One Small Step for Our Church, One Giant Step for Our Community!

Yep. It's done! We have officially closed on our loan. This month is the month we've been waiting for; we can now start construction of our new facility. Look for concrete in the next two weeks and steel to go up around the beginning of July.

Praise God! He's been with us every step and today was a big one. It was one small step for our church, one giant step for our community. I believe the landscape of our city will be different because of our faithful obedience to Jesus. Keep praying and get ready!

-Ben

10 Years = 3,650 Days!

This Thursday is a particularly special day for me. It's an important milestone that I'm really looking forward to because this Thursday Melanie and I will be celebrating 10 years of marriage! Thank you Jesus! I really can't believe 10 years have flown by this fast. That's 3,650 days of waking up and doing life together. If there's one thing I've learned in 10 years it's that you spell marriage, "W-O-R-K." But I have to say, I love my job!

Those first couple of years were tough. Lots of fighting. Lots of apologies (from me!). Lots of counseling. But it's been SOOOOO worth it. It's still a lot of work, but the kind that's truly rewarding. The kind that brings growth, true intimacy, and joy. Even as we started talking last week about The Holy Spirit being The Helper, I guess one of the reasons I'm excited about 10 years together is because I can look back and see all the ways God has carried us through! I've never needed The Helper more than in my marriage. Can I get an AMEN?!! I don't care who you are or who you marry, it ain't easy! But The Helper helps me see things differently, helps me apologize and admit when I'm wrong, helps me love, helps me forgive and forget, helps me know what to do when I don't have a clue...and He's great to talk to when I just feel like breaking something or running away!

Marriage for me is the ultimate crucible. So thankful for my wife. The Lord uses her in so many ways to challenge, inspire, and encourage me. I really know that much of who I am today is because of her. 10 years and two kids later I can say I love her more than ever...thanks to The Helper.

-Ben

Well, Whadda-ya Know?

Jesus says in John 8:31-32, "You are truly my disciples if you remain faithful to my teachings. And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free." The word "know" used in this verse is key in our relationship to the Lord because it means much more than an intellectual knowing of facts. That's usually our understanding of knowing, especially when it comes to knowing truth. I know 2+2=4. I know that George Washington was our country's first President. And so on. These are facts that we memorize, and many times we approach "discipleship" in a similar fashion.

But in this verse, "know" means more than information. It is a knowing that cannot be separated from personal experience. We could say we "know" about climbing Mount Everest because we know where it is, we know what supplies to take, we know how long it would take to scale, we know the dangers to avoid, etc. But have you ever heard someone who's actually experienced it talk about it? They know about climbing Mount Everest in a very different way. They know the thrills and the challenges. They know the taste of snow in their mouth. They know what frostbite feels like. They've been to the summit and been changed by the view!

Jesus invites us to climb the mountain. He invites us to an experience of truth that changes us and sets us free. We need more than information; we need transformation. Our "knowing" becomes multi-faceted, multi-dimensional, rich and above all relational. So, whadda-ya know? Are you enjoying a relationship with Jesus? Are you experiencing truth in a way that is changing you and setting you free?

If you're looking for a jump-start, I would recommend Mission Bridge School. It's a 10-week discipleship invitation to climb the mountain. To register, email me (ben@themission.org) or sign up this weekend. We start June 3rd!

-Ben

The Holy Who?

Very excited about this weekend as we launch into a brand-new series called "Help" that explores the Person of The Holy Spirit. Did you know The Holy Spirit has a nickname? He's called The Helper. That's really good news because I need a lot of help and He's eager to give it.

I feel like people in general have a lot of mixed emotions about The Helper...lots of questions and misunderstandings. Over the next three weeks we're going to look at three specific questions:

Who is The Holy Spirit?

What does He do?

How do we grow in this relationship?

It's a great series to invite a friend to. Looking forward to exploring this together.

-Ben

Big Day in May!

Can you say, "1400 pounds of crawfish?" Big Day in May is upon us! One of my favorite Mission traditions. Lots of good eating, laughs, and of course-competition!!! I hear there will be some B-ball, maybe some cabbage ball happening. I haven't played in a while, but I'm pretty confident in my game. I can always shoot. In fact, I'm laying down the gauntlet right now...let's do a 3-pt competition!!!

Rock-climbing, inflatables for the kids. It's gonna be great. Make plans to come and spend the afternoon with us after 2nd service at The Ponchatoula Community Center. And invite a friend and bring your game!

-Ben

Wisdom

Moses prayed in Psalms 90:12, "Teach us to realize the brevity of life, so that we may grow in wisdom."

What an interesting prayer. There's something about a proper understanding and perspective on life that allows us to grow in wisdom. Without a proper perspective it's easy to become distracted, focus on the wrong things, be consumed by the moment, miss the meaning of our lives. In short, we don't grow in wisdom.

Wisdom as defined in the biblical sense can best be described as the ability or skill to live well. Proper perspective helps us grow in this skill. Understanding the brevity of life leads us to live now for what's eternal, what really matters, what will last. In the end, so much of what we focus on and lose sleep over just won't matter! God has given us all temporary resources (time, talent, careers, money, etc) that is to be invested and leveraged for eternal value. When we live for the eternal we are living well and growing in wisdom.

I was recently reminded of this as our team spent the past week in Bulgaria on outreach. Nothing like a mission's trip to energize you spiritually and help you regain perspective. By the way, beginning in June we'll launch our Summer Mission Bridge School, a discipleship experience designed to prepare you for a life on mission and living for the eternal. Below are a few pics from our MBS trip to Bulgaria. I honestly wish every person in our church could have been there with us. It was such an amazing time. I'd encourage you to think about joining us for our Summer MBS...it will change your perspective!

May you grow in wisdom,
-Ben

The Story

There is something amazing about a good story. There is a piece of joy or excitement or anticipation that grabs hold of you when you tell or even hear a good story. We sometimes forget the influence or inspiration that stories have in our lives; not just any story, but our story.

Jesus used stories over and over again, parables, to explain truths about Himself, God, His Kingdom and so much more. We read these parables found in the gospels, some familiar, others not so much, and we are moved to truly understand more about God. The most amazing story is, naturally, the complete story of Jesus. The story of how God came to earth and gave His life for us, is one that should never grow old. It should never grow dull to our ears or hearts when we hear or think about it.

Right now 11 people are preparing to leave for Bulgaria. They are going to bring encouragement to the Body of Christ that is there, and see God work through them to reach even more people for His Kingdom. However, they have no special tools: no PowerPoint, no fancy worship, no elaborate invites or gospel tracks. They won't have big and bold visuals with all the bells and whistles. They are, however, equipped with one special gift, their story. It is the story of what God has done in their lives. Some of their stories may have more "ups" and "downs" than others, but each one is essential and will be used by God to see many people drawn closer to Christ.

I think about my own story, my own parable of what God has done in my life. I think about how He has saved me and given me a new life. It is my own story of what Christ has done in me that moves me. This past Sunday, Pastor Ben read from 2 Corinthians 5 that Christ's love compels us. What God's love has done in us compels and urges us on. I think about how much Jesus has done and the transformation in my own life. I can only be urged to see the same happen for others. It is the same for all of us. God has truly done something in your life. Your story may not have many "ups" and "downs" but the grace and mercy of God has saved you none-the-less.

And so, your story too, should never grow dull. It should always be fresh and should compel you to tell others about what Jesus has done for you. It doesn't need to be elaborate with visuals and special effects or filled with six points and four scriptures on the plan of salvation. It just needs to be your story, about who you are, where you were, and where God has brought you to now. Have you told someone your story lately? If not, think about what He's done for you and let His love compel you to tell someone this week.

Compelled because of Him, 2 Corinthians 5:14

-Marc

Sunday School Heroes Pt.1

This past Wednesday night at our Varsity youth service we finished a series looking at the first six chapters of the book of Daniel. For me it was a lot of fun to re-visit some my favorite Sunday School stories that I heard as a kid growing up in church.

The story of Shadrach, Meshach, Abednego, and the fiery furnace in Daniel chapter three is a classic Sunday School hero story. It is about three young hebrew men who were forced to leave their home of Jerusalem and serve in the court of King Nebuchadnezzar - the ruler of the Babylonian Empire. To set the stage for our story it is helpful to consider that throughout the Bible Babylon continually shows up as the city in opposition to God.

So, King Neb. builds a ninety foot tall gold statue - which most likely resembled himself - and commanded “when you hear the sound of the horn, pipe, lyre, trigon, harp, bagpipe, and every kind of music, you are to fall down and worship the golden image that King Nebuchadnezzar has set up. And whoever does not fall down and worship shall immediately be cast into a burning fiery furnace.” Daniel 3:5-6. The three young men have a decision to make -- bow or burn? They don’t bow. They are brought on trial before the king and given a chance to save their necks. They still don’t bow. In anger, King Neb decides to cook the rebels and orders the furnace to be heated seven times hotter. They still don’t bow.

They overcome this test of their faith. They face the most powerful man in the world and embrace their execution without wavering in their devotion to God. What amazing courage. What great strength. Then the strangest thing happens. "King Nebuchadnezzar was astonished and rose up in haste. He declared to his counselors, 'Did we not cast three men bound into the fire?' They answered and said to the king, 'True, O king.' He answered and said, 'But I see four men unbound, walking in the midst of the fire, and they are not hurt; and the appearance of the fourth is like a son of the gods.' Then Nebuchadnezzar came near to the door of the burning fiery furnace; he declared, 'Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, servants of the Most High God, come out, and come here!' Then Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego came out from the fire. And the satraps, the prefects, the governors, and the king's counselors gathered together and saw that the fire had not had any power over the bodies of those men. The hair of their heads was not singed, their cloaks were not harmed, and no smell of fire had come upon them. Nebuchadnezzar answered and said, 'Blessed be the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, who has sent his angel and delivered his servants, who trusted in him, and set aside the king's command, and yielded up their bodies rather than serve and worship any god except their own God.'" Daniel 3:24-28.

The fourth man among the flames was the Son of God. At first glance it seems as if Jesus shows up to the rescue in dramatic fashion at the last minute to save our heroes from the fire. However, maybe He didn’t wait for the flames to show up? It wasn’t until the flames that King Neb saw Jesus, but could it be that He was with Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego the whole time? That would explain how the three didn’t bow when everyone else was bowing to save their own necks. Their faithfulness wasn’t based on their own courage or strength, but based on their understanding that they were not standing alone. They had each other, but more importantly there was a fourth man standing with them, but no one else could see Him until there were flames. “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” So we can confidently say, “The Lord is my helper; I will not fear; what can man do to me?” Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever. Hebrews 13:5-6,8.

The point is Jesus -not the three young men - was the hero the whole time. At the end of the day no matter what you are facing He is your only hero. With Jesus by your side you don’t have to bow. With Jesus by your side you can face the furnace knowing that in the fires of life, those around you will see Christ in you.

But we have this treasure in jars of clay, to show that the surpassing power belongs to God and not to us. We are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not driven to despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed; always carrying in the body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be manifested in our bodies. For we who live are always being given over to death for Jesus' sake, so that the life of Jesus also may be manifested in our mortal flesh. So death is at work in us, but life in you. 2 Cor. 4:7-12

All for Jesus,

Kevin Phipps
Student Ministries Pastor

Chicago

I am very excited to tell you about a wonderful opportunity for your son or daughter this upcoming year. This summer Varsity (High School Ministry) and Redtree (College age & Young Adult Ministry) will be taking a mission team of students to Chicago, Illinois. I am thrilled and eager to see Jesus do a great work, not only for the people of Chicago but in the lives of those on the trip.

The dates for the trip will be July 30th – August 5th. The Mission Church will actually partner with young people from “The Lifehouse Church” in Reserve, La for the outreach. While in the city we will be staying at and workin g with a Youth With A Mission (YWAM) base.

The strategic location for our outreach is the melting pot of the city, a five square mile region with 300,000 people of 31 different ethnicities. Our focus will be multi-fold: ministering to the needs of the poor, praying with Chicago politicians outside of City Hall, street evangelism, drama, and assisting with the needs of a new church plant.

If you know someone who would be interested in coming or if you are interested in sponsoring someone to go it would be great to hear from you.

Kevin Phipps – Student Ministries Pastor

Cell Phone: 985.974.8658
E-Mail: kevin@themission.org

Meat Lovers

Been reading through the One Year Bible. For me, it's the best way to get a consistent, and BALANCED diet of God's Word! I have to have a plan. And I also really like the fact that it forces you to read the parts you might otherwise skip. One of these sections is in Numbers 11 and it stirred a prayer inside of me.

In Numbers 11, Moses and the Israelites are in the wilderness on the way to The Promised Land, and the Israelites begin complaining to Moses and God...again. They're tired of manna. They wish they had meat and all the other stuff they ate back in Egypt while they were slaves.

Never mind the fact that God has delivered them from Egypt, performed wonders on their behalf, leads them with His visible presence, defeats every enemy they encounter, has redeemed them and made them a covenant people, and is taking them into their the Promised Land that He swore to give their ancestors Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. The menu God is serving doesn't suit them!

So God, in one of His more sarcastic moments says, "You want meat? Ok, How about meat for a month until you gag on it!" God then proceeds to cover them in quail. The people gorge themselves on it, and later that place is named Kibroth-hattaavah (Graves of Gluttony).
So the prayer I found myself praying is: God, don't give me what I want, but what you will! I think sometimes the worst possible thing that could happen to us is for God to give us what we want! The truth is that most of the time we don't even know what we want. What we think will make us happy doesn't. What we think is better isn't. What we think we can't live without ends up killing us. It's incredibly freeing to realize that God knows what's best for me. I don't have to figure that out. I just have to trust Him, knowing that He is working all things for my good, and that no matter what happens I'm a step closer to my destiny (as Pastor Deven has been speaking recently).

I ask God to order my steps...Close the wrong doors and open the right ones...Lead me in every way...Connect me with the right relationships as only He can...Give me Divine appointments...Don't give me what I want, but what He wills! (By the way, Not My will, but Your's be done sounds familiar...)

-Ben

A Heroic Life!

I believe the world desperately needs us to live up to our greatness in Him. The bible says that all creation is crying out for the sons (and daughters) of God to manifest...to become.

He has called us to live as Jesus did ~ a heroic life. Jesus came to bring out the best in us. When this happens, we should expect that everything else will change for the better. It means our world begins to reflect the kind of place in which God intended us to live.

Why do hero’s need to step up? Because diseases are killing millions, and heroes find cures. Because famines leave starving children, and heroes find a way to provide help. Because struggling economies are leaving families homeless, and heroes find opportunities to create jobs. Hero’s stop genocide, stop slavery, find water in thirsty places, and they love and provide for orphans. They care for the forgotten. They seek peace and pursue it!

I am so proud to pastor one of these heroes and his name is Captain Robert Lansden. This man is truly a world changer because of Christ in him. Robert is a man willing to sacrifice comfort and security for the sake of the gospel, for the sake of peace in a foreign land. He could have bunkered down in his successful law practice right here at home. But he has chosen to separate himself from his precious wife and family, from his church, from his friends and loved ones to bunker down in Iraq. He has done this in order to make a difference. He has chosen to lead others in rebuilding a nation. (Not just brick and mortar)

Captain Robert, I love being your pastor and loved going through Mission Bridge School with you. In addition, being on outreach with you in Costa Rica was truly a joy. Today we are honored by your commitment and your heart. Also, to MaryAnn and the children…thank you for giving to the Lord!

-Pastor Deven

Saturday Nights Just Got More Interesting

Really pumped about the launch of our new Saturday Night Worship Experience (begins this Sat, 6pm at the theater in Hammond/across from SLU). I love the feel of an evening service. For some reason people tend to come to an evening service in a different frame of mind - a little more relaxed and easy-going (which is kinda my style). I'm also excited about creating an environment and another opportunity where people can come to enjoy God and experience His love.

I feel like one of the main challenges we face nowadays is TIME! There are so many things happening, usually both mom and dad work, more and more people work on Sundays, etc. etc. Gone are the days of "nine to five!" So creating another time slot and opportunity opens things up, and is an important way to reach people in today's world.

In John Chapter 5, Jesus heals a man who had been sick for 38 years. It just so happened that Jesus healed him on the "wrong" day (The Sabbath). The religious leaders didn't like this too much, and when they confront Jesus about it, Jesus tells them something very interesting:

"My father is always working, and so am I." John 5:17

I love this. The father is always working. He's always looking for the sick, the broken, those with an open heart to come home. And it doesn't matter what day or what time it is...The father is working! Thirty-eight years is a long time to be sick. Fortunately for this man, Jesus was more interested in doing the Father's work than what day it was. I wonder how many people who would never have come to church on a Sunday will have the chance to meet the Healer on Saturday!

Who do you know that can't make a Sunday, but could make a Saturday? Remember, the Father is always working!

-Ben

Take Up the Towel

A big shout out to everyone who came early or stayed late to help make Sunday morning happen! There's just nothing like working together for the Kingdom. Something in me gets really excited to see so many serving Jesus, following His example and washing the feet of others. And if I'm getting excited about something at 6am that's saying a lot!!!

In John 13, it says Jesus put off his robe and took up a towel as he began washing the disciples feet. Robes are the stuff we hide behind. It's our title, position, dignity. But Jesus was willing to put aside this and take up the towel. What an image...God with a towel, washing the feet of humanity. It think our Lord gets excited when His followers take up the towel. When we are willing to come out from behind whatever it is that we are comfortable in and have used to dress ourselves up. When we lay aside the robe and wash feet.

-Ben

The Mission is on the Move!

We are on the move! This is so exciting. Nothing like stepping on new ground...feel like singing "We're taking it to the streets..." I promise I won't though.

There are a few pics of us moving some things out, getting ready to move things in. By the way, we're having a chair-cleaning party for anyone interested this Friday at 10:30 am, Ponch Comm Center. Come, clean some chairs, get a feel for the building, pray! I loved just being there, anticipating what God will do in the lives of people all over our community. I know it sounds funny to be so excited about moving into a gym and adding more work to the whole thing, but I feel that we are in step with the Spirit of God and NOTHING is more exciting than that.

Definitely feels like stepping out on the water, but that's when the miraculous happens! When Peter heard Jesus say, "Come," in Matthew 14 it was scary and exciting at the same time. In one sense you're thinking: This is insane...I'm about to STEP on water!!! At the same time, the voice of Jesus has captured your heart, something inside of you can't resist the invitation!

Where do you sense Jesus calling you to step out and, "Come?" I promise it will be scary. But it also promises to be miraculous.

-Ben

Lunch With the Governor...Where the Church Belongs

Tuesday, Pastor Deven and I had the unique opportunity to join area Pastors in an informal discussion with Governor Bobby Jindal. The discussion took place over lunch at the Governor's Mansion in Baton Rouge, and provided an open forum to address key issues and challenges affecting communities across Louisiana. Everyone was decked out in suits. Professional staff waited on us, and served our meal on fine china. I have to say it was pretty cool sitting about three chairs down from the Governor, drinking coffee and sharing ideas...Honestly, I felt like a kid sitting at the "grown-up" table for the first time. I did my best not to embarrass myself, and kept thinking: What am I doing here?!

But then again, isn't this where the Church belongs-in the center of the discussion about bringing lasting change to our communities? Too often, we feel uncomfortable, out of place even, in the public arena (whether it be a PTA meeting, on the job, the boardroom, the classroom, the Governor's Mansion! etc, etc). But the Church is still the only God-ordained, Jesus-commissioned, Spirit-empowered entity to bring lasting change to a broken world. The Spirit of the Lord God has anointed us! (Isaiah 61) This is both a humbling and a thrilling responsibility. The question is: Will we step up to bat? Will we speak up? Act? Engage? You are called to be an agent of change!!!

What opportunities do you have to bring change? If you've felt out of place, how can you overcome this? Where is God leading you to engage your community?
Remember, His Spirit has anointed you!

-Ben

Annie's Valentine

This Saturday is Valentine’s Day. It’s the holiday where most of us spend time with that special someone: a boyfriend or girlfriend, a husband, wife, our children or just our friends. We take the time to convey our love and appreciation for that person, not because of anything that they have done for us, but simply because they are a part of our lives. Each year on Valentine’s Day, the student ministries at The Mission, Red Tree (college ministry) and Varsity (high school ministry), strive to make Valentine’s Day encouraging and meaningful for those who need it most, not because of anything they have done for us, but because Jesus is the biggest part of our lives.

A little over one year ago a dear member of Red Tree and The Mission Church, Annie Donnell, passed away after a long battle with cancer. She was a beacon of encouragement for all who knew her. Although she battled everyday for her own life, she continued to inspire each of us. Even in her final days she continually expressed her determination to fight. On the Valentine’s Day before her passing, some of the students got together and visited her to encourage her. It was an amazing and uplifting time, not only for Annie, but for all who visited her as well.

Out of this moment, came a vision to bring the same encouragement and hope to others on Valentine’s Day, especially those who need it most. Last year the students visited North Oaks Hospital bringing balloons, cards, candy, and hope. This year, we will be visiting Bell Maison Nursing Home, where 120 residents will receive the same love, hope and encouragement that Christ compels through us.

James 1:27 says, “Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress…” or as someone once said, “When we give our hearts to Jesus, we give our hearts to the helpless and the loveless.” Pray for us and the residents at Bell Maison.

Student Ministries, The Mission Church

Oatmeal

Can delight be found in Oatmeal?

Well, maybe not so much in Oatmeal, but in His Word? Yes. This is my story of how God has used my breakfast to highlight a truth about delight.

Jeremiah 15:16 "Your words were found and I ate them, and Your words became for me a joy and the delight of my heart!"

A look at my morning...Oatmeal, Oatmeal, Oatmeal. Yes, it is incredibly healthy, an enemy of cholesterol, lowers blood pressure, and is a great source of fiber. It is a great way to start the day in terms of diet. Agreed?

When I first started eating oatmeal, it was quite hard. Everything in me was rebellious toward the taste, texture, color and overall blahness of it. I loved my eggs, bacon and pancakes, but I kept forging forward toward my goal of bringing my blood pressure and cholesterol down. As you can see in the pictures, adding this and that to my oatmeal has made my breakfast much more interesting.

Monday - Strawberries

Tuesday - Walnuts

Wednesday - Blackberries

Thursday - Almonds

Friday - Blueberries

Eating Oatmeal could have just become a disciplined daily routine that would have brought incredible benefits, but being just a little creative has added so much. Today, because of months of being consistent with my Oatmeal, I not only thoroughly enjoy it, but I am healthier than ever.

What is my point? Well, I certainly don't view the word of God as boring or uninviting, but there are ways to add variety to our time in God's Word that will just spice it up!

Recommended Reading: I just read this book that helped me so much with a fresh approach to my daily devotional life, and I wanted to share it with you. It is the called, The Diving Mentor by Wayne Cordeiro. Sitting at the feet of Jesus can be and "is" the most incredible place to be. There is nothing wrong with keeping it FRESH!

Pastor Deven

Offense is much more fun that Defense!

I was going through the week as I usually do and thinking about the message from last Sunday morning. The part about being on offense instead of defense was still on my mind. It was like the Lord was relentlessly anchoring this truth in me.

Allow me to continue with that thought. The 6th chapter of Ephesians describes the spiritual armor God has provided for us. It speaks of the helmet of salvation, the breastplate of righteousness, the belt of truth, the shield of faith, and the shoes that are the preparation of the gospel of peace.

Did you notice that all those pieces of armor are only for defensive purposes? The passage mentions only one weapon for offense. That weapon is the SWORD OF THE SPIRIT.

If we are going to be leaders in our families, our communities, and our churches, then we must become a people who know how to take ground and move forward!

To get to a place we have never been, to move forward, to take ground, to score...we must learn more of God's word and use scripture as our weapon faced with challenges, when the enemy is trying to withhold what is rightfully ours.

Wouldn't you rather be fighting for increase rather than just defending what you already have? That is where the fun begins!

If an athlete's goal is just to keep the other guy from scoring, that athlete is history! If the goal is just to play great defense, if the only hope is to keep from being embarrassed again, then losing is a sure result.

Victory only comes to those who learn how to live on the offensive. Victory only comes to those who confidently take the weapon of God and put it into practice! That is what the word of God is designed to do. It is the catalyst for winning over our enemy!

What does that look like in everyday life?


When challenged to move forward:

1. find scripture that applies to your situation
2. memorize it (if you can)
3. write it on numerous post-its and place it in key places
4. believe it
5. renew your mind with it
6. speak it out with aggressive passion as often as necessary
7. stand firm despite further challenges
8. experience victory

Key Point - Your bible doesn't need to be beautiful or trendy, it is a weapon! It should feel like a baseball glove that has been worn and fits perfectly. When your bible feels like a glove, then you'll know you are using it as a weapon!

Now, get your sword and let's go and Kick Butt!

O Happy Day!

Heard a song recently that always puts me in a good mood. It's a remake of the old hymn, O Happy Day. Here are a few lines...

Greatest day in history/Death is beaten you have rescued me/Sing it out, Jesus is alive

The empty cross, the empty grave/Life eternal, you have won the day/Shout it out, Jesus is Alive/He's alive!

And O, Happy day, happy day, you washed my sin away

O, Happy day, happy day, I'll never be the same...

Death is beaten...You have won the day...Jesus is alive!

That changes everything doesn't it? It doesn't matter what else is going on, what else has happened, or could happen or didn't happen...Jesus is alive. That means you are no longer defined by your mistakes or your failures. Death doesn't have the final word anymore. No amount of loss or regret or suffering or hardship is beyond the reach of redemption and resurrection in Christ.

Forgiveness. Rebirth. Hope.

The Apostle Paul put it this way.

Death is swallowed up in victory. O death, where is your victory? O death, where is your sting? For sin is the sting that results in death, and the law gives sin its power. But thank God! He gives us victory over sin and death through our Lord Jesus Christ. So, my dear brothers and sisters, be strong and immovable. Always work enthusiastically for the Lord, for you know that nothing you do for the Lord is ever useless. 1 Corinth. 15:54-58

O, happy day!

-Ben

Dad

Today, I have enlisted in childcare duties. That’s right. I am solely responsible for taking care of our two daughters, Emma and Reagan. Don’t get me wrong. I thoroughly enjoy being a parent. Playing is my expertise, if you will. Toys and games with my girls, I've got it covered! It's when the word responsibility comes into action, where my job as dad gets . . . sticky at times.

About a week ago, Rachel left me in charge. Yes, I was the primary caregiver for a few hours. That is when the phrase Daddy Day Care will ring a bell for many of you. I was doing a terrific job! Emma was dressed in her school attire and she almost arrived at school on time. Arriving back at home, it was easy for me to fall into my usual routine: relaxing, drinking coffee and taking care of some minor chores. This is when things seemed to be a little too quiet. Not the peaceful silence of a quiet household, but more like the, “what-is-she-doing?” kind of quiet moment.

As I walked back into the living room, I noticed Reagan sitting on the floor with her socks off. She lifted her hands and feet as she proudly began to show me her beautiful fingernails and toenails. Apparently, Rachel left the nail polish on the window sill within the range of Reagan's reach. Reagan had painted a Picasso masterpiece on her hands and feet, along with her face. She must have known I would not be gone for long and painted herself as quickly as she could! I learned very quickly, that stuff takes a while to clean off. We will not discuss the health hazards of polish remover on my two-year-olds face. But it’s all part of being a parent.

As a Dad, I'm looking forward to the tickle times, homemade snacks and many more uh-oh moments that have yet to come. Children truly are a blessing. Have a great day.

Nick Peppo

3 Things I Love About Having Surgery!

For those of you who didn’t know, I had a hysterectomy a couple of weeks ago. Yes…I said the word “hysterectomy.” It’s seems like such a personal thing, but it is what it is! It seems like it would be easier to tell someone, “Oh I just had knee replacement surgery,” or something like that.

Anyway, because I really believe in sharing our lives, I wanted to let you know how I am doing and a little bit about my experience. First of all, IT HURTS! But the good news is that after about 10 days of tender loving care from my family and my friends, I am well on my way to being back to 100%.

Before I tell you the three things that I loved about having surgery, I must divulge information about your pastor, Deven. He is amazing! He has been an outstanding Male Nurse! Deven has been thoughtful, caring, patient, and just willing to do whatever it takes to make life easier for me. I might fall in love all over again! Well, he did kind of put me back to work today with some things that I can do from my comfy bed. Ha!

So, here we go....The 3 things I LOVE about having surgery.

1. DELIBERATE LAZINESS
2. WEARING SLOPPY CLOTHES ALL DAY LONG
3. SPECIAL ATTENTION FROM FAMILY AND FRIENDS (Is that bad?)

On top of all that, the extra time to talk with the Lord and read has just revitalized my heart!
I wouldn’t recommend the going under the knife, for anyone. But it never fails that when I trust God with my life, he always…always….always…turns something very negative around and allows something good to come from it.

Romans 8:28 And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose

In conclusion, I love you all and thank you so much for the love and concern that you have shown me. I enjoy sharing life with you and want you to know that you really color my world and add such quality to our lives.

Because of Jesus, Kathy

It's a boy!!!

Silas Benjamin has arrived! He's a healthy baby boy, whom some say resembles his dad. I think he looks like a little old man...not sure what that makes me. Thanks to all who prayed for his safe delivery. Mom was a champ as always. I was dressed for the occasion but did absolutely nothing.

Here's his stats:

5lb. 3oz.

18 inches long

ETA was approx: 3:10 pm, 1/27/09

Ben Davis

The I-pod

Earlier last year I got an I-pod. That’s right, an I-pod. I know I’m probably a little bit behind in technology. But in my defense, I never thought I really needed one. Oh, was I ever wrong! Needless to say I have become extremely attached to this small piece of electronics. Those who see me on a regular basis will always find me with the headphones in my ears listening to music or podcasts or whatever I could load onto this thing. At the office, I will work at my desk with the device in my ears. I’ll walk from here to there listening to the latest tunes. I will make phone calls with a headphone in one ear and the telephone in the other. That may be a bit much, but I can multitask. I will pray and read my bible with my the headphones in my ears.

At home I’ll do almost everything while some sort of sound is echoing through my brain. Everything from reading, to cooking, to cleaning, to walking the dog, to taking out the trash became subject to my need to have music or messages coursing through my veins. I will even go to sleep with the headphones in my ears. Now, I know what you are thinking. No, that is not extreme! At least, not yet. I was unable to listen to it while I was in the shower, so guess what I got for Christmas? You got it. I received a port that I can plug the device into so that I can hear the music in the shower. My family is an enabler.

Then, finally, the worst thing of all, I will even drive my vehicle listening to that I-pod. Yes, I know it’s probably illegal and yes, I will most likely get a ticket one day. But there’s nothing good on the radio and my CD player is broken so, that should be a good reason to drive with headphones in my ears, right? My sister refuses to let me drive her car because, although her CD player works perfectly fine, I still want that I-Pod playing.

So it came as no surprise to me that, as the 21 day fast began I could feel God leading me to times of silence and solitude. Believe me when I say, it was hard! It was like having withdrawals. The silence was agonizingly painful, if that is even possible! The thoughts of my mind began to travel on a four lane highway, BOTH WAYS! Still, I felt God calling me to just sit, be still, and know that He is God. Psalm 46:10 says,

“Be still, and know that I am God! I will be honored by every nation. I will be honored throughout the world.”

God wants all of us. Not just little bits and pieces throughout the day, but all of us, every day, all day. And while we all have certain responsibilities (working hard, taking care of our families, being the good neighbor, responsibly taking care of what he has given us or running errands) responsibilities which God considers just as important as we do, He still calls us to times of silence and solitude. This was an essential part of Jesus’ ministry.

He would often leave the masses AND his disciples to give uninterrupted focus to the Father. It may seem odd, but in truth, some of the greatest works of Jesus took place after he had taken time to be alone with the Father. After hearing the news of the death of John the Baptist, the bible says he left everyone to be alone and then later fed 5,000 people. Before Jesus walked upon the water during the storm, He was alone on dry land. He brought several of his disciples, alone to the mountain to witness the Transfiguration. And finally, Jesus was alone, in the Garden of Gethsemane, praying to the Father, the night before he was crucified.

Some people truly fear silence and solitude. But as followers of Christ we must embrace these times when God calls us to be alone with Him; to be still (silent) and know that He is God. We must turn off our I-pods, turn off the televisions, computers and even our phones. We must seek him wholeheartedly, because He wants ALL OF YOU, and simply because HE IS GOD! And yes, it is hard at first, very hard! Our minds wander and drift, but with focus, determination and repetition, we can quiet and renew our minds to hear God’s voice, know his will, love on Him, and allow Him to love on us in ways we never thought possible. And remember, it's not about being silent and not saying anything. It's about giving him all of yourself, focused and uninterrupted.

Be blessed and encouraged in the final days of our fast, and seek solitude and silence in Him!

Marc Sampey

Spiritual Meteorology

Since we talked about assumptions this past Sunday, I wanted to share an assumption of mine the Lord recently shattered. I didn't even realize that I had made this assumption, and it's going to sound a little silly at first. I was driving one day and praying, but it was one of those prayers that felt like a lot of work. What I mean is that it was a good thing to pray for, but the prayer seemed to be running entirely on my own effort. Of course, prayer isn't always easy, and you don't necessarily always need to feel a certain way. But this prayer just felt empty. I didn't sense any real life in it.

Then the Lord asked me a question, "What if I'm not doing that right now?"

That kinda took me by surprise because I guess I had assumed that God always did the same thing all the time. The truth is that there are times and seasons when God does different things. King Solomon put it like this:

For everything there is a season, a time for every activity under heaven.

-Eccl 3:1

That is a very insightful verse. Seasons are important. Timing is important. By God's design, there are seasons and rhythms to life. Spring leads to Summer, Summer to Fall...Fall to Winter. It doesn't make much sense to wear summer clothes in the winter. It also doesn't make much sense to try harvesting when it's a season for planting or vice versa. In fact, it doesn't matter how skilled you are or how many tools you have at your disposal, you're going to have a tough time trying to harvest when it's a season for planting. The key is learning to recognize and discern the season you're in. I think much of living well and spiritual leadership comes down to just this.

Consider how many times Jesus said, "My time has not yet come..." Jesus also spoke to us about the importance of recognizing seasons.

Then he (Jesus) turned to the crowd: "When you see clouds coming in from the west, you say, 'Storm's coming'—and you're right. And when the wind comes out of the south, you say, 'This'll be a hot one'—and you're right. Frauds! You know how to tell a change in the weather, so don't tell me you can't tell a change in the season, the God-season we're in right now. -Luke 12:54-56

We're often much more in tune with the natural than the spiritual, but if we fail to understand the season we're in, we end up trying to maintain something that's over or manufacture something that's not yet...both are unfruitful and wear us out! (By the way, fasting is one way to help us discern the season...to put us more in touch with the spiritual than the natural.)

Personally, I feel like I'm in a season of deeper surrender and dependence on God. Our nation is in a season of transition as our new President takes office. The Church at large, I believe, is in a season of restructuring and transformation.

What season are you in?

What is God doing at this time in your life, and how can you cooperate?

Do you need to do some spiritual meteorology?

Ben Davis

Puppies!

My husband, Jordan, and I have have two beautiful Golden Retrievers, Dakota and Sadie. They are a source of joy for both of us. We had always known that we wanted to have a litter of puppies. Well, as life would have it...

So, for the last four weeks I have experienced something pretty exciting...birthing and taking care of newborn puppies. Wow! What an experience! Before the puppies came, I did all I could to research the birthing process and make sure I knew what symptoms and changes to look for in Sadie. I talked to the vet and made sure I understood my role in all this...but nothing could prepare me for what was about to come. On December 23rd, we came home to find that Sadie had gone into labor and had successfully delivered one puppy already. I of course grabbed a front row seat to this so I could see all the action. It was gross!!! The delivery was a very long process and she would go an hour sometimes between deliveries. So as another, and another, and another puppy came out, with me helping her deliver 3 of them, I was sure that she was finished by number 9. Oh, was I ever wrong. I came back to find she had delivered 2 more, with another 2 on the way!! 13 PUPPIES!! What a cray night we had, with even more crazy nights to follow.

With 13 puppies comes a lot of work though, so I spend most of my time right now in the garage with the puppies...feeding them, cleaning up after them, playing with them, loving on them. And as I sit with them I watch how they go into an almost panic, if you will, when their mom seems to be out of reach from them and not in their sight. They begin searching all over the pen for her, crying as they sniff around hoping to find her. And when Sadie hears their cries, she immediately stops what she is doing and comes over to the pen and lets them know she's there and the crying then stops as they know mom is there to comfort them. This reminded me of life and how sometimes it feels as though God's presence is far from us just because we cannot feel Him near, or we may not feel close to Him; but the truth is He is always with us and answers when we too cry out to Him. The Bible says "Do not be afraid, for the Lord your God goes with you, he will never leave you nor forsake you" (Deuteronomy 31:6) Praise God!! How awesome to know that we are never alone because He is always with us in our every move!

Well as for us, we have really enjoyed this new experience and I am sad to say we have grown attached to the whole litter. Jordan says I can't keep any of them, but we'll see about that. Though I know we could not possibly keep 13 puppies, I am still going to be sad when they go. Oh, they're so cute!!

God bless,
Whitney Pedeaux

Broken Hammock… or Not?

Well, I successfully surprised Deven for Christmas when he opened the huge, wrapped box! It was the hammock that he saw several months before. I could tell that he really liked it, so I tried hard to buy it, wrap it and hide it without him finding out!

Deven is so hard to surprise! He seems to always figure out things before they are revealed. For instance, it never fails that he realizes the end of movies before the end. Anyway, he was surprised, and I managed not to let the cat out of the bag before Christmas.

When we opened the box, we found that the main support bar was broken in the middle. We thought that it must have been damaged during shipping. Yes, it looked as if we had purchased “damaged goods.”

We hauled the big, opened box back to the store and exchanged it for another. When we got back home, we opened the box and guess what? The new hammock was broken too! Or not? We began to realize that the bend in the middle was designed that way. Hello! Instructions?

What is the moral of the story? Maybe some things that seem to be broken are really part of an original, intentional design. As you can see from the picture, the hammock was in perfect condition, was exactly as it should be with the bent bar, and was assembled with ease!

It is true that sometimes life’s events, tragedies, challenges, relationships and our perceptions give way to the reality of brokenness in our lives. If we respond to these happenings properly, it is in our brokenness and humility that God molds and positions us for greater function in His kingdom. Not to mention the closeness we experience with the Father.

Much like Jacob, we can wrestle with God and wind up having a limp, marking us for greatness. And we are changed so much that we become more like Christ. In addition, we must not forget that Jacob’s name was changed because of the change that was taking place through brokenness.
So, if we are scarred, bent or seemingly broken somehow by life’s challenges, or even walk with a limp as Jacob did, let’s rejoice in that we are better. We are destined for greatness in Him! Jesus said, “In this world you will have trouble, but be of good cheer because I have overcome the world.” YES!

The stories behind our battle scars are precious and make us into the beautiful children of God that we are! In our brokenness, we are fashioned into handy tools that fit perfectly into the hand of God. Others may see the glory of God in our lives, yet don’t realize that there are stories of brokenness that have prepared the way. What are your stories? If you have one that glorifies God and want to share it, please comment.

In no way are we “damaged goods” because of the scars of life, but uniquely designed for a special purpose and a special position in God’s Kingdom.

No matter what battles we have won, whether they are battle scars from sin, or from involuntary traumatic events, we are changed through the humility of being broken before God! Remember that if we don’t fall on the rock voluntarily, it can crush us.

Luke 20:18 Everyone who falls on that stone will be broken to pieces, but he on whom it falls will be crushed.”

In conclusion…remember the hammock story!

Because of Jesus,

Kathy

Oops!!

I must add a confession of failure concerning our 21-day fast. You must forgive me church. This is my story:

As you can see, the evidence is clear. Well, a Blood-Mobile pulled up to North Cypress Fitness and I couldn’t resist giving blood. After all, it’s the right thing to do. The only mistake I made was that I worked out and didn’t eat, at all. Before thinking of that, I entered the bus feeling like I was doing my part to help those who may need blood.

You probably know where this is going. Yes, I nearly passed out. The sweet nurses actually said I passed out, but was still awake. What is that?! Anyway, when the clouds cleared, they forced me to eat these cookies. I refused several times, but they said I couldn’t get off the donation bus unless I ate them. I felt like I was being held hostage against my will.

They were the most delicious cookies I have ever eaten.

Deven

Another Great Week

It's amazing! 2009 has just started but already it seems to be moving so fast. Another week has come and gone. I thought it might be fun to share with you a few highlights of my past week. Believe it or not, some people wonder what I do all week! Ha!

Monday's Highlight - I had three bank presentations which may sound boring to you, but I loved it! I loved it because I was able to share about our new project on the I-55 service road. I also had the opportunity to brag on you and tell our story about how BIG God is among us. I am not sure how it affected the bank presidents, V.P's, and loan officers, but it moved me just hearing myself. Have you ever seen someone do a skip and then tap their shoes together on one side? Well that was me when I left each bank. Oh, how AWESOME our God is!

Tuesday's Highlight - Tuesday I went to a pastors meeting in Slidell. It wasn't the meeting itself that made my day, but the vulnerability of an older pastor sharing with us about his life. I am so encouraged when pastors come to the realization that they can be real! I believe that this glorifies God because all of the credit for anything good goes to Him. I don't have time for fakes, and no patience for games.

Wednesday's Highlight - Connect Night!!! Oh what a great night getting to know a room filled with new people, all sharing their spiritual journeys together. It was a night that brought laughter and tears. Hey! A shout-out to Gerry and Brenda Zeringue for being incredible hosts and leaders!

Thursday's Highlight - I found myself in jail! I was visiting a young man in the Tangipahoa Parish Jail in Amite. My intention was to go and encourage him, but God was already at work inside of him. I have to tell you that it moved me spiritually. I loved praying and sharing with him and witnessed God really transforming his life.

Friday's Highlight - Wedding! Big weekend for Daniel and Margie! Getting to know Daniel and Margie has been such an enjoyable experience...doing pre-marriage counseling, and planning the special ceremony. They have such a sweet spirit about them and I really want their wedding to be everything they dream it would be. When you see them at church or around, don't forget to congratulate them.

Pastor Deven

Confession

So I thought I'd kick off this whole blogging thing with a little confession:

I've never been very good at fasting.

I really like to eat, and since we're fasting I won't even begin to describe my favorite foods. But for a long time I just didn't get it. I knew it was Biblical...Moses fasted forty days and nights on Mount Sinai as God wrote the Ten Commandments with his own finger (Exodus 34:28). Jesus fasted 40 days and nights at the beginning of his ministry (Matt 4:2). He also gave specific instructions about prayer and fasting (Matt 6:16-18). Jesus obviously expected that his followers would set aside special times of prayer and fasting to seek God.

Okay, so we should do it, but fasting hasn't ever been real fun or easy for me. In fact, I'm not sure it's fun for those around me either because I can get down right mean when I'm hungry! But like all spiritual disciplines (exercises), you have to start somewhere. Most of us don't like exercising or discipline much at all. I rarely feel like going to the gym. It's inconvenient and painful, but the benefit of health is worth it. The point is never the discipline or exercise itself, but living healthy.

Paul writes in 1 Timothy 4:8, *"Physical training is good, but training for godliness is much better, promising benefits in this life and the life to come." *I think we sometimes forget that there is *training* for godliness. That means there's some exercise and discipline involved. It means we get intentional about our health spiritually. But look again at what this training promises: ...*promising benefits in this life and the life to come. *That sounds pretty good. If you're like me, these twenty-one days will be very challenging, but training in godliness is the most rewarding thing you can do. It's not too late. There are lots of different ways to fast...you just have to start somewhere!

Here are a few ideas:

- Fast TV
- Just do fruits and vegetables
- Fast dessert or caffeine
- Commit to pray with your spouse every day for 21 days
- Lead a family devotion every day for 21 days

The main thing is to live healthy, Jesus-centered lives. I heard someone say that fasting is another kind of feasting...that sort of helped put it together for me. We'll be feasting on Jesus for the next 3 weeks. Bon Appetit!

Ben Davis

Sunrise

Psalm 143:8

Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in you

The drapes had been drawn, and the enormous window was facing directly east. Last week I had the opportunity to spend the night on the coast, and I woke up at the exact moment when the sun peeked out over the water. God knew He had to wake me up because it would take a miracle for me to naturally wake up that early!

Anyway, the burnt orange-colored sun peeked out over the water and it was as quiet as a whisper, but sudden and very striking. It was a moment in time that one should know that God is trying to say something. I knew that it was a special time just for me, and straight from heaven. This sunrise only lasted a few minutes. But somehow, I knew that God was touching me and speaking to me through this.

What was He saying?

I believe He was saying that “He knows me better than I know myself.” Why? Because He knew how much I would enjoy seeing that beautiful scene even though I didn’t plan to wake up and see it on my own.

I am certain that in the future He will remind me of this when I need to trust Him in some unique or difficult situation. It will be a time when I will need to hear Him say, “Don’t forget....I know you better than you know yourself.” And He will have me recall this beautiful sunrise that happened on the 6th of January.

It was a morning of calming assurance of His love for me and how special I am to Him. It was like He nudged me and quietly said….. “Wake up...I want you to see something with me!” Wow! God wanted to start the day with me! I can trust Him who loves me like that.

Guess what! You are special to God too! I believe that He knows you better than you know yourself! Ask God to show you in a very special way, perhaps a sunrise or a sunset, how much that you can trust Him with your life.

HAVE A GREAT WEEK!

Pastor Kathy

X Marks the Spot

Another step forward has been taken toward our new building! The building perimeter and parking lots have been marked by little orange flags. You can see them yourselves if you pass by the property.

I know it doesn’t seem like much, but every step forward is a win! As I stood among the flags today, I felt like I was standing on the pages of a giant coloring book. All I could see is the bold lines…. the outline….. the form……all waiting for the artist to apply the color and see the page gathering its form.

Isn’t that the story of our lives also? We all carry dreams, but it seems so foggy between the dream and the reality. If only we had little orange flags to help guide us, helping us to know where to build or perhaps how to color within the lines.

The good news is that God plants the dream in our hearts, and then the Holy Spirit leads and directs us! We must have courage in the face of fear and step out with creative excitement. This will take us beyond the dream into the physical manifestation.

I’ve just read an amazing book with this idea by Erwin McManus called, “Wide Awake.” It has inspired and encouraged me once again to follow hard after the dreams that God has placed in my heart and mind.

Let us together, not only witness the dream of a building this year come alive, but also, to see your individual dreams become realities!

Pastor Deven