Live Like You Were Dyin’

Solomon’s message to us in response to the inevitability of a physical death is to embrace life. His message, though seemingly depressing, is a hopeful one for a number of reasons. We know God has us in His loving hands. We know that we have hope in Him. We have the ability – knowing that our death is one day coming – to live vicariously for Jesus. We can celebrate the good gifts our Creator has given to us. He mentions gifts of food, drink, friendships, celebrations, marital relationships, and an honest day’s work. It’s as if Solomon is saying, “Redeem the routines, make the ordinary extraordinary, seize the day, live like you were dyin’!” And do this because life is so short – just a blip on the screen, really – and its end can come at any moment.

Thankfully, we have a hope in Jesus and in the life He gives us today and in all eternity. But until then, may we live life to the fullest and allow that to be our worship to God.

Live Like You Were Dyin'
Ecclesiastes 9:1-12

Is it me or does it seem like the older you get the faster time goes? When I was a kid, the summer lasted forever. It was like an entire age in itself. Today, summer comes and goes and I barely have a chance to notice. The reality is our lives are short and death is inevitable. I know…super encouraging, huh? You’re thinking, 'Well, I’m not coming this Sunday to hear what that’s all about…'

Let me encourage you, even though Solomon is challenging us to consider the inevitable end of our life, he has a hopeful message. It’s a “carpe diem” message, which is Latin for “seize the day.” It’s the type of message that makes you want to give in to your kid’s wishes and read one more book at bedtime. It’s a message that will encourage you to gather with friends and family and say nice things about each other. It points to the reality that while we’re living, we have a responsibility to redeem the routines of our lives and through that worship God.

I hope to see you Sunday!

Russ Parker, Pastor of Administration

Living Under Authority
Ecclesiastes 8:1-17

I can still remember just like it was yesterday one of my first encounters with an authority other than my parents. I was in junior high and it was during a P.E. class. I can’t remember what I did to deserve it, but I was told to bend over, grab my ankles, and get ready for a swat. When that swat came it hurt worse than anything I had ever felt before. I think it nearly knocked me over, but it was exactly what I needed to learn an important lesson about living under authority. I'm pretty sure they don't swat students anymore, but as I look back on that experience it was a good one that helped me learn to live under authority.

How are you with living under authority? Does it come easy, no problem? Or do you have a hard time submitting to those in authority over you? This week Solomon has some things for us to consider when it comes to living under authority, as well as dealing with the injustices in “The Game of Life.” Hope to see you this week.

By the way, don’t forget to go out to Chick-fil-A at The Colonies tonight and support our Kenya Team as you enjoy a dinner out!

Pastor Gary

Have you ever walked on a balance beam? Whether you have or not, I can tell you that it is one of the more stressful things in life. Even though the fall would not be great, there is still this anxiety that overwhelms you as you take steps across that skinny beam, fighting to keep your balance.

Many people, some even call themselves Christians, choose to live their lives on that beam in between truly following Christ and doing whatever they (and the world) feel like doing. Not only is this something that God has some pretty strong words about, it will also hold us back from the promise of life that those who commit themselves to Christ can experience. Instead of peace, there is the constant tension of keeping that balance. Instead of hope, there is anxiety knowing that living on the edge this way is not pleasing to God and not fulfilling for us. Yet so many people choose this kind of life.

Sometime before this weekend, read chapter 7 in Ecclesiastes and come ready to be challenged to get off the line and commit!

See ya Sunday,
Jeff

Choosing the Way We Live
Ecclesiastes 7:1-14

It is impossible to determine for sure, but most agree that we literally make thousands of choices everyday. These choices can range from the simple everyday things, like which can of tomato soup do I buy, to how I respond to that temptation that is right in front of me. Some choices are not life-changing, while others can affect our lives forever, but in either case it is true that the choices we make everyday, big or small, have a lasting impact on our lives. That makes it so very important to know how to make choices that bring us health and wholeness and happiness.

How do you go about making the thousands of choices you face everyday? Do you have some guidelines for success? Do you just “shoot from the hip?” How does your knowledge of the Bible come into play here? Do you ever ask other people for advice?

This week in our study of Ecclesiastes, Solomon gives us some answers to the question he left us with at the end of chapter 6: How can we live well during our few and passing days on this earth? This week we’ll learn six important choices we can make that will help us find success in life. 

I can’t wait! Hope to see you Sunday!

Gary Keith

A recent article was just published revealing the five best toys (play things) of all time.

1. A stick
2. Box
3. String
4. Cardboard Tube
5. Dirt

Remember when any one of these were all you needed to really enjoy yourself? When did life get so much more complicated? When did we lose the ability to be satisfied with anything less than the best, most modern, high tech stuff out there? Now don't get me wrong, I love all my iStuff just as much as anyone, but am I able to be content and enjoy anything less if that is what God has for me?

This weekend we are going to look at what Solomon calls a "sickening tragedy" in relation to a person's inability to enjoy the blessings of God.

So go read Ecclesiastes 6. You might even try reading it through a cardboard tube while sitting on a box in the dirt using a stick to help you keep your place and putting a string in your Bible to mark your spot until Sunday. :)

See ya Sunday! 

Jeff

This week's "Reflection" by Gary Keith, Lead Pastor

Satisfaction Sold Separately
Ecclesiastes 5:8-20

Sometimes it seems the way Christians talk about the Bible and money, you can feel like it is wrong to have lots of money. There can be this attitude that being wealthy and being a Christian is an oxymoron – that the two do not go together. This week as I looked at verse 19 of chapter five, Solomon seems to make it clear that being wealthy can be a good thing. In fact, he says people should enjoy their wealth. That caught me off guard a bit.

The problem with money comes when we make it our God, when we start pursuing it above anything else, or when we start devoting our entire life to getting more of it. Apart from that, being wealthy is a good thing. For the wealthy person who has the right perspective and uses that wealth to honor God, money can be a good thing. I guess what Solomon is saying is that it is not so much how much you have, but the focus of your life – is it God or money? What do you think? Can being wealthy be a good thing in the eyes of God?

Satisfaction Sold Separately
Ecclesiastes 5:8-20

The Game of Life – A big player for all of us in the game of life is money. We need it to live. We pursue it so that we can accumulate as much of it as possible. We think it brings security to our life. We think it will give us what we need to have a happy life. We never quite have enough of it. We take some of it and try to use it to get more of it. We spend it on the necessities of life. We spend it on things we really don’t need but want. We give some of it away. We fight over how to spend it with our spouses. We hurt others in the pursuit of it. We use it to accomplish good.

I could go on, but I think you get the idea that money is a BIG part of our lives. Solomon knew that as well and has some important cautions for us to consider as we think about money – because when it comes to money “Satisfaction is Sold Separately!”

Gary Keith

This week's "Reflection" by Jeff Taylor, Pastor of Teaching & Worship

It is so easy to make promises, yet often so hard to follow through. It can be so tempting to believe that we can make all sorts of outlandish promises to God, believing that somehow He does not know the true intent of our heart. Religiosity and rituals can often look like enough to convince God and others that our relationship with God is authentic, but the honesty of our heart reveals it is just a show. Our intentions may be good in the moment - especially moments of desperation - but I am challenged to consider what my rash promises reveal about my faith in God. If I feel I need to do something extreme so that God will do what I want Him to, what does that say about my trust that God is a good God and will do whatever is needed to bring about life and wholeness in a situation? My prayer for my life, and for yours, is that we would be slow to speak, quick to listen, and always open to inviting the Holy Spirit into our lives and situations, allowing Him to do the work necessary for us to find contentment in what we have, and see that He has an eternal plan that we get to have a part in.

This week, take some time to get quiet before God. Silence is difficult for most people, but God has proven over and over again to be faithful to reveal Himself top those who will wait on Him. He is the source of our strength. He is our eternal hope. He is the author of peace that goes beyond our understanding. He is the beginning and the end, and has invited us into a relationship with Him. Let’s do less talking, and more listening for His voice and guidance in our lives.

10. It answers the “I’m bored” problem.

9. Something to look forward to for five evenings.

8. Great music!

7. Hands-on, wild Bible adventures.

6. Make new friends/see old friends.

5. A new missions project to be involved in.

4. You too can be a star in our Spotlight Drama.

3. Enjoy the crazy and zaney adventures of Chadder.

2. Bamboo Blast Games.

1. You get to spend time learning about our Amazing God!

Don’t forget, parents, grandparents, and friends are invited to join us each evening at 8:30 p.m. when we have the Rowdy Wrap-Up – a daily celebration of God’s love!

Mark these dates on your calendar: Monday, June 27-Friday, July 1. The fun begins each evening at 6 p.m. and ends at 9 p.m. There is no charge for VBS. Registration forms are available by calling the church office @ 981-4848, ext. 242 or you can register directly online at lbfchurch.com/vbs. Preregistration ends Friday, June 15. Registration will be taken each night of VBS as well to accommodate new friends.

"God, if you will just _________, I promise I will ____________!" Ever made a statement like this? Have you ever promised God something with the hope of getting Him to work something for your favor? Can God be manipulated this way? And what if you can't/don't follow through with our promise? Does God just let it go?

This weekend we jump into chapter 5 of Ecclesiastes where we will look at the caution of Solomon about empty promises and meaningless vows to God. Take a few minutes and read Ecclesiastes 5:1-7, and begin considering what God wants to speak to us this weekend.

See ya Sunday,
Jeff

This week's "Reflection" by Gary Keith, Lead Pastor

Which One is Better?
Ecclesiastes 4:1-16

In this passage after observing life “under the sun,” Solomon asked four “which one is better” questions. He looked at life and compared one issue with another and came to his conclusions about how to live. Probably the most familiar part of this chapter deals with the idea that two are better than one.

In case you’ve never heard this before, humans were not created to be alone. We are wired to be part of a community. What Solomon wanted to remind everyone was is that we are not made to live or work alone. This flies in the face of something we American’s are known for – individualism – but this is not how God wants us to live. So let me ask you, are you in community with other people? Do you have people in your life that can protect you and help you in your times of need? Do you have people in your life that can help you when you fall?

If not, what are your plans to solve this problem? What are you going to do to start being part of a community of people? Remember as we live our life two is better than one, and three is better yet!

Which One is Better?
Ecclesiastes 4:1-16

Comparisons. Everybody I know makes comparisons. We are continually asking ourselves, “Which one is better?” Was it the movie or the book? Is it Michael Jordon or Lebron James? Is it a Ford or Chevy? Is it chicken or steak? Is it an iPhone or is it an Android phone? Which one is better?

This week in our series called “The Game of Life,” we see that Solomon makes comparisons as well. In four different areas he asks, “Which one is better?” Not only does Solomon ask the question, but based on his observations of life, he shares with us his opinion about which is better. This week we will look at these four observations of life “under the sun” and find out which one is better. Hope to see you this Sunday!

Gary Keith

It has been about two months since the elders announced that we would be searching to hire a primary teaching pastor to add to our teaching team and handle a majority of the messages for the weekend services, as well as create curriculum for other teaching opportunities within the church. This decision was made in cooperation with Pastors Jeff and Gary to allow them to focus on the other crucial areas of ministry in the church – overseeing worship and lead pastor duties respectively. Jeff and Gary will still be part of the teaching team and will teach periodically throughout the year, though with reduced frequency. Although change can be difficult for some, we are confident that this is where the Lord is leading LBF at this time, and the elders are excited about what God is going to do. We hope you are excited with us as we anticipate how God will move in this area.

Many of you have asked about the status of our search for a new Primary Teaching Pastor, so I thought it would be good to bring you up to speed on where we are in this process currently and what the next steps will be.

After posting the job on multiple pastoral job search websites, so far we have received more than 120 resumes from applicants literally from around the world. Pastors from India, the Philippines, Africa, and Canada have submitted their resumes, as well as people from all over the U.S. The first stage of the process has been to evaluate each resume, as well as audio and video teaching samples of each candidate. We’re seeking a person who is qualified educationally, experienced vocationally, connected culturally, and pastorally minded. It has been very interesting seeing the broad range of styles and teaching techniques used in churches across our country and around the world, and evaluating how it would or would not fit in the context and culture of LBF. At this point, we will be narrowing the field from over 120 to between seven and ten.

The next step will be to submit those 7-10 resumes and teaching samples to a subcommittee of church members that will evaluate them and bring a recommendation to members of the Elder Board. The subcommittee will narrow the field to two or three, who will then be presented to the entire church on selected Sundays so that the whole body will have an opportunity to be part of this process. Some of you have expressed interest in being part of the member subcommittee via K.I.T. cards as we have asked, and once we have narrowed the field we will contact you in regards to participation and meetings. If you would like to be considered for this committee, please let us know by writing “Search Committee” on a K.I.T. card on Sunday. Please understand that not everyone will be selected to be on the committee as we will need to keep it to no more than 10.

Thank you for all of the encouraging words and emails as we move through this process. It is exciting to see people excited about new things that God has for us as a church. As we have said before, we are not in any hurry as we want to be sure that the man we hire is the one that the Lord has for us. Please be praying for the elders and eventually the member subcommittee, that we will have wisdom and discernment as the Lord leads us through this process. If you have any questions, you can email them to elders@lbfchurch.com, or pick up the information letter that we made available to the church originally and can now be found online at lbfchurch.com/resources#articles.

If you have ever played "The Game of Life," you know there are all kinds of events that sneak up on you that you never saw coming. That spin of the wheel can bring prosperity or disaster. We may be okay with the outcome, or it may cause us to want to quit the game. But is the real game of life really determined by the random spinning of a universal wheel? How do we walk out our faith through seasons of pain, struggle, or even prosperity?

We are all familiar with the concept of "right place, right time" or "wrong place, wrong time," but as we look at Ecclesiastes chapter 3, we will see Solomon's perspective on the timing of all things under Heaven.

This week, read Ecclesiastes 3:1-22 and come ready to allow God to reveal His sense of timing to your heart. (You'll also find out why I hate crossword puzzles!)

See ya Sunday,
Jeff

On Saturday, May 7, the quite fashionable moms, the children, and their friendly stuffed friends came ready to have a wonderful tea. Gracious servers kept the tables stocked full of delicious sandwiches – cucumber and cream cheese, egg salad, and PB & J! There were yummy scones and strawberry jam, fresh strawberries and crème, as well as Grandpa’s Cinnamon Bears and Oatmeal & Raisin Cookies. Of course, no tea is complete without assorted hot teas for Mom and lemonade and apple juice for the children.

We had a short program with Debbie Smith playing the guitar and leading us in some fun songs. Then the children told us the best thing about Mom.

We gave away five Build-A-Bear gift certificates for The Most Loved, Best Dressed, Funniest, Sweetest, and Cutest stuffed friends.

We finished our time together with a craft made especially for the Tea by Sherry Schuster. It seemed that every minute was full of activity and fellowship.

The Mommy, Teddy & Me Tea would not have been a success without the wonderful help of Lydia Phares, Tammi Strasen, Alice Weissmann, Sherry Schuster, Donald Goodwin, Annie Williams, Lyric Ellis, Whitney Zeimis, Bob Palmer, and Debbie Smith. Thank you!

This week's "Reflection" by Gary Keith, Lead Pastor

Working Things Out
Ecclesiastes 2:12-26

In the “Game of Life,” work takes up about a third of our time. It’s probably the single largest time block of any thing we do in “The Game of Life.” With that in mind, how do you like the way you are spending 33% of your life? Are you one of those people who say, “Take this job and shove it?”

In our passage Solomon has just finished talking about how wisdom and work do not give meaning to life, and then suddenly changes his attitude in verses 24 and 25 when he said, “I realized that these pleasures (food, drink, and work) are from the hand of God." Solomon makes it very clear that when God is in the mix, it changes everything.

Here we are on a Monday morning and most of us are back at our jobs. So how does including God in the mix of our job experience make it different? Is this a new thought for you? Or have you figured out ways to “take this job and LOVE it” as you include God in the mix? What are some of the ways that including God in the mix helps give meaning to our work?

Working Things Out
Ecclesiastes 2:12-26

The financial and employment chaos of the last few years has caused scores of people to question what they really want out of life and work. What about you? What gives you value? Where are you looking to find fulfillment and meaning? What defines you? Is it about climbing the work ladder? Is it having the perfect job? Would you consider yourself a workaholic? If so, why is that? We have a need to work things out.

Solomon has been searching for life’s meaning, but believes everything is pointless. So far in our study he has looked for life’s meaning apart from God in wisdom and in pleasure, but he still thinks it is all meaningless. This Sunday we will see Solomon’s search continue as he looks for life’s meaning in work.

Gary Keith

Have you ever uttered the words, "If I had a million dollars..."? Have you ever seen something and thought, "If I had one of those, then..."? Rock stars, movie stars, business moguls, and lottery winners seem to have everything one would need to have happiness, contentment, and purpose in their life, yet how many times have we seen the opposite play out on Access Hollywood with reports of alcoholism, drug abuse, and marital issues?

Maybe it's just that no one has really tried to see if money, possessions, and all things under the sun can bring happiness. Well, this week we are going to take a look at a man who literally gave it his best shot and denied himself nothing. Read Ecclesiastes chapter 2 verses 1-11 and join us on Sunday to see the extent to which Solomon went to buy happiness, and how his motives may sound a bit similar to ours at times.

See ya Sunday,
Jeff

Summer’s coming! Won’t it be great to finally have warm sunshine and blue skies every day? Just think of all the fun that summer brings. Here at Life Bible Fellowship Church, summer will bring fun for His Kids as well as a chance to learn more about Jesus. It’s an enjoyable time to be with the kids.

This summer the His Kids Children’s Ministries theme is: Standing Above the Rest – We Can Be Different! Imagine being able to make a difference in kids’ lives by teaching them the Word of God! God calls us to be ambassadors for Him and to be different. In fact, you will rise above the crowd by being a Children’s Minister this summer.

Every year we give our ministers who serve during the school year (39 Sundays of continuous service) the summer off for a well-deserved rest. Will you please prayerfully consider helping this summer? We need people who will serve His Kids during each of the service times on Sunday at 8, 9:30, or 11:11 a.m. 

The summer session begins Sunday, June 5, and the last session will be Sunday, August 28, which is only a 13-Sunday commitment. If you have vacation planned or have to be absent during this time period, we will work around your schedule by having one of our Super Subs take your group. The Service Directors and I strive to provide assistance with lessons and help in any problem that might happen during the summer session. We are here to bless you in your service to the Lord.

We also will need people willing to serve as substitutes when a regular minister leaves for vacation. Maybe you have a gift for organizing and playing games or organizing and doing crafts. If you are that person, we would love to have you as part of our team to make ministry to His Kids fun and exciting as everyone learns more about our gracious God and “standing above the rest.” It would be wonderful to have someone in charge of crafts and/or games each service.

Opportunities to sign up and to have your questions answered will be available on the patio as you enter the Worship Center starting May 1 in between services. Come to the His Kids Children’s Ministries table – we’d love to see you and share with you how the program will work this summer!

This week's "Reflection" by Gary Keith, Lead Pastor

Empty-Handed Adventure
Ecclesiastes 1:12-18

This week Solomon talked about his pursuit of wisdom. It was pretty interesting to see Solomon’s thoughts about wisdom especially in light of the time he chose to ask God for wisdom and God granted it to him. I think the most startling thing for me to consider this week was verse 18 when he says that the greater our wisdom the greater our grief and sorrow. That just didn’t add up to me. I would naturally think that the greater my wisdom the better handle I would have on all things concerning life, and that would make me happy or at least satisfied.

But Solomon has said just the opposite. He says the more we know the more sadness it brings to our lives. What do you think about that? What has been your experience? Is it true that the more we know the more sorrow we experience? Why is that?

Tell me how that has worked out for you – I’d love to get some more wisdom on this idea!

One of the favorite board games I used to play with my kids when they were growing up was “The Game of Life.” Maybe you’ve played it as well. This game has been around for decades and the makers of “Life” continue to update the game to reflect the changes to our culture. Some of the things that never change though are the very basics of the game – like getting an education, deciding on a vocation, obtaining an annual salary, getting married, having kids, and trying to win by being the first to reach your mansion with the most money. It kind of sounds like real life, doesn’t it?

I remember the time in my life when I began asking how I should be pursuing these kinds of things as a Christian. How should I play the game of life? What kind of vocation should I go after? How many kids should we have? How much money do I need to live on? Where will I live and what kind of house will I have? I’m sure I’m not alone in asking these kinds of questions and I can’t help but believe that as a Christian, I would answer them differently than if I weren’t a Christian.

How should “The Game of Life” be played? That’s a good and important question. Starting May 1, we are going to look at the writings of a man who looked back on his life and reflected about what was meaningful and what was meaningless. 

We are going to study the Old Testament book of Ecclesiastes and most people believe this book was written by Solomon, the son of David, King over Jerusalem. You will notice in verse one it says, “These are the words of the Teacher…” The Hebrew word there for Teacher is qoheleth. It’s the word for a man who addresses an assembly. The corresponding word in Greek is the word ekklesiatic, and that’s where the book of Ecclesiastes gets its name.

Some people think that Ecclesiastes is about the meaninglessness of human life, but this perspective is not quite right. Ecclesiastes is really about the meaninglessness of life without God. And because the writer never gives up his belief in God, his ultimate purpose is to show us how meaningful life can be when we see things from God’s perspective. His message is not that nothing matters, but that everything matters, and the more we study Ecclesiastes, the better we will understand why.

So as we start this journey through the book of Ecclesiastes, we will learn from the wisest and richest man who ever lived. I look forward to learning with you about God’s perspective on “The Game of Life.”

Empty-Handed Adventure
Ecclesiastes 1:12-18

This week we start learning about the details of Solomon’s journey of discovering the truth that apart from God, everything is meaningless. His first pursuit is wisdom. Solomon didn’t have to go to college to become wise and I would think that most of us believe that the pursuit of wisdom is a good thing. We would think pursuing wisdom brings success, just like going to college in the game of life can make you a winner of the game. But the teacher has some startling things to say about his pursuit of wisdom and it’s effects in our lives that will shake us up a bit. Week two of our journey in Ecclesiastes will help us to see what wisdom apart from God really looks like.

Gary Keith

This week's "Reflection" by Gary Keith, Executive & Teaching Pastor

Today You Will Be With Me in Paradise
Luke 23:43

Easter Sunday is arguably the holiest day in the Christian year. On Easter the Christian celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. We have been living in the post-resurrection era for several thousand years now. I couldn’t help but wonder what the world would be like if the resurrection had not happened yet. Would this world be better off or worse off? What do you think?

I think since the resurrection God has been able to expand His work of renewing and redeeming the world. Every person who puts their faith in Jesus and is filled with the Holy Spirit becomes part of the team God can use. Christians are not people who are just waiting around for heaven to come; they are people who can make a difference in this world for the cause of God now. As you reflect on this Easter and the resurrection of Jesus, know that it is was much more than securing eternity. The resurrection says God cares about this world as it is now.

Today You Will Be With Me in Paradise
Luke 23:43

What is your picture of paradise? I know we have all thoughts about what we think paradise is and I bet we’d be surprised to hear how different people think of paradise differently. My picture of paradise is most easily seen in the image of a lush, green Hawaiian island with a white, sandy beach and a constant 82 degree temperature. I wouldn’t be alone because I would need some people to bring me food and beverages and take care of whatever other needs I have. Ah! That would be paradise for me!

But when Jesus tells the criminal that today he would be with Him in paradise, Jesus had a totally different thought in mind. This week as we celebrate Easter we will look at what Jesus had in mind along with learning what the resurrection means to us and why it matters.

Be sure to invite someone to come with you this year – many people come to church on Easter and this would be a great time and a safe time to reach out to someone. You never know that invitation could make an eternal difference in their life. I’m looking forward to Easter and will be praying for God to some amazing things in our lives this Sunday.

By the way don’t forget to come tonight to our Maundy Thursday service. This is a reverent time of worship and celebrating communion together. Hope you can make it – it will make a difference in your week, I guarantee it!

Gary Keith

In 1992, on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, I would dress as warmly as possible. I would wear two jackets, two pairs of socks, thick leather gloves, an over-sized scarf, and my well-worn, full-face, motorcycle helmet. I would strap my backpack on the rear of my Honda 150, warm up the engine, and quickly enter the dense fog. My departure time was always 5:30 a.m., it was always below 40 degrees outside, and the 30-mile drive on Oakdale Road through the Central California countryside was always dark and quiet; the same way I saw my life. I was 17 years old at the time and making my way towards Merced Community College. I may not have made that drive if I knew that only roughly 20% of students who go to community college are able to graduate from a four-year university.

As soon as your child receives their high school diploma, the odds are immediately stacked against them. It was the same for me. I graduated from high school with a 2.8 GPA. I did not know what I wanted to do with my life and my parents wouldn’t let me leave home anyway. Community college seemed to be the best option; I thought that I had no other options. My experience at Merced College was as you might expect: disconnected instructors, no friends, thousands of students fighting for classes, thousands of students attending because they also had no other options. I found myself directionless and desperate to leave town in search of a fresh start. Behind my parents back, I applied to two different colleges that had sent me generic materials: Point Loma University in San Diego, and Whitworth College in Spokane, WA. I filled out my own financial aid forms and made my own contact with counselors at the prospective schools. To my surprise, I was accepted by both schools. Finally, I found the courage to present my acceptance letters to my parents. As I presented the letters, I kindly asked them, “Will you please let me leave?” They finally understood and conceded to help me sort out the details. I chose the school in Spokane simply and only because it was the furthest away from Turlock.

The decision I made to leave to go to Spokane was the single most important and life-changing decision I have ever made. I had no clue that my likelihood of graduating college went from 20% to 77%. I had no clue that I would receive an education of the mind and the heart, an education that would fuse my Christian faith with what I would learn in the class room. I had no clue that I would learn how to critically think, problem-solve, resolve conflict, create a budget, and program a large-scale event due to my experiences outside the classroom, not inside. Finally, I had no clue that I would create relationships so dynamic and so meaningful that we would stand at each other’s weddings, more then 18 years later. 

If your son or daughter has expressed interest in going to a private Christian college, that desire is likely a blessing
in disguise. It certainly was for my parents. Typically, the negatives for a decision such as this rise to the surface quickly: 1) “We can’t afford it,” 2) “I won’t let you take out loans and start your career in debt,” 3) “There’s no reason to leave home,” and 4) “I’m not paying $30,000 a year to send you to a Christian camp.” These are valid reasons. These are also reasons that are firmly linked to finances.

However, if you believe our God is bigger than your pocketbook, if you believe that our God loves your child more than you do, and if you believe that our God does indeed place our greatest desires into our hearts for a purpose, then you must believe that a Christian college education could be worth it. Let me explain…

I wrote earlier that the graduation rate for students who begin at a community college is roughly 20%. This is for a variety of reasons: 1) It is difficult to get classes, 2) Class sizes are often very large, 3) Instructors rarely take an interest in student’s lives, 4) Counselors often do not take a personal interest in your life and move you through as quickly as possible, 5) Involvement with the college is limited to only time spent in class, 6) It is difficult to make friends with students who you only see in class, 7) It is difficult to find friends who love Jesus as you do, and 8) Living at home separates you from the college experience.

Currently, the graduation rate for students who attend Chaffey College is 21%, 28% for Mt. SAC, 26% for Citrus College, and even worse for some of our local four-year universities. Believe it or not, the graduation rate at Cal State San Bernardino is 12%, Cal State Fullerton is 16%, and Cal Poly Pomona is 15%. Conversely, the graduation rates at some of our local private Christian schools are higher: Biola University is 51%, Azusa Pacific is 55%, and Westmont College is an amazing 73%.

The reason for the difference between these graduation rates parallel the center of my experience at Whitworth College: 1) My class sizes were small, my professors knew my name, they often came to my residence hall or invited me to their home to help me with my homework, and many of my former professors contact me to this day, just to see how I’m doing. 2) Everything I learned in the classroom was simultaneously measured against my faith in Jesus – faith and academic learning always walked hand-in-hand. 3) My counselors knew my name, spent time with me, and helped me find the major(s) that were right for me. 4) Because I lived on campus, I was involved in every facet of student life, from intramural sports to theatre, from student government to fishing trips. Living on campus put me squarely in the center of an entire community of students that was living, learning, and growing in our faith together. I had to learn how to get along with a roommate, I had to learn how to wake myself up in the morning, and I had to learn to make friends. With no family support from home, we were eager to create friendships, study together, cook dinner together, and lean on one another in difficult times. We became more than friends, we became brothers and sisters that still support one another well into our 30s. 5) Chapel (three days a week). And 6) my grades went up because I understood that this experience cost money and had to be valued. My grades also went up because my new friendships meant so much to me, that I couldn’t bear to be kicked out due to poor grades.

If your son or daughter is currently out of high school and struggling with school, their faith, or their relationship with you, it is likely that they are missing many of the things I wrote about above. In summation, my Christian college experience gave me purpose, value, and direction, most of which were achieved outside of the classroom. I also learned to appreciate my parents in a profound way. Nothing makes you value your parents like being away from them for six months, especially mom’s cooking!

At this point, you may still be wondering how your child will afford this experience. It’s a valid question. My tuition at Whitworth College was $18,000 my first year, and increased 10-15% each additional year. Each year, my parents were able to contribute about $4,000. I received about $4,000 in scholarship funds my first year, which increased each year as my grades and involvement in campus increased. And I received about $4,000 in work-study funds (work on campus in exchange for tuition). I left Spokane with close to $20,000 in student loans, but my undergraduate experience prepared me for graduate school so much so that I went on to receive a master’s degree on full scholarship. Upon receiving my master’s, I was able to land a professional job and pay off all of my loans in 13 months. Looking back, I was scared to take out those loans. I was foolish to not realize that a God who loves me probably thought, “$20,000? No problem.” After all, if I knew that the average college graduate earned $750,000 more over their lifetime then a non-grad, I would not have worried.

Was I smarter than your son or daughter when I was 19 years old? No way. Actually, I don’t consider myself to be smart at all. My brain actually moves very slow. The difference is that my heart got involved. If a person’s heart is involved, it’s difficult to slow them down. My Christian college experience got my heart involved and taught me how to keep it involved.

If your child is bringing up the idea of going to a Christian college, help them at least explore the possibility. If they are not, be sure to send them to Mosaic College Group in the Lower Garage at 7 p.m. on Thursday nights. I will do my best to give them the same kind of attention and affection my
professors at Whitworth gave me.

This week's "Reflection" by Gary Keith, Executive & Teaching Pastor

Father Forgive Them
Luke 23:34

Mark Twain is quoted as saying, “Forgiveness is the fragrance that a violet sheds on the heel that has crushed it.” I think we would all agree Mark Twain has a special way with words. In this case, he has captured much of the essence of the forgiveness Jesus has offered to us and the kind of forgiveness we are to offer others. When a person has been crushed, forgiveness is the way to set two people free. The person who has wronged another person is set free from what they deserve. And the person who has been wronged is set free from allowing bitterness to take over their life.

I have personally seen both of those sweet fragrances in my journey of learning how to forgive and be forgiven. We call ourselves Christians saying that we are followers of Jesus. Jesus modeled the way of forgiveness for us to follow. The question is, will we follow the example of Jesus? Will we forgive others as Jesus has forgiven us? Will we seek forgiveness from others when we have wronged them?

When we do, the power of forgiveness can be seen. Forgiveness brings healing and wholeness to individuals and to relationships like nothing else can. Will you join me in learning to become a master of forgiveness?

By Amanda Keys, Worship Assistant

We all know the routine: wake up, cook meals, run errands, go to work, sit in traffic, attend class, do homework, go to rehearsals or practices, race home, do some laundry, wash dishes, and hopefully find some time to relax, carry on a conversation, or even open up the Bible before heading to bed – just to start it all over the next morning.

This lifestyle could very easily be paralleled to the years of Jesus’ ministry – we see several times in the gospels where Jesus intentionally removed Himself from the crowds and activities to pray, reflect, and prepare. It is no wonder then that Jesus chose to take His last hours on earth retreated from the busyness of the world, in a private room with only His twelve disciples. This was where He chose to express the heart of the Father and His desire to do whatever was necessary for us to have eternal life.

Maundy Thursday has grown to reflect and represent this final meal of Jesus, just hours before He was crucified. The Maundy Thursday service, which derives its name from the Latin word ‘mandatum,’ meaning ‘commandment,’ begins this solemn remembrance of the four events of this day: Jesus washing the disciples’ feet, the institution of the Lord’s supper, Jesus’ agony in the garden, and the betrayal by Judas Iscariot. It is an opportunity to slow down, prepare our hearts, and reflect on what Jesus’ final days were like and the new commandment He left for us – to love one another.

We hope to see you Thursday, April 21, at 7 p.m. in the Worship Center for an evening of remembering the sacrifice of Christ through music, silence, and acts of humility. Due to the reflective nature of this service, childcare will be provided for children five years and under.

Father, Forgive Them
Luke 23:34

The last words of a person are many times never forgotten. A person’s closing comments often reveal their pain and agony. Some enter eternity without saying anything, while others utter words that reveal their values and innermost thoughts. For example, contrast the last words of John Wesley, the founder of Methodism, who said, “The best of all is God is with us,” with P. T. Barnum, the circus guy who said, “How were the receipts today at Madison Square Garden?” Both statements are very revealing aren’t they?

The Gospel writers have captured for us the last words of Jesus. While on the cross Jesus spoke seven times. And what He said is very revealing and they are words that we can learn from. This week we’ll look at His first words, “Father, forgive them, for they don’t know what they are doing.”

As we begin Holy Week and celebrate Palm Sunday, we’ll look at how the final week of Jesus’ life unfolded to the place of Him saying, “Father, forgive them.” We’ll also have a special time during worship as the children come and sing with us. Hope to see you this week!

Gary Keith

By Gary Keith, Executive & Teaching Pastor

Thursday, May 5 has once again been identified as the National Day of Prayer. The idea of an annual National Day of Prayer was introduced by the Rev. Billy Graham, who suggested it in the midst of a several-weeks crusade in the nation’s capitol. Members of the House and Senate introduced a joint resolution for an annual National Day of Prayer, “on which the people of the United States may turn to God in prayer and meditation at churches, in groups, and as individuals."

In a 1983 declaration about the National Day of Prayer, Ronald Reagan said, “From General Washington’s struggle at Valley Forge to the present, this Nation has fervently sought and received divine guidance as it pursued the course of history. This occasion provides our nation with an opportunity to further recognize the source of our blessings, and to seek His help for the challenges we face today and in the future."

This year LBF is planning to provide a time of prayer on Thursday, May 5 in the Worship Center. This event will be organized by our Thursday night Intercessory Prayer Team. After meeting with two of the team members recently, I was challenged to look at this prayer time a little differently than in the past.

Traditionally we gather and pray for our politicians and other civic leaders. While that is a good thing, this year we desire to pray for them as one of the intercessory team members said, “with a love that is willing to humble self and enter into their condition.” We want to pray by connecting with them through a common point of identification. As we pray, we will consider their needs as we identify with the roles they have.

For example, as we pray for our governmental leaders, we realize that each of us is a leader in some capacity. And in that capacity we know the pressure and the responsibilities of being a leader. We know from our personal experience that leaders are attacked by others and that leaders receive their authority from God and are accountable to God. We also know that all of us have failed and require forgiveness and mercy from God to be a leader. So as we pray we will take some time to identify with these people and ask for the same things we would ask for ourselves.

My desire is that we don’t just have another event to go to, but a night of meaningful prayer that changes and empowers us, as well as makes a spiritual impact on our nation. I hope you plan to join us on Thursday, May 5 @ 7 p.m. in the Worship Center as we humble ourselves (Philippians 2:3-4) and pray for the needs of this nation.

How LBF connected with one of our missionary families
By Carol Hawkins, Missions Coordinator

I want you to meet a very special family that’s serving the Lord in the Holy Land. That’s right, LBF is supporting a ministry that’s in Israel. Daniel and his family are from Romania and they immigrated to northern Israel several years ago. Their story of how they got connected with LBF is one that only God could have arranged.

Back in 2001, a family in our church was contacted about hosting a Romanian family who were here in the area and needed housing. Their youngest daughter, Oana who was 6 at the time, was in need of a serious surgical procedure. A hospital in Southern California offered to perform the surgery, but this family would have to provide for their own housing. So for about three and a half months, this precious family attended LBF while their daughter received surgery and excellent follow-up treatment. Once Oana had recovered, the family moved back to their home in Romania, where Daniel was a pastor.

As a result of their time with us, LBF began giving some financial support to their ministry as a way of reaching out globally to Eastern Europe. Then several years ago their family immigrated to northern Israel where they have a wonderful ministry reaching out to other Romanian immigrants who do not know Christ. It’s exciting to get Daniel’s regular updates and hear how he openly shares the light of Christ in his community and sees hearts being changed as they truly hear and embrace the Gospel message. Daniel also helps in a Russian church while their pastor is away, coordinating evangelistic and youth meetings. The light of Jesus (Yeshua in Hebrew) is definitely shining through Daniel and his family.

Here’s a fun story about Daniel: He is taking a class in Jerusalem three days a week. He has to take the bus in order to take these courses, and it’s a bit of a journey for him to make. One of his classmates is a friend of mine who I met in ’93 when I was there on a short-term mission trip to Israel. It’s a great reminder of how God brings people together to encourage others.

Please pray for Daniel and his family as the Lord brings them to mind. His wife is Iuliana and his daughters are Adelina (18) and Oana (16). This whole family has immigrated from Romania, so there have been major adjustments for them to make in order to feel at home in Israel, including learning a new language. They appreciate your prayers.

Thank you for your part in this global ministry.

Prayer Request: Please be praying for some from LBF who will be going on short-term mission trips this summer. There are three college students as well as a team of men and women who are making plans now for ministry opportunities in Kenya, Asia, and the Dominican Republic. Your prayers for them as they raise support and make plans are vital.

As we wrap up this series through the first 5 chapters of Romans, I am struck by the awareness that the Holy Spirit has brought to my life in regards to the relationship that God is offering, and the choices we have to make regarding how we will Define The Relationship.   

This week's "Reflection" by Gary Keith, Executive & Teaching Pastor

Peaceful 
Romans 5:1-11

As believers we live in a new land called grace. Just like immigrants who have to learn a new culture and adapt to new customs, Christians must learn how to live in this land of grace. Paul says in this land of grace we can rejoice or live in joyful confidence in our problems and trials. My first reaction to reading this was, "Really? Really Paul, I’m supposed to live in joyful confidence in my problems and trials?" Maybe all of this seems not only difficult, but downright impossible.

What do you think? How has being a believer in Christ helped you with the problems and trials of life? How has God’s training program described in Romans 5:3-5 help you live in this new land of grace? I’d love to hear your thoughts in how this works in real life. Remember that in defining our relationship with God, the word this week is peaceful – we are no longer at war with God. No, as believers in Christ we are at peace with God. Oh what a relief that is!

Peaceful
Romans 5:1-11

I think we would all agree that war is a terrible thing in the history of humanity. I was in the military during the Vietnam War. The Vietnam War was a horrific event in the history of our world and it came very close to my life at the age of 20. While I never personally went to Vietnam, I was only 800 miles away and was able to see first-hand the effects of that war on the lives of so many young men. It was not a pretty sight – war will never be a pretty sight.

Peace on the other hand is a wonderful thing to experience. Being at peace with another person fills our being with feelings of calmness and serenity. It feels like all is right with the world. When we are at peace with people we actually experience some of what God has intended for this world. Peace is a good thing.

As we continue our study in Romans this week, the overarching theme is that because we have been made right through faith we now have peace with God. If you think about this in terms of being at war versus being at peace, you will have captured the idea here. But what is the result of this peace? Is it just calmness and serenity? Or is there more to it than that? We’ll explore what it means to be at peace with God and how that can affect our lives. Hope to see you Sunday!

Gary Keith

This week's "Reflection" by Jeff Taylor, Pastor of Teaching & Worship

Faith like Abraham

Abe was not a perfect guy. In fact, he could be a real bonehead at times, but his ability to trust God through the impossible is something that we can be inspired by. This desire to inspire was what Paul had in mind as he recounted Abraham's story in Romans 4.

I know that as I studied this passage and reflected on loss and death in my own life, I am encouraged to see that someone who had to walk through such heartache and trial was able to glorify God in the process and receive the blessing that God had for him.

This week, join me in praying for those who have experienced loss (maybe it's you) - that God would reveal Himself and give  hope to walk through the trial, believing that God will be faithful to either restore what was lost or create new life out of nothing.

Hopeful: Romans 4:16-25

Rudy... Remember the Titans... Braveheart... Just a few of the movies that get your heart soaring with hope, encouragement, and inspiration. But what does this kind of inspiration do for our spirit? How does this kind of inspiration impact our faith in God?

This week as we wrap up Romans 4, we are going to receive an inspirational message of hope. Not from me, but from the very Word of God as we read of His unfailing commitment and love for His people, demonstrated through real-life, and often difficult circumstances. Read through Romans 4 this week and ask God to open your heart to the hope that is much greater than an inspirational speech, or happy Disney ending. This hope is eternal.

See ya Sunday,
Jeff

This week's "Reflection" by Gary Keith, Executive & Teaching Pastor

Dependent
Romans 4:1-15

In the last two weeks while studying Romans 3 and 4, I have noticed that Paul has repeated himself nearly a dozen times with the statement, “We are made right with God through faith and not by obeying the law.” It seems that he is intentionally repeating himself to make a point. This is probably because in our everyday world, we make our way by working and earning our place with people. And then we come to our relationship with God and we think it is the same. But with God it is just the opposite. With God we receive a free gift through faith – there is no earning involved.

I know that most Christians know this, but what about living it? Without frequent reminders we can easily fall back into thinking our relationship with God is about earning our rightness. How do you keep yourself mindful that with God it is about grace? How do you guard yourself from thinking that all the good things you do somehow earn your rightness with God?

Dependent
Romans 4:1-15

There was a time in my life when I thought being self-sufficient was the goal. I was taught to work hard, earn my way, and don’t be a burden to society. Now when it comes to my place in society, some of this may be good, but what about my spiritual life? What about my relationship with God? Is self-sufficiency the goal? Am I to earn my way with God? Am I to work hard to make God accept me?

This week as we continue our series called "Define the Relationship," Paul speaks to these questions. This idea of being dependent on God is something that is difficult to grasp. We Americans especially have a tough time understanding this idea because being self-sufficient is a big part of our culture. Come this Sunday and see how Paul describes what it means to be dependent in our relationship with God.

Gary

Would you ever be willing to pay the consequences for someone else's actions? Would you ever allow someone you love to suffer the consequences for someone else's actions?

It should be pretty clear by now that we all fall way short of living lives that are anywhere near what they would need to be in order to earn our salvation. Nonetheless, Paul will remind us one more time as we wrap up chapter 3 of Romans. But this week we will also discover how God has made a way for us to be saved based on relationship rather that ritual. As we continue to define the relationship we are at a point where God is asking if we will trust Him with our lives.

See ya Sunday!
Jeff 

This week's "Reflection" by Gary Keith, Executive & Teaching Pastor

Guilty
Romans 3:9-20

In this passage Paul presents the accusation that the entire human race is under the power of sin. We’re not talking about the sinning we do on a daily basis; Paul is talking about the human sin condition that we are all born with. What Paul is talking about can be traced back all the way to the first humans – Adam and Eve. When they chose to disobey God, a cosmic change was set into motion, and this change has been experienced by every human being since. This is what Paul is referring to in verse 9 when he says the entire human race is under the power of sin.

In addition to what Paul writes in Romans 3:9, check out chapter 5, verses 12-21 to read more about this idea of original sin. I’m a little curious – is this a new thought for you? Were you aware of this doctrine? How does this help you make sense of our world today? What is your opinion of how this doctrine is affected by those who have committed their lives to Christ? How does this condition change for Christians? Let’s talk.

Guilty
Romans 3:9-20

If we are going to really define our relationship with God we’ve got to hear it all. Chuck Swindoll says, “There are preachers today who don’t want to focus on the negative side of Christian truth – the terminal disease of sin. They prefer to remain focused only on the positive.”  

I agree with Chuck when he talks about going to a doctor. I know that when I go to the doctor I don’t want to hear only the good news, I want to hear it all – I want the truth – the plain, ugly, undistorted truth about my body. If my doctor finds something wrong I want to know about it right now!

That’s what Paul is doing again this week as he wraps up this “bad news” section of Romans. The good news is that our condition is treatable. But for us to really be grateful for the good news, we must first wrestle with and understand completely the bad news.

Gary Keith

(This should be read in your best "2 a.m. infomercial" voice.)
Have you ever thought that Christianity is just too hard?
Have you ever wondered if it was worth all the hassle of being good?
Have you ever justified that doing the wrong thing was actually the right thing?

Well, then have I got a story for you! Sometime between now and Sunday, read Romans 3 and see if there is any part if the lesson they are learning that you can identify with. (I already did, so if I had to you do too!)

See ya Sunday!
Jeff

This week's "Reflection" by Gary Keith, Executive & Teaching Pastor

Flawed
Romans 2:17-29

This week we learned from Paul that religious activity leads to a flawed relationship with God. That instead of focusing on rituals, God is concerned with matters of our heart. One of the key problems with focusing on religious ritual was the found in verse 24 – “No wonder the Scriptures say, 'The Gentiles blaspheme the name of God because of you.'” That was then – what about today?

During the message I quoted some portions of the book “UnChristian” written by David Kinnaman. In this book Kinnaman makes the case that many non-Christians want nothing to do with Christianity because of the behavior of Christians. He says that Christians are best known for what they are against – “they are perceived as judgmental, anti-homosexual, too political, out of touch with reality, insensitive to others, hypocritical – saying one thing and doing another.” I see a strong connection with the words of Paul in Romans and what this book has revealed as reality today.

What do you think? Is that too harsh an observation? Is it right on? How do you think Christian’s got this reputation? What can be done to change this reputation? Let’s talk!

Flawed
Romans 2:17-29

Depending on how you look at it, religion can be either good or bad. I think most of us look on religious people in a good way, even if we don’t agree with their religion. I remember once listening to a TV interview with the Dali Lama and thinking that many of the things he professed are good, even though he was missing the Jesus part – the most important and really life-changing part. And then there is Billy Graham. Many all over the world know almost nothing about Christianity, but revere Billy Graham as a true man of God. This is the good side of religion as observed by society.

But religion has a dark side as well. Looking back on history we can see that religion has caused dissention and wars and inspired much violence against the human race. Religion is the subject of our passage this week. Paul talks directly to the Jews and their religious activity and offers a better way. As we learn how to “Define the Relationship” with God, this idea of religion versus relationship is at the very center of our passage. I look forward to seeing you this week as we explore this teaching from Paul.

Gary

This week’s “Reflection” by Jeff Taylor, Pastor of Teaching & Worship

Romans 2:16 And this is the message I proclaim that the day is coming when God, through Christ Jesus, will judge everyone¹s secret life.

What feelings does that stir up inside when you read that? Fear? Apprehension? Hope (that it will never happen)? We all have the things in our life that have been tucked neatly (or maybe not so neatly) away so that we can look good to others. We tuck it away so we can come to church. We tuck it away so people won't be grossed out by it. We tuck it away because if we ignore it, it may just go away. At least, that's what we want to believe.

The reality is that as good as we look on the outside, and as together we may pretend to have it, each of us are broken. And when Satan convinces us that our brokenness should be kept secret, we begin a journey through darkness that he convinces us we need to face alone. But Jesus came to set us free. We are promised that we can be filled with the Holy Spirit and that light and darkness cannot co-exist. So we have a choice to make. Expose the secrets to the light and receive healing as promised in the book of James, or continue to walk in darkness, justifying that somehow our sin is different, or that God will just ignore it and let it pass.

I want to encourage you, as I did at the end of the service on Sunday, to find someone to confess your sin to. That you may be set free from your addiction, habit, mindset, etc...that keeps you walking in darkness. Resist the devil and he will flee, and some of you need to resist by refusing to keep your secret sin a secret any longer.

If you would like to talk with a pastor please feel free to call the church office. Or find a believing friend or person in a Bible study that you trust and allow them to accept and love you through the healing.

It is so easy to look around and condemn the sin in other people's lives. It is easy to view the sinful actions of others, shake our head, and think how displeased God must be with their actions. The sins of others are ALWAYS worse or a bigger deal than the sin in our own lives...right?

This week as we venture into Defining the Relationship with God in Romans chapter 2:1-16, Paul doesn't pull any punches as he addresses the mindset of believers who are quick to call out the sins of others, but are unwilling to see the secret sin in their own life.

Read through Romans 1:1-2:16 as we prepare to hear God's word for the secret sin in each of our lives, and the destruction that comes from trying to hide the sin that God sees anyway.

See ya Sunday,

Jeff

This week’s “Reflection” by Gary Keith, Executive & Teaching Pastor

Broken
Romans 1:18-32

“How’s that workin’ for you?” is a common way Dr. Phil responds to guests on his show after they have just explained the mess they are in and how they are handling it. I couldn’t help but think about that as I reflected on the sermon for this week. Paul paints a very clear picture of why we are a broken people and the results of our brokenness in our relationship with God and with people.

Probably the most remembered and controversial part of Paul’s words in this passage is God’s view of homosexual behavior. I know this is a controversial subject to talk about and I also know that the church in America hasn’t done a very good job at representing God on this issue. I say that because God does not rate one sexual sin any different than any other – whether it be sex before marriage, sex outside of marriage, or homosexual behavior – all sexual sin is seen the same way by God, and yet the church seems to put more emphasis on homosexual behavior than adulterous behavior. I think this is inaccurate.

Why is it that people who sin by having sex before marriage or are involved in adultery feel more accepted in church than gay people? I’d like to hear your thoughts on this.

Also if you are gay and believe your were born that way and then read in the Bible that homosexual behavior is a sin, how does that cause you to think about God? I wonder about that as well.

This subject of brokenness affects all of us in some way – if you’re willing use this blog to reply to these questions or share something else that is on your mind.

Next week: Romans 2:1-16

This week we start a new series called “Define the Relationship.” It’s a study of the first five chapters of the New Testament book of Romans. For many, going to church is simply a religious activity. These people would more than likely define God as a distant being who makes rules for everyone to follow. If you follow these rules religiously, then all will be well; if you don’t, well that’s a whole other story.

It wasn’t until I went through a personal crisis in my early twenties that I began to really seek something more than religious activity. And in my seeking I found that God wanted not religious activity, but a personal relationship with His people – including me. In this series we will explore the different dimensions of our relationship with God. What is God like? How has He revealed Himself to us? What does He want from us? What does it mean to have a relationship with Him?  What can I expect if I put my trust in Him? What about my sin and His holiness? How does that work?

As we start our series this week we will look at the broken condition of our relationship with God. May I suggest that you read Romans chapter one. We’ll focus on verses 18-32.

Also be praying for the 18 million Christian Egyptians as their country experiences much uncertainty during this revolution.

Gary

Religious routine, though often noble and well-intentioned, can so easily become mindless. It is these mindless routines that rob us of the lessons that scripture has for us and the new and exciting things that God wants to work in and through our lives.

Being randomly generous is always something that we need to be ready for, but what about being intentionally generous, or as we seek God, being open to be directionally generous to the things and people that God leads us to?

This series has been good for me as it has made me more aware of the need in my life to seek God for opportunities to be generous, rather than just leaving it up to my own awareness. Being open to God to direct my generosity may mean that at some point I will be called to give beyond my comfort zone. It may mean that I am called to give in areas that my heart may be a bit calloused and I don't "feel" like being generous. But as I am called to first give myself to God as a living sacrifice, it means that ultimately I am committing all of who I am and what I have for His good will. That is the place I want to be more than anything else.

Will you join me in continuing to pray for open hearts, a generous spirit, and a mighty move of God that would be defined by generosity through His people?

Growing up in church, I am pretty fluent in the "language of the church." I can use words like atonement, justification, and salvation in a sentence, and even define them for you. But over the years I have also learned some "practices of the church" that I didn't necessarily know the origin or purpose of. I simply did them because the amazing Christian men and women around me were passionately engaged in these practices.

This weekend we are going to wrap up our "Defined by Generosity" series by taking a look at a practice begun by God's chosen people in the Old Testament, and see what place it has in our offering to God today.

See ya Sunday,
Jeff

LOL Giving
2 Corinthians 9:1-15

In our third week of talking about being “Defined by Generosity,” the topic of becoming a hilarious giver was discussed. There is no doubt that many people have bad experiences when it comes to the church teaching about giving. Much of this teaching focuses on giving in order to get from God, or making giving a duty based upon the tithe (which, if you really study the Old Testament, results in giving in the 30% range).

Is it possible for followers of Jesus to become hilarious givers despite the many messages of giving as a duty or being guilted into it? I think so, but it will take a willingness to forgive and forget the past experiences and focus on what the Bible teaches about giving.

In our desire to become LOL (Laughing Out Loud) givers there are other obstacles. For example, one obstacle focuses on whether we really believe the truth expressed in 2 Corinthians 9:8. There is a promise in that verse, but do we really believe that promise? Can we trust God with our money? Can we trust Him with this promise? God desires that we become hilarious givers who believe in His generosity with us. What do you think? Is it possible to become an LOL giver today? What are your challenges in giving? How have you seen God respond to the promise in 2 Corinthians 9:8? Let’s talk because this idea of giving is a big one with God, even though it is a sensitive issue in the church today.

LOL Giving
2 Corinthians 9:1-15

Laughing is good for what ails us. We all need a good laugh once in a while. In fact laughing is good for our health. I think about those times that something really strikes me as funny and I just start laughing. And then this laughing becomes uncontrollable and my stomach starts hurting and my eyes start watering and it just feels so very good. And when the laughing episode is over I feel better. Can you relate?

As we continue our series on being “Defined by Generosity,” this week we will look at our giving. Now I realize this can be a touchy subject for many, but the Bible says some pretty interesting things about how we should give. Many of you are probably familiar with the verse that says, “God loves a cheerful giver.” Our passage this week covers that verse and it got me thinking: When I give do I give with the same emotions and feelings I have as I do when I’m laughing uncontrollably? Do I feel as good after I’ve given as I do when I stop laughing? Is it possible to be a “cheerful” giver when I really want to hold onto my stuff?

These are some of the questions we’ll look at this week as learn about being a LOL Giver. See you Sunday!

Gary Keith

If I could think of one word to describe what destroys any contentment that I strive for in my life, it would be this: Ebay. As soon as I feel that I am content with what I have, Ebay is there to tell me of all the better or different stuff that I have yet to accumulate!

Contentment should be our constant pursuit, a pursuit that leads through a relationship with Christ. But all too often the pursuit is one of accumulation; a pursuit of happiness through getting all we can. But what affect does discontent have on our ability to give? What kind of link is there between contentment and generosity? This weekend we are going to explore that link, and see what Jesus has to say about contentment and
giving living.

See ya Sunday,
Jeff

Whose Stuff Is It?
Psalm 24:1

This weekend as we started our new series titled “Defined by Generosity,” I asked the question, whose stuff is it? The answer is found in Psalm 24. It’s God’s stuff; He is the owner and we are the managers of His stuff. The Biblical truth is that we don’t really own anything – God owns it all.

Now this sounds all well and good and it is based on the Bible, but what does this really mean? After all, I do have the pink slip for my car telling everybody that I own my car. The pink slip doesn’t have God’s name on it, so what does it mean to say that God is the owner of everything?

I think the short answer is found in how we look at our stuff – how we use it, whether it controls us or we control it, whether we use our stuff to advance the kingdom of God, and whether we share our stuff with others or hoard it for ourselves. I think that maintaining a mindset that we are simply the managers and not the owner (which is Biblical) will help guide us in the use and care of all that we think we own.

What do you think? I’d love to hear from you.

The lines were long and the tickets were going fast on Tuesday night as people came to buy that all-important “winning” lottery ticket. You have to admit winning $355 million sounds pretty good, right? I sure could do a lot of good with $355 million. If I had that kind of money I could definitely be a generous person. Yes I could...but would I?

This week we start a four-week series about becoming generous people. The current economic climate has caused everyone to become more aware of their resources (or lack of them). And the tendency is to hold on to all you can. But even in this climate as followers of Jesus we are called to be generous with all that God has blessed us with (even if we never win the lottery). Someone once told me, “I can write the story of your spiritual life by looking at your checkbook.” There is no doubt that one of the measures of our spiritual maturity is the way we handle money and our stuff.

So the obvious question becomes, how should followers of Jesus handle their money and their stuff? That is what we want to talk about for the next four weeks. This week we’re going to start by asking, “Whose stuff is it?” I look forward to seeing you on Sunday! God Bless.

Gary Keith

Jeff

The Day after…Now What?

Christmas 2010 is over – all the build-up, the preparation, the planning, and the day itself, is over. The tree looks sad without all the presents under the it, the turkey has been eaten, the toys have been played with, and visiting family is returning home. Many people have a let down when a big event is over. This is normal after a big event. How about you?

Whether you have a “let down” or not, now is a good time to take a step back and remind ourselves about God. Using Zechariah’s prophecy found in Luke 1, we pause and reflect some about what God has provided for us, what He has promised us, and where He is taking us.

If you were in church on Sunday, take your insert and put it on the refrigerator and use it to help remind you of God. (And if you weren't at church, download the insert, which is found at the top of this post and go listen to the message here.)

See you next year!

The Day After…Now What?
Luke 1:68-79

By the time we gather for worship on Sunday morning, Christmas 2010 will be history. It will be over. All the presents will have been unwrapped. The tree will be looking dry and bare with no presents underneath. The leftovers will have been placed in the refrigerator. The toys will have been played with. Our family and friends will have all gone home. Now what?

For some people the day after Christmas can bring an after-holiday “let-down.” It’s hard when a big event, which we have looked forward to and prepared for, is over. It is normal to have a “let-down” feeling. On the day after Christmas, what do we do now? Let’s take a step back and remember some important things about God. This Sunday will be a day of encouragement as we look at God through the eyes of Zechariah.

On behalf of the staff and elders of LBF, we wish you a very merry and Christ-filled Christmas. See you on Sunday!

God Bless,

Gary Keith

Deliberate or Distracted?

Being distracted at Christmas time is nothing new. It is not as much about our fast-paced society as it is about our awareness (remember the bear video?) of the distractions we all face. But I also think that being distracted is easier than being deliberate. As you start out a new week that leads us straight to Christmas Day, what will you do to not let the distractions rob you of adoring the reason we have Christmas in the first place? Will it be slowing down your schedule – maybe saying no to some things? Will it be a conscious decision to allow Jesus to be the King of your life – to let Him have control? Will it be to remind yourself of your need for a Savior and remove the indifference that can creep into our everyday life?

Remember, you’re not alone in this struggle – ever since that first Christmas, many, many people have had the same battles. Take some extra time this week and spend it with Jesus, building that relationship with the God of creation. Be deliberate in celebrating and adoring Jesus this Christmas. I think you’ll be glad you did!

Deliberate or Distracted?
Deck the Halls, Week Three

Last year while at the mall with his mom and grandpa, a little four-year-old boy watched as children lined up excitedly to see Santa Claus. Having been taught that Christmas is about the birth of Jesus, the little guy asked his mom, “Where’s the line for Jesus?"

It’s pretty easy to get distracted and miss Christmas. Oh, we won’t miss the day of Christmas literally, but we might miss the meaning of Christmas. Distractions are all around and it is so easy to lose our focus. But if you think this is a new problem, you’re wrong. This week we will look at three particular people who on the very first Christmas became so distracted that they missed it. And as we see the reasons, we’ll learn some important ways we can be deliberate so that we don’t miss it.

If you want to get a head start, read both Matthew chapter 2 and Luke chapter 2.

Finally here we are at the last Sunday before Christmas (I hope to see you!); let’s not get distracted from the real meaning this year.

God Bless,

Gary

Godly or Gaudy?
Luke 1:26-56

In week two of our series I asked how we should adorn our life at Christmas – will we be godly or gaudy? I must tell you that even though I’m very familiar with the birth story of Jesus, I learned some important new things this week. For the first time I clearly saw the theme of humility in both Mary and Elizabeth. Humility is one of those familiar words that are difficult to live out. How do we know when we are being humble? Mary showed us three things about humility and I hope this week you will consider those as we prepare for Christmas.

During the message I quoted Thomas Merton. He was a 20^th century Catholic writer who said, “Give me humility, in which alone is rest and deliver me from pride which is the heaviest of burdens.” What do you think of this quote? Have you ever experienced rest in humility? If so, what kind of experience was that? How was rest achieved by being humble? How about pride, do you see it as a heavy burden? How has pride  been a burden in your life?

By the way it was brought to my attention that during the sermon I said that John the Baptist wrote the Gospel of John. I quoted John 3:30 when John the Baptist said, "He (Jesus) must increase and I (John the Baptist) must decrease." It is true that John the Baptist said that, but it was John the apostle (the son of Zebedee), not John the Baptist who wrote the Gospel of John. Thank you so much to the person who caught this misstatement.

Godly or Gaudy?

(Not associated with the Gaudy family in our church!!)

Luke 1:26-56

Whoa! Only 16 more days and Christmas will be upon us. This Christmas in our “Deck the Halls” series we are looking at how to adorn our life with what matters. How do you prepare yourself for Christmas? Will you be godly or gaudy? What is the difference? Is there someone we can look at to see the difference?

This week we will look at the life of a key figure in the Christmas story and see how they reveal the true spirit of Christmas. During our worship time we will have the privilege of enjoying a combined choir of adults and children. Hope to see you this Sunday to learn how to be godly and not gaudy.

I was speaking recently with a friend about how God speaks, and how He reveals Himself to us. We were talking about how so often it seems that if God is speaking it is in a soft whisper, and can sometimes be frustrating for us that He doesn't just SPEAK UP!! But as I reflected on the story of Jesus birth, I was reminded that God could not have spoken any louder than He did when He sent His son. And that loud message is for all of time, even in our moments when it seems like God isn't speaking. God has spoken clearly of His love and commitment to us, through His son Jesus Christ.

This season, as you maneuver through business, stress, and or even hurt, and it seems like God is not responding to your cries for help, be reminded that God responded loudly through the birth of Hid Son Jesus, who then promised us an advocate through the Holy Spirit who is with us and speaks to us today.

Have a great week,

Jeff

What are some of your favorite holiday traditions? Is there anything your family does to tie in the reason for our celebration? How do you handle Christmas gifts? Help Heidi out and leave a comment with some ideas!

Jeff

This week's "Reflection" by Jeff Taylor, Pastor of Teaching & Worship

Awkwardness... I think about the things that used to be so awkward for me in the past, but are now things that I see as great opportunity. A great example of a way that God has proven Himself faithful to me in the awkward things is in small groups. I have always been a large group kind of person. I like big churches, big parties, big malls, big Thanksgiving dinners, and other places where there is the opportunity to meet with lots of people and have casual interaction. Sitting with someone one-on-one and having a deep conversation and caring about them personally used to be something that was pretty awkward for me. I didn't hate it and it wasn't that I couldn't do it, it was just awkward and I preferred to be in a large group where there was less pressure to actually go deep. God has done a great work in my heart through a small group that I have been in for about 10 years. It has been a place where God has taken the awkwardness and helped me see the importance and even purpose that He has for me in personal situations. It is a place for me to invest in other people, as well as allow people to invest in me. I now look forward to having one-on-one conversations over coffee and being able to genuinely ask "how are you" and listening.

Awkwardness can be such a hindrance, but if we will allow God to change our thinking and allow Him to show us His faithfulness in the awkward things, I believe we are going to see God's move in our lives in new, exciting, and increasingly less awkward ways.

Being awkward is not usually something anyone would ever prefer to be. Whether making a fool of yourself, or doing something that makes someone else feel awkward, most of us would prefer to avoid it at all cost. But as the Bible tells us not to “conform” to the ways of this world, it means that we are called to live by a different standard, and are called by God to do things that, in the eyes of those who cannot see, could put us in some awkward spots.

This weekend we are going to look at the awkward call of God on one man's life that directly affects you and I today. We are going to look at his example of hearing God, having faith, and persevering to the end as he trusted God with the awkward things. Who am I talking about? See Genesis chapters 6-8.

See ya Sunday!

Jeff

This week's "Reflection" by Gary Keith, Executive & Teaching Pastor

Can I Trust God with the Heavy Things?
Joshua 5-6

Many of us know the story of Joshua and the Walls of Jericho found In Joshua 6 – it’s quite an amazing story reminding us that God’s ways are not our ways. But have you looked hard at chapter 5? Because the lesson there is “the walls fall only after the will falls.” Joshua needed to submit his will to the will of God so the walls could fall down.

I can’t count the number of times I have surrendered my will to God. But rather than beat myself up over that thinking I should do better in this covenant of grace, may I be reminded that my will needs to fall to see God work. I don’t care what the heavy thing is – addiction, sickness, insecurity, fear – it doesn’t matter. May I encourage you to surrender your will to God anytime and every time you become aware that you are once again taking control of your life? It doesn’t work unless we submit our will to the will of God.

God Bless you this week as you work on doing that in this grace relationship we have with God and may the walls fall down!

Can I Trust God with the Heavy Things?
Joshua 5-6

My least favorite part of moving is the heavy things. The heavy things usually take more than one person and extra muscle power and always the possibility of a strained back. But there will always be heavy things to move. There are also heavy things that need moving in our life – things like sickness, addictions, fears, and insecurities. This week we will look at Joshua and the walls of Jericho. For Joshua the wall would definitely fall into the category of a heavy thing. That obstacle seemed just too heavy to move.

Come this week as we see how God used Joshua to move a heavy obstacle and demonstrate his power in a most unusual way. We’ll learn from Joshua how to trust God with the heavy things in our life.

See you Sunday!

Pastor Gary 

This week’s “Reflection” by Gary Keith, Executive & Teaching Pastor

Can I Trust God with the Fragile Things?
Exodus 3-4

Moses was asked by God to do the impossible. Moses was reluctant to say yes and trust God.

When Moses tells God, 'I’m a nobody,' God says, 'I’ll go with you.'

When Moses says, 'I don’t know what to say,' God says, 'I’ll tell you what to say.'

When Moses says, 'What if they don’t believe me,' God says, 'It’s not your job.'

When Moses says, 'I don’t have the ability,' God says, 'I know, I made you – you will have all that is needed.'

There are times in our lives that, just like Moses, we face what seems impossible. When you face an impossible situation is it hard to trust God? Do you have some of the same excuses as Moses? What are some of the ways you have trusted God? What was the result? I’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences.

Exodus 3-4

Part of moving involves packing up those fragile vases, crystal glasses and china. We take extra care to make sure that in the process of moving they won’t be broken. And yet it seems like something always breaks despite our best efforts (at least that’s my experience). And just like those vases and crystal glasses our lives are fragile. There are times when we face what seems to be an impossible situation when it feels like life is about to break.

As we look into Exodus this week we’ll see that for Israel it felt like life was breaking. They were in an impossible situation. But God sees their impossible situation and has a plan to change it. Enter Moses. God gets’ Moses’ attention and yet he was reluctant to trust God in this impossible situation.

What fragile situation are you facing right now? What is the thing in your life that seems impossible? Come this week as we see how Moses handled his impossible situation.

See you this weekend,

Pastor Gary

There are two places in my house that I absolutely love: my bed, and my end seat on the sectional sofa. These are places of rest for me. These are places that I have had some of the best naps you can imagine, and these are places that I hate to have to get up from. However, each day there is a call for me to leave these comfortable places and do something with my life: my job, yard work, playing with the kids, etc...are all part of a greater purpose for my life than just sitting.

Being comfortable is a wonderful thing, but there are some things we should be cautious and aware of when it comes to living comfortably. God has a huge design for our lives, much bigger than we realize most of the time. But this design will often call us out of the comfort of our lives that we so deeply enjoy. This call that God has for His children may in fact call us out of being comfortable, and yet not be fully revealed until we are willing to get up and step out in faith.

This weekend we are going to look at the second "Moving Day" as we look at Abram's (Abraham) response to God when God calls him to leave what is known and comfortable, and trust in God's huge design for his life and the life of future generations.

Take a look at Genesis 12, and see what God begins to speak to you.

See ya this weekend,
Jeff

This week’s “Reflection” by Gary Keith, Executive & Teaching Pastor

Can I trust God with My Mess?
Genesis 3

Sin – it’s real, it’s deadly, and it can have forever affects on our life. Sin - it all began with Adam and Eve and it continues today. The good news though is that when we sin, with Jesus it can be forgiven. And during the entire journey of life God never abandons us and His goodness in our life is sure. But when we make a mess of our lives and feel the consequences of sin, we may have a hard time trusting God. How about you? Tell me your story of trusting God when there was a move due to your sin. What was your journey like? Were there days that trusting God was difficult? How did you overcome the mess and trust God again? We can all learn from one another. Have a great week! God bless.

Moving Day: Can I Trust God?

This Sunday we start a new five week series called Moving Day. Each week we will look at an Old Testament story and see some pretty important moves that God called his people to make. This week we look at Adam and Eve and their move out of the Garden of Eden. To get a head start be sure to read Genesis chapter 3 as we ask the question, “Can I Trust God with My Mess?” We want to look at our ability to trust God when we blow it and He tells us to move? Do I believe God is good in those kinds of times? Do I believe I’m forgiven and loved and redeemed?

Join us this week as we explore the topic of trusting God in a variety of situations and moves.

By the way, two things I want to encourage you in this week; first be sure to stop by the Harvest Party table after service on Sunday and sign up for a place to serve that evening and second be sure to vote on Tuesday, November 2.

God Bless,

Gary Keith

The Journey Ends
Acts 27 and 28

This past Sunday was week 24 in our study of Acts. In the first part of the book we looked at how to “Be the Church.” Once Paul was on the scene, we then learned what it means to be on a “Road Trip.” This has been an adventure for us as we have learned how the Christian Church started and how it grew. Now that the 28 chapters are completed the “Road Trip” is not over. I think we are now living in chapter 29. The spreading of the church and the spreading of the gospel is still unfolding and will until Christ returns. Now we are part of continuing the work begun by many faithful servants of Jesus. God has now entrusted the good news of Jesus with us. It is our turn to carry it forward.

As you think back on the book of Acts, what is the one thing that stands out the most to you? What one thing impacted you more than anything? How will you be a different kind of Jesus-follower as a result of our Acts study? I’d love to hear from you! God Bless.

Journey’s End
Acts 27 and 28

This week we finish up our 24-week study in the book of Acts. It would be hard to put in a sentence or two all that I have learned and grown in as we have studied this together. And this week we will once again provide an opportunity for learning as we live with Paul through yet another life-threatening adventure. This time Paul found himself once again in the middle of trouble, but this trouble was weather-related and then he was bitten by a venomous snake. I mean what more can happen to this guy, really?!

How about us? When we are in the middle of trouble it can be hard to see the hand of God, right? This is when we tend to say, “What are you doing God?” or “Where are you God?” or “Why God?” As we walk with Paul through his storm, we will have the opportunity to learn some things about how to live in the storms we find ourselves in.

Hope to see you Sunday! By the way, if you haven’t signed up to serve at the Harvest Party, this is the week – there will be a form in the bulletin. Also thanks so much for all the candy that has been given so far. We can still use more! This party is shaping up to make a huge difference in our community. I can’t wait!

Gary Keith

This week's Reflection by Gary Keith, Executive & Teaching Pastor

Crazy Christian
Acts 25-26

Have you ever been called crazy for being a Christian? I know there are people out there who think Christian’s are crazy, but many times it’s for the wrong reasons. I know that I’m embarrassed by the behaviors of some people who call themselves Christians who receive national media attention for the politically charged things they say or do, or for the way they attack others. What really gets me is that it makes it harder to help people understand that our faith is not about those things they see on TV. Like Paul, if people are going to call us crazy, may it be about the belief we have in the resurrection and how much we love others. What do you think?

Crazy Christian
Acts 25-26

Has anyone ever called you crazy for being a Christian? This week we will see that Paul was called crazy by governor Festus. But why? Why was he called crazy for being a Christian? Was it because of his outlandish behavior? Was it because of his beliefs? Would Jesus be pleased with the reasons Paul was called crazy?

There is a big difference between the reasons Paul was called crazy by Festus and why some Christians are called crazy today. There are some good reasons to be called crazy for Jesus, but there are some embarrassing reasons as well – reasons that do not please Jesus at all. Come this week and learn about the difference!

Gary Keith

This week’s “Reflection” by Jeff Taylor, Pastor of Teaching & Worship

To live above reproach...to live with integrity...to live with a clear conscience....THAT is freedom. So many people believe that they are getting more out of life by bending the rules, sneaking around, and living for themselves with no regard for others. But the reality for a person that lives this way is a life full of looking over their shoulder, feeling picked on because of consequences for the things that they do, regret, and dishonor of themselves, their families, and God.

As I continue to reflect on the passage this weekend in Acts 24, there are so many nuggets to pull out, but the one that continues to stick out to me is verse 16 where Paul says, "I always try to maintain a clear conscience before God and all people." Trying takes work. And it is the kind of work that we cannot do on our own. It is the work of the Holy Spirit that produces this kind of fruit.

This week I want to encourage you to join me in prayer, asking God to reveal the actions, attitudes, and activities that cause those who observe us to question what we really live for and accuse us of reproachable activity. How are our good intentions to be "Christian" sabotaged by selfish attitudes, succumbing to temptation, and justifying behavior? I pray that God would show each of us how we can change our lives to live in a way that would cause those who would accuse us to look foolish.

Have you ever had your integrity called into question? Have you ever been falsely accused of something? Have you ever suffered for doing the right thing?

We have all probably faced at least one, if not all of these scenarios, and if we are honest, it probably drove us to a place of asking "why me?" This week we are going to look at Paul on trial (Acts 24), and how his life and testimony in the face of suffering honored God and continued his ministry to those who needed to hear the good news of the gospel.

See ya Sunday, 

Jeff  

This week’s “Reflection” by Gary Keith, Executive & Teaching Pastor

Living Between a Rock and a Hard Place
Acts 22:24-23:35

Not once, not twice but twenty-three times in the New Testament Paul publicly says that he has a clear conscience before God. I don’t know about you but I find that statement pretty challenging. I find that challenging because when we are in those rock and hard place moments in our desire to free ourselves we are tempted to say things or do things that are morally wrong. But not Paul, He is a wonderful example of staying true to his faith even when the pressure is on.

What do you believe are the other factors at work here that would help us stay true to our faith when we are between a rock and a hard place? What has helped you maintain a clear conscience before God when you are between a rock and a hard place?

Living Between a Rock and a Hard Place
Acts 22:24-23:35

There are times in our lives when we face a decision. We struggle making this decision because neither choice feels right or maybe our choice will make someone angry or maybe either choice will bring us pain. But we still need to make a decision. What do you do when you are between a rock and a hard place? How do you make a decision where there is no good solution?

This week as we continue our road trip we will see that Paul finds himself between a rock and a hard place. The story is riveting and one that we can learn from as we face our rock and hard place decision. Do you want to build a spiritual legacy that will last? It’s often in the times that we feel like we’re between a rock and a hard place that God does wonderful things. I hope to see you Sunday as we journey together learning from Paul during his rock and hard place moment.

Pastor Gary

This week’s “Reflection” by Jeff Taylor, Pastor of Teaching & Worship

"Take up your cross DAILY and follow me." This is what it means to be a Christian. A life surrendered to Christ at a level that does not put us beyond making mistakes and still blowing it, but where we are willing to continue to lay it all down, make the sacrifice of our own "rights" and desires, and allow what Christ calls us to, to trump all else.

Right now I am really asking God to do surgery on my heart and take out the disease of a judgmental attitude. With strangers, friends, my wife, and my kids I need God's help to show the grace and love that He desires from me.

I want to encourage all of you to join me in asking God to invade our lives at such a deep level, it goes beyond feeling guilty for a few minutes after a Sunday sermon and actually changes our behaviors, our lifestyle, and helps us become the people that God designed us to be.

"What would you do for a Klondike Bar?" We have seen people dress like a chicken, dance like a penguin, and do all sorts of other crazy things for some ice cream covered in chocolate. On the TV show "Wipeout" we see people get beat to a pulp for the chance at $50,000. And a common phrase in our culture is "I would do anything for...". So, what would you be willing to do for Jesus?

Jesus said that anyone who wants to be identified with Him, must take up their cross (die to themselves) and follow Him. This week as we continue on into Acts 21 and 22 we are going to see that Paul is willing to do just that, in a very literal way. We will look at what it means to take up our 21st century cross, and the cost of being a Christ follower.

See ya Sunday,
Jeff

This week’s “Reflection” by Gary Keith, Executive & Teaching Pastor

Living Life to the Fullest
Acts 20:13-38

This passage explores Paul’s thoughts about what it meant for him to live his life to the fullest. For Paul this meant having a heart to serve God, following the leading of the Holy Spirit, keeping his focus on eternal things, and passing the faith on to others, including the next generation. I’m sure this kept him from experiencing a mid-life crisis.

Even though I’m now a pastor of a church, that was something I hadn’t even considered until I was 30 years old. My life experience at that time included going to college, serving in the military, and pursuing a totally different career path. I had been searching for a life purpose since my mother was tragically killed. I wanted to know if this thing called Christianity had any meaning beyond going to church on Sunday. After a few years of seeking God, I realized that I wanted my life to count for eternal things. For me this meant joining the staff of LBF. And so, preparing for this message, I reflected on these past 29 years here at LBF and I’m grateful for the opportunity to see God change my life and the lives of others.

As you consider your life, what is it that gives you meaning and purpose? Does it have anything to do with what brought meaning to Paul’s life? What is it that helps you know you are living your life to the fullest? I’d love to hear from you.

Living Life to the Fullest
Acts 20:13-38

I have known people who experienced a mid-life crisis when they hit their forties. These people look back on their life so far and for whatever reason, feel like life is not what they had hoped it would be. Maybe they haven’t accomplished what they had hoped to accomplish. Maybe they are in a job they hate. Maybe their marriage is not going the way they had hoped. Or maybe life in general is just not happening as they had dreamed it would, and so they experience this mid-life crisis. Sometimes what people do during a mid-life crisis can be humorous, like buying a sports car and changing the way they dress. But sometimes this mid-life crisis can result in serious discouragement or even depression.

How do we live life to the fullest? That is the question we will explore this Sunday as we continue our Road Trip with Paul. If you want to get a head start, be sure to read the entire passage, but especially verse 24. How do we live life to the fullest? Let’s look at Paul’s example and learn some important ways to do just that.


Pastor Gary

This week’s “Reflection” by Jeff Taylor, Pastor of Teaching & Worship

As I think more and more on this idea of receiving all that God has for us, I am struck by the mere idea that the God of the universe has something for US! Our God tells us to come before Him being full of confidence. Our God tells us to make our prayers and needs known to Him. Our God tells us that if we will humble ourselves, He will hear our prayers. And our God, of His own will, is offering us the opportunity to be so filled with the Holy Spirit that we will be given Spiritual Gifts, authority over demonic forces, and life to the fullest! All of that sounds so much better than just attending a church service and calling myself a Christian.

This week I want to encourage you to go before God in a very real and humble way, and ask Him to reveal to you what in your heart and life is hindering any ability to receive all that He has for you. God is not about performance, and we must understand that our salvation and these gifts from God are not based on us earning or deserving them, but many times we put those limitations on God. We settle for the temporal, or what we feel like we deserve, or what we think God can do in us or through us, when scripture tells us that God is ready to do so much more if we would just surrender and allow Him to.

For each of us it will be different. For some it will be dealing with addiction. For others it will require healing from abuse.  Some may need to pray for an extra measure of faith. Whatever it is in your life that holds you back from Him, or causes you to settle for less than all that He has for you, God is there, ready to touch you and bring you the life that He promised through Jesus Christ.

May God bless you as you seek Him, and may you come alive with the life found in His Holy Spirit.

This week’s “Reflection” by Gary Keith, Executive & Teaching Pastor

Feel Like Quitting?
Acts 18

We learned this week that even the bold and confident Apostle Paul experienced discouragement and even depression as he entered the city of Corinth. Today more than 17 million Americans have been diagnosed with serious depression and there are countless others who live daily in a haze of disillusionment. The Christian community is not immune – Christians also experience discouragement and depression.

Acts 18 reveals to us how God provided for Paul during his time of weakness. If you live with or deal with depression, how does your Christian life become a place of hope? How have you seen God provide for you during times of discouragement? Let’s talk and help one another out. God helped Paul by providing friends, by providing for his physical needs, and by speaking encouraging words. Have you seen God do this for you? Did it help?

Feel Like Quitting?
Acts 18

If you’re like most people, there have been times in your life when you have felt like quitting. Maybe it was just too hard or maybe it was just taking too long or maybe it just became too discouraging. Whatever the reason, I think most of us have felt like quitting. Here’s the good news: you’re not alone because even Paul the apostle, the man who wrote (under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit) much of the New Testament, felt like quitting.

This week in Acts 18 we see Paul enter the city of Corinth a discouraged man. But we will also see how God provided a cure for Paul’s’ discouragement and learn how He provides for us as well.

See ya Sunday!

This week’s “Reflection” by Jeff Taylor, Pastor of Teaching & Worship

On Sunday as we studied this passage, it was clear that Paul is convinced in the power of the gospel to change lives. It is also clear that he is ready and prepared to share the gospel in a variety of settings and to people who have a variety of different beliefs.

As you consider sharing about Jesus to other people, what is it that stops you? What hinders you from being bold? Several things I thought of might include being afraid of being made fun of, not knowing what to say, being called a "Jesus freak," or maybe even what you believe others think of Christians today (let’s face it - some pretty embarrassing things have been done and said lately in the name of Jesus)?

I think it is important for us to talk about these things and work out ways to change. Why? Because the very eternal lives of people are at stake. What do you think?

Have you ever dreamed of going on tour? Have you been intrigued as you watched famous people tour the world with their music? For some, going on tour seems like a glamorous way to live – everyone taking care of your every need, visiting a new city every night, seeing new people, seeing new sites – all of that can sound pretty inviting, but is it?

Well this week as we look into Acts 17, we get to see the experience of Paul on a three city tour. As we look at his experience we can learn so much about how he presents the gospel to three different cites in three different ways and receives three different reactions. And while we are “on tour” with Paul, we will learn how we can be ready to present the gospel in our own city.

By the way, let me encourage you to give serious consideration to attending the U.R.U. Seminars – this will be a great time to help you see how God has gifted and made you.

See you Sunday!

Pastor Gary Keith

This week’s “Reflection” by Matt Sasso, Pastor of Student Ministries

As I think about this weekend and this week’s text, I want to encourage you again to reflect on Paul’s passion for the gospel. Although it was not the place that Paul had originally set to, this portion of the road trip that we looked at showed how far Paul was willing to go to help people know what Jesus did for them. After Paul left that city, there were two households changed by the gospel that would eventually become the church of Philippi. He then would write one of his most personal letters to them. This week I want to encourage you to think about how God is directing you and how you might share to the good news of Jesus with those that God puts in front of you.

This week’s “Reflection” by Jason Gaudy, Elder

When I think about how many things could've derailed early Christianity, adding to the gospel seems like the most dangerous possible thing that could've happened. Finally, we had been set free and immediately people began to try to help God along. Immediately we began to fill in the blank. Jesus +_____________ . What have you filled in the blank with? Whatever it is, by adding legalistic requirements to the gospel, we lose it all together. It seems that it is part of our nature to not truly understand the concept of grace.

As we share with others through our words and our lives, how Jesus saved us and taught us how to live, may we all remember to give them the gospel of freedom and life not of ritual and tradition. The conditional gospel of Jesus +_________ is no gospel at all. May we prefer God's truth over prestige and personal preference. May the good works that we do be as a result of the joy and gratitude we have from our salvation not out of guilt or shame or obligation.

This week’s “Reflection” by Jeff Taylor, Pastor of Teaching & Worship

The Lord has really been speaking to me a lot since Sunday about the call to reach all people with the message and love of Christ. I certainly have a lot of room to grow in making concerted efforts, outside the ministry context, to reach out to people, but God has been faithful even this week to give me opportunities.

My new neighbor, who I have only spoken to briefly, was outside doing his yard work and I was on my way out to the car to go somewhere. This is usually the point where I am so busy or rushed that I hop in the car and zoom off. But this time I was distinctly urged in my heart to stop what I was doing and go talk to him. During our conversation he was really open about how he and his wife are doing as they expect their first baby in September. He talked about some of their fears and anxiety, and I was able to really relate with much of the stuff as Laura and I had experienced many of the same things. I was able to share with him about how prayer through our pregnancies was a big part and offered to pray for he and his wife. He was surprised and even commented that it was a relief that he has a “nice neighbor.” I hope I can keep that up! :)

I share that story as an “if I can do it you can do it” type of encouragement, the way we see the passages about Paul and Barnabas’ journey and their perseverance to share the gospel even through the breakdowns in Acts 14.

Have you had any opportunities to share the love of Christ with anyone lately that you could share here with us as an encouragement? We’d love to hear has God is speaking to your heart, and how you are being used in the lives of people.

Have a great week, even if there are “breakdowns”.

This week’s “Reflection” by Gary Keith, Executive & Teaching Pastor

Everyone Can!

Acts 13

This week we started on the first of three road trips that will eventually finish up our study of Acts. My proposition for this week is that we are all missionary Christians, whether we like it or not – that is part of the responsibility God has given us – to be messengers of the good news. With that in mind, I’d love to hear your approach to sharing the good news. What is it you say? How do you start a spiritual conversation? Let’s share this on the @LBF Blog and learn from one another.

On Sunday I suggested that what people want to know today is how the story of God fits into the story of Jesus. Have you found that to be true? Download the attached pdf, “A Christian Meta-Narrative,” written by Millard Erickson in his book, “Truth or Consequences.” This meta-narrative helped me tremendously in knowing how to share God’s story with people. What do you think about this telling of the story of God?  

The bottom line though, is that as messengers, we are ready. Are you ready? If so, great! If not, I encourage you to get ready and see how God works through you – your life will never be the same – trust me!

Everyone Can!
Acts 13

Road Trips – they can be filled with adventure as we leave the comfort of our home and go to unexpected places and meet unexpected faces. I’ve been on several road trips during my life, and each one has been different and exciting and yes even a bit uncomfortable.

This week we will observe the first of three road trips of the Apostle Paul. Along with Barnabus and John Mark they set sail for an adventure by taking the gospel to “the ends of the earth.” And along the way we can learn some important truths about the heart of God for people. So as we begin this road trip, you are all invited to come along and jump in the car – there’s plenty of room – everyone can come!

Gary Keith
Executive & Teaching Pastor

In Acts 12, we can wonder about James' death, as Herod Agrippa stretched out his hand to vex the church. We can wonder why James was saved and Peter was released. Ultimately, God is sovereign.

1 Chronicles 29:11-13: Yours, O LORD, is the greatness and the power and the glory and the victory and the majesty, for all that is in the heavens and in the earth is yours. Yours is the kingdom, O LORD, and you are exalted as head above all. Both riches and honor come from you, and you rule over all. In your hand are power and might, and in your hand it is to make great
and to give strength to all. And now we thank you, our God, and praise your glorious name.

Even as God is sovereign, we are called and taught to pray. Luke, the book of Acts’ author, makes it clear in verse 5 that prayer was a catalyst in Peter's release. It was a fervent, "stretched out" type of prayer. It's one of passion, compassion, and authenticity. It's prayer that realizes the stakes are high. Their prayers were answered as Peter was released from bondage.

Thousands of years later, their story depicted in their faithfulness to pray stretched out is still an encouragement, testimony, and model to believers today.

It makes me wonder about the areas in our lives where we feel caught up and imprisoned. In some of these areas, only God will see us through. And as we stretch out and pray, God is writing new stories for the generations to come.

This week’s “Reflection” by Jeff Taylor, Pastor of Teaching & Worship

So, what's your label? I'm interested! This may take some vulnerability, but I'd like to challenge you to write here what you believe your label would be right, this moment, if people were asked to tell us how they see you or what you are a devoted follower of. Then you can include what you would like to strive to have your label to be.

I'll go first just to get the ball rolling...

I could see my current label being "the guy who talks a lot." I would like to see my label become "the guy who cares about people."

Ok, your turn! We can all grow from understanding the journey that others are on toward being labeled "Christian, and living lives devoted to Christ.” Share your label with us, and what you hope one day your label will be.

This week’s “Reflection” by Gary Keith, Executive & Teaching Pastor

Parting with Our Prejudice
Acts 10

On Sunday in our continuing study of the book of Acts, we looked at Chapter 10. In this chapter Peter learns how to part with his prejudice. God’s plan of salvation was for all people and God used Peter to present the gospel to the Gentiles. Peter, being a Jew, had prejudice against the Gentiles and yet God uses him to bring the gospel to this hated people group.

In 10:34 we learn that “God does not show favoritism.” The issue of prejudice was alive and well in the first century and it is still alive and part of our world in the 21^st century. So the question becomes, "If I’m going to reflect the heart of God, what do I do to rid my life of prejudice?" For those who read this web reflection, I want to challenge you to think about this and to ask God to help you with the areas of prejudice you currently have. May God rid us of prejudice and build in us heart and love for all people.

Jesus Christ is the center of our life. It's all about Jesus. With that in mind, what is the spiritual focus in your life and your life purpose? 

We know we are to love God and love our neighbor. We are also commanded to go out and make disciples. But we all have different backgrounds, upbringings, careers, talents, strengths, and spiritual gifts. Is your gift teaching? Evangelism? Outreach? Mentoring? Prayer warrior?
 
If you are called and gifted in teaching, are you ready to lead a Bible study? Are you more of an organizer, developer, worker, or people person? Use those skills to organize a church event. Or would you enjoy visiting people in the hospital, praying with people, or encouraging those who are going through a tough time?
 
This week pray about your passion in life. What creates joy, excitement, and expectancy in you? What sets your heart on fire for Jesus?
 
We are currently study Acts. Dave Kraft in his book, Leaders Who Last, says, "When I read Acts, what I see is boldness, fire, fearlessness, and convictions worth dying for; not obsession with safety or comfort, but pure unadulterated love for Jesus and for the vision he left with us. Passion needs to be recaptured in all its fullness within the ranks of Christian leadership. Away with the ice! Bring on the fire, that consumes, burns away the dross, and gives light and life to a dying world."
 
Is Jesus the center (the power plant, the driving force) of all of your thoughts, decisions, and actions, all the time, always?
 
What is the purpose of your life?

What is your ministry?
What is your passion?
 
To Jesus be the glory, always!

Russ Anderson, Men's Ministry Leader

This week's "Reflection" by Gary Keith, Executive & Teaching Pastor

Really Changed!

Acts 9:1-31

One of the points of the message on Sunday was that God doesn’t waste anything in our lives. Saul was chosen by God to bring the message of Jesus to people he could relate with. Saul brought his life experience, his education, his skills, and abilities to God’s service. That led me to the question, why did God choose you? God has chosen to use people to get His message of Jesus out to a lost and dying world. Take a few minutes this week and reflect a bit on your life experience, your education, your skills, and your abilities and ask, "Who does God want me to reach with the message of Jesus? Who are the people already in my circle of influence? What can I do to help them see and know Jesus?"

What do you think about this idea?

Really Changed!

Acts 9:1-31

Change – what do you think of that word? Do you like it or hate it? There are many great quotes about change that seem to hit our thoughts in the right place. For example, Winston Churchill said, “There is nothing wrong with change if it is in the right direction.” “Change is inevitable, except from a vending machine,” said Robert Gallagher. “We change whether we like it or not,” observed Ralph Waldo Emerson. And Romans 12:2 urges, “Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.”

This last one is the type of change we’ll be talking about on Sunday. Take a few minutes and read the passage to see a life that was changed – a life we can learn from. Hope to see you Sunday!

Pastor Gary

This week's "Reflection" by Gary Keith, Executive & Teaching Pastor

Being a Christian in a non-Christian Culture
Acts 6:8 – 8:3

This passage reveals a turning point in the development of the Christian church. Stephen, a man full of the Holy Spirit, is martyred for speaking about his faith in Jesus. Jerusalem at that time was a non-Christian nation on the road to becoming more Christian. As we fast forward to today and look at America, we see a nation that was founded on Judeo-Christian values on the road to becoming less and less interested in these original values. But does it matter to our message?

Is it more important for us to return to becoming a “Christian” nation (if we ever really were) or is it more important for us as Christians to carry out our assignment of changing people's lives with the message of Jesus? I choose the latter. History shows us that the Christian church has flourished under persecution. Now I’m not looking for persecution, but whatever our society is and is becoming, our assignment as Christians remains the same – change people's lives with the message of Jesus. You can bet though I’ll personally do what I can to uphold those Judeo-Christian values. I will also encourage Christian involvement in places that can make a difference for these values, including politics and social causes. But my hope is first and foremost in Jesus, not in returning our country to the values of 200 years ago. I’m so very thankful for this country, its founding, and its history. I have lived in other countries and I think America with all its weaknesses is still the place to live. But I want to be careful not to misplace my priorities. I don’t want to lose the message of Jesus as I live in this 21^st century culture. What do you think?

Being a Christian in a Non-Christian Culture

Acts 6:8 – 8:3

At this stage in my life I have a few years to look back on and reflect about how different life is now than when I was younger. Things have definitely changed, and my guess is that they’ll continue to change. With the changes in culture has come a feeling that what people used to believe as a Christian society has become less and less Christian. This means that Christians today must interact with the culture differently than they used to.

Jesus has given every Christian an assignment. If we are going to carry out our assignment it is important for Christians to learn how to live in a non-Christian culture. This week we will learn about another first-time event with a man named Stephen, and from him learn some things about being a Christian in a Non-Christian culture.

This week's "Reflection" by Gary Keith, Executive & Teaching Pastor

Got Generosity?
Acts 4:32-5:11

For years now milk producers have used the slogan, “Got Milk?” to encourage people to buy milk. On Sunday I used that slogan to encourage people to consider the value and importance of being generous. As we go through the book of Acts verse by verse, learning to be the church, the topics that come our way are directed by the text. I find it interesting that very early on in the history of the Christian church Luke records for us contrasting examples of generosity. My guess is that becoming and staying generous is hard even for us Christians. I’m also surprised that Luke records the events of Ananias and Sapphira. It’s not the kind of story that would encourage belief in Jesus – I mean really – one lie and you die? Or does it?

Why do you think Luke recorded this story? Do you have trouble with a merciful and loving God doing this? Why or Why not? Let’s talk!

Thank you for all who participated in LBF’s Outward Bound project for Pacific Lifeline on Saturday, May 8 – the Mini-Makeovers (and more!) for Moms. What a blessing you all were to the families – they were all so thrilled.

Here is an email I got from one of the families who attended. I am sure she speaks for everyone!

Yesterday was amazing. Please tell whoever sponsored the event that they really made us feel great. It was like a little family reunion also. I love those girls and I am so blessed to have made lifetime friends from the time that I lived at Pacific Lifeline and also through grad group. God bless you and Happy Mothers Day!

Also, from one of Pacific Lifeline’s staff members:

Saturday was a huge success! Everybody really enjoyed themselves!

As a member of LBF and a staff member of Pacific Lifeline, let me just say that it warmed my heart to see all of you working together, using your God-given gifts to serve…and it also warmed my heart to see moms, who have gone through so much, get pampered and have such beautiful smiles on their faces! What a wonderful Mother’s Day give you gave!

God bless you abundantly for the time, energy, and love you gave to Pacific Lifeline families.

Blessings,

Kirsten Grubb

This week as we discover how to be the church, we will learn the answers to all of those questions and more. You won’t want to miss this exciting story. Something happens this week that has never been repeated in all of history. And I think you’ll be happy about that. Hope to see you Sunday!

Oh, and this would be a great week to invite a friend to come to church with you – they’ll learn all about what it means to be generous and rest assured that no offering will be taken – I promise!

Pastor Gary

This week's "Reflection" by Jeff Taylor, Pastor of Teaching & Worship

As I think about the encounter that Peter and John had with the most powerful people in the land, I keep asking myself if I could have/would have done the same thing? The answer is a resounding NO! But then I read again about how it was that they had such boldness and I am filled with hope that I too will be able to stand in the face of adversity and proclaim the name of Christ and the truth of His gospel. It isn’t about being brave, it is about being empowered through the Holy Spirit.

Acts 4:5-8: The next day the council of all the rulers and elders and teachers of religious law met in Jerusalem. Annas the high priest was there, along with Caiaphas, John, Alexander, and other relatives of the high priest. They brought in the two disciples and demanded, “By what power, or in whose name, have you done this?” Then Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, said to them...

The key to living out our faith in Christ, particularly in the face of adversity, is to be filled with the Holy Spirit. Of course a person is filled with the Holy Spirit at the moment they put their faith in Christ, but to allow the enabling of the Holy Spirit is something that we can ignore or shut down if we choose to allow fear to control us. Peter and John were not bold because they were brave, they were bold because they were empowered by the Holy Spirit and chose to allow Him to lead them.

Acts 4:29-30: And now, O Lord, hear their threats, and give us, your servants, great boldness in preaching your word. Stretch out your hand with healing power; may miraculous signs and wonders be done through the name of your holy servant Jesus.

Where are you today with being able to make this your prayer? In your heart do you desire boldness that goes beyond bravery? Do you desire to allow your relationship with God to be more than a theology, and to see Him work powerfully in and through your life? It is all about the power of the Holy Spirit.

This week's "Reflection" by Gary Keith, Executive & Teaching Pastor

Wouldyou describe the faith you have in Jesus Christ as daring? I think chapterthree of the book of Acts describes the daring faith of Peter. Having the HolySpirit in you is still new, Jesus has not been gone all that long, and herecomes this man who is lame. I wonder if Peter asked, “What would Jesus do?" I wouldn’t be surprised if that crossed his mind. Peter, full of the Holy Spiritand in the name of Jesus Christ the Nazarene, commands the man to walk. He thenreaches out to help him walk, they join hands, and the miracle occurs. Wow!

Peterwho had never done this models for us a daring faith. As we reflect a bit onthis passage there is so much we could discuss. Let’s focus a bit on the giftof healing. There was a strong purpose to this miracle – it was that theServant-Messiah (Jesus) would be glorified. So I have a couple of questions:Does God still heal today? Have you ever been “up close” to seeing God heal?How was the Servant-Messiah glorified in that healing?

Are you a daring person? Do you like to tempt fate? Have you ever thought about swimming with sharks? How about jumping out of an airplane (with a parachute, of course!)? How about jumping off a bridge with a giant rubber band tied around your waist?  If you have given serious thought about doing any of these things, or better yet, if you have done any of these things, you might just be a daring person. It’s one thing to be daring with my life, but what does it mean to have a daring faith?

So far in our study of Acts we have seen that the promised Holy Spirit has arrived and the apostles are just beginning to understand what that means to their life and message. Peter has given his first sermon, the church is in its beginning stages, and now low and behold a miracle occurs - a real miracle of healing. What can we learn from Peter and this miracle of the healing of the lame man in chapter 3? That’s what we’ll consider this week as we look at Peter’s daring faith. Hope to see you Sunday.

This week's "Reflection" by Jeff Taylor, Pastor of Teaching & Worship

To care forone another's needs is a high call. We see it all throughout scripture whereGod's people cared for one another and met the needs that they saw around them.In fact, scripture tells us that worship that God sees as real and genuine iswhen He sees us caring for the helpless (i.e. Widows and orphans).

So, what dowe do about it? I have been challenged to consider how I can meet needs, evenif it means sacrificing my own desires or comforts. It is not my place to tellyou what you should do, or give up. But But I invite you to join me inwrestling with the Holy Spirit as we allow Him to speak to our hearts and leadus to be the church as we care for one another.

Have a blessed week!

The Adventure Gets Personal

Acts 2:22-41

This past weekend, we examined part two of Peter’s sermon on the day of Pentecost. People had just experienced the power of the Holy Spirit – they asked what just happened and in Peter’s explanation he gets personal by sharing his own story of Jesus. As we ask the question about how to be the church our answer not only includes doctrines that relate to Jesus – they also include the story of Jesus in our life.

How would you share with someone the story of Jesus in your life? Have you thought about it? Do you have something to share that demonstrates the power of Jesus in your life? Let me encourage you to take some time very soon to reflect on the story of Jesus in your life. After that be ready to share with others how Jesus has made a difference in your life – Jesus simply asks you to just share with others what you know – that is all – Let’s be ready to be the church by sharing our personal story of Jesus with others – Let’s not be afraid to get personal about Jesus – it might just change a life forever!

This Weekend's Message by Gary Keith, Executive & Teaching Pastor

The Adventure Gets Personal
Acts 2:22-41

When someone asks you, “Can I ask you a personal question?” what is your first thought? Maybe it’s “Oh no what are they going to ask?” And then maybe you think, “Okay how can I answer this without revealing too much about myself?” Many times getting personal can produce uncomfortable feelings and responses from people.

Getting personal is what we will be talking about this week. Peter in his very first (and some say his best) sermon gets personal with the people he is speaking to. But what is so amazing is that while he gets personal with them their response is not one of being guarded or defensive but just the opposite. The people he got personal with responded by believing what he said. And that belief changed their lives forever.

Pastor Gary

The adventure has begun. On Sunday we started our adventure through the book of Acts. Although we had 76 men gone on our annual Men’s retreat on their own adventure, we started ours as we studied Acts Chapter 1.  The focus for the morning was learning about what the first Christians believed.  What we believe is an important point to consider. The truth is we may say we believe in something but if our belief (whatever it may be) doesn’t work itself out into our daily life then I think we should question whether we actually believe it.

In our study we learned that the first Christians believed in the reality of the resurrection and the coming of His kingdom. That belief changed their life on a daily basis. Believing in the reality of the resurrection and the coming of His kingdom should affect the way we live today. What do you think? How does your belief in the reality of the resurrection and the coming of His kingdom change the way you live throughout the week? Let’s talk!

I think I’m on safe ground to say that no one alive today has ever seen a person who was once dead rise from the dead and come back to life again. And yet every person who calls themselves a Christian puts their entire faith in this one fact. The fact that Jesus Christ, a man who lived on this earth and was executed for claiming to be God, rose from the dead three days after he was buried in a borrowed tomb.

From any angle, believing in this story takes faith. It takes believing in something I’ve never seen. So why should I believe in the resurrection of Jesus? Is there any evidence? And if Jesus did rise from the dead what difference does that make in my life today? That is exactly what we will be talking about this Sunday, Easter 2010.

Remember, if you can attend either the early service (7:30 am) or the last service (11:15 am) that would be great and help provide seats for those additional people who will be with us Sunday. Also please note that the parking lot across the street from the church (the old Albertson’s lot) will be open for use on Sunday. And lastly, I would encourage you to invite someone to come with you to church on Sunday – it could be a life changing experience for them.

He is Risen!

The topic of the Holy Spirit is one that has brought controversy and confusion within the walls of the church. Maybe one of the reasons this is true is because the Holy Spirit is so mystical. We can picture Jesus because he became human. But when we try to picture the Holy Spirit no image comes to our mind. Jesus compared the Holy Spirit to the wind. But we can't see the wind only it's effects. Also adding to our confusion is that so much of the Holy Spirit is about our experience. Who is the Holy Spirit and what do wii believe about him?  We'll try and shed some light on that question this week.

See you Sunday!

Pastor Gary

http://www.lbfchurch.com/index.cfm/pageid/848/postid/224/blogid/10/index.html#e7295

By Jeff Taylor, Pastor of Teaching & Worship

To be good, or not to be good...that is NOT the question. As I think about this idea of goodness, and then consider the passage in Romans 3 that tells me that I am not good, and in fact no one is, it makes me stop and literally sigh in relief that the bad choices I make and the ways that I sin against God, are not going to cost me my very life. The truth that I have been redeemed and that as my heart is before God I am seen as holy and precious, brings me such a sense of gratefulness that I can do nothing other than praise Him. You and I don’t have to walk around wondering if we measure up. Through Christ we measure up. We don’t have to live in fear that we are not good enough. Through Christ we are good enough. We don’t have to spend our days consumed with the fear, wondering whether there was a rule we forgot or a sin that is not covered. Through Christ we are covered.

So, if being good is not what saves us, what role should it play in a Christian’s life? Do you view goodness as an obligation or as a product of a relationship with Christ?

Have a great week living in the knowledge that you are redeemed!

http://www.lbfchurch.com/index.cfm/pageid/848/postid/223/blogid/10/index.html#e7295

Colossians 1
1Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, and Timothy our brother, 2To the holy and faithful brothers in Christ at Colosse: Grace and peace to you from God our Father.
 
3We always thank God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, when we pray for you, 4because we have heard of your faith in Christ Jesus and of the love you have for all the saints- 5the faith and love that spring from the hope that is stored up for you in heaven and that you have already heard about in the word of truth, the gospel 6that has come to you. All over the world this gospel is bearing fruit and growing, just as it has been doing among you since the day you heard it and understood God's grace in all its truth. 7You learned it from Epaphras, our dear fellow servant, who is a faithful minister of Christ on our behalf, 8and who also told us of your love in the
Spirit.

9For this reason, since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you and asking God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all spiritual wisdom and understanding. 10And we pray this in order that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and may please him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God, 11being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience, and joyfully 12giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints in the kingdom of light. 13For he has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves, 14in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.

During our Staff Meeting this morning, we read through Colossians 1:1-14. As we discussed this passage, here are some of the themes we identified:

• Faith, hope, love
• Comes through the Gospel, through Jesus
• Reminder of how their lives changed when they heard the Gospel
• Reminder of the importance of praying for people
• And for praying for God’s will and the production of fruit
• Having endurance and patience
• Sharing in God’s inheritance
• Redemption and forgiveness
• About the way we should be praying for people in ministry
• Confident of the hope of what God has reserved for us in heaven
• Hope in the future that comes from God’s promise
• Because we live to honor the Lord we live in kindness – kindnesscomes through faith in God
• Gospel spreads through people – reaching out to other people
• Some people hear, but don't understand
• Paul understands God's grace
• We needed rescuing though we did not know it

Wii Believe...in Jesus

To embrace the belief that Jesus was both fully God and fully man can cause a person to ask some interesting questions. For example, I had someone ask me, 'When did Jesus know that He was the Son of God? Did He know as a toddler? Or was when He was twelve and confounding the Jewish religious leaders? Or was it when He was baptized? Exactly when did Jesus know that He was the Son of God?'

Good question. That is just one of many we could ask when we really take time to consider the incarnation - God in the flesh. What are your questions about this subject? Which part of Jesus is it more difficult for you to understand - His humanity or His deity? Or is it the one nature combination of Jesus as human and divine?

By Russ Parker, Pastor of Administration & Leadership Development

A few Saturday's ago, LBF's Men's Ministry packed The Garage with an unprecedented crowd of hungry men. Nearly 150 of all ages gathered to eat, develop friendships, and hear an amazing testimony of God.

There's an incredible amount of teamwork that goes into planning and feeding 110 men, and there was a work of God to make that food stretch to feed 150! I'll match up our men's breakfast food versus any local café or breakfast place. It's good food, tt's man food, void of any artificial sweeteners or substitutes. But that's not all...

There's something about 150 men packed into a room, singing their hearts out, worshipping God. It's loud, it's bass-y, and full of, shall we say, "joyful noises?" It's certainly not a well-orchestrated choir, but it's real. We were blessed with an amazing group of guys who organized and led us in time of worship through music.

God then blessed us with Aaron Hudson. What a gift Aaron and his wife, Jenny, are to us at LBF. Aaron shared his life journey and how he gave his life to Jesus just a few years ago. In his car, in the middle of the freeway, he prayed for God "to take the wheel." His journey was full of what he described as "lucky bounces." Looking back, he is able to understand how God has cared for him as a father in ways he didn’t even realize. Aaron's authentic sharing moved many who listened. I talked with others afterward that were encouraged by Aaron's story.

Men's breakfast comes around about once a quarter. I can't wait to see how God uses the next one. Feel free to join in with your comments and share about your experience at our recent men's breakfast.

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This week's Reflection by Jeff Taylor, Pastor of Teaching & Worship

1. There is one God.
2. The deity of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit is equal.
3. God is all three persons at every moment.
4. The Trinity is eternal. There has always been three.
5. The Trinity is incomprehensible.

What do each of these things mean to you as you consider your relationship with God? Does it bring comfort, awe, fear, bewilderment, etc…? Share with us how your understanding of this three-in-one God impacts you, and your relationship with Him.

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This week's Reflection by Gary Keith, Executive & Teaching Pastor

Wii Believe in the Bible

As I reflect a bit on this Wii Believe series, I realize that many people would agree with the first part of 2 Timothy 3:16 - the part that declares that the Bible is the inspired word of God. But then we arrive at the second part of that verse where Paul lists four ways the Bible is useful. When we get to that part I wonder if we pause and say, "Wait a minute, I'm not sure I want the Bible to correct my life. I'll read the Bible for information, but I don't want it to correct my life."

If that is the case, then we haven't yet believed the first part of the verse. It's my contention that "Wii Believe" doesn't really happen until we put into practice what we say we believe. What do you think?

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Last Friday, LBF packed the house for the Heart & Soul’s Valentine’s Dance. All ages came out to boogy and celebrate love for an evening that included dinner and fellowship. I interviewed Shauntel Raymond, one of the primary organizers of the event, to get a run-down on how it went.

Russ Parker, Pastor of Administration & Leadership Development: Where did the idea of holding a "heart and soul" Valentine’s dance come from?

Shauntel Raymond: The idea came from a few of us girls talking after our small group. We thought about how much fun it would be to do something to bring couples together in our church. Plus, we have happy feet sometimes and in today's world, the only place to go dancing is a bar and that's not where we feel comfortable.

Russ: A dance and church might seem like an odd pairing. What were the issues you had to consider when organizing a dance at church?

Shauntel: To make it an appropriate event, the music had to be just right. We also had to appeal to all ages with the music selection and theme.

Russ: What was your favorite part of the entire experience?

Shauntel: Planning and working together as a team and watching the couples and the joy on their faces as they danced together to their favorite songs.

Russ: You and your team put in endless hours planning, organizing, hosting, and tearing down this dance. Was it worth it?

Shauntel: It was completely worth it! We were tired, but when we saw that dance floor packed all night and hearing back from people about how much fun it was, we knew we did the right thing and all our work was worth it. We also had a great team of people who helped make the set up and tear down run really smoothly.

Russ: If we host a dance again next year, what would you say to someone who didn't attend this year to encourage them to come?

What Wii Believe About the Bible
2 Timothy 3:16-17

This week’s Reflection by Gary Keith, Executive & Teaching Pastor

Love for a Savior

I've been doing some more thinking about this idea of being a fan or a follower of Jesus. How easily we can become impressed with Jesus as we read the story of His presence on earth. His words and His teachings captivate our attention and challenge our very way of life. I think many people are fans of Jesus.

But I find it beyond challenging to be a devoted follower of Jesus. For sure that starts with belief and acceptance and allowing Him to be the one who controls our life. But do we really explore what it looks like to live the life that Jesus proclaims in the gospels? To love God with all your heart, soul, and mind; to love others as we love ourselves; to love our enemies. I realize we are all at different places in our faith journey, so let me ask you: what does it mean to you to be a follower of Jesus and not just a fan?

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This week’s Reflection by Jeff Taylor, Pastor of Teaching & Worship

Hopefully as we looked at various aspects of the Gospel of Jesus this weekend it has caused your Spirit to be stirred to understand just how good of news the gospel is.

Why is the gospel good news to you?

How has that affected your willingness to share it?

Share your stories here!

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Last week my oldest son Carter had baseball tryouts to see which division in little league he would be placed in. We were all excited for him and he has been anticipating the phone call from the league to tell him whether he would be in the younger or older division. Last night we got a phone call from the league, saying that Carter was drafted by a team in the older division by a coach that we have played with before and really like.

Good news is always nice to get, even when it is something as simple as being drafted onto a team in little league. Many times in life it seems like the bad news tends to pile up, but what a breath of fresh air when in the midst of that, we get news that seems to lighten the load.

Good news does not sweep away the struggles in life. It does not make things all better. But it does give us a hope in a future that maybe all of the difficulties had robbed from us.

This weekend we are going to talk about the greatest news of all, the gospel of Jesus Christ, and what makes it such great news.

See ya Sunday!

Jeff

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