experiences and last night, Neal took us to Mt Carmel. He drew a great mental picture of the setting of Carmel and what the mountain may have represented in physical, social, and religious settings. Then he pointed out four things about God's power demonstrated around the events of Elijah's confrontation with the 450 prophets of Baal at Mt. Carmel.

On the Mountain We see God's Power . . .
1. Over Nature. God had stopped the rain for 3 1/2 years. Something the Baals could not do.
2. In His Word. The drought came about because Ahab led the people away from God's command.
3. Over the Competition. Baal is simply an idol and had no power. God clearly demonstrates this when He is able to rain down fire (which Baal could not do) and not only consume the sacrifice, but the alter, the wood, and a trench full of water.
4. In His Name. Elijah acted in the Name of the Lord. It is by the authority of the Lord we have access to God. God's name is great and is always to be honored above all names. Everything we do is "in the name of the Lord." Col 3:17.

Where do you see God's power demonstrated?

Have a great day!
Scott

Mission Effort

2010-03-22T07:26:00.000-05:00

Last night our elders met with a young Couple -- Richard and Mary Harp. The Harps are dedicating the next 5 years of their young life and young marriage to work with a mission effort in Scotland. Scotland recently declared itself by an act of Parliament as a Pagan Nation. This declaration only confirms by decree a truth about this country. The Scottish people are kind but post-Christian as far as religious culture. The Harps will be working with the East Kilbride congregation. Follow this link to their mission plan: HarpsinScotland

Please pray for this young couple and their desire to work in the Kingdom.

Scott

Spring Break

2010-03-16T09:52:00.000-05:00

Taking a break from blogging this week while the family is on Spring Break -- see y'all later . . .

Discoveries of Aging

2010-03-11T09:12:00.000-06:00

Last month I celebrated my 43rd birthday. Although I am still younger than some I am older than many, and now have some bits of wisdom I would like to pass along to those behind me chronologically.

I started out with nothing and still have most of it.
I am finally getting my head together; now my body is falling apart.
Funny, I don'e remember being absent-minded.
Fact - Life is unfair!
It is easier to get older than to get wiser.
You can't make a comeback when you haven't been anywhere.
If God wanted me to touch my toes, He would have put them on my knees.
The only difference between a rut and a grave is the length and depth.
I spend a lot more time thinking about the hereafter: I walk in a room and wonder what I am here after.
Funny, I don't remember being . . . absent-minded.

What words of wisdom do you have to pass along?

Scott

What Do You Expect?

2010-03-10T08:38:00.000-06:00

What follows is a list of common expectations that describe "The Perfect Preacher." Lists like this one circulate around and are funny only because they touch a nerve.

The perfect preacher preaches exactly 10 minutes.
He condemns sin roundly but never hurts anyone's feelings.
He works from 8 AM until midnight and is also the church janitor.
He makes $400 a week, wears good clothes, drives a good car, buys good books, and donates $300 a week to the church.
He is 32 years old and has 40 years experience.
He never forgets a name and spends most of his time praying to God. He remembers everyone's birthdate and of course, their anniversary dates as well.
He also knows when somebody is sick and needs visitation even without anyone telling him about it.
He loves to spend time with his family and the has no problem with you dropping in unexpectedly.
He also spends most of his time in preparation to speak God's Word.
Before and after services, he never fails to speak to each person present and will also take the time to listen to you for 15 minutes and pray for each person no less than 10 minutes after listening to them.
The perfect preacher eats nutritiously, gets his rest, exercises daily, and is always there to listen to you night or day.
He has a burning desire to work with teenagers, and he spends most of his time with the senior citizens.
He smiles all the time with a straight face because he has a sense of humor that keeps him seriously dedicated to his church.
He makes 15 home visits a day, is always in his office to be handy when needed and is always busy evangelizing the unchurched.
He spends all day each Saturday preparing the Sunday sermon, and he focuses on his family too.

Now for a serious question: What do you expect from the preacher where you worship? Preachers, how well are you doing as a servant of God and His people?

Leave your comments!

Scott

Finish this Thought . . .

2010-03-09T08:30:00.000-06:00

I am asking you the reader to complete this post today. I will begin with a couple of thoughts and leave the floor open for you to interject your thoughts. Here we go . . .

God is . . . .

Love,
Light,
Good . . .

Keep this going.
Scott

The Original Undercover Boss

2010-03-08T09:45:00.003-06:00

On Sunday evenings, when we get home in time, we watch a new "reality" show on CBS - Undercover Boss. The premise of this show is simple: A CEO of a major company such as Waste Management, 7-11, or White Castle sheds his suit and tie, dons a "blue collar," and then goes to work in entry level and lower management positions in the different departments of his or her company. These bosses learn a lot about the companies they run and the people who work for them. Of the three of four episodes we watched, these bosses began to empathize with their worker, they began to understand the stresses of lower wage employees and as a result are more open to listening to those employees and implementing changes to help.

This is not a new concept. Who can forget Mark Twain's story, The Prince and the Pauper, where the young Prince Edward VI abandons the palace to switch places with his doppleganger, Tom Canty who lived in Offal Court on Pudding Lane. The young prince's experience as a pauper serves him well after the death of his father, King Henry VII.

Even that story rings of familiarity. A ruler stepping down and living as a subject to better understand them so to give them relief from their plight is a classic plot. Paul records, "(Jesus Christ) is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation. For by him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities--all things were created through him and for him. And he is before all things, and in him all things hold together. And he is the head of the body, the church. He is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in everything he might be preeminent." (Col 1:15-18). Jesus being one with God was king of heaven, and came to earth as one of us to understand us and to save us from the plight of sin. That is why the Hebrew penmen records, "Since then we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus, the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin. Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need." (Heb 4:14-16).

I am glad God understands me. Praise God for sending His Son, Jesus, to provide for my deliverance.

Scott

Milford and Bessie Minor: Heroes of Marriage

2010-03-05T09:11:00.000-06:00

This blog is edited from the Fall/Winter '08 Our Families Magazine published by Faulkner University Cloverdale Center for Family Strengths. The Minors are members where we attend and I serve as minister. I asked them around the time of their 73rd anniversary what they would say to couples just beginning their marriage. Sister Bessie smiled and said, "Tell them to stay together, that love gets sweeter and sweeter every year." Thank you, Barbara, Donald, Gail, Virginia, and Roger for sharing your parents with us. -- Scott

On September 2, 2006, exactly seventy years since their own marriage, Milford and Bessie Minor were present at the Harpeth Hills Church of Christ in Nashville, Tennessee for the wedding of one of their granddaughters. She had chosen that date to honor the love and commitment that she and the other grandchildren had always observed in the marriage of their grandparents. Milford and Bessie grew up in adjoining communities in rural Walker County, Alabama. Both knew and experienced the difficulties of farm life, especially the rough economic times as the country endured and emerged from the Great Depression. In 1922, times were very dire when Milford, at the age of seven, lost both of his parents in the flu epidemic that spread across the area. He and his six siblings were orphaned when their father, mother, and paternal grandmother died within one week. His father’s sister moved into the home and kept the family together earning what the land could produce. Bessie’s father was a cotton farmer and supplemented his family’s income by making sorghum molasses when the cotton was harvested. In 1930, Bessie’s mother died from

a debilitating illness. As the oldest surviving daughter, Bessie, at age thirteen, became housekeeper for her father and four older brothers and a mother figure to a younger sister and two baby brothers.

The major work on farms recessed for Sundays. The Lord’s Day was a day of worship and visiting other congregations for special meetings, singings, and singing schools. It was at gatherings such as these that Milford and Bessie became acquainted and became part of a group of young people that usually attended such events in the area. As they became young adults their interest in each other grew and they began
seeking time to be together. To visit Bessie, Milford had to walk several miles from his home to hers. Other times they were able to borrow the family mule and buggy for trips to church services and socials.

At the home of the local Justice of the Peace, and with a couple of friends as witnesses, Milford, age 21, and Bessie, age 19, became husband and wife on September 2, 1936. For the first two weeks of their marriage they stayed with Milford’s family. When they found a small house to rent, Milford continued to help his family with the farming and to seek extra work with anyone else who needed a worker. His pay was rarely cash because no one had money; the pay was usually in goods that could be traded. Bessie’s first cook stove was bought with 14 bales of hay that Milford had earned working for his cousin. Other needed household items came from family and friends who had something extra that they knew the newlyweds needed and could use.

In September 1938, two years after their marriage, the first of their five children was born, followed quickly by the other four. The couple recognized that more resources were required to raise and educate their children. To meet the need, Milford and Bessie left the farm and moved into the small coal mining town of Parrish, where Milford found work in the coal mines. Bessie continued her work as wife, mother, and full-time homemaker, but for the fi rst time she had electricity to make some things easier. When a teen-ager, Bessie had been baptized into Christ at the rural Central congregation in Liberty Hill where she had always attended.
When she and Milford moved into town, she became a member of the Parrish Church of Christ where she has been a faithful member since 1941. All of their children were baptized there, and in 1972, Milford, also, was baptized and is today the oldest member of the Parrish congregation where their youngest son serves as
one of the elders. Though slowed by age, and no longer able to lead in the services or teach class, Milford and Bessie are in regular attendance at the scheduled services, gospel meetings, vacation bible schools, and other special services.

Their children remain faithful in the Lord’s church. The congregations their large family attend are scattered in Virginia, Tennessee, Georgia, Mississippi, and Alabama. Four of their children and five grandchildren became
educators working in public and Christian schools. Milford’s and Bessie’s teaching example and influence continue to have great impact on their children, eleven grandchildren, and fifteen great-grandchildren.

When asked how they had been able to endure the childhood hardships, the trials of raising a large family, and be able to establish and maintain a good marriage for seventy-two (73 now) years, the answer was, “It hasn’t always been easy, but we took a vow to love, honor, and cherish as long as we both lived and we know and understand what a vow is.”

The Man I Desire To Be

2010-03-03T09:11:00.000-06:00

Four years ago, as I was completing a Masters' Degree in Ministry, our instructor (Paul Tarrence) assigned us at simple project. That project was to reflect on the Man we Desired to be. I wrote this list then and occasionally pull it out to look at it, today was one of those days. I reflected on how I am becoming that man and admit I am still a work in progress.

The Man I Desire to Be

Above all a servant of God.
A man who is a leader in service to others.
A man focused on the needs (physical, emotional, and spiritual) of his family.
A person with the financial security to be generous in giving to the Lord and in helping others with their needs.
A fried to all I meet.
A man of God's Word in reflection and action.
A man motivated by a pure heart.
A man of ever deepening faith and trust in God.
A living testimony of Love, Joy, Peace, Patience, Kindness, Goodness, Faithfulness, Gentleness, and Self-Control.
A man Christ-like in attitude and behavior.
A teacher of teachers and a disciple of Christ discipling others to reconciliation with God through Christ (2 Tim 2:2; 2 Cor 5:18ff).
A man aware of and sensitive to the thoughts and emotions of others, yet not allowing the values or misunderstandings of others to change my core-values that have their basis upon and in the principles of God's Word.

What would your list include: List the attributes of the Person You Would Like to Be.

Scott

Ten Religious Books That Influenced Me

2010-03-02T08:26:00.000-06:00

Yesterday (Monday) I wrote two posts. The second one was my "Passing the Torch" article. Go back and read that if you missed it and be sure to read the other articles I linked to. The first post yesterday concerned ten books that are among my favorite non-religious books. Today, I am sharing a list of Ten Religious Books that Influenced Me. You will notice that I did not include the Bible in this list. The Bible is by far the most important of all the religious books I read, but for this list, I wanted to include books by men and not the Book of Books by God.

1. Old Light on New Worship - John Price
2. Biblical Eldership - Alexander Strauch
3. Jesus and the Victory of God - N. T. Wright
4. What Did Saint Paul Really Say - N. T. Wright
5. The Gospel According to Jesus - John MacArthur
6. Living Jesus - Luke Timothy Johnson
7. The End Times - Russell Boatman
8. Is the Holy Spirit for Me - Harvey Floyd
9. Showtime - Dan Chambers
10. The God Who Risks - John Sanders

Honorable Mention -
- Twelve Ordinary Men - John MacArthur
- The God of the Towel - Jim McGuiggan
- Adrift - Phil Sanders
- Saddlebags, City Streets, and Cyberspace - Michael Cassey

Keep Reading and Keep Growing

Scott

Passing the Torch

2010-03-01T14:17:00.003-06:00

Monday I read more than a few blogs concerning preachers whose influence is ongoing:
Chris writes about Dowel Flatt.
While Brian writes about Mike Tanaro.
Paul writes about her Dad.
Lisa writes about her Dad too.
And John writes about Richard Travis and others.

Today, I join the effort in Passing the Torch.

There are a lot of preachers in my life. Many of them from my childhood and the congregations we attended. Some of those who impacted my life were: John Bird, Jim Wisdom, and Ron Missildine. These three were preachers where I attended. Brother John Bird was the preacher when I obeyed the gospel at Leonard Street in Pensacola, FL. He was one of the most kind hearted and tender men I had the privilege of knowing. From him I learned the importance of prayer and saw in him a man who often knelt before the throne of God. Jim Wisdom is the man who "tricked" me into preaching my first sermon and (other than my mom) most influenced my love for singing. He was the first preacher I knew as a friend and not just "the Preacher." If Jim had not been a part of our congregation when I was a pre-teen and young teen, I do not know if I would be a preacher. Ron Missildine preached across town. I attended where he preached while a teenager since that congregation (Warrington Church of Christ) had an earlier service I could attend allowing me to worship and then go to work at a restaurant on Sunday afternoon. Ron was much like Jim Wisdom in that he was a friend, and like John Bird he was a man who you knew had a relationship with God. Ron's lessons were Biblical, practical, and easy to understand. I hope in some way I am like the three of them.

Again, there have been a lot of preachers, but the one that stands out most, was a "retired" preacher who taught Bible Class when I was a teenager - Dale McCaleb. I only heard him preach on a few occasions. Most of his influence was in class and in fellowship before and after worship. Bro. McCaleb grew up not far from where I now live. He is part of the "Greatest Generation" who had a hard life and worked to make ends meet. He worked with Navy and preached where ever he lived. His life finally brought him to NAS Pensacola, where he decided to stay. Dale and Ruby began worshiping with the Leonard Street Church of Christ when I was about 14 years old. Soon Dale was teaching the teens, talking about a life of preaching, and going to school at Montgomery Bible School and meeting the love of life (Ruby). His knowledge of scripture, his relationship with the Savior, his love for God, his example of a life spent in service inspired me. When he spoke of his education, of his wife, of his God and Savior, I could hang on every word. He was my grandfather's friend, but he was and is in many ways my hero. Bro McCaleb's health is not what it used to be, the years are catching up to him, (he is about 90 years old). This past year, I had the honor to preach a series of sermons at the congregation were I grew up and where he still attends. He was there, sitting in the third row, smiling, nodding approval, and saying, "Amen." After 20 or more years of preaching, having his approval meant so much to me. Brother Dale McCaleb -- "Thank you." I pray I can be a similar influence as I strive to follow Christ.

Scott

My Ten Favorite Non-Religious Books to Read

2010-03-01T09:07:00.004-06:00

This morning I thought I would give you a reading list. I like to read. I read fiction, non-fiction, and religious books. I enjoyed Harry Potter and the Lemony Snickett series and a few other pre-teen and teen books, but I also read on my level. Here are ten books (both fiction and non-ficiton) I liked enough to read most of them more than once.

1. The Old Man and the Sea - Earnest Hemingway - (Classic man against nature)
2. A Farewell to Arms - Earnest Hemingway - (The realities of war on one man)
3. A Painted House - John Grisham - (a departure from the normal Grisham style)
4. To Kill a Mockingbird - Harper Lee - (I really like Jem, Scout, and Atticus Finch)
5. 1776 - David McCullough - (Historical reconstruction)
6. Treasure Island - Robert Louis Stevenson - (Not much better than pirates, treasure, and adventures at sea)
7. Tom Sawyer - Mark Twain - (The copy I first read had an early 1900's publishing date)
8. The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn - Mark Twain - (same as above)
9. Greece to 14 A.D. (?? Shuckburg, Putnam Bros. 1906) - (A rare history book)
10. Due South - R. Scott Brunner - (Scott's dad is a friend of mine. This book is a collection of humorous stories and anecdotes about being a Southerner. Scott's maternal grandparents are members where I preach and recently celebrated their 73 wedding anniversary.)

Grab a book a read.

Scott

Happy Anniversary

2010-02-26T09:52:00.000-06:00

As of yesterday, Feb 25, 2010 this blog is one year old. Looking back I think this has been a good year. I entered the world of blogging after reading:

http://thetractorcab.wordpress.com/
http://www.treymorgan.net/
http://www.dalejenkins.com/Dale_Jenkins/Welcome.html
http://preachersstudyblog.com/
and
http://www.faughnfamily.com/

So a special thanks to Tykerman1, Trey, Dale, Bruno, and Adam for introducing me to the power of blogging.

I hope my thoughts have been useful, occasionally funny, and helped you each day in your walk with God.

Keep reading and keep growing.

Scott

How to Help Your Church Family Grow

2010-02-25T08:43:00.000-06:00

Where you worship is probably similar to Parrish, where we attend and where I preach. We are a good group of people. We are active in our faith and are decent folk. But like you, we can be better. I put some thought to this idea of congregational self-improvement and I have a few suggestions on how we can all Help Our Individual Church Family Grow.

First we help by Living Pure Lives. The local congregation needs to have the respect of the community it is in. That level of respect lies squarely upon the shoulders of each member. "For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation for all people, training us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives in the present age, (Titus 2:11-12)."

Next we help by Being Friendly. Each visitor needs to feel welcome. They should see we appreciate them and love them. Such a realization will make them want to return. Do not stand back and let someone else greet visitors -- you be one of the first. The Hebrew writer says, "Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for thereby some have entertained angels unawares. (Heb 13:2)."

We can also help by Giving Our Full Support to the Leaders. Effective leaders are a great blessing to any congregation of God's family. None can progress without faithful and efficient leaders, and as members we can make or break our leadership. Again from the Hebrew writer we learn, "Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they are keeping watch over your souls, as those who will have to give an account. Let them do this with joy and not with groaning, for that would be of no advantage to you. (Heb 13:17)."

Another way we can help our church family grow is by Promoting Unity. Peter gives us a formula for unity in 1 Pet 3:8-12, "Finally, all of you, have unity of mind, sympathy, brotherly love, a tender heart, and a humble mind. Do not repay evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary, bless, for to this you were called, that you may obtain a blessing. For 'Whoever desires to love life and see good days, let him keep his tongue from evil and his lips from speaking deceit; let him turn away from evil and do good; let him seek peace and pursue it. For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, and his ears are open to their prayer. But the face of the Lord is against those who do evil.' " The unity formula is:

Unity of Mind.
Sympathy for each other.
Brotherly Love.
Having a Tender Heart.
Having an Humble Mind.
Not Being Vindictive.
Bless each other.

A fifth way to help our congregation is by Working Hard at Being a Soul-Saver. This is as simple as letting your non-Christian friends and family know why you are a Christian and how you came to Christ. Remember the wise preacher tells us, "The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life, and whoever captures souls is wise. (Prov 11:30)."

To be a Soul-Saver, Living in Unity, Supporting the Leaders, Friendly, while Living Pure Lives, takes Living a Life of Full Surrender. Jesus said it best, "If anyone comes to me and does not hate his own father and mother and wife and children and brothers and sisters, yes, and even his own life, he cannot be my disciple. Whoever does not bear his own cross and come after me cannot be my disciple. (Luke 14:26-27)."

Keep Growing for the Lord.

Scott

Top Ten Reasons I Love Being a Preacher

2010-02-24T08:51:00.000-06:00

From my study in Parrish, Alabama comes this morning's top ten. Top Ten Reasons, I Love Being A Preacher:

10. I get to talk during worship.
9. I am blessed to have extra time to study God's word.
8. I don't sleep through the sermon.
7. I serve the GREATEST PEOPLE on Earth -- God's people!
6. Although the pay hasn't always been great, God's Retirement plan is wonderful.
5. People invite me to be part of their celebrations (weddings, anniversaries, etc.)
4. Fellowship Meals! Christian ladies (and some of us men) can really cook!
3. The privilege to help people in times of physical, fiscal, and spiritual needs.
2. My family shares in my ministry.
and reason I most love to preach . . . .
1. There is no greater message to proclaim! (Rom 1:16).

Rejoice in the Lord always, I repeat REJOICE!

Scott

The Bachelor

2010-02-23T09:45:00.003-06:00

First, I am not a fan of The Bachelor or The Bachelorette. This morning the local DJ's on the radio were discussing Monday's episode. From what a gathered from their discussion, this was an episode where all the women who were sent home came back to talk about some events on the show. Apparently, there was one girl who crossed a line that caused the producers to send her home disqualifying her participation. I learned that she had 'inappropriate' relations with a male staffer on the show (I also understand the show terminated his employment). From the descriptions on the radio, it seems that others saw this girl fondling and caressing with this male staffer, there were hints that they may have also gone farther.

Fast forward in the chronology of the show to two weeks ago. I was curious to see who the last three girls would be and what two this Bachelor would choose for the final episode. I had to change channels. The show gave the appearance that each of these girls spent a night in the same room with the Bachelor in an intimate and romantic setting. I am human (specifically man enough) to know that more than likely the three couples did not just hold each other in those special rooms. I am sure that some form of sexual conduct took place.

I have a question for you: Why would they force one of the women to leave for being intimate with more than the Bachelor, when the show promotes the Bachelor being intimate with multiple women and even provides a room for him and three special women? Does anyone else see the inconsistency?

Now, just for a reminder, "For this is the will of God, your sanctification: that you abstain from sexual immorality; that each one of you know how to control his own body in holiness and honor, not in the passion of lust like the Gentiles who do not know God;" (1Th 4:3-5).

Sexual immorality is from the Greek term "porneia" from which we get the word pornography. The term includes any an all forms of sexual intercourse between people not legally married. My point is this: Everything about The Bachelor screams sexual immorality. Our society places too much emphasis on sexuality and promotes sexual relations outside of marriage. Sex is desirable and should be enjoyed, but only where God sanctions. Sexual relations are set apart for marriage, the Hebrew writer says as much, "Let marriage be held in honor among all, and let the marriage bed be undefiled, for God will judge the sexually immoral and adulterous. (Heb 13:4)"

Challenging you to live in Holiness and Sanctification,

Scott

The Final Word from God

2010-02-22T08:10:00.000-06:00

If God had one last thing to say, what would it be? If there was something very important that we should remember, what would He tell us? Well, He has. Take a look at the last chapter of Revelation - Rev 22:6-21 and you have God's Final word. Here is a *.ppt presentation of the sermon from yesterday morning.

Feb 21 Am God’S Final Words

View more presentations from Scott McCown.

Have a Great Day walking with God!

Scott

Saddlebags, City Streets, & Cyberspace - A Book Review

2010-02-18T07:14:00.000-06:00

I am reaching into the vault of book reviews to pull out this one, I shared with an online preachers groups a few years ago.

Michael W. Casey, Saddlebags, City Streets, & Cyberspace; A History of Preaching in the Churches of Christ, (Abilene;ACU Press) 1995. 210 pp.

Michael Casey provides the churches of Christ with an historical volume of a different genre from most other Restoration History texts. One would expect that in a fellowship that focuses much attention on preaching in our worship, there would be multiple volumes discussion the development and style of our gospel preaching.

Casey develops preaching and advises his reader to realize that preaching is a living representation of a living message that will always change and adapt as people change and adapt within their environment. According to Casey's research, styles of preaching reflect not only the environment of the audience, but to a large extent the culture of the preacher. As evidence of the adaptability of preaching, Casey points the reader to observe the change in Alexander Campbell. He notes that Campbell made observed a change in sermon he preached ten months prior to crossing the Atlantic. Campbell changed his preaching from a stoic recitation / reading to a more extemporaneous style for the American Frontier (p 19-20). Early in the book, Casey warns that preaching, no matter the style or cultural form, must be faithful to the message of the Gospel.

Campbell, even while preaching more extemporaneously, preached from a Baconian (Rationalistic) style. This style grew out of Thomas Reid's ideas of Common Sense, which states that every rational individual will come tot he correct answer if given the correct facts. American Rationalism an adaptation of Scottish Realism had four principal elements: (1) enthusiasm for natural science, (2) strict empiricism, (3) a love for inductive reasoning, and (4) the celebration of Frances Bacon as the father of inductive science (p 25-26). Out of this rational approach grew the tradition of debates. The assumption of those debating is that if Common Sense is common then fact presented to a reasonable audience will convince them of the Truth.

Casey then gives descriptions of various styles of preaching and gives examples of those using these styles. he describes T. B. Larrimore as an example of a Narrative Preacher. He discusses the influence of N. B. Hardeman and his Tabernacle Sermons on Evangelism and Campaign Preaching. Casey assigns the genre of "Scholarly Tradition" to those who delve into Historical Criticism, specific exegesis, and general application. Many early proponents of this Scholarly Tradition were the professors and leaders at various Christian Colleges and Universities. To Casey, those that preach "Jesus Centered" lessons are Evangelical in tradition.

Casey concludes asking, "What's next?" In this age of mass communication, we have very little reason to think that preaching will always remain the same. If in the past, preaching evolved as Casey aptly describes, in this age of ever changing technology preaching will adapt, and should as long as preaching remains true to the Gospel message. Casey recommends a shift or "reconnection of the academic discipline of rhetoric with homiletics" (p 199).

Seemingly, Casey blames much failure on the Rational Tradition for weaknesses in the Restoration Movement. He also admits that each "tradition" has its own problems. The emphasis then remains that the message is more important than the method of presentation.

In the intervening decade and a half since publication of Casey's book technology has impacted preaching. Additional material discussing "PowerPoint Tradition" and even the influence of blogs, Facebook, and Twitter on preaching would be a welcome appendix. I would personally like to see and evaluation of the methods of Paul, Peter, Stephen, and especially Christ. As 21st Century Restorers, we can still learn much from these great men of the past and those that followed them.

Preach the Truth, no matter what!

Scott

What is the Church of Christ?

2010-02-17T10:03:00.000-06:00

Admittedly, I feel completely inadequate to publish an answer. But with all the discussion, SPIN, and rhetoric circulating around Kenneth Starr's acceptance to take over the Presidency of Baylor University and the storyline that he will place membership with the on campus Baptist Church, I felt it was time to cautiously chime in. The answer I will give is mine and not necessarily the answer of every one who holds membership in a congregation claiming to be the Church of Christ

First, allow me to quote from Frank S. Mead, Handbook of Denominations in the United States, 5th Ed, (Nashville:Abingdon Press), 1970. "There is a distinctive plea for unity at the heart of the Churches of Christ -- a unity that is Bible based. It is believed here that the Bible is the "beginning place" in and through which God-fearing people can achieve spiritual oneness" (p 85). "They disclaim being a denomination, but claim to be nondenominational with no headquarters, no governing boards, and no clergy" (p 86). Mead lists numbers of colleges, universities, and lists a few publications in Texas and Tennessee then stresses, "Since all official status in these institutions is lacking, none of them being authorized to speak for the entire church, their conformity in ideas and teachings in all the more remarkable" (p 87). Elsewhere in the article Mead mentions the concept of congregational autonomy with each congregation being governed by her own elders and deacons. (Mead lists, W.E. McClenney, B.W. Stone, and Earl I. West as sources for his information p 238.)

With this article as background let me give MY answer to the title question: "What is the Church of Christ?"

First while consisting of many congregations scattered around the world, the Church of Christ is universally one as she is: 1) the Body of Christ - Eph 1:22-23; 2) the Bride of Christ - Eph 5:21-33; Rev 21:2; 3) the Household of God - 1 Tim 3:15; and 4) the Kingdom of Christ - Col 1:13) among other descriptive terms. Notice that each term is ultimately singular: body, bride, household, and kingdom; thus individual congregations made up of individual Christians are what comprise the universal singular Church of Christ.

I suppose the second point should answer who is a part of this universal Church of Christ? Going back to God's word we find that those who are in Christ by faith have put on Christ and become part of God's family through the promised Seed of Abraham (Gal 3:26-29). Here, I think is a particularly sticky issue. In my past I have made too much of an argument about baptism and not enough about faith. Let me be very precise in my wording; each individual that is a part of the house of God is saved by God's grace through faith (Eph 2:8-10). Without faith man cannot please God (Heb 11:6). However, what is truly faith? Faith is not mere mental acceptance of facts. Faith is trusting obedience. Faith that does not submit to God is not faith. Those that put on Christ by faith in Gal 3:26 were those who were put in Him when by faith submitted to immersion to contact His blood. Paul tells the Romans Christians he was glad they had obeyed from the heart the standard of teaching that saved them (Rom 6:17-18). That standard of teaching that saved them was the same doctrine that Paul taught the Corinthians - (the Gospel - 1 Cor 15:1-5; Rom 1:16). That good news that saved was the sacrifice and resurrection of Jesus as Christ. Paul explains the Roman's faithful obedience to that gospel in Rom 6:3-6. ALL the individuals world-wide who are en christo (in Christ), and ALL the assemblies of those individuals, are the universal Church (Body, Bride, Kingdom, Household) of Christ.

Now as Mead observed, these congregations are autonomous (self-governed). Basically, that means what we do at Parrish may differ in someways from how they do things at Malibu, Baltimore, Nashville, London, Edinburgh, Kiev, or Jasper. We may see some things as acceptable that others do not. Some of the things they accept may not be acceptable here. Sometimes these differences are merely cultural. Sometimes these differences are simple matters of opinion. However, there may be times when we think a Biblical issue is at the center of our differences. When the issue is considered by one or both to be a matter of doctrinal importance, lines of communication should allow for civil discussion. If we come to an impasse, we may choose to limit cooperative fellowship. That should not mean that each think the other is "hell bound and determined." Such should simply mean we choose to work along side of those we feel are more like us.

Ultimately, God and Christ will judge each congregation (consider the Seven churches of Asia in Revelation 2 & 3 - God judged each individually), and they will judge each individual. Maybe that is what Paul had in mind when he wrote, " . . . work our your OWN salvation with fear and trembling" (Phil 2:12, emphasis; SMc). You and I as individuals will stand before God on our own. We will face judgment as to whether we as an individual were in Christ and lived in sanctification and holiness (1 Thess 4:3-7). Each eldership will give account for the congregation they served (Heb 13:17).

I am a Restorationist. I believe that we must all go back to God's word for life and godliness. I believe as many before me that we must set aside denominational nomenclature and return to purely Biblical ideas and principles. I believe there is room for division in opinions or expediency. I believe mutual understanding of Biblical doctrines provides unity whereas disagreements in doctrine limit fellowship. I believe that as long as humanity is involved there will be differences that seem insurmountable. I believe we should teach the truth as we understand truth, allowing for folks to disagree, while continuing to hold fast to healthy spiritual teaching (sound doctrine). I believe in the end of time God will sort out who is and who is not His children. I believe I must do my best to follow God and to teach others what I learn. I cannot force them to agree with me, but I must share what I see is God's plan. To do less would be irresponsible on my part.

Now let the comments flow!

Scott

Celebrating Senior Saints

2010-02-16T09:47:00.000-06:00

I thought I would take today to share with you one of the things the great young people at Parrish Church of Christ do every year for our Senior Members. Every year around Valentines Day our teens serve a meal to our Senior Members. Those of us who are the parents of these young people help with decorating and meal preparation. We also have a young lady who takes pictures of each couple, widow(er), or attendee that they will be given at a later date. Enjoy the video.

Go with God.
Scott

Top Ten Signs a Teenage Male is in Your House

2010-02-15T09:12:00.000-06:00

This summer our son, Andrew, turns 13. This seems to be a turning point year for him. He is learning to play guitar, he played Jr High Basketball, and is currently working out for football. In the past he participated in quiz bowl events in Elementary and earned a 1st Degree Level 3 BlackBelt in TaeKwondo, but this is his first year to venture into major sports. Amy and I realize we have a budding teenager in the house. Here are the Top Ten Observations from the Home Front in Oakman, Alabama:

10. There are always piles of clothes to wash.
9. There is never enough food in the house.
8. Football is king.
7. You hear an instrumental cover of "Stairway to Heaven" coming from his room, when the radio is off.
6. You are accustomed to the clanging sound of free weights.
5. Fingerprints appear high above ALL doorways.
4. Two words - Body Spray!
3. The refrigerator is always open.
2. Getting his hair cut (combed) is an ordeal.
1. You learn sarcasm is a way to communicate love.

Those of you who have older sons, let me know: What are some signs I missed? What can I look forward too?
Scott

Song Leader Suggestions

2010-02-11T08:40:00.000-06:00

This Tuesday we continued our mid-week series on singing and learning more about music in worship. David Courington continues to do a great job in his presentation. Here are some suggestions he gave for song leaders to which I give a hearty - AMEN!

Remember the three keys to success - Practice, Practice, and Practice.
Speak loudly, announcing the number of the song twice. Give the audience time to turn to the song before beginning.
It is not about the song leader, but singing and worshiping God. Avoid being a distraction.
Sing loudly - The congregation will not likely sing above you.
Start with confidence - Brethren will help yo, but if they think you are going to fail, they will wait and see before they follow you.
Avoid the Disaster Twins: Too Low and Too Slow!
Select songs that are appropriate for the occasions. (Do not lead "Ready to Suffer" just before the sermon, or "Why Not Tonight" as the morning invitation song.)
Check with the preacher to see if any particular song(s) will fit with his sermon.
Generally avoid new songs for Sunday morning or when many visitors are present.
Do not allow the congregation to slow you down. Keep the tempo steady.

Have great singing!

Scott

Encouraging Comedy

2010-02-09T20:38:00.001-06:00

A great piece of comedy from someone unique. Listen to his perspective at the end.

Scott

Top Ten Ideas to Help Destroy the Local Church

2010-02-08T08:55:00.000-06:00

The home office is feeling quite sarcastic this morning and provides us the following top ten list: Top Ten Ideas to Help Destroy the Local Church.

10. Be irregular or at least habitually tardy in attendance at Bible Classes, worship, and other activities.
9. Talk critically about church leaders in public, around other members, and to your family.
8. Be apathetic in you singing. Please do not move you mouth and never demonstrate emotions when you sing.
7. Do not come prepared for Bible Classes and worship when you do attend.
6. Talk about where you attend in terms of "they" instead of "we;" As in, "Do you know what 'they' are doing down at the church?"
5. Constantly criticize and look for opportunities to complain or to think the worst of the church or other Christians.
4. Do not study your Bible at home or anytime you are away from the assembly.
3. Do not be "ready to give an answer" for the "hope" you have of inheriting eternal life.
2. Do compartmentalize your life into sections such as: a) Private Life, b) Public Life, c) Church Life, and d) Family Life. Do not let these separate lives cross over and merge.
And the number one idea to help destroy the local church is . . .
1) Expect others to do more (contribute, work, etc.) than you are willing to do.

Seriously, take each of these ideas and do the opposite to help the local church grow!

Scott

I Quit!

2010-02-04T09:53:00.000-06:00

I quit! I have had enough! I'm tired! I'm worn out! I'm frustrated! I cannot take anymore! I am resigning today!

I am quitting, you cannot change my mind! Do NOT try to talk me out of it. I refuse to second guess my decision to quit! My mind is made up, my decision is final!

Honestly, I have wanted to say that for a long time. I have considered quitting before and have taken hours to pray about it. This is the only way! I quit!

Quitting is a tough decision to make. Quitting is not the weak way out. Quitting take determination! Quitting takes a great deal of faith. When you quit, you wonder what people are going to say. You wonder how your resignation will affect others. But I have to quit! Now it the time to quit! Quitting was a difficult decision, I had to consider some characters in Biblical Historical Narrative.

What if Noah had quit? No one was on his side, people laughed at him, encouraged him to quit, but he kept building the ark.
What if Abraham had quit? No one would blame him. How can you continue to have faith that God will give your children and inheritance when you are 98 and childless?
What if Joseph had quit? At every turn life seemed against him. Yet he hung in there, did not quit and God's people received relief from a great disastrous famine.
What if Jesus had quit? Satan offered a way out. He asked God to take away cup of burden, but nevertheless, He stuck with God's plan.

But I have to quit! There is just no way around it. This is something I have to do -- right NOW! TODAY! This moment! I refuse to put it off any longer, so for the record as of right now, I QUIT!

I Quit worrying about what others think and I start caring more about what God thinks.
I Quit making excuses for not being a better husband and father.
I Quit complaining about the church and my brothers and sisters in Christ.
I Quit prejudging others.
I Quit looking for and finding fault.
I Quit gossiping.
I Quit looking for the easy way out.
I Quit living for self and start living for Jesus.

Will you quit with me?

As we quit, let us resolve to be like all those Bible characters who stayed the course. At the end of our individual lives, may we be able to echo Paul and say, "For I am already being poured out as a drink offering, and the time of my departure has come. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Henceforth there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will award to me on that Day, and not only to me but also to all who have loved his appearing." 2 Tim 4:6-8.

Scott

Singing Lessons

2010-02-03T09:06:00.000-06:00

Last night, David Courington began a month-long series of lessons that our leaders hope will help our congregation to better sing with understanding and with the Spirit. Here are some important lessons I think every congregation of God's people need to hear.

1. Singing can improve with 1) Good Coaching, 2) Good Examples, and 3) the 3 "P's" -- Practice, Practice, and Practice.
Good singers are taught, not born!
Ten Suggestions to IMMEDIATELY Improve Congregational Singing:

Remember Your Audience - Eph 5:19 - is God.
Remember Your Neighbor - Col 3:16.
Sit up.
Hold your head up.
Look up at the leader.
Start with the leader.
Sing out.
Keep up with leader.
Speak up - enunciate. Don't be lazy with your speech.
Hold your note and volume - don't trail off at the end of phrases, verses, or songs.

Come join us each Tuesday in February at 6:00 for these lessons.
Happy singing.

Scott

Morning Vocabulary Lesson

2010-02-02T08:56:00.000-06:00

I read a new word last night. Well the word is not new, and not necessarily new to me, but one that I do not read or hear often. This wonderful word applies to some great concepts. The way the book I was reading used this word, it applied more to me the first ten years of our marriage than it did to my wife, and now for the last 10+ years this word applies more to her. This usage of this word may not apply to many in our nation today, unless of course you live in a rural area. Then again this word, as used last night, may not always apply there either. Jesus' life on earth fit this word, and this word applies to Him now as He is at the right hand of the Father.

What is the word? Propinquity! I like that word. I am going to make it one of my favorites. I plan to find excuses to us this word. The way my reading last night used "propinquity" gave it the meaning of "being near to the place of your birth." Look at Jesus' life on earth you realize as you study maps that He never really lived too far from his home. If you look at Jesus as God's Son, He is near God now.

As I think a little deeper, Jesus was never far from His Father, even while on earth. Propinquity also means: "nearness of kin" or "nearness of place and time - proximity." Hmm.

James 4:8 encourages our propinquity to our heavenly Father, "Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you" (ESV). The more I think, the more I realize that propinquity is exactly what God wants with us. Everything He did throughout history has the goal of bringing His wayward creation back to close propinquity to Him.

Have a great day with the Lord!
Scott

Excuses, Excuses, You Hear Them Every Day

2010-02-01T10:19:00.000-06:00

The title is a line from an old song, I think the Kingsmen did the original version. There is truth in those lyrics, people supply excuses for many missed opportunities and appointments. Here are a few favorites (typos are in the originals):

Please excuse Johnny for being, it was his father's fault.
Kimmy is under Doctor's orders not to do p.e., please execute her.
I was late to work because my cat unplugged my alarm clock.
I was late because I could not find my shoes.
I cannot come in to work today, my garage door is broken.
I was late because my wife is expecting and I was experiencing morning sickness.
I will not be in today, my cat has hairballs.
Please excuse Jenna's absence, she was sick and I had her shot.
I had to take my dog to her psychiatric appointment.
I borrowed a friend's car to get to work. The car was reported stolen and apparently used in a robbery. I was in jail for possession of stolen property. The police were interrogating me, which kept me from calling in to work. I was eventually able to convince the officers of my innocence, so they let me go and I got here as fast as I could.

I need to tell you that a secretary called the local police about that last one and found it to be completely fabricated.

Excuses are not the sole property of students and employees. If we are honest with ourselves we are guilty of excuse making. The compiler of Proverbs records an ancient excuse for laziness, "There's a lion in the road, there's a lion in the street" (Prov 26:13).

In the arena of the Christian experience, one finds people making excuses for: 1) not obey the Gospel, 2) refusing to give up a sinful practice, or 3) getting involved in the Lord's great work. Our lame excuses will not hold up. I can hear them now, "God, I would have done . . . ., but you see there was this . . . ." I just do not see that standing in God's court of law. What about you?

Maybe, just maybe, instead of excusing why we cannot, let's rationalize why we should and can serve God (Rom 5:8; Phil 4:13).

The next phrase of the Kingsmen's song reminds us about excuses, "The devil, he'll supply them if from church you stay away . . ." Here is a video of the Kingsmen Heirs.

\

Have a great day! -- No Excuses!
Scott

You're Invited

2010-01-28T08:32:00.000-06:00

I think I am similar to everyone else in our community in that I like to be invited to something special, weddings, birthdays, graduations, and celebrations of a variety of events. I think you probably like invitations as well.

Consider this your invitation. Specifically, this is your invitation to our Series of Lessons on the Family, February 5-7. Ted Burleson will be with us and will speak on the following topics:
Friday, Feb 5 at 7:00 - - - Family Development
Saturday, Feb 6 at 7:00 - - - The Stages of Family Life
Sunday, Feb 7 at 9:00 a.m. - - - Preparing for Marriage and Dealing with Family Problems.
Sunday at 10:00 a.m. - - - How Can the Church Help the Family
Sunday after Lunch - - - The Church Leader and His Family

When you visit with us, we want you to know that you truly honor us with your presence. You will find us to be a loving, family oriented congregation of people trying to serve the Lord in our public worship and in our daily lives. As an assembled group we are trying to be the church for which our Lord Jesus Christ died – nothing more, nothing less. Toward that effort, we follow the Bible as our only rule. We consider ourselves and call our selves Christians and nothing else. We seek to teach our community, state, nation, and world the simple gospel message that is the good news of the reign of Jesus as King of kings and Lord of lords. Our plea is that our efforts will lead you to obediently submit your life to Him.

Again, we offer you an invitation to join us during this series as well as any of our regular assembly times. If ever we can assist you or help you find Bible answers for your life, please let us know when you are here or by contacting us through our website HERE.

Three Year Old Saves Grandma

2010-01-27T08:47:00.002-06:00

Children are amazing. Watch the following video and read the comments below:

9-1-1 Call Video

What can we say? This child listen to what his parents taught him, and was cool under pressure. Verbal reports state that he even locked the dog in a room before he unlocked the door for the paramedics to come in. He did not want the dog to get in the way. WOW!

Children are capable of great things. Yet we sometimes downplay their importance. Consider the following suggestions:

Parents, be sincere in encouraging your children. Say things to build them up.
Teachers, challenge children to learn and to grow intellectually.
Parents, help your children be better students, by supporting the school they attend and assisting the teacher by teaching at home.
Churches, do what you can to involve children and to use their energy.
Parents, lead your children in the way of the Lord (Deut 6:4-9).

Scott

What Paul Tweeted

2010-01-26T10:56:00.001-06:00

I read this blog about Jesus's tweets during Holy Week. I began thinking about what other Bible characters might post as their updates. This is what Saul of Tarsus might write:

SaulofTarsus: Held coats while others stoned that blasphemer Stephen. He was way off. Said he saw God's throne.
SaulofTarsus: On way to Damascus. Plan to pull those of that New Way out and stone 'em.

SaulofTarsus: WOW, That's a bright light! What? Whos said that?
SaulofTarsus: Ananias just left. I was blind, but now I see!
SaulofTarsus: Barnabas is a great guy! Stood up for me again!
SaulofTarsus: Folks are calling me Paul. Barnabas and I on a mission to herald Jesus as the Messiah. Taking his nephew John-Mark along.
SaulofTarsus: Changing profile to @ApostleOutofSeason. BTW John-Mark got homesick. What part of Self-denial did his miss?
ApostleOutofSeason: Ol' Barney makes me so mad! I refuse to take J-M back out. Taking Silas instead.
ApostleOutofSeason: Philippian Prison has great acoustics. When Silas and I sang, we brought down the house!
ApostleOutofSeason: For me to live is Christ. To die would be gain!
ApostleOutofSeason: Rejoice in the Lord - ALWAYS! Again I say REJOICE! 8-)
ApostleOutofSeason: I think, I'll write Timothy once more. I miss that boy!

Scott

Surviving Tragedy

2010-01-25T08:13:00.000-06:00

Saturday, January 23, 2010, hours after Haitian officials called off search and rescue efforts, volunteers found a survivor. Eleven days after the magnitude 7 earthquake destroyed Port-au-Prince, rescuers removed Wismond Exantus from the wreckage of the hotel where he worked. Inquired about his survival, Wismond said he lived on “Coca-Cola and tiny little things” he found in the cramped remains of the hotel grocery store where the earthquake trapped him.

Mr. Exantus remained alive 11 days. His amazing rescue occurred only a few hours after workers were giving up hope of finding anyone else alive. I do not know how he continued to live even, while those trapped with him apparently expired days ago. Maybe he thought of reasons to survive. Maybe he continued to trust in the hope of rescue. He did have family members who were looking for him, there is the possibility that he knew they would not give up.

When we read through Scripture the tragedy of mankind is not only apparent, but also expected; Job says, “Man who is born of woman is of few days and full of trouble.” (Job 14:1). The apostle penned, “. . . our outer self is wasting away . . .” (2 Cor 4:16). There is a depressing thought in both of those verses; If we live long enough we will face tragedy.

How do we wrestle with the sad events of life? How do we face tragedy?

In one word: HOPE! Paul continues, “. . . our inward self is being renewed day by day. For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison,” (2 Cor 4:16b-17). There is our answer. When we know Christ is waiting for our homecoming, we can survive. When we know there is a reunion of the saved, we can survive. When we know that we will be with him eternally, we can survive. When the temporary tragedies of life blow as hard as they can, we can stand steadfast and sure, because our anchor of hope is deep. We survive, because, “we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen. For the things that are seen are transient, but the things that are unseen are eternal..” (2 Cor 4:18).

Scott

Jubilee!

2010-01-21T09:57:00.008-06:00

This past month, after 5 years and 3 months, the congregation at Parrish paid off our mortgage on our mortgage. In 2001 we located and purchased 17 acres of hill, hollow, and creek on the new road between Parrish and Oakman. In 2004 we completed construction on our current building. Then in 2007 we added a second building for fellowships. This month we paid the last payment on our mortgage. This is a year of Jubilee. This will open the door for us to do more in the way of missions and outreach. The elders planned to pay off the mortgage by 2014, but the "people had a mind to work." Below are pictures of our building, and mortgage burning last Sunday night!

Our Main Building in Parrish, Alabama

Denny Pugh, Sr. one of our elders reminds the congregation that in 2001, We began with 70 active members, and now have more than 150.

Charles Earnest who has served as Treasure for 49 years starts off the burning.

Elders, Ed Earnest and Denny Pugh watch the mortgage burn!

Roger Minor, another of our Elders is happy to see those flames!

Scott

Parrish Gospel Meeting / Revival

2010-01-20T11:58:00.001-06:00

This is a TV commercial -- color screen and countdown included -- for our Gospel meeting. We will run this on two stations (Jasper TV 16 and the CW network affiliate in Birmingham (CW21).

Scott

Sunday's Sermon on Slideshare

2010-01-18T10:53:00.000-06:00

Here is my sermon from Sunday. This is the PowerPoint. Maybe you can build a lesson from this snippet.

Scott

Jan 17 Am Three Great Words

View more presentations from Scott McCown.

Removing Evidence

2010-01-15T09:36:00.000-06:00

The following list claims to be actual maintenance complaints submitted by US Air Force pilots and the replies from the maintenance crews. A number of years ago, I shared this list with someone who works in USAF maintenance at Eglin AFB, and one who worked at a maintenance facility in Vietnam during the war. Both admitted that they had seen and made similar replies to similar maintenance requests.

Problem: "Left inside main tire almost needs replacement."
Solution: "Almost replaced left inside main tire."

Problem: "Test flight O.K., except 'autoland' very rough."
Solution: "'Autoland' not installed on this aircraft."

Problem #1: "#2 Propeller seeping prop fluid."
Solution #1: "#2 Propeller seepage normal."
Problem #2; "Propellers #1, #3, & #4 lack normal seepage."

Problem: "Something loose in cockpit."
Solution: "Something tightened in cockpit."

Problem: "DME volume unbelievably loud."
Solution: "Volume set at more believable level."

Problem: "Dead bugs on windshield."
Solution: "Live bugs on order."

Problem: " IFF inoperative."
Solution: "IFF inoperative in OFF mode."

Problem: "Friction lock causes throttle lever to stick."
Solution: "That's what they are there for."

Problem: "Number three engine missing."
Solution: "Number three engine found on right wing after a brief search."

Problem: "Evidence of hydraulic leak on right main landing gear."
Solution: "Evidence removed."

The last one gets my attention. I estimate that this is exactly how many of us try to deal with our spiritual shortcomings. There is evidence of sin in our lives, but instead of trying to correct the problem, we try to remove (or at least hide) the evidence. But we must remember that we will only find forgiveness when we are humbly honest and contrite before God. Consider the words of the Psalmist:

"Have mercy on me, O God, according to Your steadfast love; according to Your abundant mercy blot out my transgressions. Wash me thoroughly from my iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin! For I know my transgressions, and my sin is ever before me." Ps 51:1-3.

No more hiding of evidence as there had once been in David's life. Now he comes to God with an honest remorse about his actions. He comes with a desire to once again be right in God's eyes.

Let's live with a heart like Davids. Stop hiding the evidence and truly fix the problem with God's gracious help (Heb 4:16).

Scott

Book Review - The Shack

2010-01-13T09:26:00.000-06:00

I received a copy of the book, The Shack, by William Young for Christmas. I delayed reading it until I had finished a couple of other books. I started The Shack Sunday evening and finished Tuesday night. This was a book that kept me interested. I completely enjoyed learning the theology within the book. The Shack is a story of one man's struggle with ongoing tragedy in his life and his ensuing struggle with God. Much like Job, the book's main character, Mack, has an opportunity to confront God. Mack walks away with a renewed reliance upon God and a new theology of God. Through his encounter with God, Jesus, and their Spirit, Mack has to give up his long-held beliefs to understand God in a way that is new to him, and I think would be new to many who read this book.

There are concepts and underlying notions within the book that I take issue with. I will not comment about those other than to say for the most part they have to do mostly with 1) what William Young records as Mack's vision of God's appearance, and 2) a tendency for the story to seem somewhat reactionary to the abuses of mankind in the name of religion.

The theology that Mack comes away with has merit and is worthy of consideration. Specifically in three areas.

God is interested in a dynamic relationship with man. There are many passage of Scripture that emphasize this same point, beginning at the beginning. In the Garden of Eden man had free access to God and God to man. Man however acted independent of God and broke the relationship. He began to hide himself from God. God walked in the cool of the day looking for man. Knowing that sin damaged His relationship with man, He, through Jesus, began to provide a way for the restoration of that relationship. In the prophets God says what He desires is for man to "do justice, love kindness, and to walk humbly" with Him (Micah 6:8). In his second epistle to Thessalonians, Paul tells them that those who KNOW God will escape condemnation. Knowing God is having relationship with Him.
Jesus is God: Mack's previous concept of God was that God the father was mean and controlling whereas God the Son was gracious, loving and understanding. This changes for Mack when he really gets to know God and see the scars on His wrist match the scars on Jesus. The words of Jesus plainly speak the same. In words of comfort to His disciples, Jesus says, "If you have known Me, you would have known the Father . . ." Jn 14:7ff. A real relationship with Jesus is a real relationship with God and the Spirit. They are truly one in purpose, emotion, and action, even if they sometimes seem to act independently.
God and suffering. Mr. Young and Mr. Philips record words as coming from God, and they summarize the understanding of God's involvement in the world in a way I cannot, but in a way that I believe to be accurate in many ways. God says, " . . . just because I work incredible good out of unspeakable tragedies doesn't mean I orchestrate the tragedies. Don't ever assume that my using something means I caused it or that I needed it to accomplish my purposes. That will only lead you to false notions about me. Grace does not depend on suffering to exist, but where there is suffering you will find grace in many facets and colors." (pp. 187-188).

There is one more thing worth noting, and that is the role and value of forgiveness in our lives. Not only the forgiveness we need from God, that He freely and lovingly offers in Christ, but also the forgiveness we extend to those who hurt us. There are people Mack has to forgive so that he might begin to heal. Mack struggles with the process, but learns that forgiveness is not simply for the forgiven, but also for the offended.

Overall this book was a great read.

Scott McCown

Marriage Builders

2010-01-11T09:16:00.000-06:00

I found the following list or a version of it while looking for information on unity. This advice list of eight suggestions will help in marriage and any relationship.

No matter how you feel be courteous.
Do not interrupt each other.
Value each other.
Share the work load (housework, etc.)
Spend time together.
Work harder for each other (in your marriage) than you do for your career.
Accept your differences and celebrate them.
Express love daily in concrete ways.

Image courtesy of Daniel Howell Photography

Have a great week.

Scott

Building a Great Marriage

2010-01-07T08:33:00.000-06:00

I have read a lot of blogs about marriages this week. Maybe with a new year folks are trying to focus on relationships, that is a good thing. Last year our oldest niece married and this summer our second oldest niece has a date picked (and a guy) for their wedding, so I have them in mind as I give a little marriage building advice.

Bricks that Build Marriage

Love: Eph 5:25,28, 33. Love includes Trusting Each Other and being worthy of that Trust.
Leaving Parents: Gen 2:24. Consider Marriage Permanent as you enter in. Do get married thinking about divorce if it doesn't work out. Plan for and work for success.
Learning: Titus 2:4-5. Learn from those whose marriages are successful. We have a couple at Parrish Church of Christ who celebrated 73 years of marriage in September. Her comment, "Tell young couples to stay together, love gets sweeter every year."
Letting: 1 Cor 10:24. Accept the Imperfections and Unchangeable in your spouse. Those annoying habits in marriage were cute, adorable characteristics when you were dating. Let them remain that way.
Lift: Gal 6:2. Appreciate the dependency of marriage. God made man and woman as each others' companion and helper.
Lord: Amos 3:3; 1 Pet 3:7. We need to make God the center of our lives and of our relationship. If we are individually trying to please the Lord we will be the spouse we should be. When we serve the Lord as a couple, then our marriage and family will be what God wants it to be.

Have a great marriage!

Scott

Distractions

2010-01-06T09:44:00.000-06:00

I am easily distracted by noises, movement, and other things that happen aroun . . . sorry a Cardinal flew by my window, where was I . . . oh yeah, distractions. I can be reading a good book, watching a game or TV show, talking on the phone, studying, or in a conversation with someone and something simple will happen and my focus changes.

This interrupt driven nature can get in the way of relationships. I learned early in our 20 year marriage, that when Amy wants to talk, I mute or even turn off the TV. I do the same when our son, Andrew, asks a question. If I am on the computer (working or researching) I choose to completely turn away from the keyboard or screen. People are more important than technology.

This characteristic also can inhibit effective study. I am struggling this week especially, there are roofers on my house, where I am working this week, so I can be here if they need to ask a question. The hammering, scraping, the sound of falling debris, and their banter keeps getting me off task. (What was that noise? - brb . . . They dropped a load of shingles in the trash truck.) See what I mean?!

I am sure I am not the only one easily distracted.

There is one other area that distraction can cause great harm; the realm of spiritual focus. Many of us find the things of the world way too distracting. The world pulls at us, flashes pretty lights, makes beautiful music, and paints beautiful scenes that lead us to at best momentarily lose focus on God and at worst lead us completely away. That must be why Peter penned the following warning: "Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour." 1 Pet 5:8 (ESV)

Scott

Gospel Bees - an Old Sermon Outline

2010-01-05T09:25:00.000-06:00

Edward Earnest, one of our shepherds at Parrish Church of Christ recently shared an old pocket sized book with me. The book's title is simply: Sermon Outlines: Over 150 sermons by A. J. Bachman. McQuiddy Printing, Nashville, TN 1921. The first sermon makes for a good study and reminder, even though it may need a few less points:
Gospel Bees . . .

1. Be Peaceful - Rom 12:18
2. Be Ready - Matt 24:44
3. Be Contented - 1 Tim 6:8
4. Be Steadfast - 1 Cor 15:58
5. Be Faithful - Rev 2:10
6. Be Unmovable - 1 Cor 15:58
7. Be Holy - 1 Pet 1:16
8. Be Reconciled - 2 Cor 5:20
9. Be Strong - Eph 6:10
10. Be Patient - Jas 5:7
11. Be of the Same Mind - Rom 12:16
12. Be Transformed - Rom 12:2
13. Be Baptized - Acts 22:16
14. Be Zealous - Rev 3:19
15. Be Doers - Jas 1:22
16. Be Temperate - Titus 2:2
17. Be Sober - 1 Thess 5:8
18. Be Wise - Matt 10:16
19. Be Worthy - Phil 1:27
20. Be Kind - Eph 4:32
21. Be Long-suffering - 1 Thess 5:14
22. Be Obedient - Titus 3:1
23. Be Gentle - Titus 3:2
24. Be Watchful - 1 Pet 5:8
25. Be Merciful - Lk 6:36

I think I will post this on my mirror, refrigerator, (bind to my hand, put on the doorpost, place as frontlets before my eyes - Deut 6:8,9) so I will remember what I should BE.

Scott

Visual Awareness

2010-01-04T08:34:00.000-06:00

The above video is a public service announcement from Great Britain to remind motorists to watch for cyclists. This is good advice for a new year.

Better advice is to see some spiritual applications from this awareness test. Paul might point us to what he penned in 2 Corinthians 4:18, " . . . as we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen. for the things that are seen are transient, but the things that are unseen are eternal."

As you and I Focus Again in 2010, may we look not so much at the things of the world, but the things of heaven. If we are looking to the visible world, we may very well miss the invisible God. It is easy to miss what you are not looking for . . .

Scott

Getting back to blogging

2009-12-28T07:23:00.000-06:00

I am at Exposure Youth Camp this week and will not take take to blog. I will try to wrap up the whole Exposure Experience on Thursday when I get back to a somewhat regular routine. For now here is a promo video for EYC:

Scott

Happy Christmas!

2009-12-24T08:27:00.000-06:00

Rudy was well known and respected in his small town. Even those that had not met him, knew him on sight because of his flaming red hair (everyone in town called him "The Red"). One morning in late December, Rudy and his wife discussed the weather over breakfast. "The forecast is for snow this Christmas," she said.
"Nope," replied Rudy, "the air is too warm."
The banter continued until a clap of thunder made them both look outside. "You were right," Rudy's wife proclaimed.
His only comment was "Rudolph the Red, knows rain, dear."

Merry Christmas!
Scott

Jesus' First Coming

2009-12-21T10:11:00.002-06:00

Here is a slide show from Slideshare.com of the lesson we studied at Parrish this past Sunday morning.

Dec 20 Am Jesus’ First Coming

View more presentations from Scott McCown.

Scott

Top Ten Passages on God's Grace

2009-12-17T09:23:00.000-06:00

Here is a list of ten of my favorite passages about grace. Feel free to add your own passages.

And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth. (John bore witness about him, and cried out, "This was he of whom I said, 'He who comes after me ranks before me, because he was before me.'") And from his fullness we have all received, grace upon grace. For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ. (Joh 1:14-17)

But we believe that we will be saved through the grace of the Lord Jesus, just as they will." (Act 15:11)

But I do not account my life of any value nor as precious to myself, if only I may finish my course and the ministry that I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God. (Act 20:24)

But now the righteousness of God has been manifested apart from the law, although the Law and the Prophets bear witness to it-- the righteousness of God through faith in Jesus Christ for all who believe. For there is no distinction: for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus, whom God put forward as a propitiation by his blood, to be received by faith. This was to show God's righteousness, because in his divine forbearance he had passed over former sins. (Rom 3:21-25)

But the free gift is not like the trespass. For if many died through one man's trespass, much more have the grace of God and the free gift by the grace of that one man Jesus Christ abounded for many. And the free gift is not like the result of that one man's sin. For the judgment following one trespass brought condemnation, but the free gift following many trespasses brought justification. For if, because of one man's trespass, death reigned through that one man, much more will those who receive the abundance of grace and the free gift of righteousness reign in life through the one man Jesus Christ. Therefore, as one trespass led to condemnation for all men, so one act of righteousness leads to justification and life for all men. For as by the one man's disobedience the many were made sinners, so by the one man's obedience the many will be made righteous. Now the law came in to increase the trespass, but where sin increased, grace abounded all the more, so that, as sin reigned in death, grace also might reign through righteousness leading to eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. (Rom 5:15-21)

For sin will have no dominion over you, since you are not under law but under grace. What then? Are we to sin because we are not under law but under grace? By no means! (Rom 6:14-15)

For it is all for your sake, so that as grace extends to more and more people it may increase thanksgiving, to the glory of God. (2Co 4:15)

For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sake he became poor, so that you by his poverty might become rich. (2Co 8:9)

But God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which he loved us, even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ--by grace you have been saved-- and raised us up with him and seated us with him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, so that in the coming ages he might show the immeasurable riches of his grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus. For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them. (Eph 2:4-10)

You then, my child, be strengthened by the grace that is in Christ Jesus, and what you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses entrust to faithful men who will be able to teach others also. (2Ti 2:1-2)

Dear Father, Thank you for the undeserved favor that you offer each of us through the gift of Your Son our Savior, Jesus the Christ. - Amen

Scott

Fortune Cookies and Friendship

2009-12-16T09:20:00.000-06:00

One on my favorite places to eat are good Chinese restaurants. The American tradition of Fortune Cookies is fun for our family. We try to make something out of them and see what laughs these "fortunes" generate. One visit produced "fortunes" that seemed connected and lead to the following "Sermon from Fortune Cookies." Each cookie seemed to focus on friendship. The wise man reveals; Prov 27:17 “Where would we be without the friends who shaped us?”

Fortune Cookie #1: The Only Rose without a Thorn is Friendship
Prov 17:17, “A friend loves at all times,”
Prov 18:24, “A man who has friends must himself be friendly,”

I went out to find a friend,
But could not find one there,
I went out to be a friend,
And friends were everywhere.

Fortune Cookie # 2: Share Your Joys and Sorrows
Rom 12:15, “Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep”
Jas 5:16, “Confess your trespasses to one another, and pray for one another,”
“one-who-carries-my-sorrows-on-his-back”

Fortune Cookie # 3: You Will Be Called Upon to Help a Friend in Trouble
Prov 27:10, “Do not forsake your own friend or your father's friend, Nor go to your brother's house in the day of your calamity; Better is a neighbor nearby than a brother far away.”
Gal 6:1-2, "Brothers, if anyone is caught in any transgression, you who are spiritual should restore him in a spirit of gentleness. Keep watch on yourself, lest you too be tempted. Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ."

The following quotes demonstrate the universal need for friends.

“Some make enemies instead of friends because it is easier.” – E.C. Mckenzie
“Be slow in choosing a friend, slower in changing.” – Benjamin Franklin
“If you really want to know who your friends are: make a mistake.” – The Bible Companion
“So long as we love we serve. No man is useless while he is a friend.” – R. L. Stevenson
"We are mistaken if we think that people are simply looking for friendly churches; they are looking for friends." - David E. Garland.

Scott

Worship: Giving Our Best to God - A sermon

2009-12-15T10:42:00.000-06:00

Worship: Giving Our Best

View more presentations from Scott McCown.

Sunday's Comin'

2009-12-14T09:03:00.000-06:00

A great sermon starter.

Have a great week!
Scott

The Religion of the SEC

2009-12-10T12:20:00.000-06:00

In my part of the world - about 45 miles north of Tuscaloosa, Alabama (For the uninformed and those outside of the US, that is the home of the University of Alabama Crimson Tide) there is a good bit of excitement concerning the Tide's number 1 ranking and defeat of the Florida Gators. In the past few days numerous people, both friends and strangers, will stop others who are decked out in Crimson and White or Houndstooth to talk about NCAA Football and specifically Bama's rise to title-hood and their hopes for a 13th National Championship. In the SEC Football is almost if not already on par with religion. Most will change churches before they change which team they follow. With all this in mind I made the following observations.

1. We make time for football. We will set aside time weekly if not daily to watch or read about our favorite teams and players.
2. We support football financially. We buy tickets to games, travel great distances to attend those games. We buy clothing and other paraphernalia in support of our team.
3. We raise our children to love football. I have friends who refuse to let the colors of their rivals to enter their house.
4. We get excited about football. We love for our team to win. We can't wait to go to a game or watch them on TV.

Now consider the following passages:
"I was glad when then said to me, 'Let us go to the house of the Lord.'" Psalm 122:1
"Rejoice in the Lord always, I will say it again, Rejoice!" Phil 4:4

Can I and do I get enthusiastically excited about the things of God?

Scott

Guess Post - To Judge or Not To Judge

2009-12-08T08:24:00.000-06:00

This comes from my older brother, Doug who posted this on Facebook. Add your comments here!

I'm coming across something that I think is generational. When I look at Matthew 7:1-6 that says,

"Judge not, that ye be not judged. For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again. And why beholdest thou the mote that is in thy brother's eye, but considerest not the beam that is in thine own eye? Or how wilt thou say to thy brother, Let me pull out the mote out of thine eye; and, behold, a beam is in thine own eye? Thou hypocrite, first cast out the beam out of thine own eye; and then shalt thou see clearly to cast out the mote out of thy brother's eye. Give not that which is holy unto the dogs, neither cast ye your pearls before swine, lest they trample them under their feet, and turn again and rend you. "

I think that I shouldn't judge people's motivations. I think that when I judge whether someone else's choices are right or wrong that I should be sure that I apply the same measuring stick to my own life.

However, I have come to realize that there are many people who believe they have a right to live a totally "un-judged life." I do not understand how you can care for someone without judging whether they are making good choices or bad choices.

I'd like your opinions. I kind of want to see if it has a generational bias. Did we, by changing the way we (as a whole) discipline children teach them that all points of view are right and therefore not subject to the judgment of others.

Is judging always wrong? How old are you?

What are You Waiting For?

2009-12-02T08:53:00.000-06:00

Above: Andrew waits for someone to distribute

presents at our Family "Thanksgivemas" last week.

Adam had to wait for God to create a companion for him.
Noah had to wait over a century while he built the ark for the rains to come.
He had to wait for the water to recede once the rain stopped.
After not waiting for God, Abraham finally waited for God to provide and heir.
Jacob waited to see if Esau was still angry.
David waited for Saul's reign to end before taking power.
Elijah waited in caves for the Lord to speak.
Israel and Judah waited for the Messiah to come.

What are you and I waiting for? Spiritually we are waiting for Christ to return so that we can be with Him eternally (1 Thess 4:13ff; 2 Pet 3:10-15).

BTW: We need to learn this concept of waiting and apply it to our temporal life. I can wait to make that purchase until I can afford it. You can wait for sexual intimacy as a part of marriage. I can have patience with you and with myself as we individually and collectively mature in Christ (1 Thess 5:14).

Scott

Top Ten Ways to Show Love

2009-12-01T08:56:00.002-06:00

(image courtesy of Daniel Howell Photography)

From the home office just off of AL Hwy 269 in Parrish, Alabama is today's Top Ten Ways to Show Love to your husband or wife . . .

10. Speak Kindly to your love, even when you disagree. - Eph 4:29.
9. Put the one you love first, before yourself - Phil 2:3-4.
8. Write notes to them telling of the love you have for them - Phil 1:3-7.
7. Spend time with them, getting to know them even better, and enjoying their company - Song of Solomon (Songs) 8:6.
6. Build them up in public. I cringe when I hear other men putting down their wives and criticizing them in front of others. (I feel the same when women are men-bashing) - Matt 7:12.
5. Chase your spouse. You had to chase them to catch them, keep pursuing - Songs 3:1-4.
4. Give them and show them R-E-S-P-E-C-T - Eph 5:33.
3. Be affectionate with them - Songs 1:2.
2. Be faithful to them for life - 1 Tim 3:2, 12.
And most importantly, share a common faith in God and
1. Pray together - 1 Pet 3:7.

Scott

What I Like About the Holidays

2009-11-30T08:57:00.005-06:00

In this picture - Sister-in-Law (Tammy), Mom (Anna), and my lovely wife (Amy) model their "Santa" aprons while making deviled eggs.

While there are many more reasons to like the holidays than I have room to list, here are a few of my favorite reasons.

1. FAMILY. During the holiday season, both of my brothers, our wives, and children gather at our parents house. Although my one brother lives 10 minutes away, we all spend few nights at Mom and Dad's.

2. FAITH. All of my family are active in their faith, we pray together, and we are usually there at least one Wednesday and get to go back to the congregation where we grew up as children. We always enjoy catching up with old friends there and joining them in praise to God.

3. CHILDREN. Doug (my older brother) has two daughters the oldest is almost 20 and is engaged to be married this summer. His youngest is 16 and full of life. Charles (my younger brother) has two preschool girls. The oldest will be in Kindergarten next year. The youngest is 2 years old. They are a lot of fun. I have one son (Andrew) who is 12. He and his cousins have a lot of fun.

4. GAMES. Usually we play Mexican Train or some other table game, but this year we had Wii Bowling, Wii Golf, and Wii Tennis Tournaments. Mom pushed us to our limits in Bowling!

5. FOOD. We have the usual turkey (Cajun fried), ham, dressing, deviled eggs, and various deserts. Then we have a traditional dish for my families Christmas; my great-grandmother's (and possibly her mother's) seafood gumbo.

And that is just my side of the family. I get to Amy's side later . . .

Scott

A Simple Prayer

2009-11-25T08:30:00.004-06:00

Sticking with Monday's theme of prayer, I pray with each of you the following simple prayer to God.

Dear God,

In Jesus Name, AMEN!

Scott

A Monday Morning Prayer

2009-11-23T07:59:00.004-06:00

God our Father,

In our world wars begin and wars end.
In our world economies strengthen and economies weaken.
But You, O Lord are steadfast; unchanging.
Help us to depend on You.

In Jesus' name, Amen!

What Does it Cost?

2009-11-19T10:25:00.005-06:00

Ted, one of the members the Parrish Church of Christ, works and live in Birmingham during the week and worships with a congregation there. One fellow employee at his company was curious about Ted's faith and commitment. This co-worker is new to the United States coming from an Asian country. When he and Ted talked about church, Ted's friend asked, "How much does it cost to go to church?"

When Ted first shared that story with me, I chuckled, then I felt sad for his acquaintance. Sad that somewhere he understood that churches "charged" admission, or at least considered tithes as a "church tax."

However, I began to wonder what does it cost to go to church? My thoughts are below. After reading my answers, give the readers what you think.

1. Time. Just a few hours a week.
2. Fuel or transportation costs. Depending on how far you live from the building and how you get there this will vary slightly.
3. Energy. You have to get up and get moving.
4. Emotion. When you pour your heart into worship and fellowship, you invest your emotions. Specifically, the emotions of love, sorrow, and joy.
5. Your All. To be a part of the Church cost everything you are and will be: Luke 14:26ff (BTW you get this back 100 times over - Matt 19:29).

These costs are well worth being a part of the Lord's Church. What do you think?

Scott

Double Overtime

2009-11-18T09:20:00.003-06:00

Last night the Oakman 8th grade boys won 47 to 44 at Curry. Oakman lead at halftime by 11 points. Curry came within three with less than 10 seconds on the clock. Then buzzer beater three pointer to end regulation and send the game into overtime. Their fans went wild. Three minutes later Oakman scores at the buzzer to send the game into a second overtime; Oakman's fans go wild! With one second on the clock Oakman rebounds a missed shot by Curry to hold on for a three point win! Wow! What a game. No one expected a such thriller! No one left because the game went into overtime twice. Almost every fan stood throughout both overtimes cheering on their team!

I wonder. I wonder what would happen if worship went into double overtime this Sunday . . .

Scott

Tempering My Anger

2009-11-17T08:30:00.003-06:00

Hello, my name is Scott and I have an anger problem. Those that know me from my teenage and twenty-something years do not find that very revealing. Hopefully, prayerfully those who know me now may be at least a little surprised. Like alcoholics and drug addicts, I consider myself to be RECOVERING from anger.

I am still the same person I was 20 plus years ago. I still have the same passions. I thought I had grown enough that those feelings would not pressure me. I was wrong.

This October, I began volunteering as an assistant basketball coach. Basketball is by far my favorite sport to participate in, so I thought, why not coach. While I have not lost my cool and become a Bobby Knight or Wimp Sanderson on the sidelines, I can feel the frustration building up inside of me. When the calls do not go the way I think they should, when the players are not paying attention to the coaches, much more when they are clueless that they are in the game, I feel that old familiar rise.

But, I must keep control. The head coach is a young man from our congregation. Other parents in the stands know I am a Christian (a preacher as well). I rotate as a speaker on a local TV show, so there could be some from the opposing team that know who I am as well. If I lose my cool court-side, what will other's think about Christ? and Christianity?

What do I do?
1. I look for the positives. Are our boys trying? Are they showing signs of improvement over the last game? Are they playing with passion? If not all of them, are some of them?
2. I pray and thank God I am not a referee. At last night's game, one of the refs is also a leader at an area congregation of God's people. I know he tried to be fair. Referees are human, they make mistakes, and they make good calls.
3. I sit on the bench to coach. I talk with the players about to go in the game and remind them of their responsibilities. I talk with the players who come out of the game and try to encourage their strengths and kindly point out where they need to improve.
4. I make notes for the head coach. Where each player (the team) can make changes.

As I think about it more, there are some ways I can apply similar principles to the rest of life's frustrating situations. 1. Look for positives, 2. Pray, 3. Take a seat, and 4. Write things down.

"Be angry and do not sin; ponder in your own hearts on your beds, and be silent." Ps 4:4 (esv)

Scott

Jesus Wants to Change . . .

2009-11-16T07:53:00.006-06:00

Every morning, I look in the mirror. What I see needs some attention. Hair is out of place, stubble grows on my chin, and so on. I make the needed changes before I walk out the door. I wish I could make a few more changes as easily as I comb my hair.

There are also things Jesus wants to change. Not about Himself, but about me and you.

Jesus wants to change my VOCATION: "Do not be afraid; from now on you will be catching men." Lk 5:10. My job may be a teacher, coach, bank teller, lawyer, or doctor, but my vocation in Christ is to reach others for Him.
Jesus wants to change my DIRECTION: "Zacchaeus, hurry and come down, for I must stay at your house today." Lk 19:5. Like Zacchaeus many of us focus on our own goals and directions. We are looking out for self. Jesus wants us to follow Him toward perfection.
Jesus wants to change my PRIORITIES: "No one who puts his hand to the plow and looks back is fit for the kingdom of God." Lk 9:62. Living in the world, we find the things of the world easily distract us. Jesus wants us to be focused on what is spiritual over what is worldly.
Jesus wants to change my LIFE: "If you would be perfect, go, sell what you possess and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow me." Mt 19:21. Are we willing to trade our physical possessions for eternal treasure in heaven? True happiness is not found in our belongings, but where we belong.
Jesus wants to change my RELIGION: "For you have taken away the key of knowledge. You did not enter yourselves, and you hindered those who were entering." Lk 11:52. Jesus is talking to the religious leaders of His day. We need to be certain that we as leaders and as individual Christians are walking daily with God.
Jesus wants to change my SITUATION: "But he who is forgiven little, loves little." Lk 7:47. When I understand how much God has forgiven me, I cannot help but love Him and turn my daily focus to Him.

Scott

Top Ten Gifts for Men

2009-11-11T11:52:00.003-06:00

After reading Trey Morgans list of Bad Christmas gifts for Men, I felt inspired to write a list of good gift ideas for men. Here is my Top Ten Best Gifts for Real Men:

10. Hand Tools: Hammers, screwdrivers, pliers, anything that he can use with his hands. Even if your man is not the handy-man type; simply buying him these gifts will boost his manly ego and may even spark that handy-man gene.

9. A Tool Belt: What good are tools if you do not have a belt to display them in? Make sure it is of high quality material -- preferably leather (brushed or rough). A lightweight canvas apron is NOT a tool belt.

8. A Gift Card to a Hardware / Tool Store: He knows what he needs, let him get some therapy buy walking in a MAN-store make a selection and walk out.

7. Recreational Supplies: These vary from man to man. If he likes to fish, fishing gear is a great gift (a boat is even better). If your man is a hunter, you cannot go wrong with camouflage. If your guy is a spectator, buy clothing for his favorite team (Roll Tide Roll!).

6. A Gift Card to Bass Pro Shop or a similar outlet: This way he can get the gear he really needs that he does not already have.

5. A Year's Supply of Beef Jerky; Nothing says "I'm a Man!" like tearing hard dried beef with your teeth.

4. A Year's Supply of Sunflower Seeds: Manly seeds must be in the shell. Not only are sunflower seeds healthy, they give a man the opportunity to partake in a manly past-time: spitting. There is something reassuring to manhood when we expectorate the shells of sunflower seeds.

3. A Good Bible or Bible Study Guide: Real men need to be like the ultimate real man, Jesus. To be like Him, we must get to know Him through His word.

2. A Loving Home: Show your husband (father, son) that you truly love him. They may not be outwardly affectionate, but men do want to be loved and to show love.

1. Friendship: God looked down on Adam knew that man needed a companion like him. Men are social creatures and need friends. Wive, be your husband's best friend. And Husbands; be your wife's best friend.

My two cents worth,

Scott

Veteran's Day

2009-11-11T08:39:00.002-06:00

THANKS!

With Appreciation,
Scott, Amy, & Andrew

"The Spirituality Tree"

2009-11-10T08:32:00.006-06:00

Please excuse the quality (or lack thereof) of the included graphic. I lost the original years ago. This is part of a spiritual wellness activity I do with young people from early to late teens. The idea is to get them thinking about where they are spiritually. Take the self-examination for yourself. The process is really simple. All you have to do is to honestly answer the following questions.

As you begin, realize that everyone is somewhere on this "Spiritual Tree." Look at the picture and find yourself. Give a reason for your choice.

1. What number (or person) on the tree best represents where you are spiritually?
2. Why do you identify with that particular person? (Why are you at that place in the tree?)
3. Where do you wish you were on the tree? Why?
4. How can you get to were you want to be?

Now that you know where you are and where you want to be - - get busy for God in your Spiritual life.

Scott

Boles on Preachers

2009-11-09T08:35:00.005-06:00

This morning, I was scanning through some old books. In a 1949 edition of Boles' Outlines by BC Goodpasture; I ran the following outline, "Responsibilities of Gospel Preachers." An online biography of Brother Boles relates, "H. Leo Boles was preeminently a teacher. In the fall of 1906, he became a member of the faculty of David Lipscomb College (then Nashville Bible School). While doing regular work as teacher, he took lessons daily in the Bible under the lamented David Lipscomb. For seven years he taught philosophy and mathematics but, on becoming president of David Lipscomb College in 1913, he began to give more and more time to teaching the Bible. It was a rare treat to attend his classes in logic, ethics, and evidences of Christianity. He taught his students the Bible-not merely some course related to the book, but the book itself. His students were taught to oppose all modernism, speculation and denominationalism. About 1,500 young preachers received instruction in his classes, besides hundreds of students who never became preachers."

Since many of my readers are preachers, I thought I would share this challenge to each of us.

Introduction: He should know his responsibilities as a gospel preacher and be able to meet them. Being ignorant of them disqualifies him. Willful failure to meet them disqualifies him.

I. Gospel Preacher's Motto: (1 Tim 4:16)
1. Two parts:
a. Take heed to thyself (Mat 5;19; Acts 1:1).
b. Take heed to thy teaching.
2. It reveals the preacher's responsibility.
3. It should be his guide.

II. Responsibilities to God.
1. To know the truth of God.
2. To love the truth of God.
3. To preach only the truth of God.
4. To live the truth of God.
5. People cannot separate a man and his message.

III. Responsibilities to the Church.
1. The Church is the great brotherhood of Christians.
2. It stands for the Bible truth.
3. Gospel preachers represent the brotherhood.
4. Must represent it fairly.
5. Many misrepresent it.
6. Such ought to get out of it.
7. They have no right to enjoy its honors and at the same time misrepresent it.

IV. Responsibilities to Hearers.
1. Must give them the truth.
2. They need the truth of God.
3. Preacher is debtor to hearers (Rom 1:14).
4. All responsibilities of a teacher to a pupil rests upon the gospel preacher.
5. Live as an example (1 Tim 4:12).

There is a lot for those of us who preach to consider.

Scott

My Little Corner

2009-11-04T09:13:00.006-06:00

Today's thoughts come from the activities in my little corner of the world this week:

Sunday: A busy day of worship and fellowship. People responded well to the messages from God's word this Lord's day. Our lessons were on the Body of Christ (Sun AM) and God's Concept of the Church (Sun PM). One sister responded Sunday saying she felt "stuck in the valley" and could not find her way out. She knew she needed the Lord's help and the help of her fellow members of the Body. Please pray for Winonna. Sunday evening culminated with devotionals for our young people as they studied and spent extra time together.

Monday: A good day with a local Jr. High / High School group. Oakman High School, where my son, Andrew, attends is a small school of approximately 450 students in 7th - 12th grade. Since their football season is over the coaches decided to see who wanted to play next year. Those that signed up to play (80 students from grades 7-11) took a field trip to Bryant Denny Stadium, The Bear Bryant Museum, and the Crimson Tide indoor practice facility in Tuscaloosa. They also heard from the Athletic Academic Director, who encouraged them to work hard off the field and in the books!

Tuesday: Back to a regular work day. Spent time preparing early research for two sermons and two Bible classes.

Now on to two special events that both revolve around volunteer work. I am a volunteer Basketball Coach for the Boys 7th Grade and 8th Grade teams at Oakman High. We had games both Monday and Tuesday afternoon.

Event one concerns Monday's game and loss. One of our teams were way behind the opponent when Coach Mullinax sent in "John." That was when something amazing happened. The other team, who easily outmatched us, saw that John was a special needs student. They gave John the opportunity to shoot every time he got the ball. They would back off, just enough to give him the chance. He missed, but one of our other players rebounded and scored every time John shot. Oakman still lost the game, but John won, and so did every player on both teams.

Event two comes after Tuesday's game against Valley. After the coaches and players shook hands, one of the volunteers with Valley's team called all the players and coaches to mid-court. There he mentioned one of their players who was attending his grandfather's funeral a few states away. Then he asked if someone would lead a prayer. One of Valley's players volunteered and lead a prayer not only for his friend but for the great sportsmanship that both teams displayed on the court that night.

No matter what courts may rule, as long as there are Christians and Christian minded people involved in our schools, people will pray and right will prevail. We will look out for the hurting and lift up those who need our special attention.

Have I said before, that I love small towns and small schools.

Scott

Mosaic Bible -NLT

2009-11-02T07:23:00.012-06:00

Thanks to Tim Archer for hooking me up with the Holy Bible Mosaic from Tyndale House. I picked up my copy last Thursday and immediately began leafing through the pages. Before this particular Bible I had not read much from the New Living Translation (NLT) other than quotes in blogs and bulletins. (More on the NLT later).

There are things I really like about this Bible:

The Advent Mosaic study system will be fun for me. I am looking forward to learning more about the so-called "Christian Calendar." In the Restoration Movement, we do not observe this calendar, so I am mostly unfamiliar with it. My hope in going through this year long study to is gain better insight into the viewpoint of other religious people. I plan to begin with the first week's devotional four weeks before Christmas, as suggested by the guide. I may sneak a few of the more interesting studies into the blog.
Friday evening I read through Timothy and Titus. Saturday, I started reading Hosea. I am going to like the NLT for a "reading Bible." The translation model the translators follow make for easy understanding in modern context.
The artwork throughout the Advent Mosaic is impressive. My 12 year old son enjoyed thumbing through the artwork. His comment was that the older art is better than the contemporary -- I knew he had discerning tastes.

The only issue I have concerns the NLT's translation of some passages. In my selected reading so far, I get the impression that in the attempt to translate "thought for thought" from Hebrew and Greek into contemporary English sometimes leans toward a paraphrase and misses the point the original writers intended. This is why this will become a "reading" Bible and not one I would preach from regularly.

Scott

A Turning Point Phrase

2009-10-28T09:41:00.006-05:00

In the context of Matthew 26, the Chief priests plot against Jesus as to how they might trap and destroy Him. Meanwhile; Jesus is at Simon the former Leper's house where Simon is hosting a feast in honor of Jesus. Not only is Simon there, but also Lazarus who used to be dead. During the meal a woman anoints Jesus' head with expensive oil. Judas offended by the "wastefulness of this act" seeks to betray Him.

The scene changes and Jesus celebrates the Passover with His disciples. During the meal, Jesus reveals His betrayal. He also establishes the Lord's Supper and tells Peter “you will deny me three times.”

As the narrative moves along, Jesus goes to garden to pray where Judas arrives, with a mob in tow, and he betrays Jesus with a kiss.

Matthew records the events surrounding Jesus' garden prayer in Matt 26:36-46. As you read this passage focus on Matt 26:39:

Jesus' soul is “VERY sorrowful." As a man He needed His friends near Him and praying for Him and with Him, yet they repeatedly fell asleep. Jesus prays, “If it is possible let this cup pass . . .” Could we conclude that Jesus does not want to die such a death? The physical, human part of Jesus does not want to die this way. As Jesus prays, our eternal salvation literally hangs in the balance of His prayer. Although He knows our need for salvation, and desires along with the Father for man to have salvation, Jesus wants to do this differently.

At this point, Jesus utters a word which changes everything for Him. Jesus simply says, “NEVERTHELESS, not my will but Yours be done.” --- "Nevertheless," what a word! What a concept! What love! Jesus would submit not to His own wishes, hopes, or happiness, but to the will of God the Father.

"Nevertheless!" The world needs this attitude toward God. Our Nation needs this attitude toward God. Our State, our community, and churches need this attitude toward God. You and I – we need this attitude toward God. Peter says in 1 Peter 4:1-2, "Since therefore Christ suffered in the flesh, arm yourselves with the same way of thinking, for whoever has suffered in the flesh has ceased from sin, so as to live for the rest of the time in the flesh no longer for human passions but for the will of God" (ESV - emphasis mine: SMc).

How will a "Nevertheless Attitude" affect your worship? How will a "Nevertheless Attitude" affect your daily living?

My challenge -- Live "Nevertheless" for God!

Scott

Revelation and Perseverance

2009-10-27T09:18:00.004-05:00

Monday I attended an area preacher's meeting at 6th Avenue church of Christ in Jasper, Alabama. Levi Sides and Vance Hutton both handed each of us a stack of outlines to study. One of these outlines is an old outline of Revelation based on the idea of perseverance. I am going to have to take time to study this outline more, but I thought you might enjoy it as well.

Revelation: Perseverance Challenged!
I. Perseverance challenged with earthly trials (Rev 1-11)
A. Christ's presence encourages perseverance (Rev 1-3)
B. The world's persecutions threaten perseverance (Rev 4-7)
C. God's judgments strengthen perseverance (Rev 8-11)

II. Perseverance challenged with spiritual conflict (Rev 12-22)
A. Perseverance is needed because of the great conflict between good and evil. (Rev 12-14)
B. Perseverance marks those who are truly God's children (Rev 15-16)
C. Perseverance triumphs over persecution, deceit, and worldliness (Rev 17-19)
D. Perseverance will stand triumphant in eternity (Rev 20-22)

Blessed is the one that OVERCOMES!

Scott

Sunday's Spaghetti

2009-10-20T08:57:00.005-05:00

This beautiful plate of spaghetti and meatballs is not what it seems. This is a creation of my wonderful wife. More about that later . . .

Sunday afternoon, our young people met for a pasta meal and to study Proverbs 17-19 for the Walker County Youth Bible Bowl. Our young team (oldest member is 16 youngest is in first grade) is doing well on the test, and are studying hard.

One of the benefits of Bible Bowl is our young people put extra time into learning the Bible. This years trek through chapters 12-31 of Proverbs is challenging when we get to the day of Bible Bowl, but the lessons we are learning as we get there are invaluable. If you do not have a Bible Bowl that meets in your area, then start one. If other congregations are not close enough or are not willing, then have the young people challenge different groups of adults (parents, deacons, ministers, elders, teachers, etc.). Great fellowship and learning about each other are great additional benefits to what you learn from the text you study.

Back to this "plate of spaghetti." What you are seeing is a dessert. Cupcakes, piped butter-cream icing (the spaghetti), a raspberry glaze (the sauce), and Ferrero Rocher Chocolates (the meatballs). Have I told you how much I love my creative and great cook of a wife?

Scott

Who Do You Love?

2009-10-19T06:43:00.003-05:00

In our Bible class yesterday morning, Rick W. told us about three statements he heard in a sermon recently. I cannot help but think about what the preacher said. Let me know what you think.

"If you attend worship on Sunday Morning, you love 'your church.'"

"If you attend worship Sunday Morning and Sunday Evening, you love 'your preacher.'"

"I you attend worship Sundays and Wednesdays, you love the Lord."

Scott

Thanks for Dropping In

2009-10-16T12:04:00.005-05:00

This map shows the locations of recent visitors to the Morning Drive. All I can say is wow! Who knew that someone writing about his thoughts as he drives from an Alabama town of 900 people to a town of 1,200 could attract the attention of people so far away.

I am really not surprised; the wide range has very little to do with my ability or inability to write. The power is in the Word of God that has relevance to all creation.

Thanks to all who stop by -- spread the Word.

Raising Great Kids!

2009-10-15T09:51:00.007-05:00

(At left: My son Andrew and his cousin Katy explore a drainage ditch in Grayson, KY)

Paul tells parents, " . . . do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord." Eph 6:4 (English Standard Version)

HOW can we do this?
I find a method in the imagery of the words of the Psalmist “Behold, children are a heritage from the LORD, the fruit of the womb a reward. Like arrows in the hand of a warrior are the children of one's youth. Blessed is the man who fills his quiver with them! He shall not be put to shame when he speaks with his enemies in the gate.” Psalm 127:3-5.
Bow season begins this weekend in Alabama, so shooting skills are on my mind. When using a bow, there are four principles to a successful shot. These principles apply to raising great kids:

1. The Direction of the arrow is pointed is important. Where am I pointing my children? Toward the things of the world or toward the things of God (2 Cor 4:16ff)
2. The Strength of the pull on the bow-string is important. How much influence do I have on my children? Am I using the opportunities given me to give them strength to follow through with faith?
3. The Timing of release is important. Sometimes we push our children to grow up too fast. When children are "dating" at when they are barely out of diapers, we create problems for the future. Allow them to be kids. Do not release them to the temptations of the world before they are ready
4. The Accuracy of Aim is important. Know where you are pointing. Aim high. Point them to God and release when they are ready.

Have a great day!
Scott

Do You Love Like Jesus?

2009-10-13T09:44:00.004-05:00

Jesus loved the Heavenly Father - Matt 22:36-37. Do you and I love the Lord with ALL of our heart, soul, and strength, or do we love Him just a little more than self?

Jesus loved the Word of God - Matt 24:35. Do you and I spend as much time listening or reading God's word as we do to the emails, blogs, and updates of our online friends and family?

Jesus loved Prayer - He was a man of prayer, there are many instances we read of Him going off to pray. Do you and I take time out of our day to talk with God?

Jesus loved Lost Souls - Luke 19:10. He loved the lost enough to sacrifice himself for them. Do you and I love them enough to tell them about God's offer in Christ?

Jesus loved the Church - Eph 5:25. Jesus gave His life for the Church, His Bride. Do we love the church or do we find excuses not to be around

Second Chances

2009-10-12T08:15:00.010-05:00

The dated was January 1, 1929: The Golden Bears of University of California Berkley were playing the Yellow Jackets of Georgia Tech in the ROSE BOWL for the National Title.

Roy Reigels of UC Berkley picked up a Georgia Tech fumble and began running it in for a touch down – the wrong way!

Reigels own team mate (Benny Lom) tried to turn him around at UC's own 3 but a wave of Georgia Tech players pushed him back the the 1. On the next play, Lom punted hoping to give Georgia Tech the ball on the other side of the Fifty Yard Line. Georgia Tech had other plans and they blocked in the Endzone for a safety.

In the locker room during half-time Reigels did what any college football player would do: He sat by himself and bawled. After a pep talk to the entire team, Coach Price of UC Berkley said, "Everyone who started the first half will start the second half." Reigels waited for all the other players to leave the locker room and asked Coach Price if he meant all the starters but himself. Coach price replied, "Roy, get up and go back – the game's only half over.”

Although Georgia Tech did go on to win by a score of 8 to 7; Georgia Tech's Coach Alexander said he never saw a player play like Reigels did in the second half.

Every Christian gets discouraged at some time is his or her walk with God. Maybe you see where you have disappointed God. You are not alone. Consider Peter (Matt 26:69ff) or Mannaseh (2 Chron 33:1-11). Both of these men failed to be pleasing to God with their words or actions. However, when Mannaseh repented, God gave him a second chance (2 Chron 33:12ff), when Jesus appeared to the apostles on the shore, He asked Peter three times, "Do you love me more than these?" Reassuring Peter, of God's love and plans for him, even if he had made a mistake.

The next time you disappoint yourself and God, ask for forgiveness and go back to work knowing the game is only half over.

Scott

When I Preach

2009-10-05T09:22:00.004-05:00

Last Thursday on iPreach, I mentioned the following poem about preaching. After a search on Google, I found the entire poem, but was unable to find the author's name. If any one knows or finds out, please leave a comment and I will give credit where credit is definitely do.

When I Preach
(Unknown)

When I preach, there are some who say
They could listen to me all day.
Others think I preach too long.
And some think I go about it wrong.
Some say my sermon is much too deep.
To others, it's shallow and they go to sleep.
Some report I hold them spell bound,
While others squirm and look around.

Some speak of me as an orator,
But others feel I'm a perfect bore.
Some believe I have no light,
And others think I preach just right.
Some affirm that I'm too bold,
Others wink and say I'm cold.

Some used to say I was much too young.
But others declare my spring has sprung!
Some folks tell I have met success.
Others think my work is a mess.
Some have said my pay is too low,
When they discover the pace I go.
Still others say it is above the peak,
"Why he only works three hours a week."

From all this, 'tis plain to see.
That as a preacher, I'm up a tree.
Condemned if I do, condemned if I don't;
Criticized if I will, criticized if I won't.
I can't please men of such discord,
So I'll just keep trying to please the Lord.