Thursday, October 20, 2011
Get Real #4. He’d be raised in religion. He knew all the ins and out of what the religious crowd thought it took to please God. He knew the Law, and he knew the Prophets. He lived a clean life. He had zeal, and he had passion. He invested his time in pursuing those who he thought were following a cult leader, and then he had them arrested or executed. He was as religious as religious gets. And then he met Jesus.
He had set out on a journey to Damascus to hunt down and arrest more followers of “the Way,” as Christians were called in those days. Only God knows what would have awaited those believers, had Saul made it where he was headed. All we know is that he didn’t – he saw the Light first (literally). (See Acts 9)
Have you ever been knocked off your “high horse?” You thought you had it all together and were really something when suddenly, out of nowhere, something/someone came along and gave you a stiff reminder of what humility feels like? Saul literally was knocked off of his high horse by Jesus Himself, and the rest of his life was spent telling everyone, everywhere about it.
See, that’s what religion produces: pride and haughtiness. Just think about it: if I am following a “system of beliefs and rituals” that supposedly gives me the pattern to get to God, somewhere along the way I’ll begin to think I’m pretty good at it. If the responsibility for getting to/reaching God is in my hands, I’m pretty special – don’t ya think? The problem is that this teaching is not only false, but it’s a slap in the face to the God who sent His Son Jesus to get us to Him.
Jesus came to enter into relationship with us, not religion. What I have as a disciple of Christ isn’t about religion or a simple system of beliefs or rituals – it’s relational. I serve Him because I love Him, not because it’s earning me a seat at His table.
Saul learned that from Christ Himself on the Damascus road. As a matter of fact, the lesson was so life changing for him that God even changed his name. The man before Christ was Saul – the same man, after meeting Christ, was Paul. A total life-change merited a name change too.
So, you want change you can truly believe in? Come to Christ – ask Him to forgive your sins, be your Savior and Lord, and grow you in Him. Been chasing religion? Come get something better – the only Truth that will ever truly change you. Come get the Real thing – Jesus.
(If you’d like more information on knowing Jesus personally, please write to pastorblakeman@yahoo.com or contact me on Facebook anytime!)
That’s just a thought, and I welcome yours.
Until next time,
blake
This blog is brought to you courtesy of http://fromblake.blogspot.com. Visit today and sign up to become an official follower!
Feel free to write blake anytime at pastorblakeman@yahoo.com
Thursday, October 20, 2011
Wednesday, October 19, 2011
Get Real #3.
Wednesday, October 19, 2011
Get Real #3. If Jesus called someone the greatest, wouldn’t you agree that’s worth looking into? If Jesus gave someone the label of “Greatest Preacher,” wouldn’t that certainly carry some weight? The label of greatest, given by Jesus, is definitely worth paying attention to. It should make us pause to ask the question, “Who was this guy Jesus said this about, and what was so great about him?”
John the Baptist wasn’t a mega-church pastor. He never wrote a book that I know of. He never received a doctorate in theology. I’m pretty certain he never got an invitation to be the keynote speaker at a large function, or anywhere for that matter. Kings hated him and the religious avoided him. Yet Jesus said he was great. As a matter of fact, Jesus said there’s never been a greater prophet on this planet than John. Why?
I think it’s worth noting that much of the description of John the Baptizer would earn him the label “crazy” today, and most likely not “great.” He traveled the countryside wearing animal skin and eating locusts and wild honey. Imagine what a man living on the land would look like after a while, especially wearing clothes made from animal hide. I am pretty sure his apparel wouldn’t earn him any points in the fashion show we currently call “Sunday morning” in America.
Another poignant element of John’s ministry is also one that wouldn’t help him climb the latter of “ministry success” today: he only preached one sermon! He didn’t have a notebook (or laptop) full of outlines. He didn’t pull out his “Pastors’ Handbook” to look up appropriate Scriptures for the occasion. No, he preached one sermon, and it wasn’t a fun, uplifting, or even popular one. His one sermon could be boiled down to a one word title with a simple subtitle: Repent – The Kingdom of Heaven is At Hand.
Not only was that his title, but also the largest portion of his content! He was all about proclaiming the coming of Jesus, and not himself. As a matter of fact, when crowds asked him who he was on one recorded occasion, he didn’t even give them his name. He simply answered, “I am the voice of one crying in the wilderness saying, ‘Declare the way of the Lord, make His paths straight.’” If someone were building an empire on their self and storing up a reputation or fame, wouldn’t you think they would share their own name when they were given opportunities like that?
John existed to accomplish the will and purpose of God for the honor and glory of God, it’s that simple. I am pretty sure it’s those two elements that earn someone today the title of “crazy” in the eyes of the world, and even modern Christianity. Yet it’s pretty easy to see that to live a life in that way also matters to God – and in a big way. Who are you living for?
That’s just a thought, and I welcome yours.
Until next time,
blake
This blog is brought to you courtesy of http://fromblake.blogspot.com. Visit today and sign up to become an official follower!
Feel free to write blake anytime at pastorblakeman@yahoo.com
Get Real #3. If Jesus called someone the greatest, wouldn’t you agree that’s worth looking into? If Jesus gave someone the label of “Greatest Preacher,” wouldn’t that certainly carry some weight? The label of greatest, given by Jesus, is definitely worth paying attention to. It should make us pause to ask the question, “Who was this guy Jesus said this about, and what was so great about him?”
John the Baptist wasn’t a mega-church pastor. He never wrote a book that I know of. He never received a doctorate in theology. I’m pretty certain he never got an invitation to be the keynote speaker at a large function, or anywhere for that matter. Kings hated him and the religious avoided him. Yet Jesus said he was great. As a matter of fact, Jesus said there’s never been a greater prophet on this planet than John. Why?
I think it’s worth noting that much of the description of John the Baptizer would earn him the label “crazy” today, and most likely not “great.” He traveled the countryside wearing animal skin and eating locusts and wild honey. Imagine what a man living on the land would look like after a while, especially wearing clothes made from animal hide. I am pretty sure his apparel wouldn’t earn him any points in the fashion show we currently call “Sunday morning” in America.
Another poignant element of John’s ministry is also one that wouldn’t help him climb the latter of “ministry success” today: he only preached one sermon! He didn’t have a notebook (or laptop) full of outlines. He didn’t pull out his “Pastors’ Handbook” to look up appropriate Scriptures for the occasion. No, he preached one sermon, and it wasn’t a fun, uplifting, or even popular one. His one sermon could be boiled down to a one word title with a simple subtitle: Repent – The Kingdom of Heaven is At Hand.
Not only was that his title, but also the largest portion of his content! He was all about proclaiming the coming of Jesus, and not himself. As a matter of fact, when crowds asked him who he was on one recorded occasion, he didn’t even give them his name. He simply answered, “I am the voice of one crying in the wilderness saying, ‘Declare the way of the Lord, make His paths straight.’” If someone were building an empire on their self and storing up a reputation or fame, wouldn’t you think they would share their own name when they were given opportunities like that?
John existed to accomplish the will and purpose of God for the honor and glory of God, it’s that simple. I am pretty sure it’s those two elements that earn someone today the title of “crazy” in the eyes of the world, and even modern Christianity. Yet it’s pretty easy to see that to live a life in that way also matters to God – and in a big way. Who are you living for?
That’s just a thought, and I welcome yours.
Until next time,
blake
This blog is brought to you courtesy of http://fromblake.blogspot.com. Visit today and sign up to become an official follower!
Feel free to write blake anytime at pastorblakeman@yahoo.com
Tuesday, October 18, 2011
Get Real #2.
Tuesday, October 18, 2011
Get Real #2. I love biographies and autobiographies, especially when they are written about or by someone I really admire. There’s just something about reading the events of person’s life that fascinates me. It helps me not only to see some of the struggles they’ve overcome to achieve whatever level of success they realized, but I also try to understand why they made the decisions they did at various times. Seeing where someone has come from helps us understand how they got to where they ended up.
Consider this life story: as soon as he was born, his mom put him in a floating basket and placed him in the Nile River. The maiden voyage of the SS Baby Float took him directly to the arms of the Pharaoh’s daughter, who then raised him as her own son. By the providential hand of God his own mom got the job of being his caregiver in Pharaoh’s house, too.
He grew to the point of maturity and began to realize how mistreated the slaves of Egypt were. He eventually learned that he was a Hebrew just like they were. That knowledge led him to ultimately react in anger to an Egyptian soldier who was abusing one of the Hebrew slaves, and it cost the soldier his life. After burying him in the sand, this man took off and left Egypt behind.
He found his new home among sheep, working as a shepherd in the wilderness lands for years. It was in those lands that God spoke to him via a burning bush that wasn’t being consumed. God told him that his calling and purpose would be to deliver the people of God from that slavery into the Promised Land. After a bit of discussion and, dare I say it, slight arguing, he consented.
Now – imagine being told to go before a dictator who could easily have you executed to demand the release of millions of slaves on the simple premise that God said so. The story of Moses isn’t just a fairytale, friend – these events are actual historical record. The Bible contains details of this man’s life that help us understand why he was who he was. He had a faith that was real, even though he had been raised among the worship of the pagan gods of Egypt.
You know the rest, right? He eventually walked out of Egypt with millions of Hebrews. God led them by fire at night and cloud by day through the wilderness. Their hard-headness would ultimately prolong their journey before reaching the land God had promised them.
The journey would lead them through times of hardship and times of plenty. They would face desert wandering and Red Sea crossing. They would spend time worshiping and also whining. Yet through it all, even though they made life hard on Moses at times and tested God’s patience even more often, God was faithful. He provided every need they had, even though they sorely lacked the total trust in Him that He deserved.
God is calling you too, friend. Just let this blog be your burning bush, and let His Word be your voice from it: “Go preach My Gospel to everyone, make disciples of all nations, baptize them in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit, and teach them to obey all I’ve commanded. I’m going to be with you always, even until the end of age.” God’s command – yes, I said command – is to take His Gospel to the lost, and help them grow into disciples of His.
Moses had to leave his comfort zone to obey God. Though it wasn’t easy, it was worth it, not only for him but also for the millions of people trapped in slavery. Billions today live in slavery to sin, and they are desperately waiting for someone to rise up and bring them deliverance. Will that be you – or will you look straight into the eyes of a holy, righteous, almighty God and say the word no other creation in this universe has the audacity to say to Him: “No”?
That’s just a thought, and I welcome yours.
Until next time,
blake
This blog is brought to you courtesy of http://fromblake.blogspot.com. Visit today and sign up to become an official follower!
Feel free to write blake anytime at pastorblakeman@yahoo.com
Get Real #2. I love biographies and autobiographies, especially when they are written about or by someone I really admire. There’s just something about reading the events of person’s life that fascinates me. It helps me not only to see some of the struggles they’ve overcome to achieve whatever level of success they realized, but I also try to understand why they made the decisions they did at various times. Seeing where someone has come from helps us understand how they got to where they ended up.
Consider this life story: as soon as he was born, his mom put him in a floating basket and placed him in the Nile River. The maiden voyage of the SS Baby Float took him directly to the arms of the Pharaoh’s daughter, who then raised him as her own son. By the providential hand of God his own mom got the job of being his caregiver in Pharaoh’s house, too.
He grew to the point of maturity and began to realize how mistreated the slaves of Egypt were. He eventually learned that he was a Hebrew just like they were. That knowledge led him to ultimately react in anger to an Egyptian soldier who was abusing one of the Hebrew slaves, and it cost the soldier his life. After burying him in the sand, this man took off and left Egypt behind.
He found his new home among sheep, working as a shepherd in the wilderness lands for years. It was in those lands that God spoke to him via a burning bush that wasn’t being consumed. God told him that his calling and purpose would be to deliver the people of God from that slavery into the Promised Land. After a bit of discussion and, dare I say it, slight arguing, he consented.
Now – imagine being told to go before a dictator who could easily have you executed to demand the release of millions of slaves on the simple premise that God said so. The story of Moses isn’t just a fairytale, friend – these events are actual historical record. The Bible contains details of this man’s life that help us understand why he was who he was. He had a faith that was real, even though he had been raised among the worship of the pagan gods of Egypt.
You know the rest, right? He eventually walked out of Egypt with millions of Hebrews. God led them by fire at night and cloud by day through the wilderness. Their hard-headness would ultimately prolong their journey before reaching the land God had promised them.
The journey would lead them through times of hardship and times of plenty. They would face desert wandering and Red Sea crossing. They would spend time worshiping and also whining. Yet through it all, even though they made life hard on Moses at times and tested God’s patience even more often, God was faithful. He provided every need they had, even though they sorely lacked the total trust in Him that He deserved.
God is calling you too, friend. Just let this blog be your burning bush, and let His Word be your voice from it: “Go preach My Gospel to everyone, make disciples of all nations, baptize them in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit, and teach them to obey all I’ve commanded. I’m going to be with you always, even until the end of age.” God’s command – yes, I said command – is to take His Gospel to the lost, and help them grow into disciples of His.
Moses had to leave his comfort zone to obey God. Though it wasn’t easy, it was worth it, not only for him but also for the millions of people trapped in slavery. Billions today live in slavery to sin, and they are desperately waiting for someone to rise up and bring them deliverance. Will that be you – or will you look straight into the eyes of a holy, righteous, almighty God and say the word no other creation in this universe has the audacity to say to Him: “No”?
That’s just a thought, and I welcome yours.
Until next time,
blake
This blog is brought to you courtesy of http://fromblake.blogspot.com. Visit today and sign up to become an official follower!
Feel free to write blake anytime at pastorblakeman@yahoo.com
Monday, October 17, 2011
Get Real #1.
Monday, October 17, 2011
Get Real #1. How often do you read Scripture while subconsciously thinking it’s just a book of stories? Sure, we proclaim for all to hear that we believe the “Bible is the inspired Word of God,” as well we should. Yet when we read it, so many times we don’t allow the events recorded within to awe us! We’ve become so familiar with the episodes written about in Scripture that we almost read out of habit. Years of Sunday school flannel board stories have seemingly dulled our senses to the miraculous deeds of God through the ages.
Just think, for a moment, about the story of Noah. Noah was a family man, who had been faithful to demonstrate faithfulness to God before the watchful eyes of his wife and children. It is evident that he practiced regular obedience to the voice of God in his life, because when God spoke to him about a gigantic boat he was to build for a world-wide flood, he listened and obeyed. I think it’s safe to say that if a track record of obedience hadn’t been established by that point the Ark project would have been a little too big a pill to swallow.
It had never rained on the earth that Noah lived on. A dew rose from the ground and watered the vegetation. Bible scholars believe that a moisture sphere circled the earth, thus explaining the longer lifespan of people at this time.
So follow me: God spoke to a man who had never experienced rain with the instructions to build a gigantic boat to hold all his family and animals from all over the globe because rain was coming that would cause a flood that would cover the face of the earth. That’s both a mouth full and a tall order, friend! Yet the truly remarkable thing about this man named Noah: he only had to be told once, and he obeyed.
Fast-forward to my lifetime. When I began hearing God’s voice leading me into the ministry at 14 years old I got a lot of advice. Time and time again I remember hearing well wishing people, many of which were preachers themselves, tell me to “just wait a while, and then you’ll know if it’s real.” I heard testimony after testimony of men who said they waited months or even years before submitting their lives to God’s calling to preach. The waiting, I was told, would give God time to make His voice clear to me.
Delayed obedience is disobedience. The truth of the matter is that God calls us when He wants us to respond. Had Noah chosen to “wait so God’s voice would be clearer” he would have been disobeying His voice to begin gathering materials for the project! Let me say it once more: delayed obedience is disobedience.
For over 120 years we can see Noah’s faithfulness in building the Ark. He endured mocking and belittlement from his neighbors and friends, yet he continued to build. For more than what we would consider a lifetime Noah labored alongside his family to obey the calling of God for his life. The result: civilization survived the “fresh start” of the flood.
Is God telling you something? Is it bigger than you think you can handle? Will it be hard, and maybe even seem impossible? Take a glance at Noah making a worship sacrifice after the flood waters have receded and let God remind you of three simple, yet profound words: God is faithful. Now trust Him – you’ll not be sorry.
That’s just a thought, and I welcome yours.
Until next time,
blake
This blog is brought to you courtesy of http://fromblake.blogspot.com. Visit today and sign up to become an official follower!
Feel free to write blake anytime at pastorblakeman@yahoo.com
Get Real #1. How often do you read Scripture while subconsciously thinking it’s just a book of stories? Sure, we proclaim for all to hear that we believe the “Bible is the inspired Word of God,” as well we should. Yet when we read it, so many times we don’t allow the events recorded within to awe us! We’ve become so familiar with the episodes written about in Scripture that we almost read out of habit. Years of Sunday school flannel board stories have seemingly dulled our senses to the miraculous deeds of God through the ages.
Just think, for a moment, about the story of Noah. Noah was a family man, who had been faithful to demonstrate faithfulness to God before the watchful eyes of his wife and children. It is evident that he practiced regular obedience to the voice of God in his life, because when God spoke to him about a gigantic boat he was to build for a world-wide flood, he listened and obeyed. I think it’s safe to say that if a track record of obedience hadn’t been established by that point the Ark project would have been a little too big a pill to swallow.
It had never rained on the earth that Noah lived on. A dew rose from the ground and watered the vegetation. Bible scholars believe that a moisture sphere circled the earth, thus explaining the longer lifespan of people at this time.
So follow me: God spoke to a man who had never experienced rain with the instructions to build a gigantic boat to hold all his family and animals from all over the globe because rain was coming that would cause a flood that would cover the face of the earth. That’s both a mouth full and a tall order, friend! Yet the truly remarkable thing about this man named Noah: he only had to be told once, and he obeyed.
Fast-forward to my lifetime. When I began hearing God’s voice leading me into the ministry at 14 years old I got a lot of advice. Time and time again I remember hearing well wishing people, many of which were preachers themselves, tell me to “just wait a while, and then you’ll know if it’s real.” I heard testimony after testimony of men who said they waited months or even years before submitting their lives to God’s calling to preach. The waiting, I was told, would give God time to make His voice clear to me.
Delayed obedience is disobedience. The truth of the matter is that God calls us when He wants us to respond. Had Noah chosen to “wait so God’s voice would be clearer” he would have been disobeying His voice to begin gathering materials for the project! Let me say it once more: delayed obedience is disobedience.
For over 120 years we can see Noah’s faithfulness in building the Ark. He endured mocking and belittlement from his neighbors and friends, yet he continued to build. For more than what we would consider a lifetime Noah labored alongside his family to obey the calling of God for his life. The result: civilization survived the “fresh start” of the flood.
Is God telling you something? Is it bigger than you think you can handle? Will it be hard, and maybe even seem impossible? Take a glance at Noah making a worship sacrifice after the flood waters have receded and let God remind you of three simple, yet profound words: God is faithful. Now trust Him – you’ll not be sorry.
That’s just a thought, and I welcome yours.
Until next time,
blake
This blog is brought to you courtesy of http://fromblake.blogspot.com. Visit today and sign up to become an official follower!
Feel free to write blake anytime at pastorblakeman@yahoo.com
Friday, October 14, 2011
Holy Cartwheels...?
Friday, October 14, 2011
Holy Cartwheels...? The word “holy” is a pretty misunderstood word, I think. The literal translation of the word is basically “set apart.” We drop it lightly in conversation, though. “Holy cow!” My personal favorite makes even less sense: “holy guacamole!” Yet the word “holy” itself carries weight, as it reminds us of things that aren’t just ordinary.
Throughout the existence of the human race we’ve always been really quick to give the title “holy” to things that really weren’t. Idolatry plagued the early children of God as we see their journeys through the Old Testament lands. We’ve placed people, graven images, geographical locations, even periods of time, under the heading of “holy.” But does that truly do justice to the word?
Yesterday I had the privilege of speaking to the Christian Club (called JUST Club) at Cabot Junior High North in both their lunches. God has been challenging me lately with the issue of “followship vs. discipleship”, so I chose to dive into that issue with these students.
I asked both groups to define “discipleship” to me. I got all sorts of answers, the majority of which were along the lines of basically following. So I decided an object lesson was in order.
I asked for a volunteer. I gave them simple instructions to just start walking around the room. I fell in right behind them (literally, only inches behind them…it was pretty funny). I followed them everywhere they went around the room before we finally stopped and I gave them their next instruction: be goofy this time.
As they proceeded to walk around the room this time doing various crazy things like running into things, flapping their arms violently or spinning in circles, I mimicked every move. And then came the kicker – the cartwheel. So, staying true to my object lesson for the sake of the message I was delivering, I did the cartwheel. Let me just bring you into the loop: I’ve never been too good at cartwheels, especially if I were under the pressure of a closely watching audience. I pulled it off, though, for which I am forever thankful.
Sure, that was a silly little exercise. Hopefully, though, it demonstrated in a clear way the difference in simply “following” and actually committing to be a “disciple.” Immediately the students began to answer the question from early differently. They began to realize that “following Christ” and being a “true disciple of Christ” were two different levels of commitment to Him.
If I desire to be like Jesus – if I desire to obey what He’s told me He wants from my life – I must choose discipleship. I must choose, for my own life, to learn of Him, from Him, and make my time with Him a priority that I treasure. I must dive into the Word regularly, allowing God to change me as a result. I must fall on my face before Him very often to have conversations with Him. And I must obey His voice when He calls me to new levels of service, commitment or obedience to Him. I must imitate Him - mimic Him - be LIKE Him.
No, the cartwheel wasn’t “holy,” but hopefully it was used of God to accomplish a greater work. Hopefully the students remember the message much more than the message bringer at those meetings yesterday. And hopefully they’re taking the challenge to not only be real disciples, but also be disciple-makers, and invest themselves into the lives of the people God has placed in their lives for such a task.
Maybe, just maybe, you and I will too.
That’s just a thought, and I welcome yours.
Until next time,
blake
This blog is brought to you courtesy of http://fromblake.blogspot.com. Visit today and sign up to become an official follower!
Feel free to write blake anytime at pastorblakeman@yahoo.com
Holy Cartwheels...? The word “holy” is a pretty misunderstood word, I think. The literal translation of the word is basically “set apart.” We drop it lightly in conversation, though. “Holy cow!” My personal favorite makes even less sense: “holy guacamole!” Yet the word “holy” itself carries weight, as it reminds us of things that aren’t just ordinary.
Throughout the existence of the human race we’ve always been really quick to give the title “holy” to things that really weren’t. Idolatry plagued the early children of God as we see their journeys through the Old Testament lands. We’ve placed people, graven images, geographical locations, even periods of time, under the heading of “holy.” But does that truly do justice to the word?
Yesterday I had the privilege of speaking to the Christian Club (called JUST Club) at Cabot Junior High North in both their lunches. God has been challenging me lately with the issue of “followship vs. discipleship”, so I chose to dive into that issue with these students.
I asked both groups to define “discipleship” to me. I got all sorts of answers, the majority of which were along the lines of basically following. So I decided an object lesson was in order.
I asked for a volunteer. I gave them simple instructions to just start walking around the room. I fell in right behind them (literally, only inches behind them…it was pretty funny). I followed them everywhere they went around the room before we finally stopped and I gave them their next instruction: be goofy this time.
As they proceeded to walk around the room this time doing various crazy things like running into things, flapping their arms violently or spinning in circles, I mimicked every move. And then came the kicker – the cartwheel. So, staying true to my object lesson for the sake of the message I was delivering, I did the cartwheel. Let me just bring you into the loop: I’ve never been too good at cartwheels, especially if I were under the pressure of a closely watching audience. I pulled it off, though, for which I am forever thankful.
Sure, that was a silly little exercise. Hopefully, though, it demonstrated in a clear way the difference in simply “following” and actually committing to be a “disciple.” Immediately the students began to answer the question from early differently. They began to realize that “following Christ” and being a “true disciple of Christ” were two different levels of commitment to Him.
If I desire to be like Jesus – if I desire to obey what He’s told me He wants from my life – I must choose discipleship. I must choose, for my own life, to learn of Him, from Him, and make my time with Him a priority that I treasure. I must dive into the Word regularly, allowing God to change me as a result. I must fall on my face before Him very often to have conversations with Him. And I must obey His voice when He calls me to new levels of service, commitment or obedience to Him. I must imitate Him - mimic Him - be LIKE Him.
No, the cartwheel wasn’t “holy,” but hopefully it was used of God to accomplish a greater work. Hopefully the students remember the message much more than the message bringer at those meetings yesterday. And hopefully they’re taking the challenge to not only be real disciples, but also be disciple-makers, and invest themselves into the lives of the people God has placed in their lives for such a task.
Maybe, just maybe, you and I will too.
That’s just a thought, and I welcome yours.
Until next time,
blake
This blog is brought to you courtesy of http://fromblake.blogspot.com. Visit today and sign up to become an official follower!
Feel free to write blake anytime at pastorblakeman@yahoo.com
Thursday, October 13, 2011
Time's Not A Healer.
Thursday, October 13, 2011
Time’s Not A Healer. We’ve all heard the expression, “Time heals all wounds.” Yet, how often do we stop and question such sayings? How often do we stop and ask, “I know I’ve ALWAYS said that in the past, but is it truth?” I submit to you this morning that this phrase isn’t.
Time has no healing ability. Let’s compare our hurts, heartbreaks, and emotional injuries to a pothole, an object that I’m sure we all understand all too well. Let’s say our daily commute comes complete with an annoying pothole that is positioned in such a place in the road that there’s just no avoiding it. Every day – every single day – we hit that pothole. Its existence has become the thorn in our side. There’s no doubt in our minds that it is real – very, very real.
For months and months we’ve been driving over this stupid, backbreaking hole in the road. We’ve often wondered why on earth someone from the highway department hasn’t come and fixed this monstrosity. Obviously their commute doesn’t include this mammoth crater, or else it would have been filled in by now. We wonder how much more of this our tires – or our patience – can take.
One day as we’re driving into work we realize how smooth the road has become. We’ve become so accustomed to the massive elephant sized indention in the road that we don’t even expect it anymore. Yet today, there was no hole that reached halfway to China on our way in. It had been fixed!
How much sense would it make if I looked at you and simply said, “Well, I knew it was a matter of time. After all, time heals all wounds. I knew eventually that hole would fill itself in.” You’d look at me as if I were crazy, right? Of course you would, and you’d be justified. We understand that physical craters like that don’t fix themselves with time. As a matter of fact, they only get worse.
And so it is with our emotional craters. If you’ve been hurt or broken by the actions of yourself or the actions of others, please don’t sit around and wait for “time” to heal those wounds. Friend, time has no healing ability in and of itself. The only thing that time itself can do is make injuries wider, deeper, and more painful, just like potholes.
I have good news, though. Sure, time can’t heal, but I know a Man who can. From the deaf to the blind, the mute to the diseased, the broken hearted to the wicked – He’s healed all sorts! Don’t think for a minute your heartbreak is too big for His abilities!
The only catch us – He won’t force Himself on you. You have to make the choice to bring yourself, and all your “emotional potholes”, to Him.
Just like it takes a highway crew to fix a physical pothole, it takes a Healer to heal emotional ones.
So today, come to Jesus. Give Him your aches and pains of the heart. Let Him begin His healing work that time could never do on its own. Come today – so you can start living again!
That’s just a thought, and I welcome yours.
Until next time,
blake
This blog is brought to you courtesy of http://fromblake.blogspot.com. Visit today and sign up to become an official follower!
Feel free to write blake anytime at pastorblakeman@yahoo.com
Time’s Not A Healer. We’ve all heard the expression, “Time heals all wounds.” Yet, how often do we stop and question such sayings? How often do we stop and ask, “I know I’ve ALWAYS said that in the past, but is it truth?” I submit to you this morning that this phrase isn’t.
Time has no healing ability. Let’s compare our hurts, heartbreaks, and emotional injuries to a pothole, an object that I’m sure we all understand all too well. Let’s say our daily commute comes complete with an annoying pothole that is positioned in such a place in the road that there’s just no avoiding it. Every day – every single day – we hit that pothole. Its existence has become the thorn in our side. There’s no doubt in our minds that it is real – very, very real.
For months and months we’ve been driving over this stupid, backbreaking hole in the road. We’ve often wondered why on earth someone from the highway department hasn’t come and fixed this monstrosity. Obviously their commute doesn’t include this mammoth crater, or else it would have been filled in by now. We wonder how much more of this our tires – or our patience – can take.
One day as we’re driving into work we realize how smooth the road has become. We’ve become so accustomed to the massive elephant sized indention in the road that we don’t even expect it anymore. Yet today, there was no hole that reached halfway to China on our way in. It had been fixed!
How much sense would it make if I looked at you and simply said, “Well, I knew it was a matter of time. After all, time heals all wounds. I knew eventually that hole would fill itself in.” You’d look at me as if I were crazy, right? Of course you would, and you’d be justified. We understand that physical craters like that don’t fix themselves with time. As a matter of fact, they only get worse.
And so it is with our emotional craters. If you’ve been hurt or broken by the actions of yourself or the actions of others, please don’t sit around and wait for “time” to heal those wounds. Friend, time has no healing ability in and of itself. The only thing that time itself can do is make injuries wider, deeper, and more painful, just like potholes.
I have good news, though. Sure, time can’t heal, but I know a Man who can. From the deaf to the blind, the mute to the diseased, the broken hearted to the wicked – He’s healed all sorts! Don’t think for a minute your heartbreak is too big for His abilities!
The only catch us – He won’t force Himself on you. You have to make the choice to bring yourself, and all your “emotional potholes”, to Him.
Just like it takes a highway crew to fix a physical pothole, it takes a Healer to heal emotional ones.
So today, come to Jesus. Give Him your aches and pains of the heart. Let Him begin His healing work that time could never do on its own. Come today – so you can start living again!
That’s just a thought, and I welcome yours.
Until next time,
blake
This blog is brought to you courtesy of http://fromblake.blogspot.com. Visit today and sign up to become an official follower!
Feel free to write blake anytime at pastorblakeman@yahoo.com
Wednesday, October 12, 2011
A Known Future?
Wednesday, October 12, 2011
A Known Future? For as long as I can remember society has always seemed to have an obsession with knowing the future. From psychics to self proclaimed prophets, just let someone claim to know what lies ahead and they’ll have a flock following them. Predicting everything from the fall of America to the actually date and time of the return of Christ, time after time their predictions are wrong. Just think about the fallacy of human beings knowing the future.
I remember when I was a child there were always commercials for the “Psychic Friends Network” on tv. For only a small fee of around $2 a minute you could call and have your future foretold by these “gifted” people. I remember hearing how it was a scam by folks when I would ask questions, which makes sense now since I don’t ever hear about their “network” anymore. Turns out, the very group of people who could supposedly see the future had to close down their business due to – you guessed it – going broke.
And then there are those who claim to know the precise date and time of Christ’s return. One such man made himself a celebrity this past year. He predicted, based on his expert studies of Scripture among other things, that Jesus would return in May. He even had an exact date it would happen, even pinpointing 6PM as the exact time of the event. My only question was, “Is Jesus on Central Time like me?” That date came and went, as did the time, and we all hung around. Maybe this man missed, in his deep studies of Scripture, when Jesus Himself said He didn’t even know the day nor the hour, but “only His Father in heaven” did.
Some use calculations to justify their predictions, and others simply claim a new revelation is behind theirs. Regardless of what they proclaim produces their advanced knowledge of specific future events, egg continues to magically show up on their face after the fact. They silently shrink back into the crowd they’ve so boldly pushed to the front of after their predictions come and go with no substantiation. It’s almost sad.
However, one set of predictions, better yet Prophecies, has yet to ever be wrong. From the first day of time as we know it, when the God’s voice thunders a proclamation, it happens. Today we can open up His Book, the Bible, and see what lies ahead for each of us.
Throughout the ages, Scripture hasn’t been playing catch up. No, friend, the opposite is very true. Down through the portals of time, the knowledge of man has been catching up to the Truths of Scripture. From the fact that the earth is round and not flat all the way to the realization that the “life of the body is in the blood”, man’s science can only slowly discover what has already been established in the Word.
So when we read words about the return of Christ, we should listen up. When we read that it can happen, “In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye,” we should make sure we’re prepared. When we read about the glory of God being more than our minds here can even comprehend, we can live with some joy in our hearts. And when we read that anyone not trusting in Christ for salvation will live in eternal separation from Him in a place so horrendous our minds can't wrap themselves around it either, it should press us into service sharing Him as much as we can.
No human being knows every detail of the future. That knowledge is reserved for God alone. But He’s given us a Book that outlines what is to come, and all we have to do is read it. I think that’s a pretty handy deal, don’t you?
That’s just a thought, and I welcome yours.
Until next time,
blake
This blog is brought to you courtesy of http://fromblake.blogspot.com. Visit today and sign up to become an official follower!
Feel free to write blake anytime at pastorblakeman@yahoo.com
A Known Future? For as long as I can remember society has always seemed to have an obsession with knowing the future. From psychics to self proclaimed prophets, just let someone claim to know what lies ahead and they’ll have a flock following them. Predicting everything from the fall of America to the actually date and time of the return of Christ, time after time their predictions are wrong. Just think about the fallacy of human beings knowing the future.
I remember when I was a child there were always commercials for the “Psychic Friends Network” on tv. For only a small fee of around $2 a minute you could call and have your future foretold by these “gifted” people. I remember hearing how it was a scam by folks when I would ask questions, which makes sense now since I don’t ever hear about their “network” anymore. Turns out, the very group of people who could supposedly see the future had to close down their business due to – you guessed it – going broke.
And then there are those who claim to know the precise date and time of Christ’s return. One such man made himself a celebrity this past year. He predicted, based on his expert studies of Scripture among other things, that Jesus would return in May. He even had an exact date it would happen, even pinpointing 6PM as the exact time of the event. My only question was, “Is Jesus on Central Time like me?” That date came and went, as did the time, and we all hung around. Maybe this man missed, in his deep studies of Scripture, when Jesus Himself said He didn’t even know the day nor the hour, but “only His Father in heaven” did.
Some use calculations to justify their predictions, and others simply claim a new revelation is behind theirs. Regardless of what they proclaim produces their advanced knowledge of specific future events, egg continues to magically show up on their face after the fact. They silently shrink back into the crowd they’ve so boldly pushed to the front of after their predictions come and go with no substantiation. It’s almost sad.
However, one set of predictions, better yet Prophecies, has yet to ever be wrong. From the first day of time as we know it, when the God’s voice thunders a proclamation, it happens. Today we can open up His Book, the Bible, and see what lies ahead for each of us.
Throughout the ages, Scripture hasn’t been playing catch up. No, friend, the opposite is very true. Down through the portals of time, the knowledge of man has been catching up to the Truths of Scripture. From the fact that the earth is round and not flat all the way to the realization that the “life of the body is in the blood”, man’s science can only slowly discover what has already been established in the Word.
So when we read words about the return of Christ, we should listen up. When we read that it can happen, “In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye,” we should make sure we’re prepared. When we read about the glory of God being more than our minds here can even comprehend, we can live with some joy in our hearts. And when we read that anyone not trusting in Christ for salvation will live in eternal separation from Him in a place so horrendous our minds can't wrap themselves around it either, it should press us into service sharing Him as much as we can.
No human being knows every detail of the future. That knowledge is reserved for God alone. But He’s given us a Book that outlines what is to come, and all we have to do is read it. I think that’s a pretty handy deal, don’t you?
That’s just a thought, and I welcome yours.
Until next time,
blake
This blog is brought to you courtesy of http://fromblake.blogspot.com. Visit today and sign up to become an official follower!
Feel free to write blake anytime at pastorblakeman@yahoo.com
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
Language Barriers.
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
Language Barriers. I’m sure if you’ve read this blog very much you’re aware that in addition to being in youth ministry full-time, I’m also a school bus driver in the morning and afternoon. I’ve been doing that for quite some time, and I’ve grown to love it. Most probably don’t realize how much ministry can be done on a school bus, especially when you build relationships of trust with the students that ride. They share burdens and prayer requests with you, as well as just venting to you after a rough day. It’s a blessing.
All of the kids on my bus are awesome in their own ways. There’s a group that gets on at one stop that I’ve become particularly attached to. They are all family, and they are all from Spanish speaking countries. 8 of them speak English very well (better than me, actually.) They have a family member that just came to our country this past Friday, so she hasn’t learned much English at all yet. Yesterday was her first day on the bus.
I want to be able to communicate with her so badly! All I could say yesterday that made any sense in conversation was “Hello (Hola)” and “Goodbye (adios).” I did my best to give it my best accent, too. I even said “gracias” once, just to see how well I can roll my r’s. It wasn’t too impressive.
So I’ve decided each day I’ll learn to say something new. Yes, it’ll take me forever at that rate. But, one day at a time, phrase by phrase, hopefully it will at least show that I’m making effort to be able to communicate. More than anything, I want to communicate that I care enough to try. That’s a pretty good foundation for the Gospel to be shared eventually, don’t you think?
The fact that I don’t speak a certain language is preventing me from sharing Him with someone. What I’ve found is that even though I can’t stand in front of the entire bus, as a captive audience, and present the Gospel, I have plenty of chances outside of that school bus to show them Him, too. Oh, make no mistake about it, they know where I am on issues of Christ on the bus, just because they've gotten to know me fairly well. But I can actually share how to know Him apart from the context of being their bus driver.
I want each student God has entrusted to my safe keeping every day to know how to know Him. That takes extra effort to be a little more patient at times than I naturally desire to be. It takes more grace when I could easily enforce punishments as strict as I initially desire them to be. It takes more energy than just biting off the heads of unruly riders. But it’s worth it – if in some small way by my actions on the bus they see that Christ can make you different.
If something is preventing me from communicating Christ to someone, I want to learn to bridge that gap. If something in my life needs to go for that to happen, I want to release it freely. If I need to learn a new language for that to happen, I want to have a burning desire to do so. Whatever it takes, no matter the cost, I want to make Him known to the world. Will ya join me on this adventure?
That’s just a thought, and I welcome yours.
Until next time,
blake
This blog is brought to you courtesy of http://fromblake.blogspot.com. Visit today and sign up to become an official follower!
Feel free to write blake anytime at pastorblakeman@yahoo.com
Language Barriers. I’m sure if you’ve read this blog very much you’re aware that in addition to being in youth ministry full-time, I’m also a school bus driver in the morning and afternoon. I’ve been doing that for quite some time, and I’ve grown to love it. Most probably don’t realize how much ministry can be done on a school bus, especially when you build relationships of trust with the students that ride. They share burdens and prayer requests with you, as well as just venting to you after a rough day. It’s a blessing.
All of the kids on my bus are awesome in their own ways. There’s a group that gets on at one stop that I’ve become particularly attached to. They are all family, and they are all from Spanish speaking countries. 8 of them speak English very well (better than me, actually.) They have a family member that just came to our country this past Friday, so she hasn’t learned much English at all yet. Yesterday was her first day on the bus.
I want to be able to communicate with her so badly! All I could say yesterday that made any sense in conversation was “Hello (Hola)” and “Goodbye (adios).” I did my best to give it my best accent, too. I even said “gracias” once, just to see how well I can roll my r’s. It wasn’t too impressive.
So I’ve decided each day I’ll learn to say something new. Yes, it’ll take me forever at that rate. But, one day at a time, phrase by phrase, hopefully it will at least show that I’m making effort to be able to communicate. More than anything, I want to communicate that I care enough to try. That’s a pretty good foundation for the Gospel to be shared eventually, don’t you think?
The fact that I don’t speak a certain language is preventing me from sharing Him with someone. What I’ve found is that even though I can’t stand in front of the entire bus, as a captive audience, and present the Gospel, I have plenty of chances outside of that school bus to show them Him, too. Oh, make no mistake about it, they know where I am on issues of Christ on the bus, just because they've gotten to know me fairly well. But I can actually share how to know Him apart from the context of being their bus driver.
I want each student God has entrusted to my safe keeping every day to know how to know Him. That takes extra effort to be a little more patient at times than I naturally desire to be. It takes more grace when I could easily enforce punishments as strict as I initially desire them to be. It takes more energy than just biting off the heads of unruly riders. But it’s worth it – if in some small way by my actions on the bus they see that Christ can make you different.
If something is preventing me from communicating Christ to someone, I want to learn to bridge that gap. If something in my life needs to go for that to happen, I want to release it freely. If I need to learn a new language for that to happen, I want to have a burning desire to do so. Whatever it takes, no matter the cost, I want to make Him known to the world. Will ya join me on this adventure?
That’s just a thought, and I welcome yours.
Until next time,
blake
This blog is brought to you courtesy of http://fromblake.blogspot.com. Visit today and sign up to become an official follower!
Feel free to write blake anytime at pastorblakeman@yahoo.com
Monday, October 10, 2011
Against?
Monday, October 10, 2011
Against? It’s a strong thing to say you are “against” someone. There’s no gray area with that word – it’s obvious what you mean. You can understand, then, why it was a shock of sorts on Saturday when we saw a man wearing a shirt that proclaimed “Youth Against Christ.” Against is a strong word, especially when it precedes the Name above all names.
He and his friends were sitting about 3 rows in front of us at a marching band contest here in Cabot. I was sitting with several of our youth group students when one of them pointed it out to me. A few quiet gasps were felt by the other students with us when they noticed it, too. The reactions to the shirt were mixed between quiet anger and pity. It became a teaching moment.
I reminded the students sitting around me that he just obviously didn’t know the Jesus we knew. He was most likely operating on a view of Christ that had been fed to him by someone else, and then was possibly reinforced by zealous folks who were angered by his t-shirt’s message. Every time he encountered an “angry Christian” when we wore that shirt, it probably further drove home his belief that what we believe was simply a fairy tale that we were insecure about defending.
I shared with them that to be “against Christ” was a sure sign that one didn’t know Who Christ really was. After all, if you only viewed Christ as a religious leader among many, it would be easy to simply say you were “against” Him. After all, why should He be singled out and held in a higher regard than other religious leaders?
We know better, and we need to thank God that we do. We know that Christ isn’t simply another religious leader among many. We know that Christ isn’t simply a religious leader at all – He’s so much more. We know that no one else ever died for us and rose again 3 days later to bring us victory too. We know the difference He has made in our lives. And we know He desires to do the same in each heart alive today.
The simple question is: does our life say the same thing that man’s shirt said? We may not be brazen enough to wear a shirt that proclaims ourselves “against Christ,” but what is the message of the life we live? Do the words I say and the actions I live out proclaim “For Christ” or “Against Christ” to a lost and dying world that are watching for the answer?
I don’t know the man’s name, and to be quite honest I’m ashamed of that fact. If everyone avoids the Gospel conversation with him as I did he will continue in his lostness. That “teaching moment” could have turned into a “salvation moment” for this man, or at least an “obedience moment” for this believer. It didn’t, and I’m ashamed. I’m praying for him, and since God has etched his face into my heart, if I ever have the opportunity again I pray I’ll take the chance to try to show him the Christ I know is real. And I pray my life is screaming to the world around me “I’m with Christ.”
That’s just a thought, and I welcome yours.
Until next time,
blake
This blog is brought to you courtesy of http://fromblake.blogspot.com. Visit today and sign up to become an official follower!
Feel free to write blake anytime at pastorblakeman@yahoo.com
Against? It’s a strong thing to say you are “against” someone. There’s no gray area with that word – it’s obvious what you mean. You can understand, then, why it was a shock of sorts on Saturday when we saw a man wearing a shirt that proclaimed “Youth Against Christ.” Against is a strong word, especially when it precedes the Name above all names.
He and his friends were sitting about 3 rows in front of us at a marching band contest here in Cabot. I was sitting with several of our youth group students when one of them pointed it out to me. A few quiet gasps were felt by the other students with us when they noticed it, too. The reactions to the shirt were mixed between quiet anger and pity. It became a teaching moment.
I reminded the students sitting around me that he just obviously didn’t know the Jesus we knew. He was most likely operating on a view of Christ that had been fed to him by someone else, and then was possibly reinforced by zealous folks who were angered by his t-shirt’s message. Every time he encountered an “angry Christian” when we wore that shirt, it probably further drove home his belief that what we believe was simply a fairy tale that we were insecure about defending.
I shared with them that to be “against Christ” was a sure sign that one didn’t know Who Christ really was. After all, if you only viewed Christ as a religious leader among many, it would be easy to simply say you were “against” Him. After all, why should He be singled out and held in a higher regard than other religious leaders?
We know better, and we need to thank God that we do. We know that Christ isn’t simply another religious leader among many. We know that Christ isn’t simply a religious leader at all – He’s so much more. We know that no one else ever died for us and rose again 3 days later to bring us victory too. We know the difference He has made in our lives. And we know He desires to do the same in each heart alive today.
The simple question is: does our life say the same thing that man’s shirt said? We may not be brazen enough to wear a shirt that proclaims ourselves “against Christ,” but what is the message of the life we live? Do the words I say and the actions I live out proclaim “For Christ” or “Against Christ” to a lost and dying world that are watching for the answer?
I don’t know the man’s name, and to be quite honest I’m ashamed of that fact. If everyone avoids the Gospel conversation with him as I did he will continue in his lostness. That “teaching moment” could have turned into a “salvation moment” for this man, or at least an “obedience moment” for this believer. It didn’t, and I’m ashamed. I’m praying for him, and since God has etched his face into my heart, if I ever have the opportunity again I pray I’ll take the chance to try to show him the Christ I know is real. And I pray my life is screaming to the world around me “I’m with Christ.”
That’s just a thought, and I welcome yours.
Until next time,
blake
This blog is brought to you courtesy of http://fromblake.blogspot.com. Visit today and sign up to become an official follower!
Feel free to write blake anytime at pastorblakeman@yahoo.com
Friday, October 7, 2011
Irreconcilable Differences?
Friday, October 07, 2011
Irreconcilable Differences? Last night I got to hang out with some truly great guys for a couple of hours. These guys are in the trenches of youth ministry, which gives us much to talk about when we get together. We understand the struggles of one another. We understand the challenges that come up against each of the ministries God has given us to be a part of. We have so much in common. Yet, we also have our differences.
I’m so blessed to be doing ministry in a town where these meetings are possible. Several of us in the Cabot Youth Ministry Network have shared on occasions how much of a dream it’s been for many of us to cooperate with other churches like we are now. Many times, dare I say MOST of the time, this isn’t possible everywhere. There are several reasons, too.
One glaring reason is the “competition factor.” As sad as it is, in most towns many student ministries feel like they are competing with one another. No, they may not say it, but in reality they feel that they have to outdo the church down the street in order to reach more kids. The ideas have to be better and more catchy, and the music has to be just a step above, otherwise all their kids will slowly migrate away to the other ministries. If this sounds silly to you congratulations – you’ve just instantly realized what it’s taken years for some to accept.
And then there are the differences. It seems like the most daunting hurdle to cooperation in ministry with other churches is that one word “differences.” Whether you’re working alongside churches of the same “denomination” or daring to venture outside the context of the same label that you bear, there are differences. We often view those as insurmountable – too large to overcome. It’s that misconception that prevents us from realizing so much of the potential the church has today.
I’m fully prepared for the onslaught of emails I will be receiving today as a result of this blog. Many of you will no doubt have strong words to say to me about “pulpit affiliation” or other terms we’ve coined throughout the decades. The truth of the matter is, last night I enjoyed some sweet fellowship with some guys that don’t agree with me on many things. A few in our meeting hold denominational ties to other places than I. But we all agree, wholeheartedly, on one major thing together: knowing Christ as Savior is the only hope students in Cabot, Arkansas have of being ready for life and death. And we agree on what it takes to know Him.
Sure there’s more involved in discipleship than that, and we all understand that. That’s the reason we’ve left discipleship up to our local churches, and chosen to cooperate on what we can do together: evangelism. There’s also a great deal to be said about our fellowship and, dare I say it, friendship with one another. I value these guys – I treasure their service to Christ, students, and their desire to encourage one another as we serve together in the trenches of this town’s student culture.
You’ve got every right to have a problem with that. It is, after all, America, and we are all entitled to freedom of speech. But know this before you prepare to write that email addressed to me this morning: I have no reservations whatsoever about the fellowship, friendship, and cooperation of the Cabot Youth Ministries Network. God used this crew to put together an event that brought Christ to thousands of students in this town through the Life Book movement last week, as well as just over 900 at one time as the Gospel was presented at the See You After The Pole event last Wednesday night. I’m pretty sure that's something I'm excited to be a part of...it's a trend I want to continue.
That’s just a thought, and I welcome yours.
Until next time,
blake
This blog is brought to you courtesy of http://fromblake.blogspot.com. Visit today and sign up to become an official follower!
Feel free to write blake anytime at pastorblakeman@yahoo.com
Irreconcilable Differences? Last night I got to hang out with some truly great guys for a couple of hours. These guys are in the trenches of youth ministry, which gives us much to talk about when we get together. We understand the struggles of one another. We understand the challenges that come up against each of the ministries God has given us to be a part of. We have so much in common. Yet, we also have our differences.
I’m so blessed to be doing ministry in a town where these meetings are possible. Several of us in the Cabot Youth Ministry Network have shared on occasions how much of a dream it’s been for many of us to cooperate with other churches like we are now. Many times, dare I say MOST of the time, this isn’t possible everywhere. There are several reasons, too.
One glaring reason is the “competition factor.” As sad as it is, in most towns many student ministries feel like they are competing with one another. No, they may not say it, but in reality they feel that they have to outdo the church down the street in order to reach more kids. The ideas have to be better and more catchy, and the music has to be just a step above, otherwise all their kids will slowly migrate away to the other ministries. If this sounds silly to you congratulations – you’ve just instantly realized what it’s taken years for some to accept.
And then there are the differences. It seems like the most daunting hurdle to cooperation in ministry with other churches is that one word “differences.” Whether you’re working alongside churches of the same “denomination” or daring to venture outside the context of the same label that you bear, there are differences. We often view those as insurmountable – too large to overcome. It’s that misconception that prevents us from realizing so much of the potential the church has today.
I’m fully prepared for the onslaught of emails I will be receiving today as a result of this blog. Many of you will no doubt have strong words to say to me about “pulpit affiliation” or other terms we’ve coined throughout the decades. The truth of the matter is, last night I enjoyed some sweet fellowship with some guys that don’t agree with me on many things. A few in our meeting hold denominational ties to other places than I. But we all agree, wholeheartedly, on one major thing together: knowing Christ as Savior is the only hope students in Cabot, Arkansas have of being ready for life and death. And we agree on what it takes to know Him.
Sure there’s more involved in discipleship than that, and we all understand that. That’s the reason we’ve left discipleship up to our local churches, and chosen to cooperate on what we can do together: evangelism. There’s also a great deal to be said about our fellowship and, dare I say it, friendship with one another. I value these guys – I treasure their service to Christ, students, and their desire to encourage one another as we serve together in the trenches of this town’s student culture.
You’ve got every right to have a problem with that. It is, after all, America, and we are all entitled to freedom of speech. But know this before you prepare to write that email addressed to me this morning: I have no reservations whatsoever about the fellowship, friendship, and cooperation of the Cabot Youth Ministries Network. God used this crew to put together an event that brought Christ to thousands of students in this town through the Life Book movement last week, as well as just over 900 at one time as the Gospel was presented at the See You After The Pole event last Wednesday night. I’m pretty sure that's something I'm excited to be a part of...it's a trend I want to continue.
That’s just a thought, and I welcome yours.
Until next time,
blake
This blog is brought to you courtesy of http://fromblake.blogspot.com. Visit today and sign up to become an official follower!
Feel free to write blake anytime at pastorblakeman@yahoo.com
Thursday, October 6, 2011
Blank.
Thursday, October 06, 2011
Blank. Occasionally when I sit down to write this blog I struggle with a certain “blankness” that frustrates me. This morning is such a time. On a normal morning I’ll leap from the shower with my blog inspiration flying through my mind. I almost have to rush to get dressed and run to my laptop so I can get the idea into writing! Not so this morning.
There’s a certain helpless feeling that comes from the blankness, I guess. It’s a regular reminder that I’m dependent on God for these blogs, and not just myself. Every writer has their occasional “writer’s block,” I suppose. I view these blogs differently, though.
I don’t view this as a “column” or anything remotely close. And I’m certainly not a “professional writer” of any sort at all. I don’t claim any artistic or creative rights to what’s written in “A Thought From Blake” each day at all. As a matter of fact, I really don’t claim that any of what I write is original.
In order for something to be classified as “original” it has to originate with that source. Very little, if any, of what I write “originates” with me. It comes to me from Him. He’s the One with the artistic and “creative rights.”
Which brings me back to the blankness that I’m experiencing this morning. I simply could not arrive at any title, subject, or even thought process for this blog today. I even walked around my house, searching for something to trigger a train of thinking. I got nothing. I had my quiet time and did a little Scripture reading before writing, as I always do, hoping for some inspiration of some sort to write about. Once again, I got nothing (to write about, anyway).
So when in doubt, share your heart. Maybe you’re blank today, too. Maybe when you woke up this morning you didn’t have the urge to leap out of bed and take the world on like there’s no tomorrow. Maybe you’re dragging today, and almost feel as if you’re just going through the motions. Maybe you’re struggling to even know what your purpose is for the day ahead. There’s some good news for you!
God already knows what your day has in store! He already knows how He’s going to use you today! Though you may feel blank, He’s just waiting to write another page in the book called your life!
So take great hope today – God has plans! Though you may have no idea what’s ahead, He does. And even if you think today will be just another rut of a day, God can do so much more with the 24 hours ahead. Give it to Him, and just watch and see how it turns out!
That’s just a thought, and I welcome yours.
Until next time,
blake
This blog is brought to you courtesy of http://fromblake.blogspot.com. Visit today and sign up to become an official follower!
Feel free to write blake anytime at pastorblakeman@yahoo.com
Blank. Occasionally when I sit down to write this blog I struggle with a certain “blankness” that frustrates me. This morning is such a time. On a normal morning I’ll leap from the shower with my blog inspiration flying through my mind. I almost have to rush to get dressed and run to my laptop so I can get the idea into writing! Not so this morning.
There’s a certain helpless feeling that comes from the blankness, I guess. It’s a regular reminder that I’m dependent on God for these blogs, and not just myself. Every writer has their occasional “writer’s block,” I suppose. I view these blogs differently, though.
I don’t view this as a “column” or anything remotely close. And I’m certainly not a “professional writer” of any sort at all. I don’t claim any artistic or creative rights to what’s written in “A Thought From Blake” each day at all. As a matter of fact, I really don’t claim that any of what I write is original.
In order for something to be classified as “original” it has to originate with that source. Very little, if any, of what I write “originates” with me. It comes to me from Him. He’s the One with the artistic and “creative rights.”
Which brings me back to the blankness that I’m experiencing this morning. I simply could not arrive at any title, subject, or even thought process for this blog today. I even walked around my house, searching for something to trigger a train of thinking. I got nothing. I had my quiet time and did a little Scripture reading before writing, as I always do, hoping for some inspiration of some sort to write about. Once again, I got nothing (to write about, anyway).
So when in doubt, share your heart. Maybe you’re blank today, too. Maybe when you woke up this morning you didn’t have the urge to leap out of bed and take the world on like there’s no tomorrow. Maybe you’re dragging today, and almost feel as if you’re just going through the motions. Maybe you’re struggling to even know what your purpose is for the day ahead. There’s some good news for you!
God already knows what your day has in store! He already knows how He’s going to use you today! Though you may feel blank, He’s just waiting to write another page in the book called your life!
So take great hope today – God has plans! Though you may have no idea what’s ahead, He does. And even if you think today will be just another rut of a day, God can do so much more with the 24 hours ahead. Give it to Him, and just watch and see how it turns out!
That’s just a thought, and I welcome yours.
Until next time,
blake
This blog is brought to you courtesy of http://fromblake.blogspot.com. Visit today and sign up to become an official follower!
Feel free to write blake anytime at pastorblakeman@yahoo.com
Wednesday, October 5, 2011
It.
Wednesday, October 05, 2011
It. One of the universal games of children is “Tag.” Do you remember it? One person would be “it”, while everyone else tried to avoid being “tagged” by them. There was usually always a “base” and if you were touching it you couldn’t become “it”, but were safe from being “tagged.” One by one, the opportunity to be “it” would rotate among the kids playing. If you’re experience was ever anything like mine, however, there were always at least a couple of kids that never were tagged while playing.
Journey with me almost 2,000 years back in history. Jesus is gathered around with His 12 closest friends, called His disciples. He’s teaching them about what is going to happen to Him in the not too distant future. He’s talking about the sacrifice for sin, and teaching them why it’s necessary that He be that sacrifice. He’s telling them that when He’s gone away, it will be their turn to carry His message. He looks at them and, in effect, says, “Tag – you’re it.”
Fast forward a few years. Jesus has ascended back to heaven. Now the disciples are spreading His gospel to the ends of the earth, but it’s not coming without its tribulations. A number of them have been arrested already on numerous occasions. Many of them have been beaten, and even lost their possessions, a number of them even being executed already. They continue to carry the Gospel, in spite of all the pain and sacrifice it costs them. Many come to know Christ as the result of their preaching. They pass the torch – “tag.”
Travel farther ahead into what is now history to us. Believers are being hunted and captured for owning copies of Scripture. The Bible becomes so illegal that many Christians are choosing to memorize it instead of carry a copy of it on them. And so verse by verse, book by book, from Genesis to Revelation, they commit God’s Word to memory, hiding it in their heart. They are doing this so they can continue to pass it down to others who need to hear the message of Christ’s sacrifice on the cross for their sin. They carry the torch, until the day comes for them to pass it on…”tag.”
Now we’re in the early days of America. Great men willingly leave the comforts of their homes and families to climb aboard the backs of horses and buggies to roam the wilderness countryside as circuit riding preachers. They travel night and day, Bible in one hand and horse reins in the other, preaching Jesus and His Word every time they encounter someone that will listen. Great revivals take place in remote places and large cities. As more and more come to Christ, the torch is passed, yet again…”tag.”
And we’re back to today. I don’t know who passed the Gospel message on to you, but I know that faithful grandparents and parents passed it to me. I was raised hearing about Jesus, and for that I’m thankful. Regardless of who did or didn’t tell you about Him growing up, you’re reading about Him now. Your excuse of ignorance is now abolished, if it weren’t before. You’re being told, as you read these words, that God loves you and the rest of the world, and wants the message of His Son’s death on Calvary to be proclaimed to all men, everywhere. It’s not going to take the sacrifice that it took those early Christians, at least in the majority of cases in our land. Nevertheless, your job – your responsibility – is clear. Consider the torch passed. “Tag” – you’re it.
That’s just a thought, and I welcome yours.
Until next time,
blake
This blog is brought to you courtesy of http://fromblake.blogspot.com. Visit today and sign up to become an official follower!
Feel free to write blake anytime at pastorblakeman@yahoo.com
It. One of the universal games of children is “Tag.” Do you remember it? One person would be “it”, while everyone else tried to avoid being “tagged” by them. There was usually always a “base” and if you were touching it you couldn’t become “it”, but were safe from being “tagged.” One by one, the opportunity to be “it” would rotate among the kids playing. If you’re experience was ever anything like mine, however, there were always at least a couple of kids that never were tagged while playing.
Journey with me almost 2,000 years back in history. Jesus is gathered around with His 12 closest friends, called His disciples. He’s teaching them about what is going to happen to Him in the not too distant future. He’s talking about the sacrifice for sin, and teaching them why it’s necessary that He be that sacrifice. He’s telling them that when He’s gone away, it will be their turn to carry His message. He looks at them and, in effect, says, “Tag – you’re it.”
Fast forward a few years. Jesus has ascended back to heaven. Now the disciples are spreading His gospel to the ends of the earth, but it’s not coming without its tribulations. A number of them have been arrested already on numerous occasions. Many of them have been beaten, and even lost their possessions, a number of them even being executed already. They continue to carry the Gospel, in spite of all the pain and sacrifice it costs them. Many come to know Christ as the result of their preaching. They pass the torch – “tag.”
Travel farther ahead into what is now history to us. Believers are being hunted and captured for owning copies of Scripture. The Bible becomes so illegal that many Christians are choosing to memorize it instead of carry a copy of it on them. And so verse by verse, book by book, from Genesis to Revelation, they commit God’s Word to memory, hiding it in their heart. They are doing this so they can continue to pass it down to others who need to hear the message of Christ’s sacrifice on the cross for their sin. They carry the torch, until the day comes for them to pass it on…”tag.”
Now we’re in the early days of America. Great men willingly leave the comforts of their homes and families to climb aboard the backs of horses and buggies to roam the wilderness countryside as circuit riding preachers. They travel night and day, Bible in one hand and horse reins in the other, preaching Jesus and His Word every time they encounter someone that will listen. Great revivals take place in remote places and large cities. As more and more come to Christ, the torch is passed, yet again…”tag.”
And we’re back to today. I don’t know who passed the Gospel message on to you, but I know that faithful grandparents and parents passed it to me. I was raised hearing about Jesus, and for that I’m thankful. Regardless of who did or didn’t tell you about Him growing up, you’re reading about Him now. Your excuse of ignorance is now abolished, if it weren’t before. You’re being told, as you read these words, that God loves you and the rest of the world, and wants the message of His Son’s death on Calvary to be proclaimed to all men, everywhere. It’s not going to take the sacrifice that it took those early Christians, at least in the majority of cases in our land. Nevertheless, your job – your responsibility – is clear. Consider the torch passed. “Tag” – you’re it.
That’s just a thought, and I welcome yours.
Until next time,
blake
This blog is brought to you courtesy of http://fromblake.blogspot.com. Visit today and sign up to become an official follower!
Feel free to write blake anytime at pastorblakeman@yahoo.com
Tuesday, October 4, 2011
Missed Call.
Tuesday, October 04, 2011
Missed Call. Occasionally someone will call me and I won’t get to talk to them right then. I may be in a place where my phone can’t be on, or I'm in middle of something that needs my full attention and answering a call isn’t an option at the time. Regardless of the reason, they have the option of leaving a voicemail and getting a call back from me later. It doesn’t matter if it’s a friend or if it were the President, sometimes that’s just the way it works out.
Some of us operate that way in our relationship with God, too. We go through legs of our journey with Him when we are “too busy” to answer His call at that particular moment. He has a purpose for us – a plan – a calling – yet we expect Him to leave a “voicemail” of sorts and we’ll come back to Him when it’s more convenient. I’ve known many men who confess they felt called into vocational ministry, but struggled for literally years before surrendering their lives to that calling. Why, on earth, have we come to accept that standard as ok?
Delayed obedience is, simply put, disobedience. And there is no such thing as “excused disobedience”, either. But we are professionals as excuses, though, aren’t we? We have as many excuses for why we don’t follow God’s commands for living as a friend of mine has tennis shoes! My favorite excuse used by so many (including myself at times): “I would do that, but it’s just not my calling.”
Did you know that sharing the Gospel isn’t a calling? No, it’s not a calling at all – it’s a command. Yet many walk through their daily lives disobeying the Great Commission of Christ to share the Gospel with “every creature” excusing themselves. It’s as if so many have the notion that sharing the news of how someone’s sin can be forgiven should be left up to the “professionals”, because they aren’t trained well enough.
Can you imagine me, as a child, telling my parents that I didn’t clean my room as they had asked me to because “it wasn’t my calling” or because “they, being professionals at cleaning rooms, knew more about it than I did, a novice”? I would have very quickly been schooled in the difference of “calling” and “command,” and probably with the assistance of some “visual aids!”
Yet we pull the same stunt with God! We delay obedience to Him until we learn more or are “more sure of ourselves.” We excuse our lack of obedience away with every possibly excuse that comes to mind. All the while, God sees countless men, women, boys and girls dying separated from Him. Excuses don’t change that reality.
So this morning, what are you excusing away with the title of “calling?” What obedience are you delaying because you don’t feel “called” to it? I challenge you – get up, start obeying the commands of Christ for the life of every believer, and don’t miss any more opportunities to serve Him. He’s too worthy and deserving to have to leave a voicemail…
That’s just a thought, and I welcome yours.
Until next time,
blake
This blog is brought to you courtesy of http://fromblake.blogspot.com. Visit today and sign up to become an official follower!
Feel free to write blake anytime at pastorblakeman@yahoo.com
Missed Call. Occasionally someone will call me and I won’t get to talk to them right then. I may be in a place where my phone can’t be on, or I'm in middle of something that needs my full attention and answering a call isn’t an option at the time. Regardless of the reason, they have the option of leaving a voicemail and getting a call back from me later. It doesn’t matter if it’s a friend or if it were the President, sometimes that’s just the way it works out.
Some of us operate that way in our relationship with God, too. We go through legs of our journey with Him when we are “too busy” to answer His call at that particular moment. He has a purpose for us – a plan – a calling – yet we expect Him to leave a “voicemail” of sorts and we’ll come back to Him when it’s more convenient. I’ve known many men who confess they felt called into vocational ministry, but struggled for literally years before surrendering their lives to that calling. Why, on earth, have we come to accept that standard as ok?
Delayed obedience is, simply put, disobedience. And there is no such thing as “excused disobedience”, either. But we are professionals as excuses, though, aren’t we? We have as many excuses for why we don’t follow God’s commands for living as a friend of mine has tennis shoes! My favorite excuse used by so many (including myself at times): “I would do that, but it’s just not my calling.”
Did you know that sharing the Gospel isn’t a calling? No, it’s not a calling at all – it’s a command. Yet many walk through their daily lives disobeying the Great Commission of Christ to share the Gospel with “every creature” excusing themselves. It’s as if so many have the notion that sharing the news of how someone’s sin can be forgiven should be left up to the “professionals”, because they aren’t trained well enough.
Can you imagine me, as a child, telling my parents that I didn’t clean my room as they had asked me to because “it wasn’t my calling” or because “they, being professionals at cleaning rooms, knew more about it than I did, a novice”? I would have very quickly been schooled in the difference of “calling” and “command,” and probably with the assistance of some “visual aids!”
Yet we pull the same stunt with God! We delay obedience to Him until we learn more or are “more sure of ourselves.” We excuse our lack of obedience away with every possibly excuse that comes to mind. All the while, God sees countless men, women, boys and girls dying separated from Him. Excuses don’t change that reality.
So this morning, what are you excusing away with the title of “calling?” What obedience are you delaying because you don’t feel “called” to it? I challenge you – get up, start obeying the commands of Christ for the life of every believer, and don’t miss any more opportunities to serve Him. He’s too worthy and deserving to have to leave a voicemail…
That’s just a thought, and I welcome yours.
Until next time,
blake
This blog is brought to you courtesy of http://fromblake.blogspot.com. Visit today and sign up to become an official follower!
Feel free to write blake anytime at pastorblakeman@yahoo.com
Monday, October 3, 2011
Jaw-Flapper.
Monday, October 03, 2011
Jaw-Flapper. I have a confession to make, and it’s one that won’t come as a shocker to many of you who know me. All of my life I’ve had a problem. It began at a very young age. As a matter of fact, based on the stories I’ve heard about my early days, this issue began almost as soon as I could talk at all. From the time words began to come from my mouth as a small child, I’ve had the ability to not just say a few words, but to say many words. Okay, that’s just a nice way to say I talk a lot.
I have, however, in my recent years, identified what triggers my talkative-ness. It seems that when I’m very excited about something and my joy is overflowing, that I have a natural desire to talk about it. Like clockwork, just let God do something exciting in my life that makes my heart beat a little faster and I’ll be talking about it.
At times in my life my flapping jaw has gotten me in some trouble. At times it has cost me. Sometimes it has cost me more than I’d like to admit, even recently. This, in turn, leads to frustration and causes the trend to reverse itself temporarily. I become a man of much fewer words for a while. Don’t ask me why, I’m just observing the cycle.
Before you begin to write your emails about everything Scripture says about talking a lot, I dare say I’m not the only one with this problem. There are far too many of us who use far too many words far too often. Am I right?
But take great joy in knowing this: there is Someone that we can never talk about TOO much! As a matter of fact, we don’t talk about Him nearly enough to aptly describe His greatness. The truth of the matter is that if every word that came out of our mouth was about Him we wouldn’t have time in our lifespan to adequately voice who He is to the world!
The old song writer penned these words, “Everybody ought to know! Everybody ought to know! Everybody ought to know – Who Jesus is!” Words more true have never been written.
Today I’ve admitted something about myself that is, at times, a hindrance to my life. But if channeled in the right direction, I think this might just be useful. And if push comes to shove, I’ve got a God that never tires of hearing me talk to Him. If I feel like being “still” and just “knowing that He is God,” He welcomes me into His presence. But if I feel like venting and getting a lot off my chest, He still welcomes me. He’s faithful, always.
So this morning, ask God what is in your life that can be a hindrance or an asset. Ask Him to show you how to steer it in the direction of good instead of harm. And ask Him to help keep you on track with it. With His help, we might just use these little “weaknesses” to point some people to the God that uses even weaklings like us!
That’s just a thought, and I welcome yours.
Until next time,
blake
This blog is brought to you courtesy of http://fromblake.blogspot.com. Visit today and sign up to become an official follower!
Feel free to write blake anytime at pastorblakeman@yahoo.com
Jaw-Flapper. I have a confession to make, and it’s one that won’t come as a shocker to many of you who know me. All of my life I’ve had a problem. It began at a very young age. As a matter of fact, based on the stories I’ve heard about my early days, this issue began almost as soon as I could talk at all. From the time words began to come from my mouth as a small child, I’ve had the ability to not just say a few words, but to say many words. Okay, that’s just a nice way to say I talk a lot.
I have, however, in my recent years, identified what triggers my talkative-ness. It seems that when I’m very excited about something and my joy is overflowing, that I have a natural desire to talk about it. Like clockwork, just let God do something exciting in my life that makes my heart beat a little faster and I’ll be talking about it.
At times in my life my flapping jaw has gotten me in some trouble. At times it has cost me. Sometimes it has cost me more than I’d like to admit, even recently. This, in turn, leads to frustration and causes the trend to reverse itself temporarily. I become a man of much fewer words for a while. Don’t ask me why, I’m just observing the cycle.
Before you begin to write your emails about everything Scripture says about talking a lot, I dare say I’m not the only one with this problem. There are far too many of us who use far too many words far too often. Am I right?
But take great joy in knowing this: there is Someone that we can never talk about TOO much! As a matter of fact, we don’t talk about Him nearly enough to aptly describe His greatness. The truth of the matter is that if every word that came out of our mouth was about Him we wouldn’t have time in our lifespan to adequately voice who He is to the world!
The old song writer penned these words, “Everybody ought to know! Everybody ought to know! Everybody ought to know – Who Jesus is!” Words more true have never been written.
Today I’ve admitted something about myself that is, at times, a hindrance to my life. But if channeled in the right direction, I think this might just be useful. And if push comes to shove, I’ve got a God that never tires of hearing me talk to Him. If I feel like being “still” and just “knowing that He is God,” He welcomes me into His presence. But if I feel like venting and getting a lot off my chest, He still welcomes me. He’s faithful, always.
So this morning, ask God what is in your life that can be a hindrance or an asset. Ask Him to show you how to steer it in the direction of good instead of harm. And ask Him to help keep you on track with it. With His help, we might just use these little “weaknesses” to point some people to the God that uses even weaklings like us!
That’s just a thought, and I welcome yours.
Until next time,
blake
This blog is brought to you courtesy of http://fromblake.blogspot.com. Visit today and sign up to become an official follower!
Feel free to write blake anytime at pastorblakeman@yahoo.com
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