message not received
Lately I've been having some trouble with my email. I tried sending a group email to everyone on my worship team and for some reason it didn't send to my keyboard player or my sound guy. It says that it's sent but he tells me "message not received". What a crazy predicament! So now I'm thinking that maybe I need to change mine but I have had this address for five years now and it would be a huge hassle to change the address.
Have you ever felt that God wasn't answering your prayers? You get in your prayer closet but yet you feel like you're talking to the four walls. I have felt that way sometimes. In my case it's mostly because I'm not quieting myself and spend enough time to hear Him. I jump into my prayer room and spout off my requests and then it's on to the next item on my to do list. Like any relationship, your relationship with God needs "quality time" . My most effective times that I spend with Him are usually when I have my guitar and I'm giving Him an offering of worship before anything else. I then spend time thanking Him for all the things He's done. It's amazing how thankfulness is like a key that opens the door into His presence.
One thing to note here. There is no set formula with the exception that if you want to hear his voice you need to spend time with Him. He's waiting and always there for you.
Now, if I could just get my email fixed!
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
Monday, June 16, 2008
Happy Father's Day! This weekend was one of the busiest weekends that I've experienced in a while. On Saturday Missy and I attended three graduation get together's, went to a baseball game in Baltimore and then the Youth Group led the service on Sunday morning with dramas and worship. After that my family chilled at King's Dominion and we capped the weekend by going out to eat. By the time I got home I was so tired I couldn't sleep?! Have you ever had that happen!? Crazy. I hit the bedroom and laid down. Missy was fast asleep in two minutes and the next thing I know I'm wide awake.
So, I went downstairs and turned on the rest of the Laker/Celtic game and watched the Lakers hold on to a win. I have a busy week ahead of me. We have Middle School and High School services to plan and I'm leading worship this weekend as well. Not to mention the need to prepare for our summer schedule which is chock full of awesome amazing activities such as King's Fest and our Summer Camp.
God's in control. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me! Let Him strengthen you this week. May the power of the Holy Spirit give you the strength to do what He's called you to do!
So, I went downstairs and turned on the rest of the Laker/Celtic game and watched the Lakers hold on to a win. I have a busy week ahead of me. We have Middle School and High School services to plan and I'm leading worship this weekend as well. Not to mention the need to prepare for our summer schedule which is chock full of awesome amazing activities such as King's Fest and our Summer Camp.
God's in control. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me! Let Him strengthen you this week. May the power of the Holy Spirit give you the strength to do what He's called you to do!
Wednesday, June 11, 2008
floating away on a saturday night
This past weekend was one to remember. A severe thunderstorm came through our area with lot's of lightening and hail and wind. During the storm the electricity went out so we all gathered in the cool part of the house down in the basement. We had candles lit and we were all sprawled over the couches and chairs trying to sleep when I happened to take the flashlight and look at the sump pump. Water was pouring out of it and the water was rushing to overtake that room and the other rooms in the basement. There was nothing we could do. The water was coming in too fast to be able to stop it. The pump won't work unless there is electricity to make it pump! A cleanup crew came in the next day and ripped out all of the carpet and treated the floor for mold. Right now we have ten "force nine" fans (force nine stands for really powerful loud fans) and two dehumidifiers. It sounds like a hurricane and we have to have them running for four or five days until the basement gets dried out.
Here's the thing that sticks in my mind as we continue this cleanup operation. We had the right equipment to keep water out of our basement but because we had no electricity we had no power to generate the pump. In our walk with God we need to be connected to him in order to be effective in the world that we live in. Get connected, be effective today...
This past weekend was one to remember. A severe thunderstorm came through our area with lot's of lightening and hail and wind. During the storm the electricity went out so we all gathered in the cool part of the house down in the basement. We had candles lit and we were all sprawled over the couches and chairs trying to sleep when I happened to take the flashlight and look at the sump pump. Water was pouring out of it and the water was rushing to overtake that room and the other rooms in the basement. There was nothing we could do. The water was coming in too fast to be able to stop it. The pump won't work unless there is electricity to make it pump! A cleanup crew came in the next day and ripped out all of the carpet and treated the floor for mold. Right now we have ten "force nine" fans (force nine stands for really powerful loud fans) and two dehumidifiers. It sounds like a hurricane and we have to have them running for four or five days until the basement gets dried out.
Here's the thing that sticks in my mind as we continue this cleanup operation. We had the right equipment to keep water out of our basement but because we had no electricity we had no power to generate the pump. In our walk with God we need to be connected to him in order to be effective in the world that we live in. Get connected, be effective today...
Wednesday, June 04, 2008
The Way Things Are
Yes, I know! It's June and I haven't blogged yet! So, here it goes. We've been really overwhelmed in my house with all of the school activities and sporting events. I feel like I haven't seen my wife Missy other than to kiss her goodnight or to say goodbye to her in the morning! Can you say, "We need a vacation!"
This morning, if you've been reading my twitter you'll know, I am stressed. I think this is God's way of getting me to focus on Him and to remind me that I'm not in control, He is. It's no wonder that in my devotional this morning (My Utmost for His Highest by Oswald Chambers) really challenged me to proclaim, "The Lord is my helper, I will not fear" Hebrews 13:5-6 Chamber's says it so well, "I will not be obsessed with apprehension". (www.rbc.org/utmost/index.php)
Man, I can get worked up over the silliest things! And it's primarily because I don't consider God first. I consider my own feelings and agenda and that's when I get bent out of shape!
This doesn't mean that I won't get cranky when things don't go my way, and when I'm overwhelmed by that to do list! What it does mean is this. I need to be meditating on His word so when I get in that mode of being tempted to fear that I remember how the Bible addresses this issue! All I know is that in my old age I learn that I am not my own. I am His. I am Yours, God!
No matter what circumstances that we find ourselves in that God will NEVER leave us or forsake us. This is our God that we serve!
-andy
Yes, I know! It's June and I haven't blogged yet! So, here it goes. We've been really overwhelmed in my house with all of the school activities and sporting events. I feel like I haven't seen my wife Missy other than to kiss her goodnight or to say goodbye to her in the morning! Can you say, "We need a vacation!"
This morning, if you've been reading my twitter you'll know, I am stressed. I think this is God's way of getting me to focus on Him and to remind me that I'm not in control, He is. It's no wonder that in my devotional this morning (My Utmost for His Highest by Oswald Chambers) really challenged me to proclaim, "The Lord is my helper, I will not fear" Hebrews 13:5-6 Chamber's says it so well, "I will not be obsessed with apprehension". (www.rbc.org/utmost/index.php)
Man, I can get worked up over the silliest things! And it's primarily because I don't consider God first. I consider my own feelings and agenda and that's when I get bent out of shape!
This doesn't mean that I won't get cranky when things don't go my way, and when I'm overwhelmed by that to do list! What it does mean is this. I need to be meditating on His word so when I get in that mode of being tempted to fear that I remember how the Bible addresses this issue! All I know is that in my old age I learn that I am not my own. I am His. I am Yours, God!
No matter what circumstances that we find ourselves in that God will NEVER leave us or forsake us. This is our God that we serve!
-andy
Thursday, May 22, 2008
What a day. The winning ways of the Rogers' kids were dashed this afternoon. Maggie got her first start on the A team and even though she stopped a few balls in the infield and got a hit past first base the team lost. Zach played in his soccer game later this evening and they lost by one goal. They are a bit rusty after being off so much because of the rainy weather we've been having lately. At least they got to get out in the sunshine and run around. The grandparents came down to watch and were very proud of them.
In the meantime we have a busy weekend planned. Missy is heading up an H2O crew to get our Senior gifts together. Each year we put together collages for each of our seniors. They are very descriptive and they take hours and hours to get them ready because of all the pictures and letters are each cut out and carefully put together. It's a great tradition and it's something that they can take with them when they go away to school and put up in their rooms to remember H20.
Tonight we had worship practice and it went well. We have a very ecclectic set that is full of a different style and sound. I was very happy that even though it was something different we pulled it together and Sunday is going to be awesome.
And of course memorial day means Pennington picnic time where the badminton championship is up for grabs again. We are hoping to give it a go! Also, we are hoping to get in a game of volleyball too. If they'll give up the badminton court after the tourney.
God's up to some great stuff this weekend at Horizons so if you are in town be sure and stop by Colonial Forge HS @ 9 or 11am. Two services, two times to get your worship on!
Peace.
In the meantime we have a busy weekend planned. Missy is heading up an H2O crew to get our Senior gifts together. Each year we put together collages for each of our seniors. They are very descriptive and they take hours and hours to get them ready because of all the pictures and letters are each cut out and carefully put together. It's a great tradition and it's something that they can take with them when they go away to school and put up in their rooms to remember H20.
Tonight we had worship practice and it went well. We have a very ecclectic set that is full of a different style and sound. I was very happy that even though it was something different we pulled it together and Sunday is going to be awesome.
And of course memorial day means Pennington picnic time where the badminton championship is up for grabs again. We are hoping to give it a go! Also, we are hoping to get in a game of volleyball too. If they'll give up the badminton court after the tourney.
God's up to some great stuff this weekend at Horizons so if you are in town be sure and stop by Colonial Forge HS @ 9 or 11am. Two services, two times to get your worship on!
Peace.
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
We Are Hungry
Is there a hunger for God in your life? Webster's tells us that hunger is our weakened condition caused by the lack of food. If that's true then a spiritual hunger means that we are in a weakened spiritual condition caused by the lack of God in our lives. What's the solution? If you are hungry you may need to go grab a meal and eat! If you are spiritually hungry you need more of God. Plain and simple.
Some of us may be thinking that's great and all but how do I go about that? How do I satisfy that spiritual hunger? A few months back in a time when a lot of folks in our church were feeling spiritually dry, we had an "Experiencing Worship Project" night and the theme of that night was coming to the table. Many times I think about going to the "table" spiritually and I think, "man, I am not worthy to be sitting here." I know what God's word says about forgiveness but I still carry a tremendous amount of guilt with me to that table and sometimes it keeps me from being served.
First of all recognize we are hungry and stand up and head towards the table. The food is there but God's not going to bring you a doggy bag, he wants you to come sit with him and dine with him. What do you need to do before you go to a meal. Wash your hands. We should wash our hands spiritually too. Ask God to speak to your heart and come to Him humbly and ask to bring to light the things you need to repent of before you can enter into His presence.
Once you get there what happens? What goes on at a dinner table? In my house it's saying a prayer of thanksgiving. We thank God for what he's given us. That should only be the beginning. There's conversation that happens. It's the first time in the day for a dad to speak to his kids and see how they are doing. Spend time with God. Let Him know how your day was. I know when I was growing up we knew when someone at the table had a bad day and we talked about it. We offered advice and many times my dad would have a story that would speak to the situation. At God's table we need to listen up after we let him know how our day was and ask him to speak into our lives.
When God speaks, think meditate and "chew" on what He's spoken to you. The table is a place to come to get filled up. Ask God to fill you with good things!
We are hungry and we need to keep coming to the table and getting filled each day in order to be spiritually healthy. Have you come to the table today?
Just ask Him today, He will fill you!
Is there a hunger for God in your life? Webster's tells us that hunger is our weakened condition caused by the lack of food. If that's true then a spiritual hunger means that we are in a weakened spiritual condition caused by the lack of God in our lives. What's the solution? If you are hungry you may need to go grab a meal and eat! If you are spiritually hungry you need more of God. Plain and simple.
Some of us may be thinking that's great and all but how do I go about that? How do I satisfy that spiritual hunger? A few months back in a time when a lot of folks in our church were feeling spiritually dry, we had an "Experiencing Worship Project" night and the theme of that night was coming to the table. Many times I think about going to the "table" spiritually and I think, "man, I am not worthy to be sitting here." I know what God's word says about forgiveness but I still carry a tremendous amount of guilt with me to that table and sometimes it keeps me from being served.
First of all recognize we are hungry and stand up and head towards the table. The food is there but God's not going to bring you a doggy bag, he wants you to come sit with him and dine with him. What do you need to do before you go to a meal. Wash your hands. We should wash our hands spiritually too. Ask God to speak to your heart and come to Him humbly and ask to bring to light the things you need to repent of before you can enter into His presence.
Once you get there what happens? What goes on at a dinner table? In my house it's saying a prayer of thanksgiving. We thank God for what he's given us. That should only be the beginning. There's conversation that happens. It's the first time in the day for a dad to speak to his kids and see how they are doing. Spend time with God. Let Him know how your day was. I know when I was growing up we knew when someone at the table had a bad day and we talked about it. We offered advice and many times my dad would have a story that would speak to the situation. At God's table we need to listen up after we let him know how our day was and ask him to speak into our lives.
When God speaks, think meditate and "chew" on what He's spoken to you. The table is a place to come to get filled up. Ask God to fill you with good things!
We are hungry and we need to keep coming to the table and getting filled each day in order to be spiritually healthy. Have you come to the table today?
Just ask Him today, He will fill you!
Monday, May 05, 2008
This week I'm going to be introducing a song Sunday morning called "Giving It All To You" It's a simple song about giving God our all and our desperate cry asking Him to be in our life. The more I listened to this song the more I realized the depth of this song. One line talks about how "just one drop" fills us. When Jesus said, blessed are the poor in spirit I believe it's the realization that we all are and we desperately need a "drop" from the Holy Spirit.
This song was written by Michael Gungor and it came to him after he had a conversation with guy at a homeless shelter that had been on the street for years. He met this lady that he ended up marrying her. She took him to church and He turned his life around and gave himself to the Lord. It inspired Michael to ask him what would someone who is homeless want to sing to God. Just a drop from him, and we are filled. Such a powerful line. Just one drop. Every drop is precious. It just shows us that we all no matter whether we are homeless or have more than enough food and shelter we are all the same. We all are a part of the body of Christ. We all are desperate for God. We need His touch in our lives. If you are in a place that is desperate. If you are in a place that you don't know where to turn, cry out to Him, TODAY. Extend your hand toward him and receive that drop. It's more than enough!
This song was written by Michael Gungor and it came to him after he had a conversation with guy at a homeless shelter that had been on the street for years. He met this lady that he ended up marrying her. She took him to church and He turned his life around and gave himself to the Lord. It inspired Michael to ask him what would someone who is homeless want to sing to God. Just a drop from him, and we are filled. Such a powerful line. Just one drop. Every drop is precious. It just shows us that we all no matter whether we are homeless or have more than enough food and shelter we are all the same. We all are a part of the body of Christ. We all are desperate for God. We need His touch in our lives. If you are in a place that is desperate. If you are in a place that you don't know where to turn, cry out to Him, TODAY. Extend your hand toward him and receive that drop. It's more than enough!
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
Okay, let me "splain"! I was really tired one night while I was attending the WFX conference and I wanted to have some fun with the Mac laptop that I brought with me. There is this cool program called comic life that I started playing around with. This is my first time actually creating something so enjoy.
Click on the jpg image for a blog you won't soon forget
Click on the jpg image for a blog you won't soon forget
Monday, April 28, 2008
This morning I woke up early so I could get a start on the day. I am going out of town to Indianapolis. It should be a great trip because I get to hang out with our Horizons Pastoral team. Although I'd rather have been in Myrtle Beach, SC (inside joke) I know that this is going to be a great time getting info. on cool stuff for the new church building.
Thursday, April 24, 2008
Grab the Rope!
I just met with a friend of mine at Starbucks today and he is with a church plant that meets in Alexandria, VA. He's a new youth pastor and is like a sponge soaking up everyone's advice. It's funny. As he's asking me a zillion different questions I really started thinking about how we are all on this journey together.
If you can imagine for a moment being on a mountain expedition and you are on a particularly vertically challenging pass. Each of the team members are hooked together linked with a rope taking one step at a time. You are putting your feet in the exact same footholds as the person that is just above you and the person below is doing the same. If someone slips and falls all those above are digging in and holding that person's life in the balance and can pull him to safety.
In our lives we should have people in our lives that have gone before us that have the rope and are holding it steady and giving you advice about how to be a disciple. You should also have others that are struggling and working alongside you would call your peers. You also should have those that aren't as far along as you in the faith that you can lower your rope to so that they can have a safety line. No matter where you are in the journey everyone has that common goal of having that prize before us. Life is not meant to be lived alone. We all need a helping hand. Who's on your rope?
I just met with a friend of mine at Starbucks today and he is with a church plant that meets in Alexandria, VA. He's a new youth pastor and is like a sponge soaking up everyone's advice. It's funny. As he's asking me a zillion different questions I really started thinking about how we are all on this journey together.
If you can imagine for a moment being on a mountain expedition and you are on a particularly vertically challenging pass. Each of the team members are hooked together linked with a rope taking one step at a time. You are putting your feet in the exact same footholds as the person that is just above you and the person below is doing the same. If someone slips and falls all those above are digging in and holding that person's life in the balance and can pull him to safety.
In our lives we should have people in our lives that have gone before us that have the rope and are holding it steady and giving you advice about how to be a disciple. You should also have others that are struggling and working alongside you would call your peers. You also should have those that aren't as far along as you in the faith that you can lower your rope to so that they can have a safety line. No matter where you are in the journey everyone has that common goal of having that prize before us. Life is not meant to be lived alone. We all need a helping hand. Who's on your rope?
Monday, April 07, 2008
Random Thoughts
It's Monday night and I'm sitting in the comfort of my own home watching the NCAA Men's final on my big screen. All of the kids have left from H2O' Music Team Practice. My kids just got tucked into bed and finally the noise of the house has quieted down to a dull roar.
Missy and I look at each other and chat for a few minutes. We are tired. I always wondered why my parents looked old to me and now I realize that they were just tired, like I am now.
Missy walked upstairs and I am alone watching an amazing overtime comeback. What a game! But I'm sitting there by myself suppressing my yelps because everyone else is asleep.
After the game was over and the TV faded to black I realized something. Whether you are experiencing incredible highs like those kids who won that B-ball game or incredible lows, if you don't have people surrounding you to share in the joy and the pain you have nothing.
We have built in by God's design a desire to be with other people. Some more than others, for sure. Philippians 2 talks about how we should put others before ourselves. It's my desire to be Christ-like because not only do you have a positive effect on others, but it does something to you as well. Share a moment with someone today. Give a word of encouragement. If one of us celebrating a win, we all celebrate with them, and if someone is mourning the loss of a friend mourn with them. It's the way Jesus intended us to be. How do we start? How do we make this a reality? Ask the Holy Spirit for those moments.
Be Jesus for someone today.
Mind you, this all came to me at 11:30 at night and I hope it makes some sense. Have a great week.
Leaving No One Behind...
It's Monday night and I'm sitting in the comfort of my own home watching the NCAA Men's final on my big screen. All of the kids have left from H2O' Music Team Practice. My kids just got tucked into bed and finally the noise of the house has quieted down to a dull roar.
Missy and I look at each other and chat for a few minutes. We are tired. I always wondered why my parents looked old to me and now I realize that they were just tired, like I am now.
Missy walked upstairs and I am alone watching an amazing overtime comeback. What a game! But I'm sitting there by myself suppressing my yelps because everyone else is asleep.
After the game was over and the TV faded to black I realized something. Whether you are experiencing incredible highs like those kids who won that B-ball game or incredible lows, if you don't have people surrounding you to share in the joy and the pain you have nothing.
We have built in by God's design a desire to be with other people. Some more than others, for sure. Philippians 2 talks about how we should put others before ourselves. It's my desire to be Christ-like because not only do you have a positive effect on others, but it does something to you as well. Share a moment with someone today. Give a word of encouragement. If one of us celebrating a win, we all celebrate with them, and if someone is mourning the loss of a friend mourn with them. It's the way Jesus intended us to be. How do we start? How do we make this a reality? Ask the Holy Spirit for those moments.
Be Jesus for someone today.
Mind you, this all came to me at 11:30 at night and I hope it makes some sense. Have a great week.
Leaving No One Behind...
Wednesday, April 02, 2008
Where do we learn how to love?
As the coffee was brewing my thoughts drifted toward a person that taught me how to love. My dad was a government man at Defense Intelligence Agency for 35 years. Monday through Friday he'd wake up, work out, spend time with God all before 4:30AM. He'd grab some breakfast head off to work and then he'd do his best to get home in the afternoon when we were all home and spend some time with us. Even though he got up before dark he was the one taking me for drives when I had an asthma attack in the middle of the night. He coached baseball, helped us out with school projects and made a huge effort to be in our lives even in the midst of his very busy career. My dad wasn't perfect but he made every effort to show us how much he loved my brother and I. He did so by honoring my mom and he did so by showing us what love is. He put her before my brother and I constantly and reminded us that she came first. The thing I remember about my dad growing up was that when he made a commitment, he kept that commitment. Each year he was sure that we did a family vacation, and would take weekend trips with us.
It almost sounds like a fairy tale. Why do I say that? Because these days you don't hear about Fathers who think that way. How did my dad learn to love like this? His family split up when he was very young and he never really had a father figure in his life. When I turned 18 my dad sat me down and told me that he did the best he could with me. He told me He prayed for wisdom everyday when it came to raising us. "There it is!" I thought. It says in God's word that if we need wisdom to ask for it. My dad, who didn't have that role model around prayed and God spoke to him. What an amazing testimony of one man's faith in a living God who is the ultimate Father figure!
I find myself comparing myself to my dad because he put up a very high measuring stick for success. Many times I don't feel like I measure up to my dad's standard that he raised. I know that I am to do the best that I can. I want my kids to one day blog about me. About how I made them feel uncomfortable and made them say, "ewww! dad's kissing mom again!" And when they asked me to go outside and play ball with them that I dropped what I was doing to spend a moment in time with them. I want to leave a legacy with them to teach them what it means to be a dad.
Thanks, dad for the legacy you left me. Thanks heavenly father for the wisdom that we can have if we would only ask you for it.
As the coffee was brewing my thoughts drifted toward a person that taught me how to love. My dad was a government man at Defense Intelligence Agency for 35 years. Monday through Friday he'd wake up, work out, spend time with God all before 4:30AM. He'd grab some breakfast head off to work and then he'd do his best to get home in the afternoon when we were all home and spend some time with us. Even though he got up before dark he was the one taking me for drives when I had an asthma attack in the middle of the night. He coached baseball, helped us out with school projects and made a huge effort to be in our lives even in the midst of his very busy career. My dad wasn't perfect but he made every effort to show us how much he loved my brother and I. He did so by honoring my mom and he did so by showing us what love is. He put her before my brother and I constantly and reminded us that she came first. The thing I remember about my dad growing up was that when he made a commitment, he kept that commitment. Each year he was sure that we did a family vacation, and would take weekend trips with us.
It almost sounds like a fairy tale. Why do I say that? Because these days you don't hear about Fathers who think that way. How did my dad learn to love like this? His family split up when he was very young and he never really had a father figure in his life. When I turned 18 my dad sat me down and told me that he did the best he could with me. He told me He prayed for wisdom everyday when it came to raising us. "There it is!" I thought. It says in God's word that if we need wisdom to ask for it. My dad, who didn't have that role model around prayed and God spoke to him. What an amazing testimony of one man's faith in a living God who is the ultimate Father figure!
I find myself comparing myself to my dad because he put up a very high measuring stick for success. Many times I don't feel like I measure up to my dad's standard that he raised. I know that I am to do the best that I can. I want my kids to one day blog about me. About how I made them feel uncomfortable and made them say, "ewww! dad's kissing mom again!" And when they asked me to go outside and play ball with them that I dropped what I was doing to spend a moment in time with them. I want to leave a legacy with them to teach them what it means to be a dad.
Thanks, dad for the legacy you left me. Thanks heavenly father for the wisdom that we can have if we would only ask you for it.
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
The Undo Button
Don't you wish you had an "undo" button for your life? The undo button when I'm editing is invaluable. There have been times in my life, very embarrassing moments that I wish I could have just hit the "undo" button. Being a musician and performing in front of large numbers of people is a recipe for something funny to happen. There are the string breaking incidents that keep reoccurring whenever I play guitar on Sunday mornings. My "undo" button in that case is the back up guitar. My fellow worship team members are calling me "iron claw" because of this habit I have of breaking a string.
It all started back in 7th grade. (don't you love it when a story begins this way?) I was in band and we had a concert that had 300 people in attendance. I don't know why but my band director thought it was important for us to know that right before we went on stage. Talk about being nervous! Anyhow, a fellow percussionist had a part to play and hit the crash cymbals. After he was done he put them on a chair that had a slight incline. During the rest of the song the cymbals started inching their way down the chair and in a particularly quiet part of the song the cymbals fell off the chair and hit the floor with a mighty crash. I was standing right beside the chair and every eye was on me. All the members of the band, the band director, and every person in the audience. The guy who stuck the cymbals on the chair even looked at me like it was my fault! Now the story doesn't end there. A few days later I was on a middle school retreat with my church and when I got to the camp there were several other churches we were participating with. I stepped off the bus and there was a cute little flute player that was in our band. I went up trying to be cool and said "hello" and she smiled and said "hi" back, but as I was walking away I overheard her say to her friend next to her, "yeah, he's the one who knocked the cymbals over in the concert! After what seemed like an eternity the laughter died down and I was thoroughly embarrassed. I don't remember much more about that weekend but I do remember that at that moment I wanted to be anywhere but there!
There are times in our lives that we have been embarrassed by our actions and maybe we were just at the wrong place at the wrong time. We've done things that we wish could "undo". Well, there's good news. We do have an undo button in our lives. It's wrapped up in two steps. Repentance & Forgiveness. Now it might not be the undo button that would completely erase any consequences of an action but what it can do is give you the knowledge that you are truly forgiven. God's grace is enough. This week Pastor Rich is going to be talking about Grace. Look for songs within the service that point toward that Grace that only Jesus can give. Have a great week and know that He is the answer to our every need!
Don't you wish you had an "undo" button for your life? The undo button when I'm editing is invaluable. There have been times in my life, very embarrassing moments that I wish I could have just hit the "undo" button. Being a musician and performing in front of large numbers of people is a recipe for something funny to happen. There are the string breaking incidents that keep reoccurring whenever I play guitar on Sunday mornings. My "undo" button in that case is the back up guitar. My fellow worship team members are calling me "iron claw" because of this habit I have of breaking a string.
It all started back in 7th grade. (don't you love it when a story begins this way?) I was in band and we had a concert that had 300 people in attendance. I don't know why but my band director thought it was important for us to know that right before we went on stage. Talk about being nervous! Anyhow, a fellow percussionist had a part to play and hit the crash cymbals. After he was done he put them on a chair that had a slight incline. During the rest of the song the cymbals started inching their way down the chair and in a particularly quiet part of the song the cymbals fell off the chair and hit the floor with a mighty crash. I was standing right beside the chair and every eye was on me. All the members of the band, the band director, and every person in the audience. The guy who stuck the cymbals on the chair even looked at me like it was my fault! Now the story doesn't end there. A few days later I was on a middle school retreat with my church and when I got to the camp there were several other churches we were participating with. I stepped off the bus and there was a cute little flute player that was in our band. I went up trying to be cool and said "hello" and she smiled and said "hi" back, but as I was walking away I overheard her say to her friend next to her, "yeah, he's the one who knocked the cymbals over in the concert! After what seemed like an eternity the laughter died down and I was thoroughly embarrassed. I don't remember much more about that weekend but I do remember that at that moment I wanted to be anywhere but there!
There are times in our lives that we have been embarrassed by our actions and maybe we were just at the wrong place at the wrong time. We've done things that we wish could "undo". Well, there's good news. We do have an undo button in our lives. It's wrapped up in two steps. Repentance & Forgiveness. Now it might not be the undo button that would completely erase any consequences of an action but what it can do is give you the knowledge that you are truly forgiven. God's grace is enough. This week Pastor Rich is going to be talking about Grace. Look for songs within the service that point toward that Grace that only Jesus can give. Have a great week and know that He is the answer to our every need!
Wednesday, March 05, 2008
I've been talking to a lot of kids lately that wonder who they are. Many are searching and trying to answer that question through experiences or following their heart. In a building when you are looking to find out something about the inner workings such as electrical wiring, or plumbing you go back to the blueprint to find out where things are located. If we are asking questions about ourselves we need to go back to the beginning, to the one that has the original blueprints. The Bible says in Psalms 139:13 that God created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb. David praised God because he was fearfully and wonderfully made. He even goes on to say that all the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be. God is our master designer and His Word is the blueprint by which we should live our lives.
Oswald Chambers in his devotional "My Utmost for His Highest" says that "Joy comes from seeing the complete fulfillment of the specific purpose for which I was created and born again, not from successfully doing something of my own choosing." I want that kind of joy and fulfillment. A tool is most useful if it is used for what it was created for. In the same way unless we are used for what we were created for we will not be fulfilled. God has a plan for your life. Pray and ask today for Him to reveal to you what that plan is.
Oswald Chambers in his devotional "My Utmost for His Highest" says that "Joy comes from seeing the complete fulfillment of the specific purpose for which I was created and born again, not from successfully doing something of my own choosing." I want that kind of joy and fulfillment. A tool is most useful if it is used for what it was created for. In the same way unless we are used for what we were created for we will not be fulfilled. God has a plan for your life. Pray and ask today for Him to reveal to you what that plan is.
Tuesday, February 26, 2008
Hi Everyone! Yes, I'm back after being out of action with this flu thing that has been going around. Even though I was sick for so long a lot of things have transpired since I've last updated this blog. H2O, which is our youth ministry at Horizons Church has been busy. Last Saturday we sold Krispy Kreme donuts at the Fredericksburg and Stafford Wal Mart locations. We made over $800.00 and that put us over $3000.00 that we needed to build a well in Rwanda so that they might have clean water to drink. It was cold and after about an hour we wanted to just go home. But, after a while the kids started selling those donuts like it was going out of style! Way to go H2O!
This past weekend our Sr. High Group went to Liberty Mountain in Pennsylvania. So many of our kids got to connect with each other. A lot of kids come to youth group on Sunday nights but never have made any real friendship connections. I think that this weekend was a great time to fellowship and get to know one another better.
A few months ago, we went to a two day conference called Dare2Share. We were all challenged to really live out our faith and share Jesus with those we are in contact with. Part of the conference was to obtain a map of a neighborhood and go door to door and share the gospel of Jesus Christ. I don't know about you but that scares me to death, but after realizing that people are literally dying without the knowledge of the truth helped all of us overcome our fear. With a simple outline that gives kids confidence to tell people about Christ the GOSPEL message can be given to anyone, anywhere. Since then, God has really given a lot of our kids the burden to tell others about Jesus. My prayer for our kids is that they realize that "none live for ourselves" but live out our lives for Jesus with 110% intensity! God gave His all and we can do no less.
Peace,
Andy
This past weekend our Sr. High Group went to Liberty Mountain in Pennsylvania. So many of our kids got to connect with each other. A lot of kids come to youth group on Sunday nights but never have made any real friendship connections. I think that this weekend was a great time to fellowship and get to know one another better.
A few months ago, we went to a two day conference called Dare2Share. We were all challenged to really live out our faith and share Jesus with those we are in contact with. Part of the conference was to obtain a map of a neighborhood and go door to door and share the gospel of Jesus Christ. I don't know about you but that scares me to death, but after realizing that people are literally dying without the knowledge of the truth helped all of us overcome our fear. With a simple outline that gives kids confidence to tell people about Christ the GOSPEL message can be given to anyone, anywhere. Since then, God has really given a lot of our kids the burden to tell others about Jesus. My prayer for our kids is that they realize that "none live for ourselves" but live out our lives for Jesus with 110% intensity! God gave His all and we can do no less.
Peace,
Andy
Tuesday, February 05, 2008
Thursday, January 31, 2008
This morning I was dreaming. I dreamt that I was on my way to a destination of a tropical sort. A warm destination with sand and waves and my surfboard. When I woke up I had a strong desire to call and cash in my sky miles to find a place to retreat. You know that commercial that says, "Wanna get away?" That was me!
What is it within us that wants to get away? What is it that causes us to want to retreat when the going gets tough, or life gets monotonous? What are the ingredients that can help us persevere through such times? Sometimes we feel that we deserve a break today and don't get me wrong, vacations and breaks are good, but it's what goes on here when it seems like there is no relief in sight that is significant.
In Hebrews 12:1 it says, "Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us."
Knowing that there are literally hundreds and thousands surrounding me and cheering me on in the heavens helps me stay on track and to be true to what God is requiring of me. Knowing that others that have gone before me in the Faith are watching and encouraging me makes me dig deep and find the strength to carry on.
In whom do you put your trust? In whom do you put your faith in? Jesus Christ. Follow Him.
What is it within us that wants to get away? What is it that causes us to want to retreat when the going gets tough, or life gets monotonous? What are the ingredients that can help us persevere through such times? Sometimes we feel that we deserve a break today and don't get me wrong, vacations and breaks are good, but it's what goes on here when it seems like there is no relief in sight that is significant.
In Hebrews 12:1 it says, "Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us."
Knowing that there are literally hundreds and thousands surrounding me and cheering me on in the heavens helps me stay on track and to be true to what God is requiring of me. Knowing that others that have gone before me in the Faith are watching and encouraging me makes me dig deep and find the strength to carry on.
In whom do you put your trust? In whom do you put your faith in? Jesus Christ. Follow Him.
Friday, January 25, 2008
Ghandi once said, "I love your Christ, I do not like your Christians. They are so unlike your Christ."
Why does that statement sting when I read it this morning? Maybe because there's some truth to it. I am constantly reminded that we need to be striving to be Christ like. It goes against our nature be like Him.
What's the remedy? What's a way we can prove Ghandi wrong! Stay close to God. How do we get close to God? David asked this in Psalm 15. What was God's response? He who does what is righteous, who speaks truth, doesn't do his neighbor wrong, honors God, and he who keeps his word even when it hurts! What can we do? How do we make it happen? Get close to God. Start living what we know is right. God honors that. He shows up, and he shows Himself strong in amazing ways. We have opportunities every day. Go for it!
1 LORD, who may dwell in your sanctuary?
Who may live on your holy hill?
"Father, help us to be more Christlike. Help people to see you in our everyday lives. Help us to put our selfishness aside to lead others into relationship with you. Help us to have a heart for You the way David did."
Have a great day and know that God's light can shine through you today if you let Him.
-andy
Why does that statement sting when I read it this morning? Maybe because there's some truth to it. I am constantly reminded that we need to be striving to be Christ like. It goes against our nature be like Him.
What's the remedy? What's a way we can prove Ghandi wrong! Stay close to God. How do we get close to God? David asked this in Psalm 15. What was God's response? He who does what is righteous, who speaks truth, doesn't do his neighbor wrong, honors God, and he who keeps his word even when it hurts! What can we do? How do we make it happen? Get close to God. Start living what we know is right. God honors that. He shows up, and he shows Himself strong in amazing ways. We have opportunities every day. Go for it!
1 LORD, who may dwell in your sanctuary?
Who may live on your holy hill?
2 He whose walk is blameless
and who does what is righteous,
who speaks the truth from his heart
3 and has no slander on his tongue,
who does his neighbor no wrong
and casts no slur on his fellowman,
4 who despises a vile man
but honors those who fear the LORD,
who keeps his oath
even when it hurts,
5 who lends his money without usury
and does not accept a bribe against the innocent.
He who does these things
will never be shaken.
"Father, help us to be more Christlike. Help people to see you in our everyday lives. Help us to put our selfishness aside to lead others into relationship with you. Help us to have a heart for You the way David did."
Have a great day and know that God's light can shine through you today if you let Him.
-andy
Monday, January 14, 2008
So I'm in my office today and I'm sitting here, the sun is coming through the window and I'm squinting because it's so bright, but I like the warmth that comes from it so I endure the brightness. I love light. My dream house would be a house that has a huge vaulted ceiling with a wall of windows with a view of a body of water.
When you start looking at the streams of light you see everything. You can see specks of dust flying around the room. Although it's painful at first, being in the light is a good thing. When we allow God's light to envelop us we see things that were once hidden and we need to allow God to deal with them. It takes us walking in that light before we are able to see and deal with things.
There is a song by DC Talk called "In the Light" I love the pre-chorus and chorus of that song.
"So tell me) what's going on inside of me
I despise my own behavior
(This only) serves to confirm my suspicion
That I'm still a man in need of a savior
(CHORUS)
I wanna be in the light
as you are in the light
I wanna shine like the stars
in the Heavens
Oh, Lord be my light
and be my Salvation
'cause all I want is to be in the light"
"Dc Talk - In The Light Lyrics"
As I walk in the light I find that as things come to light it's a not a fun thing but every time it shows me that I need Jesus. I need Jesus in my life. I need Him now, and I need Him tomorrow and the day after that! I trust that God will bring to light those things that I need to deal with. Once he does, I simply repent and ask God to forgive me. There's a freedom that comes in that process. Where are you in that process? Open the window and allow His light to shine on you today.
Be in the Light!
When you start looking at the streams of light you see everything. You can see specks of dust flying around the room. Although it's painful at first, being in the light is a good thing. When we allow God's light to envelop us we see things that were once hidden and we need to allow God to deal with them. It takes us walking in that light before we are able to see and deal with things.
There is a song by DC Talk called "In the Light" I love the pre-chorus and chorus of that song.
"So tell me) what's going on inside of me
I despise my own behavior
(This only) serves to confirm my suspicion
That I'm still a man in need of a savior
(CHORUS)
I wanna be in the light
as you are in the light
I wanna shine like the stars
in the Heavens
Oh, Lord be my light
and be my Salvation
'cause all I want is to be in the light"
"Dc Talk - In The Light Lyrics"
As I walk in the light I find that as things come to light it's a not a fun thing but every time it shows me that I need Jesus. I need Jesus in my life. I need Him now, and I need Him tomorrow and the day after that! I trust that God will bring to light those things that I need to deal with. Once he does, I simply repent and ask God to forgive me. There's a freedom that comes in that process. Where are you in that process? Open the window and allow His light to shine on you today.
Be in the Light!
Tuesday, January 08, 2008
Today is another sad day in the history of the Washington Redskins. My hero, Coach Joe Gibbs is stepping down as Head Coach. Just when things seemed to be turning around and the Redskins had a glimmer of hope because Gibbs was in the driver seat, the team will once more be a team that has to go through another major transition. Joe Gibbs is a man who lives by his convictions and is not afraid to be a stand up Christian. You will be missed, Joe...
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