Update on ZPV news

As you know, the roads last Sunday morning were horrible. While we heard of a few spin outs, we have not heard that anyone was hurt. We discussed ways we could get the word out for mornings like last weekend. We could send out a phone tree message, email, website post, etc. What would work for you? Pastor Trent invites you to send him a note to trent@zionlife.com. For example, we could have postponed services until 4PM that day. The roads were safe by then. And so you know, we have snow plowing service for the white stuff, so our parking lot (at least) should be accessible.

• Speaking of last Sunday, an audio version of the message is available online (from the Clarion campus), http://www.zionlife.com/media/message.aspx?messageID=74 as are all Zion messages. It's a good one, and I encourage you to take the time and check it out.
• For the rest of December, the Olkowski, Gibson, and youth (FUEL) groups will not be meeting. No Garage December 20 or 27.
• We still have invitations for the Christmas Eve Family Celebration service. Plan to bring your kids as there will be a special part for them. If you need invitations before Sunday, let me know. The ZPV service starts at 7PM. Clarion will have the same service at 5PM and 7PM. We may need help with childcare for the wee-little ones. Any volunteers?
• Be sure to check the worship folder this Sunday about our next EQUIP course starting in January!

See you Sunday!

Pastor Joe
Zion of Petroleum Valley

In this case, one is two.

Paradoxes are fun. There’s a “permanent press” setting on the clothes iron. Apartments are stuck together. The Greek Parthenon is actually curved to make it look straight. Funny, huh? The Apostle Paul writes about another paradox where he implies that two things are actually one: “Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus” (Phil. 3:13-14).

In this chapter, Paul explains his impressive spiritual pedigree. In the end, he calls it garbage, and he admits that he still has so far to go to “gain Christ.” He is in process. But here is his one thing (but is it two?): forget what’s behind and strain towards what’s ahead. While he lists two things, they are so intertwined that they must be considered together. It’s futile to forget but not press forward, and insane to press forward without forgetting. They are like ham & eggs. They just go together.

If Paul had not reached the finish line, then I must be way back in the pack. But, I must do this one, two-part thing too. If I have any past victories or failures, forget them. Tis not the day to wallow or celebrate the past. But right on it’s heals, I press on. This is not a flesh thing I do on my own. I forget/press by what Christ has already given me. If the forget/press thing does not happen, that is truly a paradox, for I am missing what I most strongly desire: Jesus Christ.

Images: from head to heart

Our past sermon series at Zion will go down as one of my favorites. We have covered God’s images of the church: Bride, Temple, Body, Priesthood, Flock, and Family. These are not inventions of the church itself. They are how God himself view us. To say they are profound truths smacks of gross understatement.

Like much truth, it’s not enough to know it. Our world thinks that if we just educate people, they will be better people. But, we post warning labels on cigarettes and fatty food and extension cords, but the information does not make people better. As the metaphor states, there is a huge difference between head and heart knowledge. These images of the church must be more than just facts. Their implications are galactic.

Besides what we have said on Sunday, each image conveys power and responsibility. Every church and every church member needs to see the significance of this power. We can always use a wake up call.
o We know that as the bride, Jesus is working in us to present us holy to himself.
o As a family, we should have trust and intimacy. Let them not be abused.
o We know that we are a body, so why treat others or act like cancerous cells?
o We know we are a Temple, so we cannot build outside of the foundation of Jesus. We can topple if we build structures, systems, and plans outside the footprint.
o We know we are a flock, so we should listen to the Good Shepherd instead of the thieves.
o And, we know we are priests, so why not open our mouths and be ambassadors for our God?

Too many churches and Christ followers can identify these images on a doctrine test. But, do they recognize the impact they have on a church or other Christ followers?

Pastor Joe

Faithful with the little things...

Over the past few weeks, I have been plagued with things breaking…mainly computer issues but even my calculator broke. My frustration level has been rising, but God still speaks without a keyboard.

Matthew 25:21, “His master replied, 'Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master's happiness!'”

I often hear this passage applied to financing and tithing. Those are accurate applications. But, in recent weeks, it keeps coming to mind with my attitude. If a computer glitch is going to ruin my day, I’m not very faithful when the little things are the problem. Yes, it’s frustrating to see the “blue screen of death,” but there are other things that should get my attention and fill my mind: daily concern for the church, the lost, hurting/struggling families and individuals. So, if my faith breaks under so-called glitches in my day, can I then be entrusted with the major stuff of life? The key is not just letting the little things get you down but recognizing what is a little thing and what’s not.

Pastor Joe

ZPV September Prayer Letter

September 16, 2009

Dear Friends,

Thanks so much for praying for the Olkowski’s over Labor Day weekend. Jessyca moved in to Northeastern University with little trouble. She is settling in and becoming active on campus. Some of her classes are hard and others are review (so far!). I remain convinced that this is a good fit for her, and I look forward to seeing what God will be doing in her life.

Fall is a busy season for churches! Things are slow during the summer, but once school starts, look out! Zion of Petroleum Valley is no exception. Here are some things to pray for:

• Workers! We can always use workers for our kids and youth. If our teams for Sunday morning were larger, we could have more rotate upstairs. Also, it would be good for us to turn over the teen duties. I like it, but there are those who connect better with students.
• One day, we should not go to church so we can serve our community. Well, that day is Sunday, September 20 at both Zion campuses. It’s called One Day. We will spread out to various places in our community just for service in Jesus’ name. On one hand, we don’t want attention or fanfare, but on the other hand we would like people to see that our motivation is serving Jesus and them.
• Our new EQUIP classes started on September 15.
• Fifth Quarter begins on September 18 after the Karns City Varsity Football home game. We hope to fill ZPV with students after the game so they have some place to go and we can get to know them.
• Keep praying for the men of the Petroleum Valley. For those who already know Christ, we need to be serious and active with our faith. For those who do not know him, they need to. These men are tough to reach.
• ­ And speaking of prayer, we need to see the value and participation of prayer raised in our community and churches.
  
  Drop me a line or an email sometime, joe@zionlife.com. And, you can find me on Facebook too.
  
  Pastor Joe
  Zion of Petroleum Valley

Sermon titles

One of these days, we should record our conversation about picking a sermon title. Usually, it's pretty straight forward. But, once in a while, we think of a title that's a little edgy or just too funny. This Sunday at ZPV, I will be preaching on grace. So, I thought of the following titles: Lavish Grace, Extravagant Grace, or Chocolate Covered Grace. So it's not a big surprise, I went with the first option. But consider this: Do we really live like we believe in God's grace when it comes to ourselves, our new life in Christ, our interaction with fellow Christ followers, and with a world that is not exactly laying out a red carpet for the church? So, let's start chewing on those ideas now.

And while the "Lavish Grace" title won out, there may be a treat this Sunday anyhow.

In Christ,
Pastor Joe

ZPV August Prayer Letter

August 19, 2009

Dear Zion of Petroleum Valley Prayer Partners,

In just a few weeks, school opens, and we wrap up another summer. Continue to pray for ZPV as we are almost in the middle of our second year. And by the way, thank you for all the support as the Olkowski’s celebrated our second full year at Zion. God is working here, and it’s our privilege to be part of it.

Here are the prayer needs for ZPV:

• Our combination meeting, DRIVE, with both campuses is August 30. Please pray for continued unity for both sites.
• As school starts, so will our youth meetings at our home and after Friday night Karns City High home football games at the church. Pray for God to impact these students.
• Our new EQUIP classes start on September 15. We will have two (yes, we’ve doubled our number of classes!) offerings this year for the adults: Bible story 201 (OT Testament with poetry and prophets) and a Beth Moore study on the fruits of the Spirit for the ladies.
• On September 20, we won’t go to church (ok, we will for a bit). We have our first ever One Day event where we will go out and bless our community with work projects. Both Zion campuses will participate.
• As a whole, Zion would like to see the commitment to pray rise in our church and in the area. We have some ideas, but the best way is for God to convince us! We want to trust Him to work and not just us doing things on our own. Pray for the mission and vision of Zion as a whole.
• For the Olkowski’s, our first birdie leaves the nest over Labor Day weekend. Trish and I will take Jessyca to Boston while she attends Northeastern. Ally’s (sophomore) volleyball season will start soon as well as Mike (8th grade) in football. We are excited about the school year for all three kids.
  
  You receive an update from me each month, but feel free to let me know how you are doing. You can email me at joe@zionlife.com or directly to ZPV’s address.
  
  You are a blessing to us!
  
  In Christ,
  
  
  
  Pastor Joe
  Zion of Petroleum Valley

HG Wells' fiction

H.G. Wells cornered the market on new ideas. In terms of science fiction stories, aliens, time travel, mutations, and space travel are common themes. One could argue that Wells thought of these things first. Every sci-fi movie and book owes a nod to him. However, he also thought traditional ideas kept mankind primitive and from evolving (yes, Wells loved Darwin). Back in the early 1900’s, he shook the world with radical ideas of sexual freedom (he had an “open” marriage), birth control, and especially faith in mankind to grow and improve through education and technology. It sounded good until that pesky WWI started. Wells tried to preach his gospel again, but WWII and Hitler crimped his style. At the end of his life, he was frustrated that no one listened to him.

Wells offered a band-aid for terminal cancer. The cure is beyond ideas. Jesus offers a solution that touches our very nature. Since mankind hit the earth and abandoned God, he has tried new things, but he has needed a nature transplant all along. Jesus said, “Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, 'Out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.'" So, rather than pass death along, we believe in Jesus, and he changes us at the source. We do not just live radically different or adopt a radical philosophy. New social rules or technology or education will not improve us personally or as a race. We become radically different only when our core nature changes. In fact it’s so different, we splash living water on everyone around us.

Pastor Joe

Just an update

Hello ZPV,

Trish stunned me the other day when she mentioned that school starts this month. We are two-thirds done with summer! Where does time fly? Well, I'd better make sure we all know what's going on.

• The Extreme Makeover Series continues this Sunday, August 9 with Pastor Paul.
• Men@Millers continues every Saturday at 7AM for about an hour, guys. Some buy breakfast; some buy coffee. The only Saturdays we don't meet are the first Saturdays of the month.
• Our next DRIVE meeting at the Clarion campus will be Aug. 30 at 6PM. Come hear what God is doing all around Zion!
• The next ZPV BBQ will be Sept. 13 after church!
• Also, later that day, we will have a DZ101 (Discovering Zion). If you've not attended one, this is where you can learn all you've ever wanted to learn about Zion. We meet from 4-6PM.
• Say, why don't skip church one Sunday? Actually, on Sept. 20, Zion will participate in One Day. We are currently meeting with community leaders to see if there are opportunities for us to bless them in Jesus' name: park clean ups, fix ups, helping neighbors, etc. If you happen to see a need in your community, please let me know. We are not committing to anything yet, so please don't make any promises. Yes, we will meet briefly that morning, but the majority of our time will be in service.
• And, there is always need for more prayer (frankly, we don't pray enough!). Trish is at ZPV at noon each Friday (during summer) with one agenda item: pray for Zion and our community. There are only a few meetings left.
• For students, don't forget Thursday nights at our home. Until school starts, we meet from 7-9PM. Yes, we'll open the pool if the weather allows. Come for some fun, hanging with friends, and hearing from God.
• And, also for students, we will open the church up for games and snacks after KCHS home football games. Details later.
• Need to be baptized? What's stopping you? Let me know and we can set it up.

Wow, we often think of summer as a slow time! I'm begging God to work in our lives and in our community. It's so much more than activities; they provide the opportunities. I want to be on board with his plans.

See you Sunday.

Pastor Joe
Zion of Petroleum Valley

Check the plans

Over our vacation last week, we visited the birthplace and homes of John Adams, our nation's second president. While there, I learned that Adams and Jefferson debated on the extent of the federal government's role. In fact, there was such sharp disagreement, they did not speak for years. I marvel how men like this can create a government almost from scratch and wrestle with issues so involved we still discuss them today. What did they use for a guide? How did they combine their various resources and philosophies of government to write our Constitution? The magnitude of the task is astounding. Since then, our form of government and founding documents have served as a blueprints for many others.

We need blueprints, but we also need a master architect in life to write the blueprint. Good thing we have one, huh? This is especially true when it comes to our families. As a husband and father, I often wish I had the write answer for every situation. It's not as easy as Ward Cleaver made it out to be. But, I do have blueprints written by my Master Architect. I can check the plans, see how the growth is going, make adjustments where needed, and correct any mistakes. But, checking the blueprint is not a passive activity but an active one.

Starting this weekend on August 2, we will start the Extreme Makeover: Your home edition. What does our Master Architect (God) say in his blueprints (the Bible) about our homes and families? While we all can admit areas to improve, this series may be especially relevant for friends and neighbors in need.

See you Sunday!

Pastor Joe

Stand certain

I once had a cordial discussion with a friend from a denomination different from my own. We were discussing how we knew we were saved. She confidently asserted that she did this activity and that activity. Every religious check box had been marked complete. I told her that I believed differently. While I understand that good works are a result of my salvation, they don’t make me saved. When I see God work in me and through me, it further assures me I belong to him. My salvation is based on the work of Christ on the cross – not by anything I’ve done.

Well, my friend did not get it. It just seemed more concrete to her to have this objective standard of works than simply by faith. So, I asked, “How do you know you done enough?” After a long silence she said, “I don’t know.” I do know because I know God has already accepted what Jesus has done. The resurrection proved that.

So, on what do we depend? How well we perform religion? How good we are? How much I give? How often I go to church? Or, we can depend upon God’s claim: We are saved by his lavish grace (Eph. 2:8-9) and held there by his love (Rom. 8:38-39). This does not grant us a blank check to live anyway we want, but I can rest on Jesus’ perfect fulfillment rather than my own imperfect attempts.

Hearts of Mighty Men

One of my favorite chapters in Scripture is 2 Samuel 23 which lists David’s mighty men. These were men of great valor, faith, and especially loyalty to David. At one point, David was out on the battlefield, and his hometown of Bethlehem was held by the enemy. Whimsically, David said, “How I wish to drink from the well at Bethlehem.” He was not commanding or dropping hints. However, out of their loyalty and affection for David, the three mighty men (Adino, Eleazar, and Shammah) broke through enemy lines, retrieved water from the Bethlehem well, and brought it to David. David was moved beyond words. He was overwhelmed not so much by the gift but by the bond these men held for him.

Someone showed this kind of love and affection to my family and me. No, they did not break through enemy lines or risk their lives, but their hearts beat similarly. Last Sunday, I mentioned (at the spur of the moment by the way) about God’s working in my life to live more contently and frugally. I briefly mentioned the repair of our wheelbarrow. So, what did I find later that day at ZPV? A brand new wheelbarrow! A nice metal one too that will not easily split like our old one. To the giver, thank you! While the gift itself is so appreciated, it’s the affection and care behind it that encourages us even more. The Zion family has always been so welcoming. My children experienced the true church. The heart attitude is greatest gift of all.

By the way, this illustrates the church in action: Kindness is never forced…it just happens. Thinking of others occurs first. Sacrifice and not seeking thanks is the norm. This is our testimony to the world, Zion (John 13:35). We treat each other based upon the fruit of the Spirit not by our own initiative but by God who works in us. Our community will see this authentic, organic, and spiritual fruit and want to experience it themselves. I do not mean simple material gain but being the church and not just attending the church.

And, thanks again.

Pastor Joe

ZPV June Prayer Letter

Here is my monthly prayer letter. Let me know if you want to get a copy regularly...

Dear Zion of Petroleum Valley Prayer Warriors,

Summer begins in the valley while it does not look like it outside. It has been on the cold side. Trish continues to work on her yard and landscape. Jess is just returned from a two week trip to CA after graduation. Ally has returned from her Jamaica trip with the church as well as summer volleyball and basketball. Mike’s foot is healed from impaling it with a nail, and football workouts start soon. All three kids have done a fantastic job in school. For me, I know that someone has been praying for me especially regarding my severe allergies. Now, I only take the prescription medications, and I actually feel normal. I was concerned that it would be fall before I could go the day without congestion, itchiness, and sneezing. We all very much appreciate your prayers.

Here is the latest for us and Zion of Petroleum Valley:

• Our summer program for kids is called Summer Fest, and it will meet June 29 to July 1 in the evenings. There will be lots of fun and games but especially a Gospel presentation. These kinds of events are very popular in our area, so please pray for our volunteers and those who come.
• Throughout Zion, we have stressed becoming connected with one another. It’s the difference between going to church and being the church. Please pray for our connectivity especially over the summer with lots of plans and competing activities.
• As I mentioned in our last letter, our series called Gravity has begun. We have covered the Bible, the Father, and the Son. There is still much weighty doctrine to cover and we want to be accurate.
• For me personally, God has me working through some “character enhancing” times with me. Don’t worry – I’m fine. This is a good thing. But, I want to learn more than just the facts of following Christ, and the process is tough. Just keep praying.
• We will be heading to Boston next month for vacation and Jess’ college orientation.
  
  Appreciate you all so much! Let me know how we can be praying for you! And, check out my blog at http://www.pastorjoeszpvblog.blogspot.com/ for information and musings.
  
  In Christ,
  
  
  
  Pastor Joe
  Zion of Petroleum Valley

Summer Fest

Hello ZPV,
As you can see by driving along our roads and highways, it’s kid’s summer camp season. At Zion, we are pleased to see Summer Fest come to the Petroleum Valley campus. It is June 29 to July 1 (Monday to Wednesday) from 6-8PM. It’s a fun carnival for kids from 4 years to forth grade. And, they will hear the gospel message! This is a “Viral” kind of event to spread the Word around. Here are a few important bullet points:

• We need workers. Drop me an email (joe@zionlife.com) or call 724-445-2142 or let me know Sunday. It’s easy stuff to run the games!
• Spread the word. While we have posters up and postcards going out, nothing beats the word of mouth. If you have friends, neighbors, or co-workers with kids, this a great opportunity.
• Start praying! Meet Trish on Fridays this summer at ZPV at noon to pray for not only Summer Fest but our church and community too.
  
  Hope to hear from you.
  
  Pastor Joe
  Zion of Petroleum Valley

What's on my mind?

If you’ve been part of the FaceBook thing, you know that people jot little notes like “I’m washing the dog” or “Watching the game…don’t bother me” or “I’m going on vacation!” I’ve been thinking about pollen. Try not to be overwhelmed by the depth of my thoughts. Actually, it’s all I can think about. As I write, I have burned through yet another tissue, and I have reached the point of wearing a dust mask. Every time I breathe, it fogs up my reading glasses. This year’s allergies are intense. Nothing seems to bring relief. A friend (who also suffers) said, “It’s like waking up sick everyday.” Yep. That’s it.

The other day, I had another sneezing fit which means ten to twelve sneezes right in a row. Yes, they hit me when I drive too. By the way, if you see me engage in multiple sneezes, it’s ok to wait till I’m done; you don’t need to say “Bless you” for each one. I launched into self-pity mode and asked God what is the point of allergies. How is this hyper-sensitivity to pollen making me a better Christ follower or bringing him glory? No word yet.

In WWII, Corrie ten Boom and her sister where thrown into a Nazi death camp. On top of all the abuse and starvation, they had lice. Corrie’s sister could not understand how lice help…until later. The sisters smuggled a pocket Bible into the camp, and they began to read it at night. However, they worried that they would be caught and punished. One of the more experienced prisoners reminded them that the guards would never enter the barrack. Why? They don’t want lice. There’s one good thing about the nasty little bugs.

Hebrews 11 lists the heroes of the faith. Near the end of the chapter, the author summarizes the victories and sufferings of the faithful. At verse 38, he writes, “…the world was not worthy of them…” That expression has always haunted me. They suffered such awful persecution and horrible deaths. I am sure they had their own “why” moments. Yet, their lives did bring honor and significance to God even in the confusing times. If they can take being sawn in two or prison or flogging, I suppose I can endure a few sneezes. I still don’t like and I still don’t understand. If I am ever told the why, I will let you know. And, I need the same grace I suppose they were granted.
Pastor Joe

Bearing Interest

What grabs my interest? Penguins are in the playoffs, and Pastor Trent is a Detroit fan. Yep, that has my attention. The warning light on the dashboard turns my head. Phone calls, family schedules, to-do lists, meetings, the economy, and the status of lunch all interest me. Most people turn to a specific section of the newspaper, watch certain television shows, and involve themselves with various activities because that is what interests them. Yet, I am starting to see that while many of my interests may be good and noble, they are often short-sighted and selfish. Rather than what grabs my interest, I should ask, “What grabs Jesus’ interest? What’s important to him? If I am a Christ follower, do I bear the same interests he does?"

In Philippians 2, Paul writes about interests. He shows how Jesus laid aside his own interests for us. We are important to him. Paul explains that he strives to make Jesus’ interests his own. Then, he explains how Timothy and Epaphroditus also focus on Jesus.

So, where do I stand? Are my interests the same as Jesus’? If not, how can I realign them or at least admit I’m playing a game? If so, how does this flesh out in everyday life? What does this mean for me, the Christ follower? Join Zion of Petroleum Valley this Sunday, May 31, and we will look at Philippians 2 together on this message, Bearing Interest. See you at 10AM.

Pastor Joe

There go my socks

Have you ever had your socks blown off? I did. Now, I just returned from a pastor’s conference where I heard many of today’s top leaders and authors. In fact, I intended to post about the things I learned. Their messages were beyond inspiring. I needed the input. As cool as that time was, I’m even more amazed by something else. It blew my socks off. It comes from the kindness of a dear lady who prays for me.

When I was a mere seventeen, I met Grandma Fess. Since I didn’t have grandparents nearby, she adopted me. Here’s the truly amazing part: Fess is still praying for me and my family. That’s thirty years of knee time, folks. She has an old picture we sent in a Christmas card from about a dozen years ago (yes, I owe her a new one big time).

A few lessons to be learned from Fess. As a body of believers, God gives us one another for support, encouragement, and prayer. Speaking of prayer, the prayers of the saints (especially the widows I think) are chunks of gold. Treasure them. Faithfulness is really illustrated over years and years. And, don’t think of prayer like it’s some religious thing. We enter God’s presence, worship at his feet, and he listens to our needs.

Thanks, Fess. I will get a new photo off to you soon.
Pastor Joe

Just a few reminders...

Just a few reminders…

MEN: Don’t forget Men@Millers this Saturday at 7:00AM as we begin a study of discipleship. How did those New Testament men do it? What made it work?

And, after Men@Millers, everyone is welcome for Campus Care Day at 9:00AM at ZPV. We have some inside chores to make the place sparkle.

Still not sure about a Life Group? We have a fantastic opportunity for you: A four week Connect Group. We will meet on Tuesday nights at ZPV at 6:30PM. This group starts on June 9 and ends on June 30. This group will give a clear taste of what life groups are all about. Look for sign up sheets starting this Sunday, May 17 in the Worship Folder.

Questions? Drop me a line at joe@zionlife.com.

Pastor Joe

Picking a fight

Have you ever noticed how wars start? Someone wants something and will use force to get it. This can be on a personal scale or a national scale. One hits. Another hits back. People debate the justification for a war all the time. Some reasons seem silly. Others are complex. Some seem justified. Other just look like someone wants to pick a fight. There is one sure war worth fighting.

Paul describes our armor in Ephesian six but he ends with "19Pray also for me, that whenever I open my mouth, words may be given me so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel, 20for which I am an ambassador in chains. Pray that I may declare it fearlessly, as I should." The great apostle needs prayer. This part of the war is offence. Paul wants to make the message known, and he knows that it is a battle. Our enemy would be content if we just stayed in our own club. If we go out, he will fight back.

Don't be scared, but don't be naive either. He fights dirty. Our Commander has already won, so we don't need to worry there. But, if we want to see God work in our community and use us, watch for the push back.
Pastor Joe

Kingdom Clash

I received the best present for Christmas: a gps. I get lost even with the clearest of directions. Now, I drive right to my destination (usually). Sometimes, I disagree with the gps. Patiently, it announces, "Recalculating." It should say, "Look, you didn't listen...now you're off course." Sure enough, gps was right and I was wrong. Yet some day soon, I will disregard it again because once in a rare while, it is wrong.

God gives us direction too. We find the primarily in his Word. He commands to love, serve, worship him, and speak truth. Many of our questions about direction in life can be answered by his Word. But, sometimes, we do not like the answer. It does not fit our plans. It is uncomfortable. It goes against the grain. It might even hurt. Then, like gps, we say, "No, I like this way instead." Unlike gps, God is never wrong. We just think he is because our kingdom clashes with his.

The word that comes to mind is faith. Two issues are in play. First, will I obey when his plans smack against mine? Obedience reflects invisible faith. I will follow him even if my own kingdom suffers. Second, will I trust despite what the circumstances say? Peter walked on water until he focused on the waves. Those waves said, "Panic!" Jesus said, "Come." So, we swallow hard, listen to Jesus, and refuse enslavement to circumstances.

Had a clash of wills lately with God? Ignored his direction? You and I both know he is never wrong. Let him do his "recalculation." He can always get us back on course.

Pastor Joe

Happy Anniversary ZPV!

Here's a classic tune to celebrate:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=knp9-GY6fHE

Pastor Joe

Let us eat cake

On March 22, 2008, Zion of Petroleum Valley opened its doors. We started on a Saturday night and continued through the summer and most of the fall, and then we moved to Sunday morning in November. While there is no end to the list of people to thank, please just pause a bit and thank God. He is always responsible for the victories and growth. And then, let's continue to pray for each other. Yes, pray all of Zion to be unified and focused and for the needs that creep into our lives. But, let's also model the Apostle Paul when he prayed for churches. He writes in Phil. 1:9-11, "And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless until the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ—to the glory and praise of God." He prays that their love may increase (assuming first towards God and then to one another) with the result that our insight is increased and we grow.

Growth? Yes. We need to be changed continually by God. And, we need to get the word out better to those who need to hear. Anyone is welcome, but what about those with no connection with Christ at all?

And what about Connection? The church is not our building. We just meet there regularly. We can continually become more connected the way God intends and designs us to be.

And, we should be committed. I can hardly bear the amazement when I think that God has called us to accomplish tasks with forever results. On board?

So, I do say thanks to all those who were there at the start and those who have recently arrived, and I say thanks to both campuses with all the support. Join us on 3/22 after church for a brief time to celebrate what God has done AND will do. We are just getting started. Oh yea, we will have cake!

Love you all,
Pastor Joe

Paul's heart

I am tweezering (is that a word?) my way through the book of Philippians. I am noticing the intense feelings the apostle had to those he wrote. He uses words like trust, confidence, heart, and participant to describe his feelings and interactions with them. God left us his word, the Holy Spirit, and each other. No matter how small or supposedly great, all of us are critical to spreading the message. Thanks, folks. I have a long way to go to stand with a man like the Apostle Paul, but I'm glad that none of us are hanging out all by ourselves!

Here are a few news items:

• Our second message of Green is this Sunday, March 8. See you at 10:00AM.
• We have sign ups for the Easter Egg Celebration on April 4, but could always use more help. Let me know. We could also used donations for prizes (Walmart cards or cash works). Thanks! This outreach attracted tons of families last year.
• DRIVE is coming March 29 at the Clarion Campus. It's a great time to gather, hear what God is doing at both our campuses, and gain some new insights. Let's reserve the time at 6:00PM!

See you soon.

Pastor Joe

It's not easy being green

I have no idea how many messages I've preached or lessons I've taught. I have had my share of messages that preach to my own heart. But I have been wrestling with the Green messages. We wanted to simply present what the Bible says about our stewardship. In my study and preparation, I said (out loud), "No, God. I don't want this to be true." Then, the wrestling match started. I lost.

Green Starts this weekend at both campuses and runs for two Sundays (3/1 and 3/8). We are not going to tell you what to do and how to live or what light bulbs you can or cannot use. You will just hear what the word of God says about our responsibility over the earth and our own bodies.

Hope to see you there.

Pastor Joe

PS: Pastor Trent and our deacons are heading home from Jamaica today. Pray for their safe travel.

Need to wear out knees?

Over this past year, a faithful group has been praying for Zion of Petroleum Valley. They have been fantastically faithful. I just sent them a note saying that their commitment is fulfilled and invited them to re-up. How about you? It just means that you will read my usually monthly prayer emails (or snail mail if you prefer) and pray. Pretty simple. Oh, I do need your email address though. Drop me a note at joe@zionlife.com so I can add you to the list.



Thanks!

Pastor Joe

180 Degrees

As I write, the snow and ice are melting. Our parking lot was pretty slick for a while, but it's getting better. No more sliding around when you come into the lot! So, it's safe.

Speaking of safety, I would like you to consider doing something outside the safety zone. When we come to church, we see friends and family and want to connect. Yea, we even stress connecting with one another. But, we need to be aware of new guests and friends too. We have a team of folks who make it their job to greet people. That's good, but it cannot stop there. I would like to challenge us all to make 180 degree turns. NOT OUT OF CHURCH! I mean when we sit in our seats, turn around 180 degrees and meet someone new. This is outside our safety zone at times, but these opportunities help us maintain a warm and welcoming environment. Ask them out to lunch or downstairs while we have the Gibson life group there after church. So, let's make the turn!

Here are some activities coming up:

• Next New Guest Reception is March 1 after church.
• The Case for Creator EQUIP class is now over, but we start the Old Testament EQUIP class called Bible Story 101 starts Feb. 24 at ZPV at 6:30. We will trace the OT story and how it points to Jesus. Three more classes (Bible Story 201, Mentoring, and Relationships) start March 4 at ZCC too. See the worship folder for a sign up. Childcare is available on request.
• The Easter Egg hunt is April 4 at the UAA ball fields in Karns City. This is a fantastic outreach for our community. We have eggs to fill and plans to make. We will also need helpers, registration table help, coffee & hot chocolate servers, face painters, etc. that day. We will be presenting the Easter story as well. Please let me know if you would like to help.
• This is the last Sunday to get supplies to Pastor Trent for his trip to Jamaica. However, later in the year, we will be asking again for our youth team heading out in June.

I am really enjoying the Put Your Clothes on series with you! Please join us this Sunday as Pastor Brandon will bring the message.

Starting in March, we will have a short series called Green. What does the Bible say about the environment and our use of it?

See you then!

Pastor Joe

Jerry

On Monday of this week, one of my good friends in CA went home to be with Jesus. The following post is long, but I want to pass on what I learned from Jerry...

While we all know in the back of our minds that this life ends, it still shocks. I was astounded as I read the news of Jerry’s passing. When we hear a news story of some unknown individual dying, we may feel sympathy for the survivors. Or, we may learn of someone we actually knew, and we sense an odd feeling. And while my loss cannot compare to Jerry’s family, this one hurts and the sense of loss is real. Even my daughter Ally, who interacted with Jerry often during childcare at Celebrate Recovery, felt the loss and shed many tears. “He was just so sweet!” she recalled.

Jerry was content to be a behind the scenes guy, but this does not mean he settled for second best. I think he understood where God placed him in life. Practically, he brought tremendous stability to our computer systems and helped us become more efficient. Sometimes, a bizarre computer glitch would arise, and Jerry would be stumped. After a while, we would just learn to live with it. Then usually early in the morning, I would find the problem solved. In my doorway stood Jerry with a goofy smirk on his face. “Yes,” he said, “we figured it out.” Often he would try and explain the complexities of some network address thing that usually floated over my head. He eagerly helped us with computer and network issues.

But Jerry’s influence did not end with computer hardware. He had a burden for a certain kind of person. I don’t want to sound insulting to the people he reached, so please take this the right way. Jerry looked for those on the fringe. He would often be frustrated that so much time and energy was spent on those who appeared to have all of life figured out and were rising stars. Jerry looked for those who were not often noticed. Especially with the junior high students at Los Gatos Christian, students could be found in his office after school lending him a hand. He would train and teach them about computers. However, he also would help them with problems at home or school. These boys admired Jerry simply because Jerry considered them valuable and loved them. I always admired this quality about him and have striven to include it in my own life.

Finally, as Celebrate Recovery began to grow, I knew I had to let my own guard down and become more transparent. The thought repulsed me, but Jerry modeled transparency for me. He trusted me with secrets he would not normally advertise. We all have things we are working on, and he gave me the courage to admit my own faults and sins. This not only helped me lead at CR, but the influence continues today.

To Deb and Family and Friends of Jerry Lee, I share your grief at our loss today. And of course, I am so happy for Jerry seeing Jesus as his is. Jerry has that goofy smirk on his face now too! He has left a legacy at Venture Christian Church and Los Gatos Christian School – two previous milestone places in my life. His legacy will not only continue there, but I strive to pass what I learned from him in my latest life milestone at Zion of Petroleum Valley in Western Pennsylvania. Godspeed, Jerry.

Pastor Joe

Lunatics

Ok, I don’t get it. I am slowly picking my way through Philippians. Paul says in 1:14, “And most of the brothers, having become confident in the Lord by my imprisonment, are much more bold to speak the word without fear.” So if Paul is in prison for preaching, how does that inspire boldness? When I see guys jump off ten foot ramps on bicycles, wipe out, and break bones, I don’t push my way to the top of the ramp to have my turn.

I don’t get it, but I do get it. My natural mind says, “Don’t get burned.” But my spiritual heart says, “Yea! Go for it!” There is something about the boldness of another believer that fires others up. It does not matter if the results do not fit the marketing plan. I do not imagine that imprisonment was in Paul’s yearly plan. But, he sees the how it fit perfectly in God’s plan. Paul’s desire was to see Christ preached. And then these lunatics are encouraged!

I do not know the names of these brothers Paul mentions. But, I think I want to be like them: crazy enough to keep speaking for Christ. I would like my confidence to speak (to individuals and to groups) to grow regardless of the outcomes. And, if Christ is honored, maybe my work for Christ will prompt others to work for Christ. Wow.

It’s not too late to sign up for Love & Respect on Feb. 6-7 at the Clarion campus. And, Feb. 1 is our New Guest Reception. Every Sunday is a good Sunday to bring friends, but we will have opportunity to welcome all those new to Zion. And, if you have not attended DZ101, please sign up this Sunday or send me a note at joe@zionlife.com. It will meet Sunday, Feb. 8 from 5-7 at ZPV.

Pastor Joe

Bad news for Petroleum Valley

In the Butler Eagle today, we read the official news story that one of our three major refineries announced a shut down for a few months. My heart goes out to the families affected by this news. I relate to how you feel, for I’ve been on the edge of employment or loss of employment too. What will happen? How will ends meet? What are my options? What steps do I need to take? Wow, the list of unknowns grows and grows.

I would like to do or write something that would be helpful. I wish my actions and words could provide jobs. I fear that platitudes or verses could be viewed as a dry morsel in a famine. However, I would like to challenge with a thought (It may annoy some but please keep reading): There are more important things than a job. Yes, there is a huge reason to stay up late at night and worry. I in no way discount the stress and fear people may feel. But, we can use these times for an inventory. Our families, health, and future really do matter more in life. Protect and guard these even during a lay off. And, take stock of the relationship with Christ. Does one follow him just when things are going well? Can we trust him now even if the evidence does not fit?

Jesus is the Lord not just of Good Friday. One of the best sermons I ever heard was called “Sunday’s comin.’” Today may look like that Friday when Jesus died and all hope was gone, but Sunday’s comin’. Don’t make bargains with God like, “If I start going to church, he’ll give me a job.” When we get our lives right with God, the storms don’t seem to matter as much. Yes, the storms are still there and seem like they will tear the roof off, but they can howl all they want. Jesus challenged us to love him more than anything because he really is all that matters.

If someone thinks I have this down and all figured out, think again. I wish I did. I am sure there are so called pillars of strength I rely on instead of Christ. But I have seen it and heard it when people better than us have abandoned such pillars one by one only to find trusting in Christ the only unshakable foundation.

Pastor Joe

Blog Metamorphosis

Originally, I kept this journal for my trip to Africa last year. I've been meaning to change it over to a Zion of Petroleum Valley log for some time. It looks like today is the day. I appreciate your comments and feedback (yes, let me know you're out there)!

As we enter a new political era, I wrestle with myself on getting too wrapped up in the political process. Since high school, politics interest me. Whether you like the new administration or not, its power and influence is minor compared to what God is doing. I’ve been in Philippians one for a while in my personal time with God. Paul writes that some are preaching Christ just to annoy him. But Paul does not care. He is just pleased that Christ is preached! I want that same burning desire that no matter what our national leaders do. Our life circumstances may improve or not. It does not matter. Am I preaching Christ? Are people coming to him? This life is not about my comfort, success, or fame. It is about Jesus getting the attention.

Don’t forget the Love and Respect conference at Zion of Clarion the first weekend of February! And, we are starting to gear up for the Easter Egg hunt on both campuses. We could use your help!

Pastor Joe