Branded With Love

I loved watching the Batman and Robin television show as a kid.
BAM! ZAP! POW!!
It was action packed from beginning to end. A challenge would arise, Batman and Robin would go to figure it out, one would always end up in peril, and the other would save him & save the day. The show always followed that same structure, but it never got old for me.

The thing I loved the most about the show though… Batman needed Robin. As savvy and heroic as Batman was, he could get himself in a bind like no other. It was always Robin who came to the rescue and bailed him out. We all need a Robin. As a matter of fact, it wouldn’t be bad to have a half dozen or so Robins in our corner.

As a pastor, I have the luxury of working with 6 other amazingly talented people. They’re my Robins. Dan, Becky, Lisa, James, Justin, and Barbara make me look better than I really am. You see, Batman is great, but he would be nothing if he didn’t have Robin right by his side every step of the way. He’s more than simply a sidekick, they are a team. A dynamic duo if you will.

At Forefront, we embrace this teamwork in every aspect of the ministry that takes place here. It’s not just an “Adult” “Children’s” or “Student” ministry project, it’s a staff/volunteer project. A team effort. One aspect that this could easily be overlooked in the church is with speaking, right? “I mean, c’mon! You’re the ‘teaching pastor’ so shouldn’t you be the only one to ever speak to us? Isn’t that your job?” Well, part of my job is teaching, but if that’s all I did, I’d be one lazy leader. On top of that, getting one voice all the time is never a healthy thing. It’s nice to hear from a different vantage point.

So during this series we’re in, you’ll hear from three other voices besides myself. Dan Pollard, our Executive Pastor, Becky Bruner, our Family Pastor, and James Davis, our Student Pastor. Our elders have the final authority over the church and think it’s healthy for the church family to hear from different voices from time to time. I couldn’t agree more. Not only are their voices and ideas from a G0d-centered perspective, but they have life experiences I’ve never been through. Things I have yet to encounter, because I’m not them.

Looking forward to the rest of this series”Paper House”, it’s going to be fantastic. If you haven’t had a chance to listen to the first week on “Integrity”, check it out on the podcast or website here and below is the series trailer to get you pumped for next Sunday!

Jason

Paper House Sermon Intro from Forefront Church on Vimeo.

I woke up this morning, opened up the paper and saw this:

Many different emotions swept over me.
Relief. Anger. Jubilation. Sadness. Grief. Worry. Anxiousness of the unknown future…
I remember being in a church gym with 48 other student pastors as cell phones started blazing with the news.
We huddled around a 13 inch black/white TV as we watched the replay of planes flying into the World Trade Center.
It was unbelievable and frightening.
Was this some kind of stunt?
Who could do such a thing?
What is happening?
People were asking all kinds of questions, with close to no answers being given in the hours following.

And so began “The War on Terror.”

Since that time we’ve witnessed massive casualties of our military men and women, innocent civilians caught in the midst of battle, terrorists dying for their cause, Saddam Hussein’s capture/trial/ and death, and a rise in security in every aspect of our lives. You cannot get away from this truth: the fabric and landscape of our world was changed forever by the tragedies that took place on September 11, 2001. We cannot go back to the old normal.

So, today with the news surrounding Osama Bin Laden’s death, we are hearing quite a frenzy of opinions. Across the board every news station is covering this. Newspapers are plastering the event across the headlines (i.e. the photo above), and social networking was set ablaze over night by the news. Here are some of the Twitter & Facebook updates I awoke to:

• “Just heard on the news “VB based seals” killed Osama!!!! Way to go Boys!!!!”
• “This has nothing to do with Obama. Stop celebrating him. Lets celebrate the troops who have been fighting for this day!”
• “Boy I love being military!!!!! Congrats USA!!!! And good job soldiers, you all are amazing!!!!”
• “Hell just received a new tenant. We warned you not to mess with the Land of the Free and the Home of the Brave!”
• “Woke up and saw that Osama Bin Laden is dead – there is no way America can have a case of the Mondays today! Now lets get to whoever terrorized these gas prices!
• “Okay, I’m hearing some Christians celebrating the recent news, and some Christians saying that celebrating someone’s death (even an evil person) is wrong. I guess I’m stuck somewhere in the middle.”
• “Not to blow up people’s news feed, but if you’re cheering the fact that Osama was killed, I urge you to check your heart. I don’t think that God cheers when one of his lost children is lost for good… Granted, God has the final say on who goes where but I can only assume by what I’ve seen that he did not accept Christ.”

Processing My Response

I was trying to process all of this and make sense of everything I was reading. The “Jason” in me began to celebrate that justice had come. The “Spirit” in me was mourning the possibility that another person more than likely will spend eternity separated from God (I don’t know where He stood with God, but his belief system point to one that was far from him). It’s like I’m schizophrenic in need of clarity. As a Christian, what am I supposed to do with all of this?

I find some relief, like the writer in Proverbs, who penned the words “When justice is done, it brings joy to the righteous, but terror to evildoers” Proverbs 21:15. I remember David in the Old Testament writing, “The righteous will be glad when they are avenged, when they dip their feet in the blood of the wicked. Then people will say, ‘Surely the righteous still are rewarded; surely there is a God who judges the earth.’” Psalm 58:10-11. When evil is dealt with by the hands of the Lord, His people rejoice that oppression has been brought to justice. This isn’t joy in seeing that person’s demise. This joy and jubilation is a reaction to the timeless truth that God’s mighty protection has reigned above all.

The flip side of this… a death took place. The death of an individual. Was he evil in his actions? Absolutely. Did he commit heinous murders through his terror plots? There is no doubt about it. If he came to God, could God forgive Osama Bin Laden of his actions and pardon him of all his sins and allow him to enter into Heaven, as a new creation? Yes. But… here is where I struggle. Based on God’s plan of salvation, and accepting the Bible and truths there-in, it does not look like Osama Bin Laden came to that place. Now again, I’m not sure whether or not he did or did not come to Christ and turn from his ways while hiding in caves and dodging military forces. If I were to consult my childhood Magic 8 Ball, “Outlook doubtful.” With that in mind, Biblical truths would point to the strong possibility of Osama spending eternity in Hell, and that breaks my heart.

As a Christian, no matter how awful a person, I wouldn’t desire for anyone to go to Hell. God, in His justice and holiness, can have no part with sin, and that penalty is separation from Him for eternity. It reminds me that I am thankful and in eternal debt to a Creator who showed me the error of my ways and I now fully submit to each day I walk this earth. It harkens me back to the image of the cross, Jesus’ death, burial, and resurrection. It’s His conquering over death that allows those “in Christ” to celebrate eternal life. I am thankful for God caring that much for you and I.

This is where I’m at. But…

Why Does Your Reaction Matter?

Simply put: you have influence. Around the water cooler, throughout social networking, at the dinner table with your family – you have influence. Your opinion and reaction matter. It helps mold those around you.You have the power to help guide others in an open and honest dialogue about pain,  suffering, justice, God, faith, etc. It’s an amazing opportunity to talk about things that normally wouldn’t come up in some circles you travel in.

Unfortunately, I think the overwhelming message/reaction is that somehow God is blessing America and everyone else around the world is kind of missing out. This “God Bless America” crap has got to stop. Really? Is America a “Christian” nation? (take a few seconds to watch the evening news and you’ll find the answer to that question). Is God really blessing America and leaving everyone else out to dry? We don’t have the market cornered on the “blessings” of God. Having traveled around and conversed with people outside the U.S., the view of Americans and Christian Americans especially isn’t all that great. The sentiment is, “Americans think God is on their side and everyone else is just screwed. How pretentious to think you’ve received all God’s blessings and somehow arrived.” (other people’s words, not mine).

I pray as we parse through all of our emotions, we don’t allow our love for the “land of the free and home of the brave” to cloud our understanding of “love the Lord your God with all your heart mind and soul” and “love your neighbor (no matter how far away) as yourself.”

Where Do We Go From Here?

Someone is going to (and probably has already) rise up and move into the position Osama Bin Laden left vacant with his death. Terrorism, war, fighting, and fear will always be a reality after the events on September 11, 2001. As we move forward, we can…

• Pray for our President. No matter what party you claim, his job isn’t easy and scripture calls us to honor and lift up those in leadership
• Pray for our troops & families. Being from a military family myself, I know the harm, danger, and anxiety that a family feels when a loved one is over seas. May we never forget their sacrifice.
• Celebrate today. You are breathing, you have life within you. Each day is a day of celebration for a life found in Christ. Take hold of it and don’t let anything steal your joy.
• Be aware that evil will still happen. There is no shortage of bad guys, evil henchmen, and terrorists. Bad things will continue to happen in a broken world that is in angst for the return of God upon judgement.
• Evaluate your life. What matters to you? Is God the most important thing of your list of loves? If not, what are you doing to make the strides to connect with Him? If He is, how are you taking hold of every opportunity?
• Pray for your enemies. Do good to those who hate you. The old saying, “Kill ‘em with kindness” (in my mother’s voice) is still something I hear echoing in my head.

It’s a tough thing to wrestle with. In the end, God judges all. Our job and duty is to cling to His teachings and make every effort to use today to the best of our ability.

Jason

It’s been an amazing time preparing for the journey back to Vietnam. Monica, Aaron, Nicole, and I have put a ton of effort into making this thing happen. Gina Barnett, a fellow Forefronter, wrote the curriculum that will be taught at the teacher conference we’re doing. BIG THANKS TO YOU GINA!!

So, as we are over in Ta Phin, Vietnam, we have two projects we’ll be a part of:

• Installing the beginning phases of a clean water system for 600+ people (it will be completed by the people of the village after we leave)
• Teacher Conference at the middle school with 45+ teachers. This is to help them bring 21st Century teaching methods into their school system. They are behind the curve in some of these new techniques.

Each of these projects help us continue to build relationships with the community and show them love. We care deeply about everyone there and have made strong, life long friendships there. It’s always an encouraging time to be a part of this journey.

Thank again for all your prayers and support. We will be updating here when we can, but for “up-to-the-minute” updates, please follow http://twitter.com/brandedwithlove or Like the Forefront Facebook Page: http://www.facebook.com/Forefront757

We love you guys (and gals), and continue to pray for the team.

Monica, Aaron, Nicole & Jason

It won’t be every week, but on a semi-regular basis, we’re gonna take a look at the message from the previous week and “After The Message” give a little insight for further study, etc. This week, we’re taking a look at “Remaining Balance, Week 3″ (preached by James Davis, Student Pastor).

Take a look, and have a great week!

After The Message: Remaining Balance, Week 3 from Forefront Church on Vimeo.

*jdel

So this weekend we’re heading on a Men’s Retreat with 40+ guys to a 10 bedroom house to focus on God. Our purpose is to focus on God’s story, how we are involved, and what are we doing with our story… I’m not good in large groups (anxiety), but I do my best. Many of the guys aren’t into large groups either, but they’re coming. I’m glad God is pushing them (and me) to gather together and talk about our faith. We need it.

As I’ve been studying, learning, and praying over the retreat, here are some of the things, concepts, and ideas that have been weighing on me. If you’re going, I’m praying God moves your heart like He’s been moving mine… Enjoy the preview.

“3:30 a.m. is just too early” is what I thought to myself as I began day 2 of riding & giving up my vehicle. Day 1 was cake. Ride to work, ride home- done. The second day, well… let’s just say it wasn’t “ideal.” 20-25 mph winds, rain, gusts, it was a mess. I’m not quite sure my body was ready for the conditions. The riding, yes. But not the weather.

The thing is, that’s the point of this journey.
To learn how the other side lives.
Begin to get a glimpse into the lives of others.
God did that for me in day two.

To read more, head over to http://www.rideforwater.org where I’m sharing my daily journey in raising awareness for Ta Phin, Vietnam and the 600+ people living with unclean water.
You can join me to change all that.
Click over to the site and learn how.

*jdel

Unfortunately, we don’t have any groups that dress up like this each week (but maybe that’s your mission from God to make happen here at Forefront!) Actually, that would be extremely creepy, forget that idea. Immediately. Alright, let’s move on…

There are a ton of reasons to be in a Gel Group. It’s about sharing life together. Learning the Bible together. Making time to be with others on a regular basis, but not just for kickin’ it… there are some specific reasons that help complete who God designed you to be and fulfill your mission as a follower of Jesus.

01. You will help the world see God’s love. Which is so cool, because so many people are desperate to experience that kind of life change. (John 17:23)

02. You have someone ready to help you carry the heavy burdens of life. This life is difficult anyways, and now as a group you can help one another. (Galatians 6:2)

03. God provides a place to learn how to do good towards others. Society is filled with people all about themselves, you can flip the script and make it about other people and loving them. (1 Thessalonians 5:15)

04. You are connected to a group of people who are less like a “group” and more like a “family.” (Colossians 2:2)

05. It’s a place to find encouragement and learn the wisdom of the Bible. Everybody needs encouragement when following God, it goes against every selfish thing we want. They’re your own personal cheerleaders! (Colossians 3:16)

06. You’ll follow the example of the early church as it was getting started. How cool is that?! (Acts 2:46)

07. You get to learn about the the greatest mission ever- and be united with a bunch of other people who want to make it happen. (Philippians 2:1-2)

08. You get to fulfill God’s command of honoring and loving others. In a culture where honor and love is dwindling, you can be an example of God’s love in the world. (Romans 12:10)

09. If you claim to follow Jesus, a sign of that is having community with not only God, but also with other people who follow Him. (1 John 1:6-7)

10. As the early church did, they had devotion to- gathering together, studying God’s word, and prayer. It was a weekly occurrence. It should be for you too. (Acts 2:42)

*jdel

I am not a CEO.
I don’t do business on the golf course.
I refrain from dropping names if at all possible.
I dream, but not about buildings, campuses, or spread sheets.
I don’t have a ten year plan.
I love God’s church, but struggle with living it sometimes.
I have heard people say when it comes to the church, “It’s not personal…”
I have been doing this for long enough to know, “It’s almost always personal.”
I own “Good To Great” only because it’s what cool pastors say to read.
I have never cracked opened the book.
I hear voices & leaders all over telling me to what I should be.
I wonder if I listen to all those things, I’ll never be what I need to be.
I act like it doesn’t phase me when people don’t like me.
I actually don’t handle it well on the inside.
I want to run from God weekly like Jonah.
I am reminded that He calls me to stay.
I want to yell at Him like Job.
I do sometimes.
I want to feel the feeling of walking on water.
I have spent many times looking away at the waves instead.
I know I need to be a great dad & husband.
I am told daily they love me for me.

I pass by other jobs and wonder what life would be like if…
I know above all else, God’s laid it on my heart to preach.

Preach without apology.
Teach with passion & love.
Lead in His truth above all else.
As a leader, teacher, pastor… my job is to preach.

14 How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? 15 And how can anyone preach unless they are sent? As it is written: “How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!” Romans 10:14-15

I am so grateful that God laid it on my heart to preach & teach. At the same time, it scares the living crap out of me, because the weight is so heavy. Hundreds of lives. Eternity at stake. He’s asked me to lead the charge.

My prayer: Who will join?
Will you be the person who selflessly gives all to impact others?
Will you put the brokenness of others before your busy schedule?
Will you commit to a life of loving God and loving people?

Today is the day where you don’t look back.
It’s time to engage God like never before.

*jdel

Over the holiday, my family and I received some very special gifts from individuals at Forefront. We’d just wanted to take a minute to say, “Thank you.” From books and gift cards, to meals and more- you all definitely honored my wife, two little girls, and myself. We cannot say enough how much we love serving here with God’s Church at Forefront.

On a completely different note: I never get mail. Well, let me rephrase that… I never get mail that matters much to me. I do get lots of junk mail, bills, sales ads, bills, more junk mail- you get the idea. Yesterday though, was quite the turn of events. I got mail- and it wasn’t junk, bills, or sales ads. I received this:

One line in the letter read, “I’m writing you with good news today. Someone who knows you and loves you requested that we send you a very special gift of appreciation.” And, enclosed was a CD with some great mp3 messages, a short book on things James MacDonald has learned in his 2 decades of preaching, and some other goodies.

I have no idea who this was, but thank you. When Carrie and I look at the resources God has entrusted us with each pay period, the last thing we think about is how to cultivate ourselves more. We immediately default to you all at Forefront, helping other families, the Crisis Pregnancy Center, etc. We justify it by saying, “We have our Bible’s and a few books we like- we don’t need any more stuff compared to what others need.”

While some might read that last paragraph and go, “You’re just trying to pat yourselves on the back” or “Man, they have a heart for God. Good for them”… the unfortunate part is, we should also be putting more of an emphasis on diversifying our spiritual growth than we do. Don’t get me wrong, Carrie and I are in the Bible, reading books, teaching our children, praying, searching after Him, etc. But, I think in the place we’re in, in the leadership God has called us to- it’s time to invest more than we have in previous years into reaching new levels. It’s one of our goals in 2011. And to this nameless individual who requested this packet of resources in appreciation for all we do…

Thank you. This keeps us aimed at our goal.

*jdel

I follow a bunch of blogs & RSS feeds on Google Reader. Some help with ministry planning, some encouraging, some about the geeky tech stuff I like to be in the know about. One of the posts on Monday really struck a cord with me. It’s something I see growing more and more popular in our “consuming culture.” The culprit: “church hopping” or “church shopping.” Check out the post below:

Church Hopping & Shopping, by S. F. (full article here)

One of the things that really troubles me about the church today is the phenomenon of church hopping and church shopping. It’s a consumeristic mindset towards the body of Christ that grieves the heart of God.

It’s time for us to stop the hop. This isn’t Christianity. Jesus didn’t die so we could sample different churches like varieties of meat on a party platter. Jesus died to establish His church as the most powerful entity on the planet.

We are alive at the greatest time in history for the advance of the gospel. We have so much going for us.

We have the ability.
We have the resources.
We have the people.

What we don’t have is them committed to a place where they can actually be used for their God-ordained purpose.

If this generation doesn’t make the impact it should, it won’t be because it didn’t have the resources. Or even the passion. It will be because it was too busy hopping to different churches to stop and commit to one where its resources and passion could actually find an outlet.

The church is the change the world is waiting for. God help us if we keep the world waiting for us while we try to find the perfect church for us.

If you’ve fallen into the trap of church hopping, let me encourage you: embrace your place somewhere where God can use you. At the end of your life, God’s not going to be impressed or pleased that you saw what He was doing at ten different churches. He’s going be more pleased that you were a part of what He was doing at one church.

And you’re never going to find the perfect one, so give up looking. If the church you’re visiting doesn’t have what you’re looking for, it might be because God wants you to provide it.

Let’s all commit together to begin a campaign to stop the hop.
Find a place to get planted. Embrace it. And start changing the world.

The question of our day isn’t if God wants to do incredible things through the church. The question is will we be in place to experience it?