Personal Invitation to Christmas Eve Celebration

You are invited to a Special Christmas Eve Celebration entitled,
Worship the Christ this Christmas ... “O Holy Night”

Presented by Southwest Church
meeting at Coffman Family YMCA (88 Remick Blvd; Springboro, OH)
on Friday, December 24 (5:30 pm & 7:00 pm)


A Personal Christmas Letter

For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that
whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. John 3:16 NIV

Christmas is rapidly approaching, and as believers we seek to comprehend the amazing gift of God’s Son, Jesus Christ. It is also a great time of year to reflect on the other gifts that God has generously poured into our lives.

One of the precious gifts in my life is the opportunity to work and worship with Southwest Church. It is truly a privilege to serve alongside so many dedicated followers of Christ in this church family. I also find great encouragement in observing individuals consistently growing in their faith and love for the LORD. It is with great anticipation that I look forward to what God has in store for us as a congregation in the future!

On a personal note, thank you for the encouragement and support that you have consistently given to me and my family. My hope and prayer is that you will have a meaningful Christmas Season and a Happy New Year!

The Invisible Becomes Visible

This past Sunday, December 12th, was an incredible day for the Southwest Church. In the cold and snow we celebrated the ceremonial ground breaking of our future Worship and Community Center. Since Sunday’s ground breaking ceremony, it has been encouraging to see the site surveying and preliminary construction work begin on the church property.

Sunday’s breakthrough was a long awaited moment, as we have been praying, planning, and saving for this faith project for years. I couldn’t help but recognize the fitting timing of the groundbreaking taking place during the Christmas Season. At Christmas, we celebrate the miracle of God’s Son coming to this earth and revealing a God that we cannot see. The meaning of this spiritual reality is described in the Bible as follows: “Christ is the visible image of the invisible God” (Colossians 1:15 NLT).

Our ceremonial ground breaking was in a real way a visible statement of a dream that we have held in our hearts for years. The dream to build a church building that not only will be a worship center during the weekend, but also a resource center throughout the week to the community (and surrounding communities) to meet real needs in people’s lives. As a church in some ways, we have been invisible to our community in the past since we don’t have a visible church building. In the future we are determined to have a more visible presence in the community, so that we can demonstrate God’s love in tangible ways throughout the week.

The Bible states that it is God’s plan for Christ to be revealed to every generation through the Church. Listen to this description of the church, “Christ is also the head of the church, which is his body” (Colossians 1:18 NLT). Please pray and dream with me as we seek to live out what it means to be Christ’s body in this world and to be the visible presence of Christ to a world that desperately needs to know his love, grace, and truth.

Let’s always remember that the church is not a structure, but it is a community of people who are following Christ. And let’s not wait until the church building is completed, to actively live out what it means to be the body of Christ in our world. Realizing the challenge for the church is to embody the teachings and love of Christ to our family members, friends, and neighbors who don’t yet have a personal relationship with God, so that we can be the visible representatives of an invisible God!

Special Moment in Ground Breaking

Individuals participating in Southwest Church Worship and Community Center Ground Breaking: Rod Poppe, Amy Phillips, Carol Hughes (Executive Director of Springboro Chamber of Commerce), William S________ (5 year old representative of Southwest Children’s Ministry); Lee Wagoner; Roger Hendricks; John Agenbroad (Springboro Mayor); Joe Garland; Scott LeBlanc, and Jordan Barnhart. All representatives listed above not designated serve on the church’s leadership team.

Enjoying the Moment

This was a special day as we celebrated a long awaited moment that we had been praying about for years!

Celebrating Historic Moment

Members of the Southwest Church family celebrate this historic milestone in the church's history!

Ground Breaking Celebration

Southwest Church in Springboro celebrated a special Ground Breaking Ceremony on Sunday, December 12th for the future Worship and Community Center to be located at 150 Remick Blvd (next door to the Coffman YMCA). The ceremonial ground breaking took place on the church property (next door to the Coffman YMCA) immediately following the weekly Sunday Worship Gatherings at the YMCA. In addition to the members of the church, representatives of the YMCA, local Chamber of Commerce, and City of Springboro Government attended this historic milestone in the life of the church.

The future Worship and Community Center will be a multiple use facility that will not only provide a great location for the church’s weekend worship gatherings, but it will also be able to serve as a resource center for the community throughout the week. In addition to the auditorium that will seat almost 400 people, the church is designed to have age appropriate rooms for the church’s active children and student ministries. The church’s construction partner (general contractor) is Sunrush Construction Company from Chillicothe, OH.

Southwest Church will continue to offer two weekly Sunday morning worship gatherings at 9:00 am and 10:35 am in the Coffman Family YMCA until the future church building is completed. In addition to the weekend worship opportunities, the church also provides additional discussion groups, support groups, and special gatherings like the upcoming Christmas Eve Celebrations at the YMCA on December 24th at 5:30 pm and 7:00 pm. The construction of this 12,000+ square feet structure will enable the church to offer more opportunities to serve the people of Springboro and surrounding communities in the future.

For more information regarding the Southwest Church visit the church’s web site at www.southwestchurch.org or call the church office at 937.885.0720.

Upcoming Ground Breaking

Southwest Church in Springboro is excited to announce a special Ground Breaking Ceremony on Sunday, December 12th at 11:45 am for the future Worship and Community Center to be located at 150 Remick Blvd (next door to the Coffman YMCA). The ceremonial ground breaking will take place outdoors on the church property (next door to the Coffman YMCA) immediately following the 10:35 am Sunday Worship Gathering. The public is invited!

Site work on the church property is actually scheduled to begin the week of December 5-11, but the church will formally celebrate this historic milestone on Sunday, December 12. The future worship and community center will be a multiple use facility that will not only provide a great location for the church’s weekend worship gatherings, but it will also be able to serve as a resource center for the community throughout the week. In addition to the auditorium that will seat almost 400 people, the church is designed to have age appropriate rooms for the church’s active children and student ministries.

Southwest Church presently offers two weekly Sunday morning worship gatherings at 9:00 and 10:35 am in the Coffman Family YMCA. The construction of this 12,000+ square feet structure will enable the church to offer more opportunities to serve the people of Springboro and surrounding communities in the future. For more information regarding the Southwest Church visit the church’s web site at www.southwestchurch.org or call the church office at 937.885.0720.

Telling The Story … Telling My Story!

I love December! It is the month of the year that we celebrate and tell once again the story of the Son of God entering our world and living for awhile among us. I love to tell the story of the birth of Jesus Christ and the meaning behind his miraculous entrance into our world! And yet as much as I love to tell the story of Christ’s birth, I also find it challenging at times to tell this amazing true story at the end of every year in a fresh and authentic manner.

The same challenge is present when it comes to telling my personal story of faith. In a small group fellowship that I participate, we have been discussing the importance of writing, practicing, and sharing a personal testimony. So earlier this week, I set aside some time to type a written account describing my personal faith journey. Although I have told my story for years, I actually found it a challenging (and yet a refreshing) experience to write a brief “2 minute version” of my faith story.

Here are some questions that have guided me in the writing of my story (and possibly they will guide you in writing your faith story):
• What was my life like before I met Christ?
• How I realized I needed Christ?
• How I committed my life to Christ?
• What difference has Christ made in my life?

As I reflect on the huge difference that Christ has made in my life (and continues to make in my life), I recognize the importance of continuing to look for opportunities to tell my personal story! God has commissioned every believer to be his representative in this world and to share with others the hope that he brings into our lives. The following Bible verse describes the importance of being intentional regarding this important mission: “Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have” (1 Peter 3:15 NIV).

Just as I never grow tired of telling my personal story as I reflect on the hope that I now have in my life as result of being in a relationship with Christ. The same is true regarding telling “The Story” of the birth of the baby named Jesus … “and his name will be the hope of all the world” (Matthew 12:21 NLT).

Have you discovered personally the hope that Jesus offers? If so, then you too have a story to tell!!

Happy Thanksgiving!

As we celebrate Thanksgiving this week as a nation, it is a great time to reflect on the many ways that God has blessed us as a nation, as a church, and as individuals. In fact, I would highly recommend in the midst of spending time with family and friends, eating some good food, and possibly watching a parade or a sporting event; to take some quiet time and make a mental (or possibly a written) list of the personal blessings in your life. This practice will help keep in perspective any challenges or trials that you have possibly recently experienced.

Toward the top of my “blessing list” is my gratitude for the Southwest Church Family. I am continually thankful for the faith, devotion, and generosity of this congregation. On a personal note, I am extremely grateful for the privilege to worship and serve alongside so many dedicated followers of Christ. The following words expressed by the Apostle Paul for a church located in Thessalonica (Greece), articulate in so many ways the sentiment of my heart toward the Southwest Church:

You need to know, friends, that thanking God over and over for you is not only a pleasure; it's a must. We have to do it. Your faith is growing phenomenally; your love for each other is developing wonderfully. Why, it's only right that we give thanks. We're so proud of you! 2 Thessalonians 1:3-4 MSG

My hope and prayer is that you will have a meaningful Thanksgiving Holiday!

Operation Christmas Child

Operation Christmas Child (OCC) is a worldwide mission effort spearheaded by Samaritan's Purse. This year the Southwest Church partnered with the Coffman Family YMCA in Springboro to become a collection site for shoe boxes filled with gifts for boys and girls in poverty stricken areas of the world.

It was exciting to see various individuals, schools, and churches in the community partner together to share God's love with children in need. The picture above shows some of the cartons of boxes (1,508 total shoe boxes) that were collected this past week.

My prayer is that God will work throught the distribution of these boxes to communicate a small reflection of God's greatest gift ... the gift of His Son, Jesus Christ!

What is Pure Religion?

Would you describe yourself as a religious person? I commonly describe myself as a believer or a follower of Christ, because often the term “religious” carries a connotation of someone who is self serving, hypocritical in their lifestyle, or judgmental toward others. Since I want to avoid those pitfalls, I typically emphasize being in a relationship with Jesus as opposed to being a person of religion.

The Bible rarely uses the term “religion,” and most of the usages of the word are cast in a negative light. One scripture reference describes the term in a positive way and it is found in the extremely practical New Testament book written by James. Listen to James’ description of pure religion…
If you claim to be religious but don’t control your tongue, you are fooling yourself, and your religion is worthless. Pure and genuine religion in the sight of God the Father means caring for orphans and widows in their distress and refusing to let the world corrupt you. James 1:26-27 NLT.

How does James describe “pure religion?” He characterizes it as a way of life in which believers take care of “orphans and widows.” Why are orphans and widows mentioned as the recipients of concern by genuine worshippers of God? Could it be that orphans and widows are people who are not going to be able to “repay” acts of kindness and acts of service? Could it be that the LORD wants his followers to give of themselves to others in selfless expressions of love without ever expecting anything in return?

The other facet of pure religion is “refusing to let the world corrupt you.” Jesus calls his followers to remain in the world and to be a positive influence in the lives of others. And this passage reminds believers to make sure that they are the ones doing the influencing as opposed to being the ones influenced. How about you and me? Are we seeking to influence others in our world? Or are we being influenced by the world around us?

As we examine the Biblical definition of genuine religion … Would you describe yourself as a person of “pure religion?”

Thoughts on Veteran's Day

Although I have never served in the military, I have great respect and gratitude for those who have served in the past or are presently serving in the military. On this Veteran’s Day, I wanted to extend a special thanks to those who have served (or are still serving) to help protect the freedoms that we enjoy in this country. If you are reading this article and you are a military veteran or are presently serving in the military, then I want to say … “Thank You!!”

The freedom of speech, press, assembly and religion are four freedoms that I especially cherish. I am grateful to live in a country in which I can assemble with other believers, speak publicly regarding my faith, and publish through the written word a description of my faith in Jesus Christ. It is important to be reminded that there are many people throughout the world and throughout history who have not experienced these freedoms that we can so easily take for granted.

And yet as you and I reflect on these freedoms we experience in this country, we are challenged to ask ourselves the following question: How are you and I responding to our freedom? Do we view freedom as something entitled to us or do we view it as a gift to be cherished and protected? Do we view freedom as something to utilize for personal gain or for the collective good of others?

In the Bible we find the following teaching regarding a proper response to freedom:
It is absolutely clear that God has called you to a free life. Just make sure that you don't use this freedom as an excuse to do whatever you want to do and destroy your freedom. Rather, use your freedom to serve one another in love; that's how freedom grows. For everything we know about God's Word is summed up in a single sentence: Love others as you love yourself. That's an act of true freedom. If you bite and ravage each other, watch out—in no time at all you will be annihilating each other, and where will your precious freedom be then? Galatians 5:13-15 MSG

Are you utilizing your freedom to explore God’s purpose for your life to serve Him and to serve others? Let’s take the above passage of Scripture to heart and continue to look for ways to utilize our freedom to serve others in love!

Fearfully and Wonderfully Made

One of the many joys of being a parent is witnessing the unique God given personalities that children display from a very young age. Prior to becoming a parent, I struggled with knowing how much of human personality was the result of nature (God’s creative design) or of nurture (parental influence). As my wife and I became parents of our first child in our 20’s, it was still unclear to me the degree with which God given temperaments were at play in human development.

But upon entering the arena of being a parent of more than one child, it became increasingly obvious that our three children all possessed unique personality traits. Although we made every effort to be consistent in our approach to parenting, our children would react very differently to our parenting. It became obvious quickly that although we loved our children equally, we would have to utilize a particular approach or discipline that was best suited for each child. In other words, we began to realize that when it comes to parenting, “one size does not fit all.”

In this discovery, we would even begin to make remarks to family members and friends that a particular child came out of the womb with a certain temperament. This life experience led me to begin to realize the following passage of Scripture described not just the physical development of the baby in the womb, but also the God given personality:

For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. Psalm 139:13-14 NIV

This week in the small groups at Southwest Church we have explored the unique personalities of the first followers of Christ. It has been encouraging to see that Jesus called, taught, and molded the characters of 12 very different individual. This realization leads us to recognize that regardless of our personality (extrovert or introvert; sensing or intuitive; thinking or feeling; judging or perceiving) that God has a plan for each of us because … we have all been fearfully and wonderfully made!

Activating Our Spiritual Gifts

This week in our small group discussions at Southwest Church, we are examining the Biblical teaching on the subject of Spiritual Gifts. Each small group participant is being provided with a questionnaire to help discover their personal gifts. In the Spiritual Gifts Questionnaire booklet there is also a list of 24 specific gifts described in the Bible. This list contains the gift of craftsmanship, wisdom, leadership, mercy, and administration (to name just a few).

What is your spiritual gift? Are you activating your gift in the life of the church? Have you taken to heart the following Biblical command to use the gift that you have been given? “In his grace, God has given us different gifts for doing certain things well. So if God has given you the ability to prophesy, speak out with as much faith as God has given you. If your gift is serving others, serve them well. If you are a teacher, teach well. If your gift is to encourage others, be encouraging. If it is giving, give generously. If God has given you leadership ability, take the responsibility seriously. And if you have a gift for showing kindness to others, do it gladly.” (Romans 12:6-8 NLT).

Personally, I find the discussion of spiritual gifts a fascinating one and it leads me to dream of the potential that exists within the church! What would be the result of every believer discovering and activating the spiritual gifts that have been given to them by God to serve others? Let’s dream together as we all activate our spiritual gifts to serve God and others

Kingdom Living

All week, I have been struggling with the phrase, “Kingdom Living.” In other words, what does it mean to pray, “your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven” (Matthew 6:10 NIV)? What does it mean to “Seek the Kingdom of God above all else” (Matthew 6:33 NLT)? And … How many of us are actually seek God’s Kingdom as the highest priority of our lives?

Jesus taught a revolutionary way of doing life. He taught that we are to replace “self” as the center of the universe, and instead place God at the center of our lives. After making that realignment of focus and priority, we are then called to live the rest of our lives as servants of Christ; not seeking attention, glory, or comfort, but instead seeking God’s will to be fulfilled.

Now I acknowledge that this is a challenging calling and it is easier to describe in words than it is to live out in reality. And yet I am convinced this is the call to follow Jesus! Jesus calls us to learn life from him with the following invitation: “If any of you wants to be my follower, you must turn from your selfish ways, take up your cross, and follow me” (Mark 8:34 NLT).

In a practical sense this means that you and I must be willing to deny selfish desires, to be willing to sacrifice, to be willing to be ridiculed by others, and to even endure suffering so that God’s will can be accomplished in our lives and in our relationships with others. Jesus did not promise that following him would be an easy life, but he did promise that it would be worth it. In fact Jesus said, “I assure you that everyone who has given up house or wife or brothers or parents or children, for the sake of the Kingdom of God, will be repaid many times over in this life, and will have eternal life in the world to come” (Luke 18:29-30 NLT).

Are you embracing “Kingdom Living?” If not, what is holding you back from experiencing the rewarding life that Jesus promised?

Lessons from a Miraculous Rescue

This week, the world has followed with amazement of the miraculous rescue of the 33 Chilean miners trapped for 69 days in a collapsed mine nearly a half mile underground. Last night like many Americans, I watched with wonder the inspiring news reports about this daring rescue effort. It was refreshing to hear of the unified effort that transpired both underground with the miners and above ground with the rescue workers.

It has been reported that when the mine initially collapsed that there were a number of chaotic and confusing days. These first few days appeared to include some pretty intense disagreements between the miners, but eventually the group of workers came together with an incredible unity. The unity was attributed to strong leadership of the 54 year-old foreman, Luis Urzua and the miners’ collective focus of surviving in spite of their dangerous situation.

Above ground the Chilean government carried out a successful rescue effort attributed to their willingness to act with urgency and with humility. Their urgency was demonstrated through successfully redirecting the necessary resources to aid in this project (an estimated one million dollars per miner). Humility was seen in their willingness to accept help from numerous foreign countries including equipment, expertise, supplies, and volunteers.

As I reflect on this successful effort, I believe there are many inspirational lessons to observe from this good news story. One lesson is that a truly unified effort among people can accomplish what at first glance seems impossible. Secondly, for people to remain unified and focused, it takes strong, consistent leadership. In the case of the miners, their foreman (Urzua) demonstrated selfless leadership throughout the ordeal insisting on being the last man to be pulled to the surface. Finally, the shared victory was accomplished through the answer of countless prayers and the unified focus of a singular goal of successfully rescuing all 33 men.

The above observed lessons resonate in my heart during a week that our small groups are examining the unified focus of the earliest followers of Jesus. Let’s take to heart the example of the earliest Christians and remember to keep our collective focus on our selfless leader, Jesus. Let’s make every effort to protect unity within the church, so that God can be glorified through our fellowship and through our collective ministry efforts. Remember the early church was described in the following way: “All the believers were united in heart and mind” (Acts 4:32 NLT).

It would have been great to have been present during the celebration that occurred in Chile last night as the men were successfully rescued. But let’s remember that we have all been invited to embrace a mission to rescue as many people as possible who are presently living in spiritual darkness who can be raised to a new life in Christ. This is a rescue mission that is worthy of our prayers, our resources, and our unified effort!

“Test Me”

I have vivid memories of walking out of my last final exam during my senior year in college feeling a great sense relief. Thinking to myself, “I have just completed my last “test” of my life.” Little did I know that there would be more schooling and more difficult tests to face in the years ahead. And little did I realize that the toughest tests are not completed with pencil and paper, but are faced in real life. The truth is … life is filled with tests!

As an educator, I thought it would be a lot easier to sit on the other side of the desk and administer tests instead of taking them. Later I learned that in many ways, I was being evaluated by how successful my students were in demonstrating their competency on exams. So honestly, I didn’t really like tests from either side of the desk!

My avoidance of tests leads me to admire individuals who face tests with courage and confidence. There is no greater example of someone welcoming a test than the one recorded in the Bible in the book of Malachi. And the surprising “test worthy hero” is the LORD. The prophet Malachi recorded the following promise to God’s people:

“Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this," says the LORD Almighty, "and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that you will not have room enough for it.” Malachi 3:10 NIV

Often as believers, we approach the subject of financial giving and tithing as a test of our faith. And yet the promise above reminds us that our obedience in giving back to the LORD our “first fruits” is actually an opportunity to test the LORD. Here is the good news … the LORD always passes His tests in an amazing way! And that is a test that you and I can learn to enjoy!

Long Awaited Good News!

This week has been filled with long awaited good news on many fronts! On Sunday, we announced some revised plans for the future Southwest Church Worship and Community Center. We also announced that we had received from a financial institution a letter of interest for a construction loan on that projected building. More news will be shared this Sunday regarding this exciting faith project which we have been praying as a church for years!

On Tuesday, my favorite professional baseball team, the Cincinnati Reds, clinched a playoff spot following a 15 year stretch that fans suffered through numerous disappointing seasons. On Thursday, I was able to celebrate with my mother some recent home improvements on her 56 year old house that she had been dreaming for years.

But the best news that I have experienced this week was not letters of interest, winning baseball teams, or finished home improvements. The best news that I “heard” this week was the long awaited fulfillment of God’s plan of salvation for the human race!

Now some might question the credibility of a church leader who has just “heard” this news, but let me explain. Throughout this year, I have been reading the Bible in the chronological history that it occurred, and frankly there were some days this year that I “struggled through” the readings of Leviticus, Lamentations, and 2 Chronicles. But following nine months of Bible reading, I was prepared to “enter” the New Testament with a new perspective.

As I read with fresh eyes the announcement of the birth of Jesus Christ, I received once again the joy of the long awaited Good News of God’s salvation. Listen to this beautiful description … 68“Praise the Lord, the God of Israel, because he has visited and redeemed his people. 69 He has sent us a mighty Savior from the royal line of his servant David, 70 just as he promised through his holy prophets long ago. Luke 1:68-70 NLT

Now that is Good News worth waiting!

Building for the Future

As was shared this past Sunday, Southwest Church has a letter of interest for a building loan. Please pray for the LORD to give us guidance and wisdom as we consider this loan offer. Also, make plans to attend one of our Worship Gatherings this Sunday as we both pray about this opportunity and share in more detail the recent revisions in the architectural drawings of our future Worship and Community Center.

While personally considering and praying about this exciting opportunity, I was encouraged by my morning daily Bible reading from the Old Testament book entitled Nehemiah. The book of Nehemiah (written 440 B.C.) records the tremendous influence of two spiritual leaders named, Nehemiah and Ezra. Nehemiah oversaw the physical rebuilding of the exterior walls surrounding Jerusalem. Ezra was a Jewish Priest, who oversaw the rebuilding of the spiritual lives of the people of Jerusalem. It is important for us to realize from their example that physical and spiritual building can (and must) take place simultaneously!

While Nehemiah was leading an amazing effort to carry out this huge building project of the Jerusalem wall which had been lying in ruins for more than 100 years, Ezra focused his efforts on preparing the people for the spiritual task at hand. The Book of Nehemiah records an incredible unity of God’s people during this defining moment in Israel’s history (Nehemiah 8).

Following a time that the people of God recommitted themselves to honoring God’s Word in their lives, Ezra led them to recommit their lives to depending upon the LORD in a wholehearted manner. Nehemiah records this collective call to worship as follows: “Stand up and praise the LORD your God, for he lives from everlasting to everlasting!” Then they prayed: “May your glorious name be praised! May it be exalted above all blessing and praise!” Nehemiah 9:5 NLT

As we consider taking this important step of building a physical structure to serve as our future Worship and Community Center, let’s remember that this is not only a huge step of faith, but also potentially a defining moment in our history as a church! Make plans to attend this Sunday and join others in prayer as we seek to honor God every step of the way (as the people of God did in the days of Nehemiah and Ezra).

Revisiting Lessons Forgotten

Have you ever forgotten something important? A Birthday Celebration … An Anniversary … An Appointment … A Homework Assignment … A Promise Made … A Lesson Learned!

This week I have had two such experiences. One of them was violating a principle of communication that I hold dearly, teach to others, and yet relearned in a painful way this week. My violation was to respond too quickly to someone else’s comments. The Bible states emphatically, “My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry” (James 1:19 TNIV). In our high tech world this scripture also applies to texting, e-mail, facebook, and tweeting!

The second is the importance of trusting in God’s power and might and not my own. I was feeling a bit stressed with some upcoming deadlines and challenges and I read the following in my morning Bible reading, “So he said to me, "This is the word of the LORD to Zerubbabel: 'Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit,' says the LORD Almighty”(Zechariah 4:6 NIV).

As I read this reminder to the 500 BC Jewish leader, Zerubbabel, I could have easily substituted my name in his place (even if I had trouble pronouncing his name). In reading this Bible verse I was humbled once again to rely on the LORD’s strength and not my own. Now as I reflected on what a “great find” this was in scripture, I noticed that this “new find” was underlined in my Bible, which means that I had “learned” this lesson in the past and yet I needed to learn it all over again!

Maybe this life of following Jesus isn’t so difficult to understand, but it is simply remembering to do what has been learned! Now … can you and I remember that lesson?

A Humbling Experience while Seeking to Get in Shape

Although I love sports and at one time was a well-conditioned athlete want-a-be, those years have long passed in my life. And yet I find myself surrounded by family members and friends who are tremendous models of physical fitness and their example inspires me to not be satisfied to stay on the sidelines. So recently, I have begun training for a 5 mile race scheduled for later this fall.

The timing of the beginning of my training also coincided with an extremely hot string of days in late summer. So being a fitness newbie and softie, I have contained most of my running to an air-conditioned indoor track at the local YMCA.

Although I am decades removed from being described as a well conditioned athlete, I still imagine in my heart that I am much younger and stronger than is actually the case. On one of my daily runs, I noticed what appeared to me as an older lady walking on the track. My initial thought was “I hope this older lady doesn’t get in my way as I literally run circles around her.”

After I had finished running my first lap and passing her in what I only imagined was a pace that she couldn’t imagine for herself, I noticed with my periphery vision that she was no longer walking, but now jogging. In my puffed up heart, I thought to myself “I wonder how many times I lap her before my daily run is completed.”

You can only imagine my amazement, when I noticed that she was beginning to catch up with me on the oval track. Although I thought she would soon return to walking, she continued to jog and eventually passed me like I was “standing still.” I reasoned in my heart that she must be simply sprinting a few laps, but I was going to run at least a mile and half for my workout. As you might suspect, she kept running and I noticed that she was the one who was lapping me and not the other way around.

As I completed my target distance for the day and was now walking on the 1/16 of a mile track, she struck up a conversation with me while she continued to jog. She asked, “How many laps did you run? When I answered with pride, “I had just finished 24 laps.” She responded in a very kind way, that was a really good workout. When I asked her how many laps she ran, she told me that she simply ran for 30 minutes.

I was humbled not only by her “lapping me,” but by her very positive, encouraging attitude. And yet in my mind, she was still obviously an older lady than me, and that is when she left me with one last thought. She said, “It is important for people our age to keep exercising.”

My recent running experience reminded me once again to not be so full of myself. To consider others better than myself and to humbly encourage and serve others. It also reminded me that sometimes I don’t view myself as others view me. This is yet another reminder to keep a sober estimation of myself and my strengths.

New Every Morning

I am amazed of the beauty of God’s creation! From time to time, I see something in nature that just takes my breath and reminds me of the greatness of God. Back a while, I had such an experience. I was taking a walk in my neighborhood one early morning and I witnessed a beautiful sunrise in the east. As the full brightness of the sun was being hidden by the morning clouds, amazing rays of light were fanning out in all directions from the horizon in the east.

I was so taken by the beauty of this magnificent sunrise that I ran back into my house to find a camera to capture the moment. Although a photograph will never do justice of the beauty of this particular sunrise, the picture above is a reminder to me of the beauty that I witnessed on that early Sunday morning.

As I contemplated the beauty of this magnificent sight in creation, I was reminded of God’s love and mercy that continues to poke through the clouds of personal shortcomings, setbacks and disappointments in life. The prophet Jeremiah wrote a beautiful description of God’s faithfulness in the midst of an extremely difficult time in his life and his Jerusalem peers. He wrote, “The faithful love of the LORD never ends! His mercies never cease. Great is his faithfulness; his mercies begin afresh each morning. I say to myself; ‘The LORD is my inheritance; therefore, I will hope in him!’” Lamentations 3:22-24 NLT

Let’s make sure the next time we see a beautiful sunrise that we are reminded of God’s faithfulness and how his mercies are fresh each morning!

Labor Day Memories

What are your Labor Day memories? Do you have memories of going to your favorite pool for the last time of the season? Do you have memories of family picnics or outings to mark the unofficial end of summer? Possibly you have memories of packing your school bag with the anticipation of a new school year.

The Labor Day Holiday brings memories to my mind of digging potatoes. Potatoes?

Yes, every Labor Day my Dad would wake up his three children (which I was the youngest) to work in the garden and dig up a fairly large garden of potatoes. It was usually a hot day filled with manual labor of digging rows of potatoes, picking up potatoes, collecting them into burlap sacks, and transporting them to our family’s basement that served as a cool cellar for our family potato bins.

As a kid, I hated Labor Day and I thought it was aptly named. What I could not figure out was why others enjoyed the holiday? And … Why in the world was there a holiday designated for families to work? It didn’t seem like much of a holiday to me as a young child and adolescent.

As an adult I look back with fondness of those Labor Day’s spent with my family. I realize now that it was a day for my Dad to spend with the three children he loved dearly. It was an excellent opportunity to learn from a hardworking father, the value of a good work ethic. It was also a small price to pay for a middleclass family to save a lot of money on groceries throughout the year that no doubt allowed my parents to pay for three children to complete a college education, and walk away from college with no personal debt.

Now that my Dad is no longer with us, I would gladly trade a leisurely day in an air-conditioned house, for one more opportunity to dig potatoes with my Dad. It also leads me to the recognition that “Labor” is a good thing and maybe it is a good thing that we have one day a year to celebrate it … and for me to cherish memories of digging potatoes with a remarkable man, that I was privileged to know as “Dad!”

Letters to God

This past weekend, my wife and I watched a video entitled “Letters to God.” Although this movie will never win an academy award as it is not the best produced movie, it does have a great story line that is worthy to consider for those who struggle with faith.

The movie (inspired by true life events) tells the story of a little boy, Tyler, who is a brain cancer patient. In the midst of his battle with cancer, Tyler begins to write daily letters to God. Although you would possibly expect Tyler to be bitter and resentful toward God, he instead demonstrates a tremendous peace with his condition. Surprisingly, Tyler focuses most of his letters to God describing his love and concern for family members, friends, and even the postal carrier who daily picked up his letter addressed to God.

Tyler’s simple faith in God inspired others in his life to also begin to trust God. As result of watching the move, I was inspired to offer prayers to God through the discipline of writing an actual letter to God. This is a new fresh perspective to approach the spiritual discipline of prayer in a non-intimidating way!

Are you willing to join me in setting some time aside to write a letter to God? If so, then get out a piece of paper and pen and prepare your heart to pour out your thoughts in a personal letter to God. Let me help you get started … "Dear God …"

Love Your Neighbor as Yourself

It is difficult to find positive things to comment in our country’s present economy. Unemployment is high, economic growth is sluggish, and financial loans are difficult to obtain.

And yet one positive that exists for seekers of God is the opportunity to put our faith into action to help those in our community who are hurting financially. Jesus taught, “‘You must love the LORD your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. A second is equally important: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ The entire law and all the demands of the prophets are based on these two commandments.” Matthew 22:37-40 NLT

As another school year is just around the corner, there is an opportunity for followers of Jesus to put into practice the call to love our neighbors and seek to lighten the financial load of those who are finding it difficult to fill their children’s school supply list. So this week, there is a month long effort culminating at the Coffman Family YMCA in Springboro to help fill donated school book bags with donated school supplies.

It is not too late to participate in this effort. If you would like to participate in this effort simply stop by the Coffman YMCA and donate a book bag or some supplies and volunteers will make sure it gets to children in the area in need. This is a great way to show God’s love in a practical way to some of our school age neighbors!

Do You Go to Church? Or … Are You Being the Church?

Small Things Done With Great Love Will Change the World!

The latest surveys are pointing out that only approximately 17% of the people in the United States will be “going to church” this Sunday. This means that approximately 83% of Americans will be working, sleeping, gardening, watching TV, lounging at a beach, or some other leisurely activity this Sunday morning as opposed to gathering with other believers in Christ and worshipping God.

Of those who actually “go to church” this Sunday, how many of them are simply checking a box of religious obligation? God’s design for the church is that we not simply “go to church,” but that we live out what it means to “be the church!”

The early followers of Christ understood that they were called to live out their faith by actively engaging in the life of the church, God’s family. Listen to this call for action in the Bible: “I want you to know how people who are members of God’s family must live. God’s family is the church of the living God, the pillar and foundation of the truth.” 1 Timothy 3:15 (GW)*

On any given week, individuals within a church family are dealing with the sadness of losing a loved one, the challenges of caring for a sick child, the financial challenges of unemployment, the concerns of health problems, the “busyness” of caring for young children or aging parents, and etc. As we learn of needs within our church family and within our community at large, it is important for us to recognize that we are called not to simply “go to church,” but to “be the church!”


* (GW) – God’s Word Translation

Seeking God in the "Land Between"

This week, I had the opportunity to listen to a wonderful message by Jeff Manion entitled, “The Land Between.” He is an author and pastor in Michigan who has written a book with the same title, describing the challenging time in Israel’s history as they traveled in the wilderness (actually desert) between the time they were released from Egyptian slavery and the time they inhabited the promise land.

In many ways the message spoke to my heart as I longingly wait for future dreams in my life and in the church that I serve to be realized. And yet, in this “land between” I am learning many valuable lessons about what it means to be a seeker of God and his will. The challenge for anyone presently caught in the “land between” is to remember that as long as we seek God’s lead in our lives, that we have a bright future!

Jeremiah spoke this truth into the lives of God’s people at a time they longed for a better future while they lived in Babylonian Captivity. He said, “This is what the LORD says: “You will be in Babylon for seventy years. But then I will come and do for you all the good things I have promised, and I will bring you home again. For I know the plans I have for you,” says the LORD. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope. In those days when you pray, I will listen. If you look for me wholeheartedly, you will find me. I will be found by you,” says the LORD. “I will end your captivity and restore your fortunes. I will gather you out of the nations where I sent you and will bring you home again to your own land.” Jeremiah 29:10-14 NLT

Seeking to Listen

During the last three years I have attended the Willow Creek Leadership Summit Simulcast. This effort is spearheaded by the Willow Creek Church in the Chicago area and is shown via simulcast in more than 150 locations throughout the world. This year, I will be participating in this event at the Cincinnati Vineyard Church 35 minutes South of Springboro.

As I prepare for this leadership conference, I am seeking to prepare my heart to listen for what the LORD wants to communicate to my heart and to my life. I am inspired by the willing heart to listen to God’s direction in the life of Samuel the prophet. When he was first called into spiritual leadership, he responded with this humble request: "Speak, for your servant is listening." 1 Samuel 3:10 NIV

This is my heart’s desire as I participate in the 2010 Global Leadership Summit. I am also wondering … Why don’t I have that heart’s desire every day? Do you?

Mentor Leadership

This week, I began meeting with a young man who has asked me to be his mentor. First of all, I was humbled that he would approach me to provide that type of influence in his life. Secondly, I began this new adventure praying that the LORD would work through me to provide spiritual leadership in his life.

To better prepare me for this new relationship, I bought the new book written by Tony Dungy entitled, The Mentor Leader. The author begins his description of mentor leadership with the following statement: “Mentor leadership focuses on building people up and building leaders for the next generation.” He continues with this description of effective leadership, “It’s not about you and what makes you comfortable or helps you get ahead. It’s about other people.”

There is a desperate need for more and more people to take on the call to be a mentor leader to pour into the lives of those who are younger the lessons that we have learned along the way in our own personal journey. We see this example in the Bible through numerous relationships where one individual of faith invests in the life of another. Moses and Joshua, Naomi and Ruth, Elijah and Elisha, and the Apostle Paul and Timothy are just a few examples of relationships that involved mentoring. The Apostle Paul gives the following instructions to Timothy to continue the chain of mentoring. He wrote, “You have heard me teach things that have been confirmed by many reliable witnesses. Now teach these truths to other trustworthy people who will be able to pass them on to others.” 2 Timothy 2:2 NLT

I am ready to embrace the privilege of mentoring my younger friend and I take to heart the challenge of Tony Dungy when he wrote, “Mentor leadership can be taught and learned; but in order to be absorbed, it must be practiced. The best way to evaluate leadership philosophies and find your own style is by testing them in action. You can’t stay in the ivory tower reading books and discussing theories. Eventually you have to wade into the fray.” (Dungy; The Mentor Leader; 2010).

I am ready to wade into the fray … How about you?

Seeking to Live by Godly Principles

There are six days when you may work, but the seventh day is a Sabbath of rest, a day of sacred assembly. You are not to do any work; wherever you live, it is a Sabbath to the LORD.Leviticus 23:3 NIV



There have been numerous arguments made through the years over certain teachings of the Old Testament (the portion of the Bible that was written prior to Jesus time on earth). By reading the Bible through the prism of the New Testament (the portion of the Bible written describing the life and teachings of Jesus and his followers), it is clear that followers of Jesus are not bound by the Old Testament dietary laws and numerous instructions of the animal sacrificial system.

The tougher questions are how to make sense of the Old Testament teachings like observing the Sabbath (listed above) and tithing. On these topics followers of Christ can disagree. And yet I have found blessings in my life by applying these teachings as timeless principles in my life.

On the subject of observing the Sabbath, I have found peace and rest by only working 6 days of the week, and enjoying a day of “rest.” I find that by observing a day of rest, I learn to trust God and realize that it is not all up to me. I also find rest, refreshment, and recharging for my emotional, physical, and spiritual batteries.

In my life, I am pretty busy on Saturdays and Sundays, but I observe Monday as my day of rest. Two of the last three weeks, I have enjoyed playing Golf with a relative and found it extremely relaxing. Now for some serious golfers they can find themselves getting stressed during a round of golf. Personally, I am so terrible at the sport that I don’t take is serious enough to get stressed.

Are you observing the timeless principles of a day of rest? If not, why don’t you see if God is big enough to take your 5 or 6 days of work and enable you to accomplish a week of work? And you might just find yourself being refreshed by God in the process!

Neither Hot nor Cold

Ice Cold Tea is soothing …. Steaming Hot Tea hits the spot! But lukewarm, room temperature tea is disgusting! Listen to Jesus’ commentary of a church that had become complacent in their relationship with Christ and how he described their apathy:

“Write this letter to the angel of the church in Laodicea. This is the message from the one who is the Amen—the faithful and true witness, the beginning of God’s new creation:
“I know all the things you do, that you are neither hot nor cold. I wish that you were one or the other! But since you are like lukewarm water, neither hot nor cold, I will spit you out of my mouth!… I correct and discipline everyone I love. So be diligent and turn from your indifference.
“Look! I stand at the door and knock. If you hear my voice and open the door, I will come in, and we will share a meal together as friends." Revelation 3:14-16;19-20 NLT

One of the books that I have been reading is the book entitled Crazy Love by Francis Chan. In the chapter entitled “When You’re In Love,” the author discusses the problem of being “lukewarm” in our commitment to Christ by writing the following words:

“Lukewarm living and claiming Christ’s name simultaneously is utterly disgusting to God. And when we are honest, we have to admit that it isn’t very fulfilling or joyful to us, either.

But the solution isn’t to try harder, fail, and then make bigger promises, only to fail again. It does no good to muster up more love for God, to will yourself to love Him more. When loving Him becomes obligation, one of many things we have to do, we end up focusing more on ourselves. No wonder so few people want to hear from us about what we ourselves feel is a boring guilt-ridden chore!” (Crazy Love by Francis Chan)

So what is the answer? The answer is found in realizing that we are called to a relationship with Jesus Christ and when we see that our commitment to him has grown cold or even worse … lukewarm, then we are called to reconnect in our relationship with Jesus and to “fall in love” with him all over again!

In Revelation 3, the promise is to the Christians* who recognizes that they are lukewarm in their commitment to Christ that if they will simply open the door that Jesus is there knocking and waiting at the door ready to embrace us and enrich our relationship with him!

How do we open that door? … simply asking God to open our hearts and to create in our hearts a greater love for Christ. You see Jesus didn’t say … to the Lukewarm Laodiceans … try harder, or add to our daily check-off list … instead he says … “open the door.” For some of us we simply need to be honest with God … “open the door” and tell him … “I have been lukewarm in my love and commitment to you … please change my heart … please allow me to become “hot” in my love for you!!”

*Just a quick personal note: This is a passage that is not written to the person who has not yet become a Christian, but instead to a lukewarm church composed of people who had come to know Christ, but who had allowed their relationship with Christ to become stale. To learn more about becoming a Christian … click on the link to the right that is entitled Seeking to Become a Christian.

Seeking God at Times of Weariness

O God, you are my God; I earnestly search for you. My soul thirsts for you; my whole body longs for you in this parched and weary land where there is no water. I have seen you in your sanctuary and gazed upon your power and glory. Your unfailing love is better than life itself; how I praise you! I will praise you as long as I live, lifting up my hands to you in prayer. You satisfy me more than the richest feast. I will praise you with songs of joy.
Psalm 63:1-5 NLT

Thirsty for God

I read a moving prayer today in Francis Chan’s book Crazy Love. He attributed the prayer listed below to A.W. Tozer in his book, The Pursuit of God. Reading this prayer touched my heart and led me to “thirst to be made more thirsty still” for God!

I invite you to read it below and even possibly pray it as well!





O God, I have tasted Thy goodness, and it has both satisfied me and made me thirsty for more. I am painfully conscious of my need for further grace. I am ashamed of my lack of desire. O God, the Triune God, I want to want Thee; I long to be filled with longing; I thirst to be made more thirsty still. Show me Thy glory, I pray Thee, so that I may know Thee indeed. Begin in mercy a new work of love within me. Say to my soul, “Rise up my love, my fair one, and come away.” Then give me grace to rise and follow Thee up from this misty lowland where I have wandered so long.

What is Your View of God?

For it was I, the LORD your God, who rescued you from the land of Egypt. Open your mouth wide, and I will fill it with good things. “But no, my people wouldn’t listen. Israel did not want me around. So I let them follow their own stubborn desires, living according to their own ideas. Oh, that my people would listen to me! Oh, that Israel would follow me, walking in my paths! How quickly I would then subdue their enemies! … But I would feed you with the finest wheat. I would satisfy you with wild honey from the rock.” Psalm 81:1, 10-14, 16 NLT

So many people have a distorted view of God due to past life experiences. Some of those life experiences possibly include a negative experience with a religious person and/or a religious group which led to a view of God as One who is unpredictable, unreliable, harsh and quick to administer judgment. What is your view of God?

Throughout the Bible, we see a portrait of a loving, gracious God who is longing to bring good into our lives. As you read the selected verses from Psalm 81 listed above observe the beautiful description of God.

Followers of Christ have a privilege and responsibility to share the good news with others that God is a loving God, who longs to “rescue” us, fill us “with good things,” “subdue … enemies,” “feed” and nourish us, and “satisfy” our lives! Although God will not force us to pursue a relationship with him, he freely invites us to an abundant life and teaches us to walk in his paths!

Are you like those who have lived in the past (described in Psalm 81) who did not listen to God? Are you going to resist the God who longs to fill your life with good things? Or … Are you willing to trust the God who has your best interest at heart and walk in his path to find life?

Seeking God with All of Our Heart

A wholehearted seeker of God was a Jewish King named Josiah. His story is told in the 2nd Book of Kings with the following description of his devotion to the LORD: Never before had there been a king like Josiah, who turned to the LORD with all his heart and soul and strength, obeying all the laws of Moses. And there has never been a king like him since. 2 Kings 23:25 NLT

As I read this description of Josiah, it made me wonder what prevented the other kings from having a wholehearted devotion for God. In my reflection, I realized that they like many of us allowed their hearts to be divided by other pursuits in life. This observation does not mean that pursuing career ambitions, hobbies, or family time are bad in and of themselves, but the very core of a heartfelt seeker of God is the LORD himself!

The diagram above led me to ask myself … Am I seeking God with all of my heart? Or have I allowed my heart to become divided? How about you?

Seeking God’s Lead while Seeking a Job

For the last three months the YMCA Job Seekers Support Group has been examining a very practical book entitled, “It’s Not About You, It’s About Them” written by C. Bruce Flanagan. This group meets at the Coffman Family YMCA every Wednesday at 9:00 am in the Conference Room. The support group is a faith based initiative that has been spearheaded by the Christian Emphasis Committee of the Coffman Family YMCA. The group typically begins with a devotional thought from the Bible and a prayer and then concludes with a prayer at the end of the hour long discussion focusing on the specific requests by the various members.

This group has been offered at the YMCA for more than a year and now has numerous gainfully employed alumni. During the past several weeks, the group has discussed practical topics like the following: networking, writing a cover letter, writing a resume, effectively planning for an interview, etc. Along with these practical discussions, the group has continued to keep an emphasis on the overriding theme of the book which is to remind the job seeker that it is not about you!

The Bible states this principle in this way: Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others. Philippians 2:3-4 NIV

Isn’t it amazing that when an individual seeks God’s direction in life, that the principles found in the Bible truly make a difference in every facet of life, even job seeking?!

Stop at the Crossroads

This is what the LORD says: "Stop at the crossroads and look around. Ask for the old, godly way, and walk in it. Travel its path, and you will find rest for your souls.” Jeremiah 6:16 NLT



Life is full of tough choices. Sometimes we find ourselves at the fork of the road and we are trying to determine the best path to take for the future.

Approximately 600 years before Jesus Christ walked on this earth, a guy named Jeremiah was God’s spokesman to a generation that had made a lot of bad choices in the past. The result of their bad choices was heartache and disaster.

God promises that His Path will lead to peace and rest for the soul. What path have you been traveling?

Seeking God in Boro …. Not Seeking Gold in Boro

This week I handed a business card to someone inviting them to check out this web site. His response was that he had seen signs posted around town, but he had thought the sign said “Seeking Gold in Boro.” I couldn’t help but chuckle to think that possibly individuals had checked out this web site hoping to find a hidden a gold mine in Springboro or a resource to make cash by trading in their golden jewelry. My hope is that anyone seeking gold will not be disappointed by this web site, but instead be reminded that seeking God is of much greater value!

One of the first followers of Jesus Christ named Peter, wrote his life experience as follows: For you know that it was not with perishable things such as silver or gold that you were redeemed from the empty way of life handed down to you from your ancestors, but with the precious blood of Christ, a lamb without blemish or defect. He was chosen before the creation of the world, but was revealed in these last times for your sake. Through him you believe in God, who raised him from the dead and glorified him, and so your faith and hope are in God. 1 Peter 1:18-21 TNIV

Can you identify with these inspired words from the Bible? A meaningful life is not found through the pursuit of possessions, pleasure, prestige, or popularity. Instead, a truly meaningful life is found in seeking a personal relationship with God.

The good news is that a personal relationship with our Creator is possible because of what Jesus accomplished on the cross. His willing sacrifice enables the seeker of God to draw near a holy God. And Jesus’ victory over death in the resurrection enables the seeker of God to have confidence and hope for the future. Now … that is valuable good news!!

Seeking to Embrace Jesus' Mission

This week 26 individuals from Southwest Church in Springboro are in New Orleans partnering with Crossroads Missions (www.crossroadsmissions.com) to serve the people of New Orleans. New Orleans has been reeling ever since Hurricane Katrina brought widespread destruction to the city five years ago. The result of the destruction has resulted in heightened poverty in this city of 350,000 people (pre-Katrina (485,000) with 30% of the population living below the poverty level.*

Last year, 1,000 volunteers from 15 different states and Canada partnered with Crossroads Missions to make a difference in the lives of people who are living in poverty in New Orleans. This mission effort seeks to embrace Jesus’ mission statement to bring good news to the poor described in the Bible (Luke 4:18-19). In this proclamation, Jesus fulfilled the messianic description recorded in Scripture by Isaiah the prophet, who lived 700 BC.

As we read this messianic description recorded by Isaiah, we sense that this has always been and will always be God’s desired purpose for his people. Isaiah wrote,
The Spirit of God, the Master, is on me because God anointed me. He sent me to preach good news to the poor, heal the heartbroken, announce freedom to all captives, pardon all prisoners. God sent me to announce the year of his grace— a celebration of God's destruction of our enemies— and to comfort all who mourn, to care for the needs of all who mourn in Zion, give them bouquets of roses instead of ashes, messages of joy instead of news of doom, a praising heart instead of a languid spirit. Rename them "Oaks of Righteousness" planted by God to display his glory. They'll rebuild the old ruins, raise a new city out of the wreckage. They'll start over on the ruined cities, take the rubble left behind and make it new. Isaiah 61:1-4 MSG

It is encouraging to know that our dedicated volunteers are helping rebuild the old ruins of New Orleans and helping raise a new city out of the wreckage. I am proud of these devoted followers of Christ and I think it would be appropriate to call them “Oaks of Righteousness” who are displaying God’s glory in the city of New Orleans!

____________

* New Orleans Demographics
• New Orleans Population: approx. 350,000 people (Pre-Katrina: 485,000),
• 30% of population lives below poverty level,
• 41% of children live in poverty,
• in poorer neighborhoods, 33% of people do not have access to a car,
• median household income: $ 27,000,
• completed high school: 40%

A Well Watered Garden

After 14 years of living in our house we finally got around to planting a little garden beside our back deck. The verdict is still out on whether our garden will produce more than one nice green pepper and two little green tomatoes, but it has been a fun adventure.

Although I have spent very little time in our garden, my wife has really enjoyed the opportunity to test her green thumb. And by the way, she has done a great job of growing some green plants and we will keep you posted if any vegetables surface. In spite of the lack of edible resources in our garden, I can assure you that the garden is well watered (even during a very hot July).

As I reflect on our well watered garden, I realize that its green vibrant plants are a reflection of the gardener who cares for it. Isaiah described God’s care for us as follows: The LORD will guide you continually, giving you water when you are dry and restoring your strength. You will be like a well-watered garden, like an ever-flowing spring. (Isaiah 58:11).

Isn’t it encouraging knowing that the LORD takes such great care for each of us? And that God will provide opportunities for us to stay fresh and vibrant even during dry seasons of life?

Learning to Seek What Jesus Did

The leadership team of our church met tonight for our monthly meeting. We are reading and discussing together the book written by Jim Putman entitled, Church is a Team Sport.

During our discussion of Chapter 6, which is entitled “A Coach Worth Following: Discovering Our God-Given Purpose” we discussed the following quote from the author: “A winning team is one that reaches the lost and makes disciples who can disciple others. … It starts with taking responsibility not just for winning the lost but for shepherding them too. The pastor can’t do this by himself. Part of his job is to create a shepherding environment where everyone is challenged to shepherd others and win the lost.” (Putman; pages 95-97)

We resolved as a group and I resolved as an individual to no longer be a “number counter” but a “soul chaser.” It is obvious that was what Jesus had as his focus and if I call myself a follower of Christ, then I must commit to the same focus.

“For the Son of Man came to seek and save those who are lost.” Luke 19:10 NLT

Something to Remember in the River of Difficulty

Sometimes life can be overwhelming as we face the challenges before us. The Book of Isaiah was written to the people of Israel to prepare them for some upcoming tough circumstances and yet it was also written to give them hope that the LORD would be with them throughout the imminent challenges.

Listen to these inspired words written in the Book of Isaiah … "But now, O Jacob, listen to the LORD who created you. O Israel, the one who formed you says, “Do not be afraid, for I have ransomed you. I have called you by name; you are mine. When you go through deep waters, I will be with you. When you go through rivers of difficulty, you will not drown. When you walk through the fire of oppression, you will not be burned up; the flames will not consume you. For I am the LORD, your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior” (Isaiah 43:1-3 NLT).

The next time you find yourself facing rivers of difficulty and are tempted to think you will be swept away remember that the LORD, your God will be with you and see you through the deep waters!

Seeking God through Daily Bible Reading

One of the best moments of my day is the time that I sit down with an open Bible and read the written Word of God. On Saturday, I was feeling a bit weary from a long week, so I honestly admitted to God that I needed some encouragement before I tackled some needed work scheduled for the day.

I had recently been reading through the Book of Isaiah which frankly deals with some pretty tough matters in Israel’s history. So I was wondering if anything in Isaiah (written 700 BC) would particularly speak to my heart and personal circumstances in July of 2010. Well once again the LORD answered my prayer and demonstrated the relevance of his Word in the life of someone who is seeking him.

Here are the encouraging words that I read on a day that I was feeling particularly weary: “The LORD is the everlasting God, the Creator of all the earth. He never grows weak or weary. No one can measure the depths of his understanding. He gives power to the weak and strength to the powerless. Even youths will become weak and tired, and young men will fall in exhaustion. But those who trust in the LORD will find new strength. They will soar high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint” (Isaiah 40:28-31 NLT).

Well needless to say, I was encouraged and reminded that I needed to trust in the LORD’s strength and not my own. The result was that I had a great day and the work scheduled for that day was completed and I was refreshed!!

Seeking God in Boro

What is the purpose of this web site?

The purpose of this web site is to provide a resource site for those who are seeking God for the first time, the first time in a long time, or on an ongoing basis! Please feel free to pass this site on to others who are seeking God, who by the way is seeking us!

On the right of the screen you will find some helpful links.

A link for individuals who are seeking to become a Christian with a Biblical explanation on how an individual can have certainty that they are in a secure personal relationship with Jesus Christ.

A link to Southwest Church which is a pretty good church to begin seeking God and to continue seeking God.

A link to some other churches in Springboro, Ohio as we are truly interested in helping others to begin seeking God with all their hearts and want to provide a link to the churches listed on the Springboro Chamber of Commerce web site.

A link to an online Bible with numerous versions to choose.

A link to some powerful prayers to find inspiration.

Important Note: Please continue to revist this web site as we are committed to continuing to revise, improve, and update it so that it can be a helpful resource to those who are seeking God!

Children Seeking God in Boro

Can anyone sing with me ...

H - E - R - O

... God is my HERO!

H - E - R - O

... God is my HERO!

More Pictures from 2010 VBS

Pizza Man and Water Woman Both Receive Pie in Face!


Group Hug ...
Learning Community!

Some of our Heroes Making Faith - Ka - Bobs!




Preschoolers Seeking God and Having Fun!

One Little Boy Made a Difference!

On Thursday night the Bible Story for Hero Headquarters (Vacation Bible School) was the story of Jesus feeding the large crowd of five thousand men (possibly a total crowd of more than 10,000). Obviously the ultimate hero in the story is Jesus who in his compassion for others performed a phenomenal miracle. And yet it is noteworthy that one little boy was willing to bring what he had (some fish sandwiches) to Jesus so that Jesus could multiply it in an amazing way!

Throughout this week at Vacation Bible School, the dedicated volunteers from Southwest Church have done a wonderful job of reminding the children during snack time, craft time, game time, and singing time that God can work through every person (big or small) to make a difference in this world! It appears from observing the children’s reactions that they are beginning to believe that they can truly make a difference. How about you?

Heroes of Faith

This week at Heroes Headquarters (a.k.a. Vacation Bible School), more than 100 children have been learning important life lessons regarding faith in God. It has been encouraging to see the eager hearts of children to learn more about God and the incredible stories of faith in the Bible.

Last night the children learned that faith means believing in a God that we cannot see. During the Bible story portion of the evening, the children heard the story of the faithful Roman army officer (the story of the Centurion is found in Matthew 8) who trusted that Jesus could heal his young servant by simply speaking the word!

Jesus responded to the Centurion’s faith with the following statement, “I tell you the truth, I haven’t seen faith like this in all Israel!” (Matthew 8:10) And then later Jesus acted upon the Roman officer’s faith by healing his servant and further explaining the nature of faith with these encouraging words: “Because you believed, it has happened” (Matthew 8:13).

This week as a volunteer at Heroes Headquarters, I have been encouraged and challenged by the simple trusting faith of both the Centurion and the children participating in Vacation Bible School. The eager, pure, trusting, faithful hearts of the children have reminded me of another statement that Jesus taught, “I tell you the truth, anyone who doesn’t receive the Kingdom of God like a child will never enter it” (Luke 18:17).

You see both the Centurion and the children are heroes of faith to me!