I got this from my friend Bob Roberts blog. I plan on making it available for the people at Hope.
Excerpt from Asking to Win
by Bobb Biehl
Focusing ... or refocusing your life
This page holds some of my very favorite questions, collected over the past 20 years. Each has proven very trustworthy. These questions are best asked in the order presented.
1. GOD: What three changes in me would be most pleasing to God?
2. DREAM/PURPOSE: What can I do to make the most significant difference for God in my lifetime? Why am I on the earth? What is the very best organizational context for my dream?
3. PRIMARY RESULT: What is the single best measurable indicator that I am making progress toward my dream?
4. LIFE PRIORITIES: If I could accomplish only three measurable priorities (goals reached - or problems solved) before I die, what would I accomplish?
5. TEN YEAR FOCUS: If I could accomplish only three measurable priorities in the next ten years, that would make a 50% difference in my life-long contribution, what would I accomplish?
6. ANNUAL FOCUS:
SINGLE WORD FOCUS
What single word best captures the focus of my next year?
OPPORTUNITY
Where was my greatest unexpected success last year? Why was this
area so successful? What three steps could I take now to take full
advantage of this "Window of Opportunity" next year?
LAND MINES
What three land mines or roadblocks need my immediate attention?
What three changes could reduce my "risk" by 50%?
3/10/50%
If I could only accomplish three measurable priorities in the next 12
months that would make a 50% difference in my contribution over the
next 10 years, which three things would I most want to accomplish?
7. QUARTERLY FOCUS: What three measurable priorities could I accomplish in the next 90 days to make a 50% difference in the results I see by the end of the year?
8. ORGANIZATION: What three changes could I make to see a 50% difference in our morale as a family or team?
9. CASH: If I had to cut my budget 20% (or some other significant percentage), what would be the first three things to go? If I got a surprise gift of 20% of my budget, what three things would I do immediately?
10. QUALITY: What three changes could improve the quality of my work by 50% in the next 12 months?
"BIG PICTURE" PRIORITIES SHEET
(Expand to any size you like)
Priority
90 Days
One Year
Ten Years
Life
1.
2.
3.
Saturday, December 27, 2008
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
Do you think of only self?
Pretty Sad But Somehow Enlightening
Two men, both seriously ill, occupied the same hospital room. One man was allowed to sit up in his bed for an hour each afternoon to help drain the fluid from his lungs. His bed was next to the room's only window. The other man had to spend all his time flat on his back. The men talked for hours on end. They spoke of their wives and families, their homes, their jobs, their involvement in the military service, where they had been on vacation. And every afternoon when the man in the bed by the window could sit up, he would pass the time by describing to his roommate all the things he could see outside the window.
The man in the other bed began to live for those one-hour periods where his world would be broadened and enlivened by all the activity and color of the world outside. The window overlooked a park with a lovely lake. Ducks and swans played on the water while children sailed their model boats. Young lovers walked arm in arm amidst flowers of every color of the rainbow. Grand old trees graced the landscape, and a fine view of the city skyline could be seen in the distance.
As the man by the window described all this in exquisite detail, the man on the other side of the room would close his eyes and imagine the picturesque scene. One warm afternoon the man by the window described a parade passing by. Although the other man couldn't hear the band he could see it in his mind's eye as the gentleman by the window portrayed it with descriptive words.
Then unexpectedly, a sinister thought entered his mind. Why should the other man alone experience all the pleasures of seeing everything while he himself never got to see anything? It didn't seem fair. At first thought the man felt ashamed. But as the days passed and he missed seeing more sights, his envy eroded into resentment and soon turned him sour. He began to brood and he found himself unable to sleep. He should be by that window -- that thought, and only that thought now controlled his life.
Late one night as he lay staring at the ceiling, the man by the window began to cough. He was choking on the fluid in his lungs. The other man watched in the dimly lit room as the struggling man by the window groped for the button to call for help. Listening from across the room he never moved, never pushed his own button which would have brought the nurse running in. In less than five minutes the coughing and choking stopped, along with that the sound of breathing.
Now there was only silence-deathly silence. The following morning the day nurse arrived to bring water for their baths. When she found the lifeless body of the man by the window, she was saddened and called the hospital attendants to take it away. As soon as it seemed appropriate, the other man asked if he could be moved next to the window. The nurse was happy to make the switch, and after making sure he was comfortable, she left him alone.
Slowly, painfully, he propped himself up on one elbow to take his first look at the world outside. Finally, he would have the joy of seeing it all himself. He strained to slowly turn to look out the window beside the bed. It faced a blank wall.
The man asked the nurse what could have compelled his deceased roommate since he had described such wonderful things outside this window. The nurse responded that the man was blind and could not even see the wall. She said, "Perhaps he just wanted to encourage you."
Epilogue. . . .
You can interpret the story in any way you like. But one moral stands out: There is tremendous happiness in making others happy, despite our own situations. Shared grief is half the sorrow, but happiness when shared, is doubled. If you want to feel rich, just count all of the things you have that money can't buy.
Author Unknown
Two men, both seriously ill, occupied the same hospital room. One man was allowed to sit up in his bed for an hour each afternoon to help drain the fluid from his lungs. His bed was next to the room's only window. The other man had to spend all his time flat on his back. The men talked for hours on end. They spoke of their wives and families, their homes, their jobs, their involvement in the military service, where they had been on vacation. And every afternoon when the man in the bed by the window could sit up, he would pass the time by describing to his roommate all the things he could see outside the window.
The man in the other bed began to live for those one-hour periods where his world would be broadened and enlivened by all the activity and color of the world outside. The window overlooked a park with a lovely lake. Ducks and swans played on the water while children sailed their model boats. Young lovers walked arm in arm amidst flowers of every color of the rainbow. Grand old trees graced the landscape, and a fine view of the city skyline could be seen in the distance.
As the man by the window described all this in exquisite detail, the man on the other side of the room would close his eyes and imagine the picturesque scene. One warm afternoon the man by the window described a parade passing by. Although the other man couldn't hear the band he could see it in his mind's eye as the gentleman by the window portrayed it with descriptive words.
Then unexpectedly, a sinister thought entered his mind. Why should the other man alone experience all the pleasures of seeing everything while he himself never got to see anything? It didn't seem fair. At first thought the man felt ashamed. But as the days passed and he missed seeing more sights, his envy eroded into resentment and soon turned him sour. He began to brood and he found himself unable to sleep. He should be by that window -- that thought, and only that thought now controlled his life.
Late one night as he lay staring at the ceiling, the man by the window began to cough. He was choking on the fluid in his lungs. The other man watched in the dimly lit room as the struggling man by the window groped for the button to call for help. Listening from across the room he never moved, never pushed his own button which would have brought the nurse running in. In less than five minutes the coughing and choking stopped, along with that the sound of breathing.
Now there was only silence-deathly silence. The following morning the day nurse arrived to bring water for their baths. When she found the lifeless body of the man by the window, she was saddened and called the hospital attendants to take it away. As soon as it seemed appropriate, the other man asked if he could be moved next to the window. The nurse was happy to make the switch, and after making sure he was comfortable, she left him alone.
Slowly, painfully, he propped himself up on one elbow to take his first look at the world outside. Finally, he would have the joy of seeing it all himself. He strained to slowly turn to look out the window beside the bed. It faced a blank wall.
The man asked the nurse what could have compelled his deceased roommate since he had described such wonderful things outside this window. The nurse responded that the man was blind and could not even see the wall. She said, "Perhaps he just wanted to encourage you."
Epilogue. . . .
You can interpret the story in any way you like. But one moral stands out: There is tremendous happiness in making others happy, despite our own situations. Shared grief is half the sorrow, but happiness when shared, is doubled. If you want to feel rich, just count all of the things you have that money can't buy.
Author Unknown
Friday, November 21, 2008
Home from Africa
Hey Guys, just wanted to drop a line and give a big thanks to all that prayed for some pretty tough battles we had while we were in Africa. We had a grueling schedule of 13 that consisted of driving through 2 different countries 7 different stops over 500 to 650 miles of very rough roads to do the work. The mission trip was a huge success and we saw God do some amazing things. Quick picture of the trip, we saw medically over 650 people visited 3 orphanages was apart of opening a new orphanage in Nairobi Kenya, may be some pic coming up with the Associated Press in USA today. We saw at last count 80 to 90 people give there lives to Christ. We helped and are looking at being instrumental with a feeding program that feeds 450 street kids daily in Tororo Uganda. There were so many other things that have happened in these last two weeks that I am sure I will remember later, but I wanted to give you kinda of a quick over view of what happened while we were away. The 08 trip in Africa was a huge success and also came with some huge battles that God and His sovereign will accomplished. The work was very hard and very tiring and very, very, very rewarding regardless of all the obstacles that were faced. God is so Awesome and so sovereign in the work He did with 14 ragamuffins, we can only stand in amazement of what HE did not us! Next year Mount Kilimanjaro get your passports now.
I Love you Guys, byron
Just thoughts from a sinner on his way home.
peace, byron
Saturday, November 1, 2008
Headed to Africa!
Hey Guys, been a while since I have blogged anything. That is what happens when you get to busy. A group of 15 (I included) are headed to Africa to do medical mission and to start some new works, we will also be meeting with key people of new areas. Keep us and our fammilies in your prayers.
Also check out this video I got from Sam Shaw and comment on what you think about what John Piper says. I really like the last part!
Just thoughts from a sinner on his way home,
peaces, byron
Also check out this video I got from Sam Shaw and comment on what you think about what John Piper says. I really like the last part!
Just thoughts from a sinner on his way home,
peaces, byron
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
Pastors Beware!
Pastors, before you use your wife as an illustration. Got this from My friend Bob R site.
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
Stop It!!!!!!!
For those of you that struggle with different things in your life, Bob Newhart has this advise.
Monday, August 18, 2008
Friday, August 1, 2008
Hopes Newsletter Buzz
August is now here and hopefully we are now moving toward weather that is less than 100 degrees, or at least feels like 100 degrees. August is also a time when school starts back, something I am sure the kids are not excited about, but come to think of it most of them say they are ready to head back to school. August well is also a time for a new small group to begin. You have heard me talk about it, if you attend Hope Community Church, if not; the group is called “Celebrate Recovery”. This group will be an ongoing group that helps individuals deal with addictions they may have, and lets face it, I think all of us have some kind of hang ups that control our lives and enslave us. In a recent brochure I listed questions to ask yourself if this group would be for you, so here are those questions again:
Do you have trouble setting limits for yourself?
Do you sacrifice your identity, desires or needs to make others feel good about themselves or to keep the peace?
Do you struggle feeling safe when you aren’t in control?
Do you raise your voice to get your way?
Do you act kind on the outside, but feel bitter on the inside?
Do you use food, sex/pornography, relationships, alcohol or drugs to cope with life’s problems?
Do you struggle with your body image?
Do you love someone struggling with destructive behaviors, such as pornography, drugs or alcohol?
Do you live with someone who abuses you physically, sexually or emotionally or feel the continued effects from past traumas and abuse?
Don’t give up! There is Hope…
And there is Hope and I truly believe that Celebrate Recovery can help you take the steps needed for spiritual and physical healing. Group starts August 5th at 6:30 pm.
At the time of the news letter we are just finishing up our summer activities and are now looking forward to what we will do through the fall and winter. You know there is always something going on at Hope. One activity that I am sure you will want to be part of is the signing of the deed to our land over to Hope Community Church. We are trying to schedule this event in October look for more developing information for this event. I hope it will be cool enough then.
I ask that you please be in prayer for those in our community that are being affected by our struggling economy, and for the important elections that are coming up. We have those that now having to make difficult decision of weather to move and relocate, because of job situation, to those that cannot find gainful employment. Please be in prayer for our brothers and sisters that are facing these tough decisions. I know that God is sovereign and in control and that anything that comes in our lives are for His glory. At the writing of this news letter some of the group from Hope went to hear a Muslim converted to Christianity give his testimony, and through his hardships that he went through resulted in him being able to say thank you and bless you to his enemies. This is something very hard for us to understand, but as a result of his suffering many Church’s are in existence and Christian schools are now in Pakistan. What a great testimony of what the enemy meant for evil God used for good. (Romans 8:28)
I Love you Guys, byron
Saturday, July 26, 2008
Do you want to be a Church Planter?
Here are twenty questions to ask yourself if you think you want to be a Church Planter: The questions came from Act 29 ministry. They were voiced by Scott Thomas.
Before we begin, as one of my asides, I want to remind you that there are lots of other ways you can serve God in an established church or a church plant apart from being the senior leader. Some very good pastors would make bad church plant leaders. That call from God you have to do church planting might be a call to go join a team led by another man to help plant a church, or it might actually be a call to stay so others can go. Please pray as you work through this list that God will either confirm your call or show you that you are not meant to lead a church plant after all.
1. Am I a Christian? — This is a good place to start! Integrity is critical!
2. Am I passionately in love with Jesus, and is he the Lord of my life in every area? Don't skip these! People plant churches who never open the Bible or pray. Some big churches are led by people who may not even be Christians! Jesus must be the most important thing in your life. Your life must be built on Jesus only such that nothing else is enough, and even if family and possessions are taken away, you will still have the grace of God resting on your life, you will have hope, and you will be able to say “That’s enough.” IF Jesus is in you and you love and follow him, people will be drawn to you.
3. Do I believe his Word, and does it affect my life deeply? It's not enough to just have good sermon material; it has to flow from your heart. The Word needs to speak to you, and you need to talk out of the abundance of his Word.
4. Am I Spirit-filled, Spirit-led, Spirit-directed, and Spirit-controlled? We want to be witnesses, but we have tendencies to lean on our own ideas and abilities. He will give you all you need, and give you the place and the way to go about it. The church planter needs to be an empowered man. The Spirit needs to be working in and through you and be dripping out. That’s the Holy Spirit I want!
5. Am I qualified as an elder? Timothy and Titus talk about these things. Study them carefully, assess yourself. They both say that to be above reproach is the over-arching thing — you have to be above reproach. There isn’t an exhaustive list of things, they overlap, but the key is to be above reproach. Here are some "for instances" of how to be above reproach: the husband of one wife, no one else in your head, your heart, your eyes, on that screen—none. Totally focused and satisfied in that one woman God has brought to him. Marriage can be a struggle. But you cannot stray, even an inch. Forgiveness is required for marriage. Children should be in submission. Need to be a pastor-dad.
6. Do I love the local church as an expression of a gospel community on a mission? The church brings hope, forgiveness, and community, etc. This is an expression of the gospel. Stop dating the church as Josh Harris said. It's not an institution, but Christ's body.
7. Am I a missionary to the city? Am I sent for the advancement of the gospel in the city? If you are a church planter, you have to be a missionary. Every pastor needs to see themselves as a missionary. For the glory of God and the good of the city. Don't be someone who wants to start something because of "me" and my desire to be recognized. It's not about me, or success. It's about exalting the grace of Jesus.
8. Do I have a clear vision for this new work? Nehemiah had to have a vision of a complete wall. Not take a survey. The city is in ruins, It's time to build. You know you have a vision when people around you say, “Let's do that.” People need to be following you.
9. Am I wiling to pour myself out in obedience to the vision?
10. Am I healthy physically, emotionally, financially, spiritually, relationally, maritally, mentally?
11. Am I the kind of leader many people will follow? Have I served as some form of church leader successfully?
12. Can I preach effectively? You don't have to hit it out of the ball park every time. But you do have to hit singles pretty regularly. The pulpit is the rudder that steers the church.
13. Can I guard the doctrinal door with biblical clarity and tenacious confidence? When you start a church, you'll have new people with new ideas for which they got kicked out of their old church. You have to be able to guard the doctrinal door, squash doctrinal error—not arrogantly, but being sure of what the Word of God says and being able to articulate that in a winsome way.
14. Can I architect a new work with entrepreneurial skill? What have you started successfully? Some men can't see the vision of what is to come, and some—even if they see the vision—can't find the steps towards the vision. If you can't be the architect, then you are in trouble. As an example, some very pastoral people are NOT the best people to start a church, or at least not as the main team leader. Be clear about who you are. If you're a shepherd, counselor, care-giver, and you could be a success doing those things in an established church or as part of a team, then that is where you should be. Someone who is called to plant a church is frustrated if they don't do it. Number two guys don't always make good number one guys. As an aside, for my English readers, the example that struck me was this (and blame me for this one, not Scott) — Gordon Brown was perceived widely to be a good chancellor, but when he became Prime Minister he has been widely perceived to be a bad one.
15. Am I called to plant a church at this time and in this place? Calling is a top issue. Not called when things are going badly. The call of God usually comes when things are going really well. It needs to be a ministry to God, not to anyone or anything else. 2 Corinthians 7:6-8, 7:13; 2 Corinthians 8:6, 8:16-17. You need to be someone who says because of your own personal calling, I need to do this.
16. Have my church leaders commended me for this calling? What do they think of you? Are they recommending you?
17. Am I a hard worker? Am I persevering?
18. Am I adaptable to new people, places, and concepts? If you don't like change, you don't like church planting! If you are the kind of person who goes into the fetal position, you're probably not a church planter
19. Can I raise the funds required for my family's needs? Can I still be there for my family? Anyone who won't provide for his family is worse than the ungodly. You also need to be there for your family. Your children need a father more than the city needs a church.
20. Am I humble enough to learn from others — particularly from those who have gone ahead of me in different areas? This is one of the issues we call "stallers" and "stoppers." You need to be coachable, teachable. If you're not teachable, your church will stay stunted in its growth. The local church makes the audible gospel visible. It's a glorious thing.
What if I'm called? What if I'm not sure? What do I do?
1 Timothy 4:12. “Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith, and in purity.” Right now, no matter where you are, what you're doing, begin to build that into your life, begin to look into your own life, and set the believers an example in these areas. Don't neglect your gift. Practice these things. Devote yourself to them. Make it evident that Jesus Christ is the most important thing in your life. Listen to the calling of God. Examine your life. Examine your family. Then obey, and get ready for the ride of your life!
Before we begin, as one of my asides, I want to remind you that there are lots of other ways you can serve God in an established church or a church plant apart from being the senior leader. Some very good pastors would make bad church plant leaders. That call from God you have to do church planting might be a call to go join a team led by another man to help plant a church, or it might actually be a call to stay so others can go. Please pray as you work through this list that God will either confirm your call or show you that you are not meant to lead a church plant after all.
1. Am I a Christian? — This is a good place to start! Integrity is critical!
2. Am I passionately in love with Jesus, and is he the Lord of my life in every area? Don't skip these! People plant churches who never open the Bible or pray. Some big churches are led by people who may not even be Christians! Jesus must be the most important thing in your life. Your life must be built on Jesus only such that nothing else is enough, and even if family and possessions are taken away, you will still have the grace of God resting on your life, you will have hope, and you will be able to say “That’s enough.” IF Jesus is in you and you love and follow him, people will be drawn to you.
3. Do I believe his Word, and does it affect my life deeply? It's not enough to just have good sermon material; it has to flow from your heart. The Word needs to speak to you, and you need to talk out of the abundance of his Word.
4. Am I Spirit-filled, Spirit-led, Spirit-directed, and Spirit-controlled? We want to be witnesses, but we have tendencies to lean on our own ideas and abilities. He will give you all you need, and give you the place and the way to go about it. The church planter needs to be an empowered man. The Spirit needs to be working in and through you and be dripping out. That’s the Holy Spirit I want!
5. Am I qualified as an elder? Timothy and Titus talk about these things. Study them carefully, assess yourself. They both say that to be above reproach is the over-arching thing — you have to be above reproach. There isn’t an exhaustive list of things, they overlap, but the key is to be above reproach. Here are some "for instances" of how to be above reproach: the husband of one wife, no one else in your head, your heart, your eyes, on that screen—none. Totally focused and satisfied in that one woman God has brought to him. Marriage can be a struggle. But you cannot stray, even an inch. Forgiveness is required for marriage. Children should be in submission. Need to be a pastor-dad.
6. Do I love the local church as an expression of a gospel community on a mission? The church brings hope, forgiveness, and community, etc. This is an expression of the gospel. Stop dating the church as Josh Harris said. It's not an institution, but Christ's body.
7. Am I a missionary to the city? Am I sent for the advancement of the gospel in the city? If you are a church planter, you have to be a missionary. Every pastor needs to see themselves as a missionary. For the glory of God and the good of the city. Don't be someone who wants to start something because of "me" and my desire to be recognized. It's not about me, or success. It's about exalting the grace of Jesus.
8. Do I have a clear vision for this new work? Nehemiah had to have a vision of a complete wall. Not take a survey. The city is in ruins, It's time to build. You know you have a vision when people around you say, “Let's do that.” People need to be following you.
9. Am I wiling to pour myself out in obedience to the vision?
10. Am I healthy physically, emotionally, financially, spiritually, relationally, maritally, mentally?
11. Am I the kind of leader many people will follow? Have I served as some form of church leader successfully?
12. Can I preach effectively? You don't have to hit it out of the ball park every time. But you do have to hit singles pretty regularly. The pulpit is the rudder that steers the church.
13. Can I guard the doctrinal door with biblical clarity and tenacious confidence? When you start a church, you'll have new people with new ideas for which they got kicked out of their old church. You have to be able to guard the doctrinal door, squash doctrinal error—not arrogantly, but being sure of what the Word of God says and being able to articulate that in a winsome way.
14. Can I architect a new work with entrepreneurial skill? What have you started successfully? Some men can't see the vision of what is to come, and some—even if they see the vision—can't find the steps towards the vision. If you can't be the architect, then you are in trouble. As an example, some very pastoral people are NOT the best people to start a church, or at least not as the main team leader. Be clear about who you are. If you're a shepherd, counselor, care-giver, and you could be a success doing those things in an established church or as part of a team, then that is where you should be. Someone who is called to plant a church is frustrated if they don't do it. Number two guys don't always make good number one guys. As an aside, for my English readers, the example that struck me was this (and blame me for this one, not Scott) — Gordon Brown was perceived widely to be a good chancellor, but when he became Prime Minister he has been widely perceived to be a bad one.
15. Am I called to plant a church at this time and in this place? Calling is a top issue. Not called when things are going badly. The call of God usually comes when things are going really well. It needs to be a ministry to God, not to anyone or anything else. 2 Corinthians 7:6-8, 7:13; 2 Corinthians 8:6, 8:16-17. You need to be someone who says because of your own personal calling, I need to do this.
16. Have my church leaders commended me for this calling? What do they think of you? Are they recommending you?
17. Am I a hard worker? Am I persevering?
18. Am I adaptable to new people, places, and concepts? If you don't like change, you don't like church planting! If you are the kind of person who goes into the fetal position, you're probably not a church planter
19. Can I raise the funds required for my family's needs? Can I still be there for my family? Anyone who won't provide for his family is worse than the ungodly. You also need to be there for your family. Your children need a father more than the city needs a church.
20. Am I humble enough to learn from others — particularly from those who have gone ahead of me in different areas? This is one of the issues we call "stallers" and "stoppers." You need to be coachable, teachable. If you're not teachable, your church will stay stunted in its growth. The local church makes the audible gospel visible. It's a glorious thing.
What if I'm called? What if I'm not sure? What do I do?
1 Timothy 4:12. “Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith, and in purity.” Right now, no matter where you are, what you're doing, begin to build that into your life, begin to look into your own life, and set the believers an example in these areas. Don't neglect your gift. Practice these things. Devote yourself to them. Make it evident that Jesus Christ is the most important thing in your life. Listen to the calling of God. Examine your life. Examine your family. Then obey, and get ready for the ride of your life!
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
Revelation
This week I am sending you some info I received from a friend at Southwestern. It is a link to some great seminar by Dr. G. K. Beale on the book of Revelation, and it’s much more than that. Dr. Beale takes a considerable amount of time to interpret elements that set up some major steps in Revelation, such as the temple, mankind as image bearers of God, and the mantle of Adam as figured by Noah, Abraham and the patriarchs. He also shows how the Jewish Temple is a picture of Eden, and a prefiguration of Christ and the Holy Spirit in believers. Just go to this link and get your Bibles and pens out. http://www.desertspringschurch.org/beale/
Thoughts from a sinner on his way home.
Peace, byron
Thoughts from a sinner on his way home.
Peace, byron
Sunday, July 13, 2008
Hope for Africa
We had our first golf scramble for our African mission work. We raised about 7500.oo dollars! Not bad for our first! We are going to make this an annual event. Thanks to everyone that had a hand in the scramble and please be praying for the work this will fund in November.
Love you Guys, byron
Sunday, June 29, 2008
Mind, Matter, Spirit
For the last few months these subjects have been on my heart and my thinking. There is a real dimension that I long to be with my Christian walk. That is the life of totally living with the Holt Spirit guiding my every step. Let me give you what I have been given so far. My mind and matter is very easy to walk in, because every thing that happens in my life is approached in one of these realms; but not the spirit. This is the hardest for me to walk in and if you were honest it is for you too. If you really study the life of Jesus you find that His life was lived totally lead by the spirit and the proof is in what He did. Have you ever wondered why Jesus did not just wave His hand and heal every person with a physical problem, but only healed the ones that asked of Him healing? Could it be that Jesus knew that the power and the truth and happiness is found in the Spiritual and not in the Mind and Matter? Helen Keller said: “The most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or touched; they must be felt with your heart.” What Helen Keller experienced and what Jesus wants for you and I is to experience the truth that this world cannot offer. The truth I am referring to is a spiritual reality that exists through living and walking in the Kingdom of God here and now. Jesus said we are to seek first the Kingdom of God and the physical will be added, or will be taken care of itself. The apostle Paul puts it this way,
“17For momentary, light affliction is producing for us an eternal weight of glory far beyond all comparison, 18while we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen; for the things which are seen are temporal, but the things which are not seen are eternal. 2 Corinthians 4:17-18
I say all of this to say, don’t get so worked up about what we face in this life, about the uncertainty of what will take place in the mind, and matter. Instead we should make it a priority to focus on the spiritual that will free us and allow us to really experience the truths of the living God. I mean it was Jesus that said, and you will know the TRUTH and the TRUTH will set you free. Are you Free?
“17For momentary, light affliction is producing for us an eternal weight of glory far beyond all comparison, 18while we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen; for the things which are seen are temporal, but the things which are not seen are eternal. 2 Corinthians 4:17-18
I say all of this to say, don’t get so worked up about what we face in this life, about the uncertainty of what will take place in the mind, and matter. Instead we should make it a priority to focus on the spiritual that will free us and allow us to really experience the truths of the living God. I mean it was Jesus that said, and you will know the TRUTH and the TRUTH will set you free. Are you Free?
Sunday, June 22, 2008
Vacation!!!
Going on a much needed vacation! One of the reasons I haven't been able to blog. Because of the busyness of life. I really feel that I could be on the point of frying. Just keep me and my family in your prayers as we head out. I will for sure come back re-energized and ready to go. Love you Guys, byron
Thoughts from a sinner on his way home.
peace, byron
Thoughts from a sinner on his way home.
peace, byron
Friday, May 30, 2008
Kingdom of God!
Luke 17: 20 -21Jesus, grilled by the Pharisees on when the kingdom of God would come, answered, "The kingdom of God doesn't come by counting the days on the calendar. Nor when someone says, 'Look here!' or, 'There it is!' And why? Because God's kingdom is already among you."
Have you every thought what Jesus meant when He said the Kingdom of God is already among you, or as some translation state "in you". This week as I have been struggling through this thing called life, I was reminded of this verse. With the problems of the world the chaos happening throughout the world, earthquakes, cyclones, tornadoes, our economy out of control, gas 4 bucks a gallon and still climbing, food prices on an increase, people left and right losing their homes. And the question I have as all of you have is why? Why are we in the place we are as a nation and as a world? I really think the answer comes from the Kingdom of God in you. In my last post I blog about the importance and the reality of Repenting. Not to sound like a broken record, but repent (“metanioa” which is the greek word for repent, that means a change of mind),
is the key to experiencing the Kingdom of God in you. It is a changing of the mind and operating the way God operates, through love, joy, peace, grace, goodness, compassion, and freedom. When you change your mind you switch over to Christ operating system. Let me speak to you about the down fall of America and how I believe we came to where we are today.
President of the United States Bill Clinton was impeached by the House of Representatives on December 19, 1998, and acquitted by the Senate on February 12, 1999. The charges, perjury and obstruction of justice, arose from the Monica Lewinsky scandal and the Paula Jones law suit. The trial proceedings were largely party-line, with no Democratic Senators voting for conviction and only five Democratic Representatives voting to impeach. In all, 50 senators voted "not guilty," and 50 voted "guilty" on the obstruction charge. The Senate also acquitted on the charge of perjury with 55 votes cast as "not guilty," and 45 votes as "guilty."
I am truly not trying to make a political statement about what happened in 1999, but I am stating as a nation because we placed a man above the law we have placed ourselves above God, because there is no one above the law but God (Hebrews 7). And why did we as a nation agree with the decision that was made? Mainly because we in our own sad state agree with the fact that if we can get away with wrong actions we will. Our only Hope is to take on the mind of Christ. Transferring what our heart thinks into our mind and not the other way around, because our mind has been programmed by this world. One of the reasons I struggle through this thing called life. When Christ becomes real in our heart there is a freeing that takes place and a life that is free to experience the Kingdom of God here and now. It is then we walk by faith and not by sight. But it all begins with a changing of the mind!
Just thoughts from a sinner on his way home.
Peace, byron
Have you every thought what Jesus meant when He said the Kingdom of God is already among you, or as some translation state "in you". This week as I have been struggling through this thing called life, I was reminded of this verse. With the problems of the world the chaos happening throughout the world, earthquakes, cyclones, tornadoes, our economy out of control, gas 4 bucks a gallon and still climbing, food prices on an increase, people left and right losing their homes. And the question I have as all of you have is why? Why are we in the place we are as a nation and as a world? I really think the answer comes from the Kingdom of God in you. In my last post I blog about the importance and the reality of Repenting. Not to sound like a broken record, but repent (“metanioa” which is the greek word for repent, that means a change of mind),
is the key to experiencing the Kingdom of God in you. It is a changing of the mind and operating the way God operates, through love, joy, peace, grace, goodness, compassion, and freedom. When you change your mind you switch over to Christ operating system. Let me speak to you about the down fall of America and how I believe we came to where we are today.
President of the United States Bill Clinton was impeached by the House of Representatives on December 19, 1998, and acquitted by the Senate on February 12, 1999. The charges, perjury and obstruction of justice, arose from the Monica Lewinsky scandal and the Paula Jones law suit. The trial proceedings were largely party-line, with no Democratic Senators voting for conviction and only five Democratic Representatives voting to impeach. In all, 50 senators voted "not guilty," and 50 voted "guilty" on the obstruction charge. The Senate also acquitted on the charge of perjury with 55 votes cast as "not guilty," and 45 votes as "guilty."
I am truly not trying to make a political statement about what happened in 1999, but I am stating as a nation because we placed a man above the law we have placed ourselves above God, because there is no one above the law but God (Hebrews 7). And why did we as a nation agree with the decision that was made? Mainly because we in our own sad state agree with the fact that if we can get away with wrong actions we will. Our only Hope is to take on the mind of Christ. Transferring what our heart thinks into our mind and not the other way around, because our mind has been programmed by this world. One of the reasons I struggle through this thing called life. When Christ becomes real in our heart there is a freeing that takes place and a life that is free to experience the Kingdom of God here and now. It is then we walk by faith and not by sight. But it all begins with a changing of the mind!
Just thoughts from a sinner on his way home.
Peace, byron
Wednesday, May 14, 2008
Repent!!!!!
John the Baptist preached "Repent for the Kingdom of God is at hand". Jesus preached "Repent for the Kingdom of God is here". Through out the New Testament the message has been Repent, which is the Good News of the gospel. So why when you saw the opening caption of this blog you were hit with negativity in your mind. Not just you but I thought the same thing. It is because we have this idea that repent is met with the screaming, red face preacher yelling REPENT OR DIE. Especially here in the south, but the Good News from the New Testament is actually "Repent and Live" When we hear the word Repent it should be understood as a positive part of being freed from the things of this world, the only reason we see repenting as negative is because we are not willing to let go and turn from the things we think is giving us life. And as a result we continue to stay in bondage to what keeps us enslaved, the world! What would happen if you took the first step of repenting of what is keeping you enslaved, allowing God through the power of His Spirit to set you free from whatever has gotten a hold in your life and then walking toward Him and not away from Him. I believe you will find a peace that you may have not experienced before. So try this "Repent and Live" and I know you will experience that Kingdom of God now.
Just thoughts from a sinner on his way home.
peace, byron
Saturday, April 26, 2008
I can resist anything except temptation!
Hebrew 4: 14Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession. 15For we do not have a high priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but One who has been tempted in all things as we are, yet without sin. 16Therefore let us draw near with confidence to the throne of grace, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.
Isn't it great to know that we have a Savior that has went through this life yet He did not sin. That's because He experienced temptation and did not give into it, that we can hold fast to His faith, and not get pulled to the dark side.
So why do I find myself so enticed by the things of this world? Why can't I resist everything except temptation? Why do I find it hard to say Jesus loves me? Think about it when you get around people and you start talking about Jesus, how many times do you utter those words? "Jesus loves me! Or do we, as I often do, say "Jesus loves us" I have no trouble with saying Jesus loves all of us, but when it comes to me I find it hard to say Jesus loves me. I guess it is because I know myself so well and I know if Jesus knew me like I knew me, He wouldn't want to love me. But here is the crazy thing about that, He does! He does know me! He knows all the dark and hideous things about me and still chooses to love me. Crazy isn't it? And here is really what is crazy about that He loves you and me right now even with all of the struggles we are going through, He loves us and He does not want us to be alone. That is why He came to be our High Priest. He now sits by God and says I love you and I hear you. Let My grace wash over you and give you rest from this world. Quit trying to do it on your on. Lean on Me and not on your own understanding of this life. Jesus tells you and I to come to His throne of Grace and Mercy and find comfort and just hang out. I think that is just what I am going to do, just hang out at the feet of my High Priest and know that Jesus Loves ME!
Just thoughts from a sinner on his way home,
Peace, byron
Isn't it great to know that we have a Savior that has went through this life yet He did not sin. That's because He experienced temptation and did not give into it, that we can hold fast to His faith, and not get pulled to the dark side.
So why do I find myself so enticed by the things of this world? Why can't I resist everything except temptation? Why do I find it hard to say Jesus loves me? Think about it when you get around people and you start talking about Jesus, how many times do you utter those words? "Jesus loves me! Or do we, as I often do, say "Jesus loves us" I have no trouble with saying Jesus loves all of us, but when it comes to me I find it hard to say Jesus loves me. I guess it is because I know myself so well and I know if Jesus knew me like I knew me, He wouldn't want to love me. But here is the crazy thing about that, He does! He does know me! He knows all the dark and hideous things about me and still chooses to love me. Crazy isn't it? And here is really what is crazy about that He loves you and me right now even with all of the struggles we are going through, He loves us and He does not want us to be alone. That is why He came to be our High Priest. He now sits by God and says I love you and I hear you. Let My grace wash over you and give you rest from this world. Quit trying to do it on your on. Lean on Me and not on your own understanding of this life. Jesus tells you and I to come to His throne of Grace and Mercy and find comfort and just hang out. I think that is just what I am going to do, just hang out at the feet of my High Priest and know that Jesus Loves ME!
Just thoughts from a sinner on his way home,
Peace, byron
Monday, March 31, 2008
Waiting
Today I am in Tupelo Ms. my father is haveing open heart surgery. What I am finding out is that when you are not on the go and you are forced you can actually slow down and find time to do things, (if you have a computer) Waiting for me is not a strong point in my life the thing that I am learning is to take time and really relax in the greatness of God. We at Hope are going through a new series of the Bible. We are going through Hebrews and I am learning a great deal about the greatness of God and the Passion of our King and Preist. As I was stating this Sunday that Hebrews is a great message of Love,, Hope and Freesom. The Love that was expressed to all on the cross. The Hope that we have through our relationship with Jesus. And the freedom we have to over the addictions that can plauge our life. I hope that all of you have a great day and that if you are at Hope Church, you will face the challenge of spending time with God each day this week. That you will look at your walk with Jesus as a relationship and not some religious ritual you think you have to go throuh.
I Love you Guys,
Just thoughts from a sinner on his way home,
peace, byron
I Love you Guys,
Just thoughts from a sinner on his way home,
peace, byron
Thursday, March 13, 2008
“Life make it Count" From our church newsletter
We just met for our upcoming youth/children camp that will take place during our kid’s spring break and we came up with our theme for the camp. It’s Life: Make it Count. I think it is a great theme for our kids and for us as well. Our kids are just beginning and they have the rest of their life to make a difference. We on the other hand have been given a very important duty to live out the life we have been granted no matter how long it is. It would be a great shame to abuse, or to ignore the great gift we have been given and we have an obligation to God and to those around us to make a difference. The people we admire the most are the ones that used their life to make a difference from the ones that sacrificed it all to those that are willing to make a difference behind the scenes. The ones that are willing to make a difference behind the scenes are the ones that are willing to watch and serve children, clean up and serve, pray without being prompted, to putting the ramblings of a pastor together in newsletter form. Do not think that your service and your dedicated lives go unnoticed.
“42 And if you give even a cup of cold water to one of the least of my followers, you will surely be rewarded.” Matthew 10: 42
We are being observed as we go about our life and as we serve a great God.
1Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. 2Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, Hebrew 12: 1-2
I do know that life can throw some very unexpected curves our way and I do know where those curves come from. As you begin to dedicate your life to serving and to making your life count it will come with obstacles, but don’t lose heart, because the one that began that good work in you will complete it to the end. Just remember to stay faithful and make your life count looking forward to our rescue and completion that is very near.
Just thoughts from a sinner on his way home
peace byron
“42 And if you give even a cup of cold water to one of the least of my followers, you will surely be rewarded.” Matthew 10: 42
We are being observed as we go about our life and as we serve a great God.
1Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. 2Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, Hebrew 12: 1-2
I do know that life can throw some very unexpected curves our way and I do know where those curves come from. As you begin to dedicate your life to serving and to making your life count it will come with obstacles, but don’t lose heart, because the one that began that good work in you will complete it to the end. Just remember to stay faithful and make your life count looking forward to our rescue and completion that is very near.
Just thoughts from a sinner on his way home
peace byron
Friday, February 29, 2008
Back From Africa!
My Friend JD arrived safely home from Africa this week and I had a chance to visit with him. Things are truly as bad as we see on TV. He told me that he could not believe the brutality of racism that breeds from hate and the sad part is it is hate from the same color. It is not the racism that we experience here in the states. The men of one tribe (Kikuyu) are told to abandon their wives of another tribe (Luhya). This was the situation that arose for George a pastor of the church we work with. I love this man's faith and I love his heart. He told the haters "I married a woman not a tribe!" go George! Another friend of ours (Diammus)is beginning a new work in another low impoverished area. One of the reasons for JD's visit was to help get this new work started. The person they were going to rent from was of the Kikuyu tribe and Diammus is Luhya. JD told me that the renter was requiring 6 months rent in advance for the place for the group to meet at. JD had the money ready to give the money to the man when he had a change of heart. The man opened up and let them know he was planning on taking the money for rent and go buy weapons and when they came to meet, he was going to kill them. I do know that God is still at work, but I ask that you still pray for the people of Kenya. They are talking peace now but the repercussions from what has already happened is still very much in play.
Just thoughts from a sinner on his way home,
peace, byron
Just thoughts from a sinner on his way home,
peace, byron
Tuesday, February 5, 2008
My Friend!
There is a a lot going on in Kenya and a lot of the things that are happening that is an uncertainty for their future. My friend JD Ballinger is headed there this month (Feb) to check on a couple of churches and orphanages we work with. The main reason he is going is because of our concern for our brothers and sisters there, and because God is leading him to go. I am asking that you lift him up in your prayers and that you continue to pray for the people of Kenya. God has called us to be salt and light to this world and to focus first on the Kingdom of God. There are many spiritual battles that are taking place all around us and we have the calling to be the change agent for God. JD is very passionate about the Kingdom work he does around the world and should be an example to us all. He is making a difference here and abroad. Ask yourself this week have I made a difference even in the community I live in? I hope the answer is "Yes"
Just thoughts from a sinner on his way home,
Peace, byron
Just thoughts from a sinner on his way home,
Peace, byron
Monday, February 4, 2008
Information from Kenya, Please pray!
This is a letter from my mentor (Bob Roberts) blog site. It comes from a pastor that is in the middle of what is going on in Kenya. As you read this you will get a greater understand of the violence that is taking place in Kenya and why.
For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places.
As you read this letter please pray for our brothers and sisters to be strong in the spiritual battle they are facing!
“Hi. I had promised to write and let you know how you can help us in these difficult days. On Thursday last week, a number of pastor’s met asking – “What more can the men & women of God do in our present crisis? What more can the church do? After much discussion they agreed to do 5 important things within the next 1 – 3 month.
1. Mobilize the church to spiritually cleanse this nation. Before the election several politicians engaged the help of a well-known witchdoctor from Tanzania, to come and pray over the towns and provinces they were claiming victory over. The witchcraft was conducted in Kisumu, Eldoret, Nairobi and Mombasa – the very epi-centers of the violence we have experienced. What demonic influence did that act unleash upon this nation? How do we close the floodgate or portal that he opened up? And what of the floodgates that have been opened out by the bloodletting, the killing and the burning of churches?
Our politicians will broker for peace; the business community to restart business, but only the church can cleanse this nation spiritually. If we do not do so – people will turn back to the old ways, charms and witchcraft for spiritual protection against the evil that has been unleashed.
In preparation for the spiritual cleansing, Christians will be called to a concerted, unified time of fasting and prayer.
2. Mobilize churches to take in Internally Displaced People. Nakuru is full, and cholera is a real risk. Tigoni got 7,000 new IDP’s last week because of new threats to certain tribes. It is the same all around the country. We need to open up our church doors, and allow these houses of God to be ‘shelters’ in this hour of need. Let people associate the Church with mercy and help. If we play safe with our buildings, or do not want the inconvenience – God may well declare ‘Icabod’.
But what if a church is not an ideal set-up for IDP? Compared with where they are staying right now, almost all our churches are much better places. Karura Community Church shared their story. They are in a tent, with prefab Sunday School buildings, but they still took in 250 people. God has blessed them in amazing ways as a result.
1. A borehole has now been installed for them since they did not have enough water for the IDP’s.
2. Someone has erected a fence around their property to help define the grounds for the IDP’s.
3. They are not well known in Runda and had intended to reach out to the community and increase their visiobility this year; but because they took in the IDP’s, the Runda Welfare Association wrote to all the homes in Runda asking them to visit Karura and help the IDP’s. In one fell stroke they are now known in all the homes in Runda in very positive light.
4. The rural villages along Limuru/Banana road used to say Karura is for ‘rich folks’. But because they took in the IDP’s, many residents in the area have reviewed their perception of the church, and have been visiting to help.
5. KP&L also installed a 3-phase electrical connection to help them have more power.
We can all try and do more for the internally displaced people. Many do not even want to “stay” in a camp, they just want help to go home squared. Many others are pleading for a little help and capital to rent a room for 3 months, and to restart up their business ventures asap. What can each church do?
3. Use the Media to speak a message of hope to the nation. There are far too many negative stories in the paper, and not enough stories of Christians helping others; stories of grace, etc. We will use the media (even if it means purchasing space) to tell positive stories, give pastoral letters, mobilize the churches to act as one, etc. We shall also work to have a voice in the local community FM stations, especially in the rural areas.
4. Mobilize the church to Community Networking. one church told how, when pamphlets started going around threatening people of a certain community, how it had called together all the church leaders in the community and agreed they would not allow the community to be ruled by fear. So the leaders went out into the community and started encouraging people on the streets, meeting places, etc to reject division, embrace tolerance, and actively reach out to one another . . . and it worked. They then teamed up with the DO, Chief, etc and have instituted a community program to make people positively aware on what their community will stand for. We can network other churches and interested parties for peace.
5. Mobilize the church for a Caravan of Hope. The pastor’s agreed to mobilize 200 – 500 pastors from all over Kenya to conduct a Caravan of hope march from Mombasa to Nairobi to Nakuru to Eldoret to Kisumu, visiting all the hot-spots, conducting cleansing services, counseling the traumatized, bringing food and supplies and hope to the displaced, comforting the bereaved, healing the sick.
Because this is a statement by the church, on a national scale, hopefully ministering to the whole nation, the desire will be to mobilize as many pastors as possible, to dress in collars, and to minister together as a sign of unity, doing that which only the church can do. 500 ministers together would speak to this nation.
The caravan will take a week from Mombasa to Kisumu. This is not a physical march, but a caravan of vehicles. The caravan will mobilize the local pastors of these places, and as the church of Kenya, commission them to go after the cleansing, and cleanse other areas in their province, hence covering a much wider area.
We are also suggesting that the “Caravan of Hope” mobilize funds and rebuild the AOG church that was burnt down in the Rift Valley, plus build a memorial for the many who died there as they sought shelter in the house of God.
Secretariat - To make all this possible, it was suggested that a secretariat be set up with the sole purpose of mobilizing the church and planning logistics. The secretariat will be led by those pastors who are willingly give up their usual church work and focus on this single task alone (because they cannot ably fulfill their church responsibilities AND ALSO run the secretariat, without burning out).
The purpose of the secretariat will not be to highlight any particular church or denomination, but to mobilize the goodwill and participation of as many churches and ministers as possible, so we can act together as the church in Kenya. Once this work is done, the secretariat will disband. Work will begin immediately with those already available.
I will serve as a point person at the secretariat as my co-pastors have graciously freed me to mobilize others. Already 30 members of Chapel have also volunteered to serve full-time at the secretariat. Several computers and office equipment/desks have also been donated. We are presently looking for offices to set up this week.
Can I plead with you to be help us with this effort? Our biggest need will be funds to mobilize the whole church, and funds to care for and feed the displaced people we take in or minister to. We also need you to pray – mobilizing the church without falling into the battle of disunity & personal agenda’s will take the Lord . . . but we must try, and we must believe that the church of Christ can rise above that for the sake of the nation. Pls help if you can.
Sincerely,
Pastor Oscar Muriu
For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places.
As you read this letter please pray for our brothers and sisters to be strong in the spiritual battle they are facing!
“Hi. I had promised to write and let you know how you can help us in these difficult days. On Thursday last week, a number of pastor’s met asking – “What more can the men & women of God do in our present crisis? What more can the church do? After much discussion they agreed to do 5 important things within the next 1 – 3 month.
1. Mobilize the church to spiritually cleanse this nation. Before the election several politicians engaged the help of a well-known witchdoctor from Tanzania, to come and pray over the towns and provinces they were claiming victory over. The witchcraft was conducted in Kisumu, Eldoret, Nairobi and Mombasa – the very epi-centers of the violence we have experienced. What demonic influence did that act unleash upon this nation? How do we close the floodgate or portal that he opened up? And what of the floodgates that have been opened out by the bloodletting, the killing and the burning of churches?
Our politicians will broker for peace; the business community to restart business, but only the church can cleanse this nation spiritually. If we do not do so – people will turn back to the old ways, charms and witchcraft for spiritual protection against the evil that has been unleashed.
In preparation for the spiritual cleansing, Christians will be called to a concerted, unified time of fasting and prayer.
2. Mobilize churches to take in Internally Displaced People. Nakuru is full, and cholera is a real risk. Tigoni got 7,000 new IDP’s last week because of new threats to certain tribes. It is the same all around the country. We need to open up our church doors, and allow these houses of God to be ‘shelters’ in this hour of need. Let people associate the Church with mercy and help. If we play safe with our buildings, or do not want the inconvenience – God may well declare ‘Icabod’.
But what if a church is not an ideal set-up for IDP? Compared with where they are staying right now, almost all our churches are much better places. Karura Community Church shared their story. They are in a tent, with prefab Sunday School buildings, but they still took in 250 people. God has blessed them in amazing ways as a result.
1. A borehole has now been installed for them since they did not have enough water for the IDP’s.
2. Someone has erected a fence around their property to help define the grounds for the IDP’s.
3. They are not well known in Runda and had intended to reach out to the community and increase their visiobility this year; but because they took in the IDP’s, the Runda Welfare Association wrote to all the homes in Runda asking them to visit Karura and help the IDP’s. In one fell stroke they are now known in all the homes in Runda in very positive light.
4. The rural villages along Limuru/Banana road used to say Karura is for ‘rich folks’. But because they took in the IDP’s, many residents in the area have reviewed their perception of the church, and have been visiting to help.
5. KP&L also installed a 3-phase electrical connection to help them have more power.
We can all try and do more for the internally displaced people. Many do not even want to “stay” in a camp, they just want help to go home squared. Many others are pleading for a little help and capital to rent a room for 3 months, and to restart up their business ventures asap. What can each church do?
3. Use the Media to speak a message of hope to the nation. There are far too many negative stories in the paper, and not enough stories of Christians helping others; stories of grace, etc. We will use the media (even if it means purchasing space) to tell positive stories, give pastoral letters, mobilize the churches to act as one, etc. We shall also work to have a voice in the local community FM stations, especially in the rural areas.
4. Mobilize the church to Community Networking. one church told how, when pamphlets started going around threatening people of a certain community, how it had called together all the church leaders in the community and agreed they would not allow the community to be ruled by fear. So the leaders went out into the community and started encouraging people on the streets, meeting places, etc to reject division, embrace tolerance, and actively reach out to one another . . . and it worked. They then teamed up with the DO, Chief, etc and have instituted a community program to make people positively aware on what their community will stand for. We can network other churches and interested parties for peace.
5. Mobilize the church for a Caravan of Hope. The pastor’s agreed to mobilize 200 – 500 pastors from all over Kenya to conduct a Caravan of hope march from Mombasa to Nairobi to Nakuru to Eldoret to Kisumu, visiting all the hot-spots, conducting cleansing services, counseling the traumatized, bringing food and supplies and hope to the displaced, comforting the bereaved, healing the sick.
Because this is a statement by the church, on a national scale, hopefully ministering to the whole nation, the desire will be to mobilize as many pastors as possible, to dress in collars, and to minister together as a sign of unity, doing that which only the church can do. 500 ministers together would speak to this nation.
The caravan will take a week from Mombasa to Kisumu. This is not a physical march, but a caravan of vehicles. The caravan will mobilize the local pastors of these places, and as the church of Kenya, commission them to go after the cleansing, and cleanse other areas in their province, hence covering a much wider area.
We are also suggesting that the “Caravan of Hope” mobilize funds and rebuild the AOG church that was burnt down in the Rift Valley, plus build a memorial for the many who died there as they sought shelter in the house of God.
Secretariat - To make all this possible, it was suggested that a secretariat be set up with the sole purpose of mobilizing the church and planning logistics. The secretariat will be led by those pastors who are willingly give up their usual church work and focus on this single task alone (because they cannot ably fulfill their church responsibilities AND ALSO run the secretariat, without burning out).
The purpose of the secretariat will not be to highlight any particular church or denomination, but to mobilize the goodwill and participation of as many churches and ministers as possible, so we can act together as the church in Kenya. Once this work is done, the secretariat will disband. Work will begin immediately with those already available.
I will serve as a point person at the secretariat as my co-pastors have graciously freed me to mobilize others. Already 30 members of Chapel have also volunteered to serve full-time at the secretariat. Several computers and office equipment/desks have also been donated. We are presently looking for offices to set up this week.
Can I plead with you to be help us with this effort? Our biggest need will be funds to mobilize the whole church, and funds to care for and feed the displaced people we take in or minister to. We also need you to pray – mobilizing the church without falling into the battle of disunity & personal agenda’s will take the Lord . . . but we must try, and we must believe that the church of Christ can rise above that for the sake of the nation. Pls help if you can.
Sincerely,
Pastor Oscar Muriu
Friday, February 1, 2008
When your race is finished!
My mother called me last night to let me know a family friend had finished his race. She said that while he laid in the hospital bed that he told his wife that he was seeing a beautiful light pointing toward the wall. She looked that way and said "I don't see any light." He said it is right there, point toward the wall, "It is the same light I saw 13 years ago" he said, that is when he trusted Christ. He then started singing Amazing Grace, and for the next few hours he continued singing Amazing Grace till he slipped from this life to the next. Each nurse that came in to check on him asked "Is he singing Amazing Grace?" A testimony as he passed away.
This morning while Cindy and I was getting ready and talking we looked at a blog that Dorothy Newman had sent us (http://www.cold-water-news.blogspot.com/). A close friend of hers daughter had finished her race last week at the age of 28. She was a strong Christan lady with a husband that has the character and attitude that can only come from a close and intimate walk with Jesus. Reading and hearing the words he spoke at her funeral reveals his close walk with God. As my friend that passed away their words, weather sung or spoken, are a true testimony to us all. This life is only temporary, but what is to come is eternal.
This has got me to really thinking about my own race and really having a strong desire to finish my race well. And the only way I can finish well is to be the example of the love that God demonstrated on the cross, agape love! Thinking of others more then I do myself, letting Jesus love those that are around me through me. Loving the unlovely! Opening my life up in such a way that when the voice of God is spoken to me, I act immediately. I don't know if you have given this much thought, but as I walk through this life I see sooooooo many people that are living for this time and moment and I think they are really missing what is most important, "Life" Because their so wrapped up in this life they are missing true life.
My prayer this morning as I begin my day is God share your Love to someone through me today. God make Hope Community Church the church that always reaches out to the unlovely and to the down and out and keeps loving people our main focus. God walk with me so that I may truly experience life!
That is my prayer for you as well!
Just thoughts from a sinner on his way home,
peace, byron
Saturday, January 26, 2008
Where am I and who are these people?
This morning I woke up when the alarm went off, and laid in bed for 5 minutes trying to think of why the alarm went off, what day is it, and who's house am I in? Then to top it off, who am I? Sounds crazy right, but I bet if you were honest you've had mornings like too. I knew there was something that I was suppose to do, but because my week has been so busy it all seems to run together. Then I remembered today is Angel Food day at our church and a day to help a brother in need move, also a day to complete the sermon for Sunday. Then I became stressed with the thought of how I might get all this done. Isn't it amazing how much stress we put ourselves under. We think that we are able to go wide open and do all the things we use to do when we were in our early 20s'. My son Cody came home Thursday night and shared with me and Cindy that his boss collapsed at work. He works at a new grocery store and I have commented many times that the three guys that opened that store along with their other three stores are pushing themselves to the breaking point. Something we all do and don't even realize it. About three years ago I did a sermon series on the stress within us and how dangerous it can be. I referred to statistics that even back this up that our work is the major killer in America, causing a great deal of stress. Our life is like a rubber band and we are about ready to break. We all need to take time to slow down and take some down time and just watch a sunset, or go to a park and take a walk in God's creation. I guess what I am saying is don't let life take you out of the game. Take time to refresh so that you can be your best for God. I know I am!
Just thoughts from a sinner, on his way home.
peace byron
Just thoughts from a sinner, on his way home.
peace byron
Tuesday, January 15, 2008
Post from my mentor.
Hey Guys, I wanted to post a post from my mentor from Texas. He is in Jerusalem right now and he gives some very encouraging words of what is taking place there; and some very challenging words for us to reach the world with the Love of Jesus Christ. I love and am challenged by his closing statement especially during a political year.
Evangelical American Pastors - Meet Evangelical Palestinian Pastors!
posted January 10, 2008 by Bob Roberts Jr.
Yes, they really exist! I wanted to post a picture, but didn’t want to make their life anymore difficult than it is, already. They love God, they are evangelical, they were born in different parts of Israel and the West Bank, their families have been there for centuries and millenias and they are the most effective representation and the best hope of Jesus Christ in that part of the world today. My meetings with them were beyond incredible. They have suffered rejection, abandonment, and isolation for one simple reason–they were born Palestinians. One leading evangelical who met with them a couple of years back was happy they were Christians but at the conclusion of the meeting told them they needed to move to Jordan or somewhere else. How absurd and utterly ignorant of the Great Commission and God’s call for all peoples.
One of the pastors told me, “We are the only nationality in the history of Christianity where other Christians have told us we should leave and are the obstacle to the fulfillment of the Great Commission. Instead, they would rather work with non-believers who have rejected Christ who are not involved in the Great Commission instead of working with us.”
There are some Muslims that have made life difficult for them and there are some Israeli’s that have made life difficult for them. But, the greatest rejection, and most painful of all, has been that of their Christian brothers from the church in the West. It’s not just rejection though, it’s oblivion. Most, in the West, do not realize that there is a growing and emerging church in the West Bank, despite all the thousands of Palestinian Christians that have come West. There are about 3,000 Christians that live in Gaza. Many of them could leave and live here, but they feel called to stay to be witnesses to Christ. Their life is very difficult, but if they leave who will share the light and love of Jesus? I met 8 pastors in Bethlehem. I was impressed with every single one of them. They are educated, effective, and passionate. They are closer to the culture than anyone else. Does Jesus love Palestinians and Jews? Does He want there to be a light and witness whether men accept Him or reject Him? Were there conditions to who could fulfill the Great Commission or was it really the call of all believers?
In Nazareth, I visited with one Palestinian Christian leader who feels God has called the Palestinian Christians to fulfill the Great Commission in the whole of the Middle-East. He told me, who is better situated, connected, and able to speak the Good News of Christ than they are. He’s not just mouthing. He has actions to back up his talk–and more to come. Wouldn’t it be just like God to use the “least” of the Palestinian Christians to bring peace to the Holy Land with the Messianic Jews!!!!!!!! WOW, these are all the sons of Abraham! Wouldn’t it be just like Jesus to heal a rift and use the least likely to see the transformation of a nation and part of the world?
These are courageous men of vision who are giving their entire lives that make all our little “missional” discussions look little and goofy. One of the most exciting things of all I saw was a Palestinian pastor speaking at a Messianic congregation. The two pastors embraced and have become very close friends. They don’t agree on everything–BUT, they do agree that they are brothers in Christ and must respect each other–enough that they share pulpits and work together. I’m convinced the greatest hope for Peace in Jerusalem and Israel and the West Bank is going to come from Christians who live there, who are reconciled to each other and are providing an example and model of how they live together. If Christian brothers from both sides are willing to work together there why shouldn’t we?
Bethlehem Bible College also blew me away. I saw the future church of the Holy Land and the Middle East and was excited. These young men and women love God, are filled with passion, and are smart and gifted. Of all the church planters and young leaders I know in the US, they stand head-to-head and shoulder-to-shoulder to the very best here in the West–if not even taller! The reason is, not only are they smart and gifted, but they choose to stay and live in difficult circumstances which has a massive impact on character and maturity. This is why Jesus says the first will be last and the last first. Their names will not be as well known as some here in the West, but the sacrifice and effectiveness goes beyond anything we know here. You can legally start churches in the Palestinian territories, which has been done, and many of these are being trained to do just that. They also get engagement, whether it’s reconciliation exercises they are involved in, or serving the poor–you name it. Here in the US, I’m always told, “when our church gets bigger and we have more money then we’ll start churches and start engaging.” I’m glad they don’t talk that way or believe that–they wouldn’t be doing all the things they’re doing now. BTW one of the churches has sent a “missionary” to America!!!!!! He happened to be “home” the Sunday I spoke at one of the churches and he was there.
I always talk about lessons from the church in the East–this is where we, in the West, have it really wrong–our failure to recognize and connect deeply with believers in the West Bank. We’re still trying to drive foreign policy through speculative theology. I don’t know how Jesus will return; I do know He’s called all of us to share the good news of who He is and to serve others. I don’t know when He will return; I do know what He’s called all of us to do until He comes. We have traded the Great Commission for the sake of an eschatological foreign policy. Jesus told Peter to put down his sword–He put the ear back on the soldier. He is about an eternal kingdom. He will come at the behest of the father, not the contrivings of religious power brokers trying to play global politics.
We must support Israel. They are a nation of people that will be represented in eternity for whom Christ died. But we must also support the Palestinians, a nation of people that will be represented in eternity for whom Christ died. Anything less is a rejection of what God has called all believers to do. They want reconciliation–shouldn’t we? Does the Kingdom of God flourish and transform the world by love and reconciliation, or by hatred and power politics? Easy answer–look at the cross . . .
Part 2 - Palestinian & Messianic & American Evangelicals
posted January 14, 2008 by Bob Roberts Jr.
Can the seed of the Gospel of the Kingdom of God work in Jerusalem? It must. If it can’t work there it can’t work anywhere. E. Stanley Jones wrote that the reason the Gospel of the Kingdom spread like it did was because it started in Jerusalem. Had it started in Galilee it may have only been viewed as a cult or another would be messiah, but the fact that it took root in Jerusalem–the hardest place for it to take root–meant that it could and would work anywhere. If the Gospel only works in the easy places, then how strong is the Gospel. But if the Gospel is the Gospel, then difficulty is no issue.
Where in the world is there anymore conflict? Where would more glory to God be brought than if Jesus were to be the determining factor of peace in Israel? In terms of war, conflict, destabilization, there is no place on the face of the earth more important than Jerusalem and Israel. If you solve that problem, you solve much of the problems of the Middle-East. I know, many middle-eastern nations use that just as an excuse. Well, let’s take that excuse off the table.
Jesus was about reconciliation–not war. Not saying there are not just wars. I am saying when I read or hear leading “evangelical” TV personalities, pastors, and evangelist and others calling for unilateral strikes on nations “in the name of God,” I shake my head. I have a hard time picturing Jesus sitting behind the control panel of a missile launching site! Our first response must be reconciliation. Isn’t this what we’ve been called to do?
I was visiting with a Congressman and he was in a prayer meeting of believers in government praying for the peace process, and one intercessor literally began to pray against it! How can that be? What Christian religious insanity would pray against peace. That goes against everything Christ taught and practiced.
2Cor. 5:18 Now all these things are from God who reconciled us to Himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation, 19 namely, that God was in Christ reconciling the world to Himself, not counting their trespasses against them, and He has committed to us the word of reconciliation. 20Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were making an appeal through us; we beg you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God.
Another question. Are we one body or two? Read this passage–look:
1. It’s always been about Faith–OT and NT
2. Sons of Abraham of those who put their faith in God regardless of race.
3. Abraham was a promise to all nations, not just one.
4. Jew and Greek, Male and Female, all the same now.
5. We are all heirs of Abraham!
Gal. 3:6 Even so Abraham BELIEVED GOD, AND IT WAS RECKONED TO HIM AS RIGHTEOUSNESS. 7 Therefore, be sure that it is those who are of faith who are sons of Abraham. 8 The Scripture, foreseeing that God would justify the Gentiles by faith, preached the gospel beforehand to Abraham, saying, “ALL THE NATIONS WILL BE BLESSED IN YOU.” 9 So then those who are of faith are blessed with Abraham, the believer. 10 For as many as are of the works of the Law are under a curse; for it is written, “CURSED IS EVERYONE WHO DOES NOT ABIDE BY ALL THINGS WRITTEN IN THE BOOK OF THE LAW, TO PERFORM THEM.” 11 Now that no one is justified by the Law before God is evident; for, “THE RIGHTEOUS MAN SHALL LIVE BY FAITH.” 12 However, the Law is not of faith; on the contrary, “HE WHO PRACTICES THEM SHALL LIVE BY THEM.” 13 Christ redeemed us from the curse of the Law, having become a curse for us—for it is written, “CURSED IS EVERYONE WHO HANGS ON A TREE”— 14 in order that in Christ Jesus the blessing of Abraham might come to the Gentiles, so that we would receive the promise of the Spirit through faith.15 Brethren, I speak in terms of human relations: even though it is only a man’s covenant, yet when it has been ratified, no one sets it aside or adds conditions to it. 16 Now the promises were spoken to Abraham and to his seed. He does not say, “And to seeds,” as referring to many, but rather to one, “And to your seed,” that is, Christ. 17 What I am saying is this: the Law, which came four hundred and thirty years later, does not invalidate a covenant previously ratified by God, so as to nullify the promise. 18 For if the inheritance is based on law, it is no longer based on a promise; but God has granted it to Abraham by means of a promise. 19 Why the Law then? It was added because of transgressions, having been ordained through angels by the agency of a mediator, until the seed would come to whom the promise had been made.20 Now a mediator is not for one party only; whereas God is only one. 21 Is the Law then contrary to the promises of God? May it never be! For if a law had been given which was able to impart life, then righteousness would indeed have been based on law. 22 But the Scripture has shut up everyone under sin, so that the promise by faith in Jesus Christ might be given to those who believe. 23 But before faith came, we were kept in custody under the law, being shut up to the faith which was later to be revealed. 24 Therefore the Law has become our tutor to lead us to Christ, so that we may be justified by faith. 25 But now that faith has come, we are no longer under a tutor. 26 For you are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus. 27 For all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ. 28 There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free man, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus. 29 And if you belong to Christ, then you are Abraham’s descendants, heirs according to promise.
Paul wrote the church at Galatia because it tried to go back to the past, and he said no–the Kingdom of God is more than a physical place, the temple is now in our hearts. Jesus didn’t do away with the Old Testament or law, he merely fulfilled it.
When I was in the old city–Jerusalem, I bought a ceramic tile that is framed. it’s an Armenian Christian’s rendering of the old city and Bethlehem divided by a wall and written on the wall is Eph. 2:14 “For He Himself is our peace, who made both groups into one and broke down the barrier of the dividing wall. . . ”
Neither suicide bombers or 30 foot tall walls turning communities into virtual prisons and ghettos will solve the problem–only make it worse. SO HOW CAN WE AS BELIEVERS BE A PART OF THE RECONCILIATION PROCESS . . . I HAVE SOME IDEAS - I’LL TELL YOU MINE IN MY NEXT BLOG - TELL ME YOURS TODAY!!!!!
Sunday, January 6, 2008
New Birth!
One of my best friends is launching a new church today. I am so excited as if I am launching a new church. Cindy and I and some of the people from Hope are going down to Amory Mississippi to be with this great day for Life Pointe Church. Rob Westbrook is the planting pastor and he is also a world missionary, and a great friend. He and I grew each other in the faith, working together at tire factory we challenged and keep each other accountable for what God wanted to do with our lives. Rob and I even left Cooper Tire at the same time to pursue Seminary. He is New Orleans and I in Fort Worth Texas. Robs Blog is part of my favorites, check out what they are doing when you get the chance. Please keep this new church in your prayers as they advance the Kingdom of God in Amory Mississippi and also in the World. Life Pointe I love you Guys and I am praying for the great work God is going to do through all of you.
Just thoughts from a sinner on his way home,
Peace, byron
Just thoughts from a sinner on his way home,
Peace, byron
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