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
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
Sunday, January 25, 2009
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
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
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
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
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
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