Dads are mystical figures. Whether they intend to or not, to our betterment or detriment, they yield incredible sway over our lives. Even when they are not there, their absence is impactful. When they are there, the impression is deep, even as we resist. When their numbered days expire and they pass, their shadow nevertheless clings, their memory lingers, their presence remains.
Ellen and I had taken our kids to the mountains. We took a short hike to a majestic waterfall which cascaded into a shallow pool of water my kids could safely swim and play in. Bored, I decided that I would climb the left side of the 100 foot waterfall until I had reached the top. After a rather arduous climb through brush and over slick rock, I reached the top overlooking the falls and waved to my kids from this high perch. I then came down after enjoying a moment of quiet solitude at the crest of the falls.
When I returned, my son, who had been mightily impressed with his father’s conquest of the falls, was fixated on my right thigh. He said with as much grave concern as a 5 year old can muster, “Daddy, what happened to you?”
“What?” I said as my eyes followed his…until I saw 5 or so deep scratches into my thigh. I must have run unaware into a little briar bush. There was blood trickling from the wounds, but I was not aware of it until my son had pointed it out to me. Of course, this was an opportunity for a tall tale, the occasion for which I rarely miss with my boy. “Ohhhh….” I said. “You’re talking about the bear scratch….that’s nothing!”
Seeing my son’s eyes widen was priceless. I wish I had it on videotape. I continued….
“Manning,” I said, “there was a bear on top of that waterfall. He was staring down off of the mountain looking at you when I reached the top. I yelled at him, ‘Hey, what do you think you’re doing?’”
The bear incredulous, responded with a gruff voice, “I’m going to eat that little boy and I’ll eat you if you get in my way!”
Manning’s eyes widen further…
“Over my dead body!” I exclaimed. “No man or bear is going to hurt my son!”
I look hard into the eyes of Manning. I continued…”Then it’s hard to describe. It happened so fast. The bear on all fours began to run toward the path towards my family! I jumped out in front of him sliding down a rock and like a carved statue stood in front of the bear. He also stood up on his hind legs and took a swipe for me. I jumped back - (that must have been when the bear scratched my leg). I then countered with a left fist into the side of the bear. He buckled, surprised and a little hurt. I then followed with a hard right hand square into the nose of the bear. He stumbled backwards, regained his footing just in time to run away humbled and afraid deep into the woods.”
Manning quickly followed, “How big was the bear Dad?”
Oh he was big, son. Real big.
Then my wife decided she had heard enough. “Mo…stop!” she said.
Then my conscience struck. I shouldn’t be telling this tall-tale to my gullible child. So I said,
“Manning, I was just teasing.”
Manning responded. “OK, Dad…but how big was he? How big was the bear?”
No matter what I said, Manning had chosen to believe the story. It was branded upon his heart and he was not going to let it go! It was not until recently that he figured out that it was just a story.
My son looks up to me, still. My older children have matured enough to have a more sober view of their father. Even so, I know that my life is indelibly important to theirs. It’s funny…I’ve spent the first part of my life trying to impress my Dad. I’ve spent the second part trying to impress my children.
Some of you may know already where the name Manning came from. My first son, who is in heaven, received my name. Ellen picked out the name Manning out of a name book because she liked it’s meaning - Son of a Hero. I’m not sure that my wife has ever paid me a higher compliment.
The other day my son asked, “Dad, what do you do for a living now…besides type on the computer?”
I responded…Son, I’m trying to build a new ministry. One that will make my…I mean, our Father proud.
He said, “I love you Dad.”
I got a little lump in my throat and said, “I love you too, Manning…I really do.”
Wednesday, December 12, 2007
Friday, December 7, 2007
Here’s what’s happenin’ at Rebirth!
Vision
By way of reminder - the purpose of Rebirth can be summarized with these three verbs: revive, resource and replicate.
revive - New Orleans has been our home and mission field since 1990. Our commitment to the city has not been dampened by the onslaught of flood waters. On the contrary, our strategy is refined, our vision widened. We are reviving ministry within the expanding community of troubled urban youth, planting a church and ministry facility in the center of town and
rebuilding our beleaguered city through community development enterprises.
resource - Rebirth International is pursuing resources to expand its mission to New Orleans, but is also in return providing urban ministry consultation to existing ministries and churches across the country. We are building lasting partnerships to enhance the church’s mission among the poor and to assist in building sustainable and transformative works in as many places as the Lord enables.
replicate - We believe that our Savior has given to the church a clarion call to continually replicate His ministry of word and deed among the poor. Our work in New Orleans serves as a model and a training ground for other men and women whom God has uniquely called to urban ministry leadership all over the world.
High School Ministry Development - Clark
As you may recall, in support of the aforementioned vision, we have a new ministry start at Clark High School, here in New Orleans. Richard Johnson and Sam Raushenberg are providing primary valued leadership to this effort and I have assisted by volunteer coaching at the school and providing a modicum of oversight and encouragement. There have been many conversions, in this first year and the work is off to a great start. Byron, Richard, Kenyon and the other coaches led the team to the playoffs in their first season. The team was only one of the few New Orleans public schools to do so. The young men on the team also make up the core leadership group for the Bible Study and there is much to praise God for in the first year of Rebirth’s effort there. A modest tutoring program has also been put into place. We hope to sponsor a camp for these boys this summer. Please pray for all these new developments.
Richard Johnson of course is a proud 9th Warder that I had the privilege of leading to Christ and with whom I’ve enjoyed an enduring friendship. He is a tremendous co-laborer. Sam Rauschenberg was the valedictorian of Georgia College and felt called of God to come to New Orleans as a teacher at Clark. He is receiving a serious baptism by fire and is contributing significantly to our effort. We’ve decided that he is in a better position to coach the special teams at Clark, and because he has been so diligent, I am now freed up to provide leadership to our movement on a macro level.
It is our hope to plant 3 more of these incarnational ministries in resurgent public high schools over the next 2 years. Pray for us as we continue to labor toward this end.
Church Plant
The goal is to plant a church in the center of these ministries that will enfold not only the new converts in these works but also many former members of Desire Street Fellowship. We’re a little ways from launch but hope to restart a Bible Study in the beginning of the new year. There’s been quite a bit of clamoring for this from the old posse.
Staff Development
As I recently reported, I’ve been very blessed with the addition of Kiva Barrow on my staff. She also is someone that came to Christ through our work in Desire. She has become in short order a dedicated side-kick, taking so much of the administrative burden off of me, even as she is part-time. I fully expect for her to be a long-timer with the ministry! She is a steady as she goes kind of girl and doesn’t mind doing what I despise to do. I hope you all will get to meet her soon! We’re renting out office space in the back of my house from my long suffering wife until we’re able to settle into a facility for administration and operations.
I also just finished a conversation with my dear friend Damon Greenberry over the phone who has committed to returning to New Orleans to help provide leadership in our fund-raising and development efforts. He also was a young man in our ministry when he first received Christ. I’ve told his story all over the country which has encouraged thousands of the transforming power of the gospel!
Board
We presently have a board of directors made up primarily of pastors and their wives. However, at the turn of the year, the plan is for those pastors to join some other clergymen to form our pastoral counsel. We will also form a board of trustees who are helping to develop the resources for the effort. Lastly we are gathering a group of local and indigenous leaders who will provide primary governance to the local movement. We’re excited about these new developments. This three tiered approach will provide for adequate and solid pastoral oversight, needed fund-development assistance and local control and ownership.
Community Development
Rebirth was able to help forge a partnership between Faith Bible Church of Slidell, LA and CURE - a local alliance of churches in the 9th ward. Their goal is to build 5 new homes in the upper 9th Ward community within the next 18 months. Pray for this fledgling effort that it might expand into many more initiatives throughout our city!
Music
My recent release, Of Orphans and Kings, is receiving rave reviews by all. It is a gut-wrenching reality check of post-Katrina Mo Leverett. If you don’t have it, I hope you’ll get it. I also have a new hymn project mostly done. Depending on available resources I should be able to finish it by the Spring of this year.
Travel Schedule
I will be driving to Houston tomorrow morning, speaking in a church and performing a concert. I hope to stay on in Houston for a day or so to meet with a few potential donors. Let me know if you have any suggestions.
I will be performing a concert for a group of RUF students in Bay St. Louis, Mississippi the following weekend.
I will be at Yale University, some other colleges and churches in the Connecticut area between January 24th through the 27th.
I leave there directly to fly to Orlando, FL to teach a class at Reformed Theological Seminary the following week, Jan. 28-Feb 1.
That adjoining weekend I will be performing in the 5 different services at Northland Community Church from Feb. 2-4. As it turns out the week that follows is also the week for Mardis Gras in New Orleans. We’ve been thinking about what we might do during that week there in Orlando - maybe a little vacation at Disney or something.
The next weekend I will be speaking and performing at the missions conference in Gulf Shores, AL at Grace Fellowship.
I finish up my travels in February with a speaking engagement at my alma mater, Mercer University in Macon, Georgia.
Pray for us during this time that God would raise up the necessary resources for Rebirth and gather a new stable full of donors. Pray that we would have strength to endure the initial phases of giving birth to this new work.
Family
Our family is strong. We will be closing on property in a week and a half. We have a final meeting with our builder this next week. We have our current property on the market - but of course, there are many properties for sale in New Orleans at the moment. Again…pray.
Lindsay and Lacey have joined a little school called Life Without School. I know it sounds funny, but it’s been a Godsend. They are both registered as home-schoolers but the program has two professors from the University of New Orleans running it. Frankly, I wish that I could join the school - it’s just that cool.
Maggie and Manning are doing well at their school and we are all happy with life. We have much to celebrate this Christmas and have decided that instead of loading up on things that we would invest in creating memories through events like, Christmas in the Oaks, a day in the French Quarter, caroling, and other fun stuff.
Support
We are thankful to have had a productive first year of service. We are definitely feeling strong about the upcoming year. We have much work left to do though in laying a solid foundation. Were it not for the income from CD’s and concerts and such, I’d likely be working at the local Wal Mart. But I’m thankful to still be laboring in the harvest fields.
Please consider a year end gift to our work if you have not already planned to do so. It would mean so much to all of us here to be in the black and on solid footing for the next year as we continue to rebuild.
I hope you are all well. Please stay in touch!
By way of reminder - the purpose of Rebirth can be summarized with these three verbs: revive, resource and replicate.
revive - New Orleans has been our home and mission field since 1990. Our commitment to the city has not been dampened by the onslaught of flood waters. On the contrary, our strategy is refined, our vision widened. We are reviving ministry within the expanding community of troubled urban youth, planting a church and ministry facility in the center of town and
rebuilding our beleaguered city through community development enterprises.
resource - Rebirth International is pursuing resources to expand its mission to New Orleans, but is also in return providing urban ministry consultation to existing ministries and churches across the country. We are building lasting partnerships to enhance the church’s mission among the poor and to assist in building sustainable and transformative works in as many places as the Lord enables.
replicate - We believe that our Savior has given to the church a clarion call to continually replicate His ministry of word and deed among the poor. Our work in New Orleans serves as a model and a training ground for other men and women whom God has uniquely called to urban ministry leadership all over the world.
High School Ministry Development - Clark
As you may recall, in support of the aforementioned vision, we have a new ministry start at Clark High School, here in New Orleans. Richard Johnson and Sam Raushenberg are providing primary valued leadership to this effort and I have assisted by volunteer coaching at the school and providing a modicum of oversight and encouragement. There have been many conversions, in this first year and the work is off to a great start. Byron, Richard, Kenyon and the other coaches led the team to the playoffs in their first season. The team was only one of the few New Orleans public schools to do so. The young men on the team also make up the core leadership group for the Bible Study and there is much to praise God for in the first year of Rebirth’s effort there. A modest tutoring program has also been put into place. We hope to sponsor a camp for these boys this summer. Please pray for all these new developments.
Richard Johnson of course is a proud 9th Warder that I had the privilege of leading to Christ and with whom I’ve enjoyed an enduring friendship. He is a tremendous co-laborer. Sam Rauschenberg was the valedictorian of Georgia College and felt called of God to come to New Orleans as a teacher at Clark. He is receiving a serious baptism by fire and is contributing significantly to our effort. We’ve decided that he is in a better position to coach the special teams at Clark, and because he has been so diligent, I am now freed up to provide leadership to our movement on a macro level.
It is our hope to plant 3 more of these incarnational ministries in resurgent public high schools over the next 2 years. Pray for us as we continue to labor toward this end.
Church Plant
The goal is to plant a church in the center of these ministries that will enfold not only the new converts in these works but also many former members of Desire Street Fellowship. We’re a little ways from launch but hope to restart a Bible Study in the beginning of the new year. There’s been quite a bit of clamoring for this from the old posse.
Staff Development
As I recently reported, I’ve been very blessed with the addition of Kiva Barrow on my staff. She also is someone that came to Christ through our work in Desire. She has become in short order a dedicated side-kick, taking so much of the administrative burden off of me, even as she is part-time. I fully expect for her to be a long-timer with the ministry! She is a steady as she goes kind of girl and doesn’t mind doing what I despise to do. I hope you all will get to meet her soon! We’re renting out office space in the back of my house from my long suffering wife until we’re able to settle into a facility for administration and operations.
I also just finished a conversation with my dear friend Damon Greenberry over the phone who has committed to returning to New Orleans to help provide leadership in our fund-raising and development efforts. He also was a young man in our ministry when he first received Christ. I’ve told his story all over the country which has encouraged thousands of the transforming power of the gospel!
Board
We presently have a board of directors made up primarily of pastors and their wives. However, at the turn of the year, the plan is for those pastors to join some other clergymen to form our pastoral counsel. We will also form a board of trustees who are helping to develop the resources for the effort. Lastly we are gathering a group of local and indigenous leaders who will provide primary governance to the local movement. We’re excited about these new developments. This three tiered approach will provide for adequate and solid pastoral oversight, needed fund-development assistance and local control and ownership.
Community Development
Rebirth was able to help forge a partnership between Faith Bible Church of Slidell, LA and CURE - a local alliance of churches in the 9th ward. Their goal is to build 5 new homes in the upper 9th Ward community within the next 18 months. Pray for this fledgling effort that it might expand into many more initiatives throughout our city!
Music
My recent release, Of Orphans and Kings, is receiving rave reviews by all. It is a gut-wrenching reality check of post-Katrina Mo Leverett. If you don’t have it, I hope you’ll get it. I also have a new hymn project mostly done. Depending on available resources I should be able to finish it by the Spring of this year.
Travel Schedule
I will be driving to Houston tomorrow morning, speaking in a church and performing a concert. I hope to stay on in Houston for a day or so to meet with a few potential donors. Let me know if you have any suggestions.
I will be performing a concert for a group of RUF students in Bay St. Louis, Mississippi the following weekend.
I will be at Yale University, some other colleges and churches in the Connecticut area between January 24th through the 27th.
I leave there directly to fly to Orlando, FL to teach a class at Reformed Theological Seminary the following week, Jan. 28-Feb 1.
That adjoining weekend I will be performing in the 5 different services at Northland Community Church from Feb. 2-4. As it turns out the week that follows is also the week for Mardis Gras in New Orleans. We’ve been thinking about what we might do during that week there in Orlando - maybe a little vacation at Disney or something.
The next weekend I will be speaking and performing at the missions conference in Gulf Shores, AL at Grace Fellowship.
I finish up my travels in February with a speaking engagement at my alma mater, Mercer University in Macon, Georgia.
Pray for us during this time that God would raise up the necessary resources for Rebirth and gather a new stable full of donors. Pray that we would have strength to endure the initial phases of giving birth to this new work.
Family
Our family is strong. We will be closing on property in a week and a half. We have a final meeting with our builder this next week. We have our current property on the market - but of course, there are many properties for sale in New Orleans at the moment. Again…pray.
Lindsay and Lacey have joined a little school called Life Without School. I know it sounds funny, but it’s been a Godsend. They are both registered as home-schoolers but the program has two professors from the University of New Orleans running it. Frankly, I wish that I could join the school - it’s just that cool.
Maggie and Manning are doing well at their school and we are all happy with life. We have much to celebrate this Christmas and have decided that instead of loading up on things that we would invest in creating memories through events like, Christmas in the Oaks, a day in the French Quarter, caroling, and other fun stuff.
Support
We are thankful to have had a productive first year of service. We are definitely feeling strong about the upcoming year. We have much work left to do though in laying a solid foundation. Were it not for the income from CD’s and concerts and such, I’d likely be working at the local Wal Mart. But I’m thankful to still be laboring in the harvest fields.
Please consider a year end gift to our work if you have not already planned to do so. It would mean so much to all of us here to be in the black and on solid footing for the next year as we continue to rebuild.
I hope you are all well. Please stay in touch!
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
The Cure for an Average Life
I am 5 feet, 11 and 1/2 inches tall. And that is the story of my life.
For men - or maybe I should only speak for myself - being 6 feet tall feels like a significant threshold. And I never met it. My children remind me periodically that I used to claim 6 feet - and I did. That was my tall tale. A particular nurse garnished me with the cherished title, but she was either rounding up or simply failed to discount the half inch attributable to the sneakers on my feet. So I admit…I am only 5 feet, 11 and 1/2. (I guess the half is similar to children who add 1/2 to their age. You’re almost the next number and you’re way removed from the previous one. So it helps just a bit in the ego department.)
In most ways, I am an exceedingly average guy. I do many things, but in an average way. I play the guitar and write songs, I even record them, but I’ve never won an award for it, and likely never will. I’ve never filled an auditorium. I usually receive tepid ovations - but that could be because I often play for Presbyterians who turn tepid into cool. But I can’t blame it on my Presbyterian brethren, truth be told, my music notoriously arouses introspection, if not a deep depression.
I’m an OK athlete - but my football friends remind me that I was just a punter. Even if you punt the ball better than anyone else, in the football world, you’re still average. And no expert has ever brandished a punter - an athlete. You’ll not find many cocky punters…not many of their teammates would allow it…no reporters sticking microphones in their faces…no body asking for their autograph.
I’ve always been an average student, an average preacher, an average photographer…just fill in the blank, I can probably be counted on to do it in an average way. And so, even though I know it is wrong to do so, I nevertheless find myself envying the abilities and talents of others.
There are some things that I’ve developed a reputation for being really good at, like fighting my way through traffic, but I don’t think it is especially good to be talented at that. I’ve mastered the art of selfishness, among many other vulnerabilities I’m too embarrassed to reveal, but none of these superior traits are to my credit.
Perhaps, you can identify with me. Perhaps you find yourself envying the talents of others in their spheres. Maybe you’re an engineer and have been successful, but you know some other engineers whose skills tower over yours. Maybe you’re a businessman, and you’ve had some success, but you’ve never come close to reaching your goals. Maybe you’re a stay at home Mom, but your best friends mini-van is plastered with bumper stickers highlighting their honor role kids. For all of you, my friends - those of you who do average in the most excellent way - there is some really good news that I’m eager to share. Just hang on. I’m getting around to the main point.
First, did you know that pastors play the envy game too? I recently met a person who admitted that he possessed a "man crush" for Tim Keller. Tim Keller is a Presbyterian Pastor in Manhattan, NY who exudes excellence and intellect. There are an abundance of contemporary pastors in my denomination that envy his towering gifts. Many folks order his tapes, name their churches after his and spend their down time with fellow pastor friends talking about him. And if you’ve never heard of him - attend at least three or so of those churches - and you will. At least one of the pastors is likely to be re-preaching his material.
I on the other hand respect Tim a great deal, but have never envied his gifts. Tim is really smart. I mean REAL smart. But I’ve never desired that particular burden. And I never wanted to embarrass myself by trying to create the impression that I was a man of his intellectual caliber. Most persons with at least an average intelligence and who know me well would know I was faking it.
The truth is many of us succumb to the the thought that it is only the highly talented who can make a difference - those who are gifted that can change the world. But this is not the case. In fact, Jesus did not recruit highly talented people. He took average people, just like you and me, and taught them how to live radical lives. And through these average people, Jesus turned the world upside down!
Jesus himself suprisingly did not appear to be an extraordinarily talented person. Or at least the Bible doesn’t make record of his special talents. But his life continues to be the most historically and redemptively important human life ever lived.
And the lifestyle that Jesus calls us to, is in fact the stuff that changes the world. And that lifestyle is not limited by the lack of talent, nor is it especially enhanced by talents either.
So there is good news for the average person out there - good news for those who are devoid of incredible talent. YOU TOO can play a big role in the building of His Kingdom. Suffice it to say for the time being that we - the average person - can make a tremendous impact in the Kingdom of Christ by making ourselves willing to take the radical step of simply following Jesus. For when we come to a true understanding of what that means - to follow Him - we’ll find our lives becoming anything but average! And in the eyes of those that really matter, we’ll be standing taller than we could ever thought possible.
I hope you are all deeply encouraged and walking with Him!
Keep praying for us in New Orleans and for my travels. I’ll send out a detailed update on my activities soon.
For men - or maybe I should only speak for myself - being 6 feet tall feels like a significant threshold. And I never met it. My children remind me periodically that I used to claim 6 feet - and I did. That was my tall tale. A particular nurse garnished me with the cherished title, but she was either rounding up or simply failed to discount the half inch attributable to the sneakers on my feet. So I admit…I am only 5 feet, 11 and 1/2. (I guess the half is similar to children who add 1/2 to their age. You’re almost the next number and you’re way removed from the previous one. So it helps just a bit in the ego department.)
In most ways, I am an exceedingly average guy. I do many things, but in an average way. I play the guitar and write songs, I even record them, but I’ve never won an award for it, and likely never will. I’ve never filled an auditorium. I usually receive tepid ovations - but that could be because I often play for Presbyterians who turn tepid into cool. But I can’t blame it on my Presbyterian brethren, truth be told, my music notoriously arouses introspection, if not a deep depression.
I’m an OK athlete - but my football friends remind me that I was just a punter. Even if you punt the ball better than anyone else, in the football world, you’re still average. And no expert has ever brandished a punter - an athlete. You’ll not find many cocky punters…not many of their teammates would allow it…no reporters sticking microphones in their faces…no body asking for their autograph.
I’ve always been an average student, an average preacher, an average photographer…just fill in the blank, I can probably be counted on to do it in an average way. And so, even though I know it is wrong to do so, I nevertheless find myself envying the abilities and talents of others.
There are some things that I’ve developed a reputation for being really good at, like fighting my way through traffic, but I don’t think it is especially good to be talented at that. I’ve mastered the art of selfishness, among many other vulnerabilities I’m too embarrassed to reveal, but none of these superior traits are to my credit.
Perhaps, you can identify with me. Perhaps you find yourself envying the talents of others in their spheres. Maybe you’re an engineer and have been successful, but you know some other engineers whose skills tower over yours. Maybe you’re a businessman, and you’ve had some success, but you’ve never come close to reaching your goals. Maybe you’re a stay at home Mom, but your best friends mini-van is plastered with bumper stickers highlighting their honor role kids. For all of you, my friends - those of you who do average in the most excellent way - there is some really good news that I’m eager to share. Just hang on. I’m getting around to the main point.
First, did you know that pastors play the envy game too? I recently met a person who admitted that he possessed a "man crush" for Tim Keller. Tim Keller is a Presbyterian Pastor in Manhattan, NY who exudes excellence and intellect. There are an abundance of contemporary pastors in my denomination that envy his towering gifts. Many folks order his tapes, name their churches after his and spend their down time with fellow pastor friends talking about him. And if you’ve never heard of him - attend at least three or so of those churches - and you will. At least one of the pastors is likely to be re-preaching his material.
I on the other hand respect Tim a great deal, but have never envied his gifts. Tim is really smart. I mean REAL smart. But I’ve never desired that particular burden. And I never wanted to embarrass myself by trying to create the impression that I was a man of his intellectual caliber. Most persons with at least an average intelligence and who know me well would know I was faking it.
The truth is many of us succumb to the the thought that it is only the highly talented who can make a difference - those who are gifted that can change the world. But this is not the case. In fact, Jesus did not recruit highly talented people. He took average people, just like you and me, and taught them how to live radical lives. And through these average people, Jesus turned the world upside down!
Jesus himself suprisingly did not appear to be an extraordinarily talented person. Or at least the Bible doesn’t make record of his special talents. But his life continues to be the most historically and redemptively important human life ever lived.
And the lifestyle that Jesus calls us to, is in fact the stuff that changes the world. And that lifestyle is not limited by the lack of talent, nor is it especially enhanced by talents either.
So there is good news for the average person out there - good news for those who are devoid of incredible talent. YOU TOO can play a big role in the building of His Kingdom. Suffice it to say for the time being that we - the average person - can make a tremendous impact in the Kingdom of Christ by making ourselves willing to take the radical step of simply following Jesus. For when we come to a true understanding of what that means - to follow Him - we’ll find our lives becoming anything but average! And in the eyes of those that really matter, we’ll be standing taller than we could ever thought possible.
I hope you are all deeply encouraged and walking with Him!
Keep praying for us in New Orleans and for my travels. I’ll send out a detailed update on my activities soon.
Friday, November 23, 2007
Giving Thanks…Even for Shattered Dreams!
All young boys dream of their lives in heroic terms. I was no exception. Nor have I thoroughly outgrown this childhood fantasy.
But it should be said that most of our biblical heroes lived tragic lives of shattered dreams. For instance, Moses didn’t make it to the promised land. David didn’t build the temple, nor did he step foot in it. Elijah’s ministry ended in exile. Peter was crucified. Paul was killed. John was deserted on an island.
I, on the other hand, have sought to write my own more satisfying script. I imagine and I always envision happiness and heroism in the final chapter. In my mind, my life ends with the completion of many goals and then the inevitable and proverbial riding off into the sunset. I imagine myself finally aging in a front porch swing next to my bride, Ellen, with periodic visits from young folks seeking and soliciting my wisdom.
Laughable, huh…
Truth is, I sometimes believe that I am entitled to that kind of resolution. I’m a helpless believer in happily ever after. And I sometimes erroneously think that faith is the sacred formula for securing that kind of affirmative final chapter. Never do I envisage burning stakes, angry mobs, or betrayal from friends.
I sometimes wonder why God does not ensure the certitude of happy resolution in this life. Is not the Bible the Divine formula and prescription for our joy and contentment? Are we not promised, that if we live in a certain way, that if we walk on the suggested path of wisdom and righteousness, that our lives will be better, abundant and prosperous? Did not Christ come that we might have life and life more abundantly?
If this is true then we must explain the aforementioned heroes of the faith. We must account for the book of Hebrews showcase of exemplary persons who suffered to the end in indescribable ways - whose lives finished miserably at the hands of wicked oppressors.
It is true that Joseph’s injustice led to spiritual redemption. It is true that Job’s suffering ended with greater blessing and deeper understanding. But they were the lucky ones. It is also true that some folk’s lives ended tragically for no apparent higher purpose or outcome.
I remember when our childhood home burst into flames, just months after the death of my Father. Sitting on embankment, my bowed head in clasped hands as the flames grew higher, I pondered the purposes of a sovereign God - who conforms everything to His purpose and will. "What possible purpose did he have for me through this pain?" I thought.
I also remember the seemingly senseless passing of my first son.
I recall the difficult demise of everything I owned and had built in a 100 year storm.
I recollect the unnecessary termination of many friendships in the course of a long ministry.
And so, it is true that sometimes life hurts for no reason that we can imagine. I have learned one thing through this though - that we were never meant to envision permanent dwelling in this place nor to have enduring affections for this life. In addition to discovering the temporal nature of all things on this side of the Jordan, we find the permanence and higher quality of His love, grace and mercy. In the midst of an otherwise miserable existence, His love and enduring faithfulness has become for me my only real home. In other words, it is through pain that God purges the yielded of inferior affections and shows Himself the only deserving object of our primary passion. For that purging, that pruning…I am thankful - yes thankful even for shattered dreams.
Moreover, as a result of these trials and many other disappointments, I have come to visualize my life as being hidden in the life of another - a vicarious life - where true heroism is finally and fully found.
So, today I say again that I feel thankful. Deeply so.
"Why?" you might say…
Not because my life is blessed, as many would quantify blessing.
Above all else, I am thankful to be an adopted son of my own personal Hero, who loves perfectly and perpetually - Abba Father.
I am thankful to know, that due to the heroism of King Jesus, no single sin from my deeply flawed life is registered in God’s ledger.
I am thankful, that through His suffering and sacrifice, my Hero extends eternal hope beyond the grave.
I am thankful that on that day, I will wear my Hero’s robe in my new and luxurious home.
I am thankful to know, that in this life, my Hero watches over my every breath, my every move, my every thought with sovereign care and abundant mercy.
I am thankful to be the humble and temporary under-hero of a beautiful quiver full of children and the undeserving partner of a sweet and gentle woman who enables and supports me in simple service to my Savior.
No matter how my life ends - whether in pain or in prosperity - I know that it will return to its Source. I so long for that day. And through faith I know that it will come. Until it comes, I hope that you will continue to be the encouragement that you already are to me…that I might persevere in His grace and in His purposes!
May you all enjoy Him in His fullness during this season of Thanksgiving and rejoice in the one gift that is greater than any and all others. May we together glorify Him - the only real Hero the world has ever known.
But it should be said that most of our biblical heroes lived tragic lives of shattered dreams. For instance, Moses didn’t make it to the promised land. David didn’t build the temple, nor did he step foot in it. Elijah’s ministry ended in exile. Peter was crucified. Paul was killed. John was deserted on an island.
I, on the other hand, have sought to write my own more satisfying script. I imagine and I always envision happiness and heroism in the final chapter. In my mind, my life ends with the completion of many goals and then the inevitable and proverbial riding off into the sunset. I imagine myself finally aging in a front porch swing next to my bride, Ellen, with periodic visits from young folks seeking and soliciting my wisdom.
Laughable, huh…
Truth is, I sometimes believe that I am entitled to that kind of resolution. I’m a helpless believer in happily ever after. And I sometimes erroneously think that faith is the sacred formula for securing that kind of affirmative final chapter. Never do I envisage burning stakes, angry mobs, or betrayal from friends.
I sometimes wonder why God does not ensure the certitude of happy resolution in this life. Is not the Bible the Divine formula and prescription for our joy and contentment? Are we not promised, that if we live in a certain way, that if we walk on the suggested path of wisdom and righteousness, that our lives will be better, abundant and prosperous? Did not Christ come that we might have life and life more abundantly?
If this is true then we must explain the aforementioned heroes of the faith. We must account for the book of Hebrews showcase of exemplary persons who suffered to the end in indescribable ways - whose lives finished miserably at the hands of wicked oppressors.
It is true that Joseph’s injustice led to spiritual redemption. It is true that Job’s suffering ended with greater blessing and deeper understanding. But they were the lucky ones. It is also true that some folk’s lives ended tragically for no apparent higher purpose or outcome.
I remember when our childhood home burst into flames, just months after the death of my Father. Sitting on embankment, my bowed head in clasped hands as the flames grew higher, I pondered the purposes of a sovereign God - who conforms everything to His purpose and will. "What possible purpose did he have for me through this pain?" I thought.
I also remember the seemingly senseless passing of my first son.
I recall the difficult demise of everything I owned and had built in a 100 year storm.
I recollect the unnecessary termination of many friendships in the course of a long ministry.
And so, it is true that sometimes life hurts for no reason that we can imagine. I have learned one thing through this though - that we were never meant to envision permanent dwelling in this place nor to have enduring affections for this life. In addition to discovering the temporal nature of all things on this side of the Jordan, we find the permanence and higher quality of His love, grace and mercy. In the midst of an otherwise miserable existence, His love and enduring faithfulness has become for me my only real home. In other words, it is through pain that God purges the yielded of inferior affections and shows Himself the only deserving object of our primary passion. For that purging, that pruning…I am thankful - yes thankful even for shattered dreams.
Moreover, as a result of these trials and many other disappointments, I have come to visualize my life as being hidden in the life of another - a vicarious life - where true heroism is finally and fully found.
So, today I say again that I feel thankful. Deeply so.
"Why?" you might say…
Not because my life is blessed, as many would quantify blessing.
Above all else, I am thankful to be an adopted son of my own personal Hero, who loves perfectly and perpetually - Abba Father.
I am thankful to know, that due to the heroism of King Jesus, no single sin from my deeply flawed life is registered in God’s ledger.
I am thankful, that through His suffering and sacrifice, my Hero extends eternal hope beyond the grave.
I am thankful that on that day, I will wear my Hero’s robe in my new and luxurious home.
I am thankful to know, that in this life, my Hero watches over my every breath, my every move, my every thought with sovereign care and abundant mercy.
I am thankful to be the humble and temporary under-hero of a beautiful quiver full of children and the undeserving partner of a sweet and gentle woman who enables and supports me in simple service to my Savior.
No matter how my life ends - whether in pain or in prosperity - I know that it will return to its Source. I so long for that day. And through faith I know that it will come. Until it comes, I hope that you will continue to be the encouragement that you already are to me…that I might persevere in His grace and in His purposes!
May you all enjoy Him in His fullness during this season of Thanksgiving and rejoice in the one gift that is greater than any and all others. May we together glorify Him - the only real Hero the world has ever known.
Wednesday, October 31, 2007
Of Bitterness, Baby Ruth's, and Butterfingers
Ministry updates are peculiar things. I’ve written a ton of them over the years and have read many more. As a result, I’ve become somewhat cynical regarding flowery and embellished reports. Therefore, when I write, I make an attempt at redemptive transparency, so that you can believe what you hear. However, one friend said in response to a recent posting that “it sounds like everything is going so well.” Then I realized, maybe I’m doing too much embellishing of my own. So here’s an attempt at a little honesty.
As one of my childhood heroes, Popeye the Sailor Man, would say, “I am what I am.” And sometimes that’s a good thing. In my special case, however, it’s often not. Truth is, like my friend Popeye, I don’t always eat my spinach. And as a result, I too get beat up by Brutus…
I’ve learned after 18 years of front line urban ministry, that when things are great, trouble lurks. And when things are tough, God is especially at work. The anchor for me is this: that God is sovereign at all times, that He is intrinsically and perfectly holy, that He is always good, and that I am unconditionally His.
I’d love to be able to report to you that I remain steadfastly encouraged by that truth - and that when I hurt or am discouraged, I run to Jesus. Some times though, I run to dry wells that do not satisfy. Some times I choose bitterness. Sometimes pain is so great and seems so powerful that I exchange what little power I have just to feel better. On and around Halloween my pills of choice are those little packages of Butterfingers and Baby Ruth’s. I can’t tell you, or maybe you already know, how medicinal a Butterfinger is when you have the blues. Bitterness and butterfingers give me that immediate rush that all is right within. When that rush is over, I rediscover the art of repentance and thus taste the only thing that really satisfies. (Something tells me I’m going to be doing a lot of repenting tonight!)
Truth is, I’m on the better end of one of the darkest epochs of my life. I remember crying out to God during the height of my pain and the only thing I could feel from God was His severe absence.
That is no longer the case. God has used that pain to elicit in me a newer and deeper longing for and dependence on Him. Honestly, I am reluctant to yearn for and rely on Him when circumstances are more to my pleasing. And now I can say after these difficult few years post-Katrina that I’m proud to be in the fellowship of broken vessels. I’m most thankful to be a Husband and a Father. And I’m grateful to be entering into the second phase of my ministry life - a deeper man - not knowing what this phase will bring, but nevertheless continuing by faith.
At the end of this week I’ll be headed up for a long weekend in the Northeastern United States to speak to a group of Ivy League students. I intend to speak on the love of the Father for our orphaned souls, God’s poverty mandate, His heart of mercy for the lost and distressed, our unique opportunity to suffer with Him and the unique privilege of joining Him in His ongoing mission of redemption in this world. I hope that you will pray for me during this opportunity to effect the lives of these potentially influential young people.
I’m excited about the prospects of a few staff additions. All of these folks found Christ in my previous ministry endeavor and are considering coming on board in the areas of fund-development, high school ministry and administrative coordination. I’ll send you more information when we’re ready to move forward on these critical growth opportunities. However, you can already begin praying with me that the Lord provide the necessary funds to advance the cause in this way. Frankly, I’m looking forward to having partners in the cause. I’ve been a little bit lonely trying to do this stuff all alone.
So in summary, how are things, really? Well, we’re paying the bills. We are, I believe, making an impact. And we’re building the staff and infrastructure that will posture us to be a conduit of much ministry from our Lord. The Leverett’s are working on our move back into the city. I have a growing number of speaking opportunities throughout the country. I have a new CD out! I’m married to the cutest 60 inches of femininity the world has ever seen. I have four amazing kids. So while I may struggle a bit with the shouldering of this new effort, I think all in all, things are good.
We developed a budget for this year of $250,000. As I’m discovering, that was an ambitious goal. After three quarters the Lord has provided through honorariums, CD sales and contributions a total of about $140,000. And we’re a little bit in the hole. However, we’re postured to do very well in the final quarter of ‘07 and be in good position to hit the ground running in ‘08. Continue to pray!
By the way, we are trying to have family meetings every Sunday night. Some singing, some giggling, some Bible Study and some serious family business. Listen to some of the comments that my kids made this past week. “We’re spoiled.” “We have too much allowance.” “We want a smaller house.” “We have too much stuff.” “We watch too much TV.” “We’re on the computer too much.” “Can we reduce our TV’s to just one so that we will spend more time together?”
My Lindsay told me today that she wants to join the National Guard, to serve our country and to help pay for college when she graduates from high school. She also is sensing a call to give herself to the Lord’s work in Urban Ministry.
My Lacey’s pet kitten was run over this past week. We wept together. I buried Dash in our back yard. I remembered my two pet dogs who were killed in like fashion when I was Lacey’s age. We’re trying to discern whether to get another dog or cat to replace it.
My Maggie just finished up her volleyball season. She made amazing improvement this year and she made her Dad awfully proud. They came within one point of winning their final tournament this year! Maggie is organizing a garage sale for the benefit of her school.
My Manning and his team had their first play-off football game last night. He’s playing tight end, full back and defensive end. However, he was doubled over with the stomach flu on the side line. Despite his absence from the line up (and my presence as the Offensive Coordinator) we were able to achieve our first playoff victory!
Clark High School plays its final game of the season this week. I’ve been their volunteer Special Teams Coordinator throughout the season. If they win this weekend, and they should, they will advance to the playoffs as well. Richard Johnson and Sam Rauschenberg are busily managing Bible Studies for these boys on Thursday nights.
Oh well, that’s all I have time for. I hope you all enjoy some Butterfingers and Baby Ruth’s tonight. And as you are repenting on the scale the following morning with me, remember to pray for Rebirth and our cause in New Orleans and beyond to glorify Christ among the urban poor!
God bless you all and thank you for enabling us to serve our Savior!
As one of my childhood heroes, Popeye the Sailor Man, would say, “I am what I am.” And sometimes that’s a good thing. In my special case, however, it’s often not. Truth is, like my friend Popeye, I don’t always eat my spinach. And as a result, I too get beat up by Brutus…
I’ve learned after 18 years of front line urban ministry, that when things are great, trouble lurks. And when things are tough, God is especially at work. The anchor for me is this: that God is sovereign at all times, that He is intrinsically and perfectly holy, that He is always good, and that I am unconditionally His.
I’d love to be able to report to you that I remain steadfastly encouraged by that truth - and that when I hurt or am discouraged, I run to Jesus. Some times though, I run to dry wells that do not satisfy. Some times I choose bitterness. Sometimes pain is so great and seems so powerful that I exchange what little power I have just to feel better. On and around Halloween my pills of choice are those little packages of Butterfingers and Baby Ruth’s. I can’t tell you, or maybe you already know, how medicinal a Butterfinger is when you have the blues. Bitterness and butterfingers give me that immediate rush that all is right within. When that rush is over, I rediscover the art of repentance and thus taste the only thing that really satisfies. (Something tells me I’m going to be doing a lot of repenting tonight!)
Truth is, I’m on the better end of one of the darkest epochs of my life. I remember crying out to God during the height of my pain and the only thing I could feel from God was His severe absence.
That is no longer the case. God has used that pain to elicit in me a newer and deeper longing for and dependence on Him. Honestly, I am reluctant to yearn for and rely on Him when circumstances are more to my pleasing. And now I can say after these difficult few years post-Katrina that I’m proud to be in the fellowship of broken vessels. I’m most thankful to be a Husband and a Father. And I’m grateful to be entering into the second phase of my ministry life - a deeper man - not knowing what this phase will bring, but nevertheless continuing by faith.
At the end of this week I’ll be headed up for a long weekend in the Northeastern United States to speak to a group of Ivy League students. I intend to speak on the love of the Father for our orphaned souls, God’s poverty mandate, His heart of mercy for the lost and distressed, our unique opportunity to suffer with Him and the unique privilege of joining Him in His ongoing mission of redemption in this world. I hope that you will pray for me during this opportunity to effect the lives of these potentially influential young people.
I’m excited about the prospects of a few staff additions. All of these folks found Christ in my previous ministry endeavor and are considering coming on board in the areas of fund-development, high school ministry and administrative coordination. I’ll send you more information when we’re ready to move forward on these critical growth opportunities. However, you can already begin praying with me that the Lord provide the necessary funds to advance the cause in this way. Frankly, I’m looking forward to having partners in the cause. I’ve been a little bit lonely trying to do this stuff all alone.
So in summary, how are things, really? Well, we’re paying the bills. We are, I believe, making an impact. And we’re building the staff and infrastructure that will posture us to be a conduit of much ministry from our Lord. The Leverett’s are working on our move back into the city. I have a growing number of speaking opportunities throughout the country. I have a new CD out! I’m married to the cutest 60 inches of femininity the world has ever seen. I have four amazing kids. So while I may struggle a bit with the shouldering of this new effort, I think all in all, things are good.
We developed a budget for this year of $250,000. As I’m discovering, that was an ambitious goal. After three quarters the Lord has provided through honorariums, CD sales and contributions a total of about $140,000. And we’re a little bit in the hole. However, we’re postured to do very well in the final quarter of ‘07 and be in good position to hit the ground running in ‘08. Continue to pray!
By the way, we are trying to have family meetings every Sunday night. Some singing, some giggling, some Bible Study and some serious family business. Listen to some of the comments that my kids made this past week. “We’re spoiled.” “We have too much allowance.” “We want a smaller house.” “We have too much stuff.” “We watch too much TV.” “We’re on the computer too much.” “Can we reduce our TV’s to just one so that we will spend more time together?”
My Lindsay told me today that she wants to join the National Guard, to serve our country and to help pay for college when she graduates from high school. She also is sensing a call to give herself to the Lord’s work in Urban Ministry.
My Lacey’s pet kitten was run over this past week. We wept together. I buried Dash in our back yard. I remembered my two pet dogs who were killed in like fashion when I was Lacey’s age. We’re trying to discern whether to get another dog or cat to replace it.
My Maggie just finished up her volleyball season. She made amazing improvement this year and she made her Dad awfully proud. They came within one point of winning their final tournament this year! Maggie is organizing a garage sale for the benefit of her school.
My Manning and his team had their first play-off football game last night. He’s playing tight end, full back and defensive end. However, he was doubled over with the stomach flu on the side line. Despite his absence from the line up (and my presence as the Offensive Coordinator) we were able to achieve our first playoff victory!
Clark High School plays its final game of the season this week. I’ve been their volunteer Special Teams Coordinator throughout the season. If they win this weekend, and they should, they will advance to the playoffs as well. Richard Johnson and Sam Rauschenberg are busily managing Bible Studies for these boys on Thursday nights.
Oh well, that’s all I have time for. I hope you all enjoy some Butterfingers and Baby Ruth’s tonight. And as you are repenting on the scale the following morning with me, remember to pray for Rebirth and our cause in New Orleans and beyond to glorify Christ among the urban poor!
God bless you all and thank you for enabling us to serve our Savior!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)