July 30-August 1, 2010

2 Corinthians 2
Pastor Derek Floyd

Isn’t it just like the devil to take what God means for good and attempt to turn it into something evil? We must be careful not to allow our humanity to create a doorway to the wiles of the enemy. As recorded in 2 Corinthians 2:5-8, Paul - in justified anguish - instructed the church to take action against a church member unwilling to repent.

Yet within the same passage, there’s a noted difference between what is necessary for correction and what we do when the punishment alone is all that matters. I’ve heard this saying many times: “The church is the only place where they bury their wounded.” In the military, they call it “friendly fire” when someone is killed by a comrade. In 2 Corinthians 2:5b, Paul wrote, “What the majority of you agreed to as punishment is punishment enough. Now is the time to forgive this man and help him back on his feet. If all you do is pour on the guilt, you could very well drown him in it. My counsel now is to pour on the love.”

The church should be a place where wounded persons are restored and the enemy is defeated by hope, love, and forgiveness. Let wisdom be used, that the ministry may not be blamed for indulging sin on the one hand or severity towards sinners on the other.

Sometimes it is easier to take action against the sin than to take action in forgiving it. However, we are called to be obedient in both. Satan has many plans to deceive, and knows how to make use of our mistakes. Yet as Paul states, “we are not unaware of his schemes.” (verse 11)

The success of the gospel should always be reason for a Christian's joy and rejoicing. Like a sweet perfume, we are a Christ-like fragrance rising up to God, with no sweeter aroma as when God’s Church is being the Church.

A native of Ohio, Derek Floyd facilitates corporate worship in collaboration with musicians in Grace Covenant Church’s bands, Worship Choir and vocal praise teams.

July 29, 2010

2 Corinthians 1
Lynell McCrary

As I read 2 Corinthians 1:8-11, I can feel the oppression experienced by the Apostle Paul - so intense that individuals actually feared for their lives. When we read verse 10, we realize that Paul predicted more delivery from God, indicating that the crisis was not over. He wrote further that this expectancy was based upon the nature of God and “the prayers of many” (verse 11).

Of course, we know that nothing that hasn’t passed through the Hand of God touches our lives. He can do anything in our lives. Yet do we really believe that prayer changes things? We should yell, “Yes!” Prayer, our communication with God, is an ongoing invitation into the spiritual battles of this world. Not only do we commune with our Maker in prayer, but we get a chance to FIGHT!

I like that, since I tend to be slightly competitive. Okay, to be honest…I am very competitive. When I hear about an opportunity to beat an opponent, I’m in! That’s a picture of prayer. Prayer gives us the platform to call on the Name of Jesus and fight for others. Paul needed help, and knew that it could come through prayer. I love reading about how he is thankful for the prayers of the saints…before they have even prayed. He knew the power of prayer and what it can do.

As you pray, picture yourself on the battlefield of spiritual warfare. Satan will be defeated and God will reign… through the power of prayer.

Texas native Lynell McCrary oversees various aspects of “Connections,” helping us connect relationally within the Grace Covenant Church family, as well as discover opportunities for ministry involvement.

July 28, 2010

1 Corinthians 16
Pastor John Edwards

It’s one thing to implore people to stand firm, have courage and be strong, which the Apostle Paul summarized (1 Corinthians 16:13) near the end of his challenging letter to the believers at Corinth. Yet it’s quite another to model it.

Notice Paul’s resolve, passion and focus, as recorded in verses 8-9. After expressing a heartfelt personal desire to come to Corinth for an extended visit, he asserted, “But I will stay on at Ephesus until Pentecost, because a great door for effective work has opened to me, and there are many who oppose me.”

That last phrase (see underline above) really captures my heart. In the face of opposition, natural tendencies are often to react (fight) or retreat (flight). Yet Paul’s position was simply this: God hasn’t called me away…He is at work…what an opportunity! It’s a resolution acknowledging real obstacles, yet forging ahead by faith in the unseen and, as yet, unrevealed.

As received by Corinthian readers, it must have been a powerful example to a people struggling with the surrounding culture and how to live out their relatively new faith in the midst of it. Its implications are no less powerful for you and me.

We’re still here, for a God-ordained purpose. He is still working. So…stand firm – courageous and strong – even in the face of cultural opposition.

Warrior of the Most High God, “A great door for effective work” is open!

A native of northern Mecklenburg County, John Edwards facilitates Grace Covenant Church’s strategic planning and public information, while collaborating in development of Grace Leadership Network.

July 27, 2010

1 Corinthians 15
Pastor Wil Mouer

The End is Near

When I was a teenager, a book came out that is called 88 Reasons Why the Rapture Could Take Place in 1988. It was a real eye-opener for me. I read it cover to cover and made a new commitment to the Lord, just to make sure that I was “in the book.”

We still hear a lot these days about the second coming of Christ, the tribulation, the rapture and other end-time prophecies. Even in the days of the early church, this was a topic of discussion and apparent confusion. In 1 Corinthians 15, the Apostle Paul addressed some of the issues, clearing up doctrine on the resurrection of Christ, resurrection of the dead, and resurrection of the body.

Paul taught that the first key to Christianity is that Jesus resurrected from the dead in a new body. Because of this truth, all those that believe will not be overcome by death.

Death is not the end, but a new beginning. Since Jesus rose from the dead, we too will have a resurrected body when we leave Earth. That’s good news…no more watching our diet or going to the gym to keep in shape, since we will all have perfect bodies designed to last for eternity! This awakens us to the reality of how short life is, and should inspire us to live each day to the fullest. After all, this life is just the internship program for all eternity.

How are you living in light of the coming eternity? What should you adjust in how you spend your time, talents, and treasures?

Illinois native Wil Mouer directs “NextGen” (6th-12th grade and college-age) ministries at Grace Covenant Church and serves periodically on the weekend teaching team

July 26, 2010

1 Corinthians 14
Pastor Jon Wehner

Many of us have probably had an opportunity to live within a subculture of our society. For me – it was NASCAR. Within that industry are terms and phrases used to define how a car performs on the race track…”push,” “loose,” “marbles,” “spring rubber” and “CLEAR!”. (Some of you know what I’m talking about, while for others it may sound like gibberish!)

In 1 Corinthians 14:1-2, Paul wrote, “Follow the way of love and eagerly desire spiritual gifts, especially the gift of prophecy. For one who speaks in a tongue speaks not to men but to God. Indeed, no one understands him; he utters mysteries with his spirit.”

When we think of the word “prophecy,” we tend to define it as a “telling” of future events. Yet in this instance Paul defines the spiritual gift as speaking from divine revelation – so that you clearly communicate what God wants to make known to others.

What language do you speak?

Do you speak love? If so, good! Let’s make sure that we are walking in love.

Do you speak NASCAR, banking or boating? Good…then use words and illustrations that describe God clearly.

Do you speak in tongues? Great! God hears and understands.

It sounds like pretty basic stuff, but just stick to it and you won’t have to worry about “spinning someone out!”

Michigan native Jon Wehner is the venue pastor for “Monday Night Church” and oversees “Fusion” (single adult ministries) at Grace Covenant Church.

July 23-25, 2010

1 Corinthians 13
Pastor Michelle Hoverson

Perhaps the first love poem that we all learned as children was, “Roses are red, violets are blue, sugar is sweet and so are you!” Since this is still the only love poem that I can quote, thank goodness for Hallmark!

When it comes to describing real love, I believe that the Holy Spirit captured more in 1 Corinthians 13 than all of the Valentine’s Day cards could ever express.

Christian love is void of self-interest. We love others as God has shown His love for us. As a child of God, His love is supposed to flow out of us and be evident in everything that we do. If our service is void of love, we are reminded in these verses that our work for God is void of meaning.

If we amaze our peers with exceptional language, but don’t love, it is meaningless. If we have and exercise powerful spiritual gifts, understand the deep principles of Scripture, can speak words of faith and pray powerful prayers of faith, but don’t love others...our ministry efforts are meaningless. If we give all of our possessions to the poor, support ministries sacrificially and even give our lives for the sake of the Gospel, but have not loved…what we have done is meaningless.

No matter how much we know, how much great wisdom we speak or incredible insights of the Bible that we share with others - we might as well be honking a horn in bumper-to-bumper traffic unless we do it with love.

However, when whatever we do flows from love, it is of precious, long-lasting value.

As you go through your day, I encourage you to put the filter of love to work. Ask yourself, “Am I doing this without regard to self-interest, and with love?”

Approaching her 10th year in ministry at Grace Covenant Church, Michelle Hoverson manages care and reach teams, oversees “Global” (missions) and “Community” (local) outreach ministries and serves on the weekend and midweek teaching teams.

July 22, 2010

1 Corinthians 12
Pastor Paul Turbedsky

Legendary college basketball Coach John Wooden passed away last month at the age of 99. While at the UCLA helm, his teams captured an unprecedented 10 NCAA National Championships.

Yet there was nothing magical about his coaching style or philosophy. The focus was upon discipline, conditioning, and fundamentals. He put teams - not individual superstars – on the court. Games and championship were won when Coach Wooden’s most talented players came around to understand that selfless play and statistically-proven methods were more productive than any one player’s talent. Each player had a role, just as important as the next.

The same can be said about the body of Christ. We all have a unique role that is part of a team effort to strengthen and expand the Kingdom, while giving glory and honor to God.

In 1 Corinthians 12, we see God’s view on this:

• “Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good.” (verse 7) - When we use gifts and skills that God gives us, it is only then that His purpose is accomplished. He - not us - gets the glory. As we “play” on God’s team, it’s not about being the best, most polished and articulate, most talented or the most gifted. It’s about being the right person, on the right bus, in the right seat - just the way that God planned it.


• “But in fact God has arranged the parts in the body, every one of them, just as he wanted them to be.” (verse 18) - God planned that there would be great teamwork.


• “Now the body is not made up of one part but of many.” (verse 14) - Don’t ever allow yourself to feel like you’re alone with no help, and don’t think so much of yourself as not to ask for help.

In his memoirs, Coach Wooden wrote about it this way:

• Talent is God given. Be humble.


• Fame is man-given. Be grateful.


• Conceit is self-given. Be careful.


• Consider the rights of others before your own feelings, and the feelings of others before your own rights.


• Be prepared and be honest.


• Be more concerned with your character than your reputation, because your character is what you really are, while your reputation is merely what others think you are.


• Material possessions, winning scores, and great reputations are meaningless in the eyes of the Lord, because He knows what we really are and that is all that matters.


• The main ingredient of stardom is the rest of the team.


• There are many things that are essential to arriving at true peace of mind, and one of the most important is faith, which cannot be acquired without prayer.


• What you are as a person is far more important that what you are as a basketball player.


• You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you.

Get in the game and play your heart out.

A Pennsylvania native, Paul Turbedsky oversees visitation, benevolence and other aspects of congregational care, along with “Senior Saints” (senior adult ministries) and “Men of Grace” (men’s ministries).

July 21, 2010

1 Corinthians 11
Pastor Stan Wilson

Some years ago, my wife was blessed when one of her spiritual mentors passed on a wonderful concept known as “The Table Principle.” When placed into practice, The Table Principle provides a nurturing environment where both faith and family can experience spiritual growth while sitting around the family dinner table.

It is amazing to watch what happens when time is set aside to share an uninterrupted meal. In our home, it becomes a time of remembering. We remember the things that made us laugh and the challenges of our day that sometimes made us want to cry. We remember highlights and even those things that we’d really rather not remember at all. In the midst of our remembrances, we always manage to remember God’s faithful provision for every need.

As Paul wrote to the Corinthian Church in 1 Corinthians 11, he passed on a similar spiritual concept. As the church came together for what scripture calls “The Lord’s Supper” (see verse 17 and following)…rather than sharing the meal together, it was each man for himself. Rather than creating an environment around the table where there was mutual spiritual growth, divisions were formed between those who had and those who didn’t. Paul’s stern-yet-loving correction reminded them that this was not as Jesus had intended. He said, “Remember me” when you come together.

What’s it like around your family table? Is each man, woman, boy and/or girl fending for him/herself? Are there divisions - or are you consistently creating a nurturing environment where each member of the family can grow strong spiritually?

Here’s my challenge: this week, turn your family table into The Lord’s Table. Take time to remember His faithful provision while you share a meal together. I am confident that you’ll be amazed at what begins to happen.

Formerly serving as a senior pastor in California, Stan Wilson manages Grace Covenant Church’s worship and community teams, directs Sunday morning worship services/communications and serves on the weekend and midweek teaching teams.

July 20, 2010

Corinthians 10
Pastor Luke Lang

“The temptations in your life are no different from what others experience. And God is faithful. He will not allow the temptation to be more than you can stand. When you are tempted, he will show you a way out so that you can endure.” 1 Corinthians 10:13

I was about six years old, at a small Baptist church in Oklahoma, when I learned a powerful lesson about temptation. Needing a few dollars to buy a toy that I couldn’t live without, there it was, suddenly staring me in the face. It was a five-dollar bill sitting in the offering plate. Surely this was God’s creative provision. Thinking that no one was watching, I reached out and quickly grabbed it. However, someone was watching. Along with my Heavenly Father, my earthly father saw it (at the time, I didn’t know that he had planned to buy the toy for me on the way home from church). When we got home, I got a blistering lesson about how it’s not right to steal from God (or anybody else). I also learned that it hurts to give in to temptation!

Since I work with teenagers, I find myself talking about temptation a lot. Yet temptation is not just a teenage problem. It might look very different at different seasons in our life, but we never outgrow it.

We need to realize that temptation, at its core, is almost always a shortcut to what God has planned for us already. Jesus was tempted by satan with a shortcut to kingship, and the enemy tries to pull the same old tired stuff with us. He offers a shortcut that seems quick and easy. It’s a shortcut to meeting a need that God, because of His amazing love, has a perfect way to meet. When we give in to temptation, we accept a cheap imitation that will cost us everything!

We need to realize that God is greater than any temptation. He promises to provide, just according to His timetable, not necessarily ours. It’s a question of maturity. Do we have the maturity to wait for God’s best?

It’s also exciting that God always gives us an escape hatch. He shows us how to “get out of Dodge” by just turning around, walking away and waiting on Him to do His thing.

With more than two decades of youth ministry experience, Luke Lang leads “The Tribe” ministry to middle school students at Grace Covenant Church.

July 19, 2010

1 Corinthians 9
Pastor Jeff Allen

“Invictus” is a movie based on events in South Africa before and during the 1995 Rugby World Cup. It’s about an African rugby team that helps to bring a nation together by doing what they did best, playing rugby.

The team was not expected to make it past the quarterfinals, yet emerged in the final game against an “invincible” opponent. During overtime of that championship match, the South African captain asked his teammates, “Who’s most in shape on this field?”

You see, the South Africans had practiced harder. In fact, they were in the best shape. They won the prize that day.

Paul wrote about athletes in 1 Corinthians 9:24-27. “Remember that in a race everyone runs, but only one person gets the prize. You also must run in such a way that you will win. All athletes practice strict self-control. They do it to win a prize that will fade away, but we do it for an eternal prize. So I run straight to the goal with purpose in every step. I am not like a boxer who misses his punches. I discipline my body like an athlete, training it to do what it should…” (NLT)

It can be easy to forget that we are on God’s team. We wear His colors, bear His mark, use His team name (Christian, Christ follower, Disciple…), practice in His house (Church) and ultimately represent Him when we win. However, if we represent Him when we win, the same is true if we lose.

I’ve never been a person who said, “It’s okay that we lost today.” I’ve always gone back and looked at what could have been done differently. If it’s softball, soccer or an egg-eating contest, I want to win.

I don’t want my eternal life to be any different. I want to win. I want to be more in shape through prayer, Word, worship and a strong relationship with my God, my Coach who guides me in this life. I want that prize!

How about you? Do you want the prize…and how much do you want it?

After serving as a staff pastor in Colorado, Jeff Allen’s ministry at Grace Covenant Church focuses upon 3rd, 4th and 5th graders and their parents through “The Studio.”

July 16-18, 2010

1 Corinthians 8
Pastor JoAn Blackmon

“Where did I come from?”

“Why am I here?”

“Do I matter?”

“Is there a God?”

“Is He involved in my life?”

Surprisingly, we can find all the answers to life’s big questions in a single verse nestled in the middle of 1 Corinthians 8.

Read verse 6 slowly: “… there is but one God, the Father, from whom all things came and for whom we live; and there is but one Lord, Jesus Christ, through whom all things came and through whom we live.”

Clearly this verse tells us that…

1. There IS a God and in fact,
2. There is ONLY ONE God! Not only that, but listen to this…
3. EveryTHING is FROM God (God is the SOURCE of all things)
4. EveryONE exists FOR God and just for good measure…
5. EveryTHING and…
6. EveryONE is constantly being sustained THROUGH Jesus Christ!”

There you have it - six undeniable truths upon which you can build your life! There is a God, called Father. He is the only One in the Universe worthy of worship. He is the beginning and giver of all things…including you. Surprisingly enough, your life is not God’s gift to you. Your life is to be lived as your gift to God, because that’s WHY you exist. While the HOW of your life may still seem challenging (we all have our days!!), the promise that Jesus Christ will sustain you (that is, He will fully support, nourish, and hold you together) should start your day off rather well, I would think.

A Wisconsin native, JoAn Blackmon manages equipping and discipleship teams, oversees “Women of Grace” (women’s ministries) and serves on the weekend and midweek teaching teams.

July 15, 2010

1 Corinthians 7
Pastor Paul Glenn

In 1 Corinthians 7, the Apostle Paul reminds us that life is complicated for everyone. The complications differ slightly from single to married adults, but no one is immune. Both deal with personality differences, situations of passion, fidelity, devotion, financial requirements and other concerns. Paul makes recommendations for several situations that faced the young Corinthian Church’s members, including his personal point of view regarding marriage/singleness.

Constantly, our culture sends messages that “the grass is always greener” somewhere else, especially in relationships. However, Paul teaches in this chapter that we should be content in any situation. He recommends repeatedly that individuals should remain in their present situation (verse 17) and in doing so, God will grant grace to them and those around them.

His hope for these young believers - and my hope for you - is that we “…live in a right way in undivided devotion to the Lord.” (verse 35)

A Texas native, Paul Glenn oversees financial, property, personnel and other church business-related operations at Grace Covenant Church.

July 14, 2010

1 Corinthians 6
Mike Schwiebert

Recently I watched a “Housewives of New York” reunion special with my family. This “reality TV” was just about the worst thing I’ve ever seen. The fighting, bickering, backstabbing and whining were anything but entertainment. Their behavior was indistinguishable from two year olds.

Why was there so much drama? It all boiled down to selfishness.

On the television show, all of the participants’ bad behavior was literally recorded on camera. For some of the cast, this was the first time that they saw what the other people had really said about them. That made me think…if a camera recorded me “24/7,” I would have some ‘splaining to do too.

Paul offers a different expectation for us, as found in 1 Corinthians 6:7: “...Why not rather be wronged? Why not rather be cheated?” Ouch! This chapter exposes how our selfishness results in sin that hurts the body of Christ.

Paul removes all excuses for our selfish behavior in verses 19-20: “…You are not your own; you were bought at a price.” These are challenging words.

Let’s live up to them.

Mike Schwiebert serves as Grace Covenant Church’s Media Director, including oversight of video, audio, duplication and in-service graphic support functions.

July 13, 2010

1 Corinthians 5
Pastor Jason Yon

I’m not a big fan of confrontation. In fact, I don’t know many people who actually do like it.

However, Paul tells us in 1 Corinthians 5 that we need to confront Christians who are living in immorality. It’s never easy to confront individuals with their wrongdoing. Yet it is important that we help them to turn their hearts to God and run from their sin. “When you are assembled in the name of our Lord Jesus and I am with you in spirit, and the power of our Lord Jesus is present, hand this man over to Satan, so that the sinful nature may be destroyed and his spirit saved on the day of the Lord.” (verses 4-5)

We need to get together with the individual in sin, encourage him/her to seek the Lord for help in healing the addiction and to get help from other believers through accountability. It is important that we confront the individual in love, helping him/her to understand that God does not hate the sinner, but hates the sin. He wants everyone to be whole and healthy.

If you or someone that you know needs help with a sexual addiction, I would invite you to check out the “Pure Desire” ministry: http://www.gracecovenantfamily.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=306

A Florida native, Jason Yon oversees birth-5th grade children’s ministries and directs the “Winner’s Circle” ministry to kindergarten-2nd graders.

July 12, 2010

1 Corinthians 4
Pastor Sherli Morgan

1 Corinthians 4 is a chapter full of things that most of us don’t want to deal with or feel that we can accomplish…with phrases like these:

• “Prove faithful” - We know that God expects us to do whatever we do for Him with utmost faithfulness. Yet in today’s culture, it’s a challenge to make a commitment. The world tells us to “hold out” for something better and it will look good on our resume – something that will make us feel important. However, in God’s culture – everything that we do as unto Him is important. Why wait until there’s a need? Why expect someone else to do it, when you could? Step up & be faithful!


• “Judge nothing” - How often have we thought that we knew why someone did something, only to find out later that we were wrong? It certainly takes the pressure off if we live by what is written here: “Judge nothing before the appointed time; wait till the Lord comes. He will bring to light what is hidden in darkness and will expose the motives of men’s hearts.” (verse 5)


• “Fools for Christ” – What? At one time or another, I think that we have all been put off by the “weird” guy with the megaphone proclaiming that you’d better “get right or else.” Yet honestly, could we ever really be a “fool” if we’re telling others about the good news of Christ – about abundant life?


• “Imitate me” – This is the scariest one for me. Paul was able to make this statement because he walked close to God, spent time in God’s Word and prayer, and was aware of God’s presence in his life at all times. Are we able to say “imitate me” to others?

We’re either products of our environment, or rise above it. In this chapter, Paul tells us many truths that will allow us to rise above the environment of the world. Take on one of them today!

Sherli Morgan joined the Grace Covenant Church staff in March, and directs children’s ministries from birth-pre-K. Her greatest vacation was a “trip of a lifetime” to Alaska - relaxing, with opportunities to pick and choose what to do…and a daily nap!

July 9-11, 2010

1 Corinthians 3
Pastor Farrell Lemings

As reported in the Old Testament, there was a time when God chose to dwell among His people in the Tabernacle constructed by Moses and the Children of Israel. If you look forward in Biblical history, you will discover that the temple that King Solomon constructed was filled with God’s presence.

In 1 Corinthians 3, we read about Jesus Christ’s provision and the fact that He is our High Priest. As a result, it is a mind-boggling thought to consider that we are the temple of God. God’s Spirit dwells in us!

In 1 Corinthians 3:16, Paul states. “Don’t you know that you yourselves are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit lives in you?”

Wherever we go, God is with us and in us. We have the supernatural presence and power of God residing in our lives. When we truly grasp the greatness of this truth, it will change how we live, pray, and interact with others.

God has destined you for greatness, and has placed His greatness in your life.

An Arkansas native, Farrell Lemings is in his 15th year as Lead Pastor of Grace Covenant Church.

July 8, 2010

1 Corinthians 2
Lynell McCrary

I encourage you to read 1 Corinthians 2:4-5, with emphasis on verse 5: “…so that your faith might not rest on men’s wisdom, but on God’s power.” What does it take for our faith to “rest…on God’s power?” Does it take painful circumstances, like finding ourselves at rock bottom?

Think back to the most recent time when you recognized the Hand of God moving in your life. In my life, I tend to recognize God’s Hand more after the passing of circumstances than in the midst of tough times.

As we learn more about God’s character, we learn to recognize His voice, intentions and activity in our lives. When we recognize Him better, we see Him at work. Seeing Him at work in our lives does not necessarily mean that things will go our way, but it does mean that He is always there and will never leave us.

His faithfulness is not contingent on our recognition of Him. He doesn’t know how not to be faithful. It is who He is.

How is God showing you His faithfulness? Could it be as simple as giving you breath of life?

Did you know? For Lynell, a great vacation takes place at any beach that has water sports and unlimited frozen lemonade…spending each day with her family, playing in the water during the day and games at night.

July 7, 2010

1 Corinthians 1
Pastor Derek Floyd

With God I am always amazed. As I walked the halls of the church on a recent Tuesday morning, I pondered these questions: How did I get here? What did God ever see in me to so bless my life?

I remembered many years ago - standing before the rock band that I was a part of - and saying, “Guys, I can’t do this anymore. I’ve received Christ as my Savior and I can no longer be the lead singer of this group.”

I made no friends that day, but my life would never be the same from that moment. It was the feeling of being chosen for something greater than my own musical ambitions, and willing to do whatever it took to follow Christ.

As I sit at my desk and open the Bible to 1 Corinthians 1, these are the first words I read: “This letter is from Paul, chosen by the will of God to be an apostle of Jesus Christ and from our brother Sosthenes.”

How did we get here? You and I were chosen to leave what was and experience the things God has prepared for those who love him and are called according to His purpose.

Paul was given a special calling from God to preach about Jesus Christ. To the church at Corinth, he preached unity and the wisdom of God - always pressing forward because he was chosen. Each Christian has a job to do, a role to take, or a contribution to make. Our works may vary, but all are necessary to God’s greater purposes for His church and the world.

Wherever you are today as a follower of Christ – whether you are asking some tough questions or simply seeking to discover what He would have you to do - one thing is clear: God has chosen and gifted you, with a purpose to bless your life. We deserve nothing, yet we have everything.

You have been chosen! Are you not excited about the possibilities? He is!

Did you know? Pastor Derek’s favorite vacation times for relaxation and peace of mind take place on the streets of Disney’s Epcot Theme Park..

July 6, 2010

Romans 16
Pastor John Edwards

One of the greatest feelings is the sense of being welcomed, especially when no one knows us. It’s even better when preceded by a commendation…when someone thinks highly enough of us to attach his/her reputation with ours – or at least our potential.

A commendation communicates value. On the strength of a positive recommendation, one person may be hired instead of another. A high school senior is admitted to a college or university. A company or individual is awarded a work contract.

While reading the Romans 16 portion of Paul’s letter to part of the early Church, I’m stricken by the power of his commendations. In verses 1-15, his words express solid confidence in individuals who – through spiritual influence – were viewed as difference-makers in the Kingdom of God. What a blessing to be recommended in Christ Jesus as a fellow worker, risk taker, hard worker, ‘tested and approved in Christ,’ ‘in the Lord’ or like a parent!

It’s led me to ponder this question: If you or I moved to an area where we knew no one, what spiritual recommendation would accompany us? If that commendation is sound, God will take care of everything else.

Incidentally, it’s noteworthy that Paul used the Greek word "aspazomai” when asking believers to “greet” these individuals. The word literally means "to enfold in the arms" – like family. Who wouldn’t want a welcome like that?

Did you know? For Pastor John, a great vacation would include his wife and children on a trip along the Southern California coast, coupled with a Hawaiian cruise.

July 5, 2010

Romans 15
Pastor Wil Mouer

It’s amazing what happens when people work together for a common goal. This is not just true with spiritual things but can relate to anything in life. Any championship team at any level has to learn this principle.

I remember coaching a group of inner-city youth within a basketball league. Throughout the season, I saw their individual efforts to score the most points continue to end up in losses. I got the team together before the regional tournament and told them that they could win it if they would play together. Guess what? They did just that, and we won the tournament! The experience really taught me the power of teamwork.

Christ wants us to be united as His followers. In Romans 15:5, the Apostle Paul charges believers to ask God for a spirit of unity. Paul knew that a human tendency is to try and make it alone, and wanted them to realize how important it was to come together.

How well are you functioning in unity with other believers? Do you need to ask God for a spirit of unity? If so, take some time and ask God to work that way in your life and look for opportunities to partner with other believers to accomplish “good stuff” for the kingdom of God.

Did you know? A great vacation for Pastor Wil would involve playing golf all day on oceanfront courses before going out to eat at seafood and steak places every night.

July 2-4, 2010

Romans 14
Pastor Jon Wehner

Many of us that are getting along in years would (quite reluctantly) admit to being part of the “Vinyl Era.” Now I’m not talking about those crazy pants that you wore…but the age of the vinyl “LP” and the “45” record – where you listened to music via a record player. Some of you will remember that record companies realized that they could sell more “45’s” by having an artist’s most popular tune on the “A” side – while having a rarely listened-to track on the “B side.”

In the same way, we could view Romans 14:13 in two parts. The “A side” reads, “Therefore let us stop passing judgment on one another.” I would consider that to be an extremely “popular” scripture passage.

However, it’s the “B” section that demands my constant attention: “Instead, make up your mind not to put any stumbling block or obstacle in your brother’s way.” For me – that is the constant “tune” that I can easily apply to any relationship – whether with a Christian or non-believer.

Here’s the question, “Are our actions and behaviors constantly bringing others closer to Christ? Of course, the answer should be, “Yes.” God has equipped us marvelously through the work of His Holy Spirit.

So go ahead…turn up the volume and make the “B” side of Romans 14:13 heard clearly and consistently in your everyday experiences.

Did you know? A great vacation for Pastor Jon would be to take about 100 of his closest friends and family on a 7-day cruise. Bon Voyage!

July 1, 2010

Romans 13
Pastor Paul Turbedsky

Romans 13:9 “… Love your neighbor as yourself.”

As I read this passage, I’m reminded about an older woman who came to church regularly for decades. As she advanced in years, she became more set in her ways - always parking her car in the same space, sitting in the same spot in the same pew at the same time each Sunday (also known to ask people to move out of her seat). She always had a comment for the ushers about the temperature not being right. The music was always too loud. She rarely had a kind word for anyone.

Our paths crossed one day when I was visiting someone in a nursing home. We made eye contact, then she smiled and moved on before I could say a word. I learned later that she often came to visit people in the nursing home. She would also visit people in the hospital and follow up later in their homes. During these visits she would do anything that was needed - cutting fingernails, brushing hair, reading scripture, bringing a meal or doing laundry. I was surprised to see her in this role, serving so humbly. I didn’t expect it, given how she presented herself in other settings and what I thought that I knew about her.

This real-life example reminds me of the Good Samaritan story, as recorded in Luke 10. An expert in the law asked Jesus, “What must I do to inherit eternal life?” (Luke 10:25). Jesus asked him what was written in the law, to which the lawyer replied, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart … and love your neighbor as yourself.” (verse 27) After Jesus responded that his answer was correct, the lawyer asked, “Who is my neighbor?” (verse 29).

In this parable, the Samaritan was the “neighbor,” showing kindness to a beaten, wounded man. Within the Jewish culture, Samaritans were looked down upon…so the Samaritan’s actions were a surprise to the lawyer. In the same way, I was surprised by the kind actions of the woman who grumbled her way into church each Sunday. She was the “neighbor” to many persons.

The Samaritan and the woman got it right: they showed love and kindness to their neighbor.

To whom are you being a “good neighbor”? Do you need to be a “good neighbor” to someone? I encourage you to be bold – yet humbled - in sharing your love with others.

Did you know? A great vacation for Pastor Paul is a quiet place (mountains or beach) with his wife for sleeping, taking walks, playing cards, cooking, as well as enjoying a meal out...with no phones, computers or briefcases allowed.