Faith of a little child

Jesus was known to say multiple times throughout his ministry to let the little children come to him. Jesus has a special place in his heart for kids. I think that's why he said that we need to have the faith of a little child.


What's so incredible to me about a child's faith is their simple and innocent obedience and trust. 


Levi showed that yesterday by choosing, on his own, because God said to, to be baptized. It was a cool moment for me as his dad. It was a great example of childlike faith and obedience for all of us at Hub City. 


Thanks to Brett for filming it for us to remember.

Good Friday

What are you going to be thinking about today? I pray that at some point today you take some time to think about and reflect on what Jesus went through on Good Friday almost 2000 years ago. He was beaten, bruised, ridiculed and crucified to pay the price for your sin and mine. He willingly allowed himself to be brutally executed so that the sin barrier that existed between us and God could be forever destroyed. I think it would be good to spend some time meditating on that today.

Here are some passages that you can read to focus your heart and mind on Jesus' sacrifice:

• Matthew 27
• Mark 15
• Luke 23
• John 19

Someone needs this today

I know I needed to be reminded of this today. I think some of you need this too:

The Definition of Joy by Kay Warren

“We're depending on God; he's everything we need. What's more, our hearts brim with joy since we've taken for our own his holy name. Love us, God, with all you've got — that's what we're depending on.” (Psalm 33:20-22 MSG) This devotional is based on Kay Warren’s new book, “Choose Joy: Because Happiness Isn’t Enough.” Finding joy is a challenge for me. I’m not naturally an upbeat person; I’m more of a melancholy. When I talk about joy, I’m not doing so from the perspective of a generally peppy person who never has a bad day. In fact, it’s because of my own inability to live with joy that led me to explore why my experiences didn’t line up with Scripture. My problem was my definition of joy. I thought joy meant feeling good all the time. That’s impossible! Even for those who are naturally upbeat and optimistic, that’s impossible. We have to start somewhere more realistic — and close to Scripture. So here’s the definition I’ve come up with from studying Scripture: Joy is the settled assurance that God is in control of all the details of my life, the quiet confidence that ultimately everything is going to be alright, and the determined choice to praise God in every situation. You’ll find nothing in that definition about happy feelings, because, as we all know, happiness is fleeting and temporary. We tend to think that life comes in hills and valleys. In reality, it’s much more like train tracks. Every day of your life, wonderful, good things happen that bring pleasure and contentment and beauty to you. At the exact same time, painful things happen to you or those you love that disappoint you, hurt you, and fill you with sorrow. These two tracks — both joy and sorrow — run parallel to each other every single moment of your life. That’s why, when you’re in the midst of an amazing experience, you have a nagging realization that it’s not perfect. And while you’re experiencing something painful, there’s the glorious realization that there is still beauty and loveliness to be found. They’re inseparable. If you look down train tracks into the brightness of the horizon, the tracks become one. You can’t distinguish them as two separate tracks. That’s how it will be for us, too. One day, our parallel tracks of joy and sorrow will merge into one. The day we meet Jesus Christ in person and see the brightness of who he is, it will all come together for us. Then it will all make complete sense.

Alex's House Haiti March 2012 Video

Thanks to Frankie Creel for this.

Day 2

First, if you have a smart phone or iPad, you can get this 21 day devotion by going to Youversion and looking it up. Here's day 2:

During this fast, build an altar and lay a sacrifice on it that honors God. It will cost your convenience, your comfort, and it will also take some serious willpower and commitment. What will your sacrifice be during this fast? Make sure it's a sacrifice that will cost you something. Make your commitment in writing and share it with a friend who will hold you accountable to your commitment. Pray for God to show you what He wants you to sacrifice.

1 Chronicles 21:18-27 NLT

18 Then the angel of the LORD told Gad to instruct David to go up and build an altar to the LORD on the threshing floor of Araunah the Jebusite. 19 So David went up to do what the LORD had commanded him through Gad. 20 Araunah, who was busy threshing wheat at the time, turned and saw the angel there. His four sons, who were with him, ran away and hid. 21When Araunah saw David approaching, he left his threshing floor and bowed before David with his face to the ground. 22David said to Araunah, “Let me buy this threshing floor from you at its full price. Then I will build an altar to the LORD there, so that he will stop the plague.” 23 “Take it, my lord the king, and use it as you wish,” Araunah said to David. “I will give the oxen for the burnt offerings, and the threshing boards for wood to build a fire on the altar, and the wheat for the grain offering. I will give it all to you.” 24 But King David replied to Araunah, “No, I insist on buying it for the full price. I will not take what is yours and give it to the LORD. I will not present burnt offerings that have cost me nothing!” 25 So David gave Araunah 600pieces of gold in payment for the threshing floor. 26 David built an altar there to the LORD and sacrificed burnt offerings and peace offerings. And when David prayed, the LORD answered him by sending fire from heaven to burn up the offering on the altar. 27Then the LORD spoke to the angel, who put the sword back into its sheath.

21 days of prayer and fasting - the beginning

I'm so excited as together we begin this 21 days of prayer and fasting. I am expectant as we set aside these days leading up to Easter to seek God. Each day I will be emailing out a passage from the Bible with a short devotion.

Yesterday I read 2 Chronicle 7:14 which says, If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land. I challenged you, using this verse as a guide for the next 21 days, to do the following:

• Humble yourself by getting on your knees daily before God to pray.
• Pray: Actually making time to converse with your Heavenly Father. If you don't know what to pray ask God. He'll tell you. You can also use the daily Bible reading to guide your prayer.
• Seek God's face by fasting. Fasting is when we intentionally take something our of our lives and replace it with time with God. As you crave what you would normally indulge in your hunger and focus on God grows.
• Turn from your wicked ways: Use this time to examine your heart and your life. Repent of your sin. Confess your sin. Ask God to reveal your sin to you so that you can turn away from it.

I am praying that God will use the next 21 days to do something significant and profound in your life and in our church. Here is today's reading.

Daniel 10
1 In the third year of the reign of King Cyrus of Persia,tDaniel (also known as Belteshazzar) had another vision. He understood that the vision concerned events certain to happen in the future—times of war and great hardship.

2 When this vision came to me, I, Daniel, had been in mourning for three whole weeks.

3 All that time I had eaten no rich food. No meat or wine crossed my lips, and I used no fragrant lotions until those three weeks had passed.
4 On April 23,t as I was standing on the bank of the great Tigris River,5 I looked up and saw a man dressed in linen clothing, with a belt of pure gold around his waist.

6 His body looked like a precious gem. His face flashed like lightning, and his eyes flamed like torches. His arms and feet shone like polished bronze, and his voice roared like a vast multitude of people.
7 Only I, Daniel, saw this vision. The men with me saw nothing, but they were suddenly terrified and ran away to hide.8 So I was left there all alone to see this amazing vision. My strength left me, my face grew deathly pale, and I felt very weak.

9 Then I heard the man speak, and when I heard the sound of his voice, I fainted and lay there with my face to the ground.
10 Just then a hand touched me and lifted me, still trembling, to my hands and knees.

11 And the man said to me, “Daniel, you are very precious to God, so listen carefully to what I have to say to you. Stand up, for I have been sent to you.” When he said this to me, I stood up, still trembling.
12 Then he said, “Don’t be afraid, Daniel. Since the first day you began to pray for understanding and to humble yourself before your God, your request has been heard in heaven. I have come in answer to your prayer.13 But for twenty-one days the spirit princet of the kingdom of Persia blocked my way. Then Michael, one of the archangels,t came to help me, and I left him there with the spirit prince of the kingdom of Persia.t

14 Now I am here to explain what will happen to your people in the future, for this vision concerns a time yet to come.”
15 While he was speaking to me, I looked down at the ground, unable to say a word.16 Then the one who looked like a mant touched my lips, and I opened my mouth and began to speak. I said to the one standing in front of me, “I am filled with anguish because of the vision I have seen, my lord, and I am very weak.

17 How can someone like me, your servant, talk to you, my lord? My strength is gone, and I can hardly breathe.”
18 Then the one who looked like a man touched me again, and I felt my strength returning.

19 “Don’t be afraid,” he said, “for you are very precious to God. Peace! Be encouraged! Be strong!”
As he spoke these words to me, I suddenly felt stronger and said to him, “Please speak to me, my lord, for you have strengthened me.”
20 He replied, “Do you know why I have come? Soon I must return to fight against the spirit prince of the kingdom of Persia, and after that the spirit prince of the kingdom of Greecet will come.

21 Meanwhile, I will tell you what is written in the Book of Truth. (No one helps me against these spirit princes except Michael, your spirit prince.

This passage is a source for the idea of a 21-day fast. As you set apart these three weeks to seek God, know that God has already heard your prayer. He is already at work on your behalf. What specific clarity of vision are you seeking from God during this time? Write down your prayer so you can reflect on it at the end of the 21 days. Spend time praying for God to speak to you and give you strength.

Coming home

March 16

Travel day number two.

We got to make the ride from Kalico to Port au Prince in the back of an open air truck today. Now let me tell you,this is an experience that all should try. It was made more adventurous by the flat tire we had in the middle of the trip. There were a few times along the trip when I knew my life was over and that if I had my arm sticking out I would be one arm short. I was able to take some great picks and see a lot of the countryside.

We saw slums, tent cities on the hillside, chaotic roadside markets, more goats wandering down the road and an armed dude on the back of a motorcycle taxi complete with flack jacket and shotgun. You don't see that everyday in Sparkle-City.

I know I said this in an earlier post, but the whole scene in my mind is so surreal. I've only seen pictures and videos of this kind of living. I can see why Haiti is the second poorest nation in the world. The sad part is that I'm told that what I've seen is decidedly Haitian middle class. Their middle class is poorer than our lower class. I guess it's something that you have to see to really grasp. That's why I want you all to come.

You gotta love the airport. The TSA ain't got nothin' on Haitian security. We had to go through three security checkpoints. I had the privilege of being patted down three times. I guess it's the thinking of "If at first you don't succeed, try and try again."

Some final thoughts on the trip.

In my Bible reading time on Wednesday I read Matthew 9:35-38. Stop and read that. This passage came to life in a new way for me.

When God looks towards Haiti and the Haitian people he doesn't look with anger at the darkness. He looks at them with compassion, as sheep without a shepherd. I see that. They are truly sheep. We all are, but we're just more self-sufficient sheep as Americans. The whole country comes across to me as sheep without a shepherd. And coming here, we aren't the solution but we can be a part of the solution as we bring Jesus to the Haitians. The problem is that the needs are great but the workers are few. I am praying that the Lord of the harvest will call more of you into this harvest field and that over time we will see individual lives and eventually, the county of Haiti transformed.

March 15 from Haiti

March 15

We got to spend the morning at Obama Beach. Yes, it was named after our current president. Unfortunately he wasn't there. In fact, nobody was there. We had the entire beach and resort facility to ourselves. I use the term 'resort' lightly. But is was beautiful. It was rustic and super Haitian. Authentic might be a better term. We got to swim for about an hour in the crystal clear Caribbean. Goats wandered the beach. You don't see that at Hilton Head. There were a group of Haitian women were washing their clothes on the beach with salt water. It was kind of a National Geographic moment since they were washing the clothes that they had been wearing. But can you imagine washing your clothes with water from the ocean?

The best part was lunch. We got some delicious Haitian food. I had a creole fish with slaw, fries and plantains. I promise, what you have pictured in your mind isn't what was on my plate. But it was so, so good. Eating good food, overlooking the Caribbean, I could have stayed there all day.

This is such a beautiful country, but its beauty is covered up by poverty that is unlike anything I've ever experienced.

My hope is that our partnership, over time, will make a difference here.

Three hours have passed. Just got back from the kids. I didn't realize it would be so difficult to day.

When we got there the kids were getting baths. Outside. On the dirt ground. They either had a school function or church function tonight so they were getting prettified. It was funny because the girls were getting all fixed up just like they would at home except without the makeup and other luxuries that we have.

As soon as I walked into the gate, Darlencia found me and wanted to be held. She just talked and talked and talked but I couldn't understand anything. That didn't stop her.

Shenika wasn't there when I got there. She hadn't returned from school yet, but when she did she found me too.

Someone from The Village Church brought some suckers. They were a huge hit. Darlencia shared hers with me. Not that I wanted to but it was either take a lick or get smacked in the face with it. I decided to lick. Someone else brought some bubbles. The wedding kind. They were also a huge hit. One little boy who was just over two years old wants me to put his iris pocket, then get them out, then open them, then close them, then out them back in his pocket. We went through the same routine for ten minutes. It was hilarious.

When we got in the bus I was overcome with emotion. I looked over at Bryan Scott and he's tearing up to. And I really lost it. Thanks Bryan.

It just makes me sad. I've grown to love these kids who need so much love. I am glad we're in this for the long term. I just wish we could do more now.

I had a thought yesterday that I think was from God. I was a bit frustrated yesterday,but God reminded me that I could be a dad for a few hours to some of these kids. I hope my little time as a surrogate dad made a difference. I am praying that it did. And I'm glad we are coming back soon.

Wednesday from Haiti

March 14

Today was brick day. We stacked 450 cement blocks. I can barely move. On a positive note, my biceps are looking great.

I felt like we really accomplished something significant. Day three we hit our stride at the construction site. Not too bad for a group of guys with desk jobs. I will say that I'm glad I don't do this type of work all the time.

The weather has been great. I like the heat. But this has been the hottest day so far. A few on our team. That shall remained unnamed, look like lobsters... even with sunscreen. Which you most definitely need to pack since shade and cloud cover are limited.

I wrote the last three paragraphs before we went to the orphanage. I really love these kids. As soon as I got there Shenika found me and grabbed my hand. Then her sister, Darlenia, crawled up in my lap. She is four. They are beautiful little girls. I could have held them for a long time.

My camera and sunglasses were big hits. A little eight year old boy whose name I can't remember confiscated my camera and used it the entire time. They not only like to take Picts but will scroll through the pictures that I've taken over and over and over again. It's pretty fun to watch. My glasses went to Shenika first and then her sister and then another little boy who had a ton of questions and then back to Shanika again.

If you know me then you know that I'm pretty tight with my stuff, but God reminded me that it is all his. And who knew that a digital camera and sunglasses could provide so much fun.

Here's what got me today. As we were leaving a friend of Shenika came up to me, pointed at Shenika and said, "She's your daughter." ... ... ... .....

Wow. What do I do with that? I would take her and Darlenia home in a heartbeat. I know Liz would love them. All of the kids are beautiful. I can't imagine not having a mom and dad. I can't imagine wanting someone to be my dad after spending two hours over two days with them.

On a comical note, some of you know my good friend Bryan Scott. One of the nannies asked Bryan if he was married and if he had kids. He said no and she proceeded to point at one of the either young nannies and said, "She loves you." Bryan came to Haiti and got a proposal. It was awesome.

We have watched them eat the past two days. I am not sure how many times a day that they eat, but when the food is put in front of them nobody complains. They get busy eating and they eat everything in their bowl. Everything. Not a drop is left. Even the two year olds feed themselves and eat it all.

Speaking of a two year old, the little one that I held yesterday was still a bit under the weather today. It looked like she might need to go see the doc. If I were at home I would call my kid's doc and make an appointment. That's not an option here. I wouldn't hesitate to take my boys to the doctor if they needed to go. These kids don't have that luxury. It completely breaks my heart. If it weren't for Bryan's proposal I am not sure I would have held it together.

This has been a great experience. I can't wait for Liz to come. One of the boys asked me when I was coming back and if my wife and kids was coming with me. They want to see my family. I would like that.

Oma completely different note. There are no driving rules in Haiti. I thought a few times that I was going to die. People ride down the road on top of busses. It is crazy.

Day three from Haiti

March 13

We spent the morning digging up a stump. It might have well been concreted into the ground.

After lunch we got to go to the orphanage. I don't really have words to describe the experience. Their campus is about the size of my back yard. Thirty three kids and their adult helpers live in a plot the size of my back yard. They have no grass. Just dirt. They have an outhouse and a trash pile because there is no garbage service. They sleep seven to eight in a room that's the size of Matthew's. They wash clothes in tubs that look like baby pools. They get their water from a well.

The kids just wanted to be held, played with and loved on. A little two year old with a runny nose latched on to me. She just laid her head on my shoulder and then started to sing "this little light of mine." Perfectly. It was really cool. But mainly just wanted me to hold her. She wore no underwear nor diaper. She was as cute as she could be. I could have taken her home.

Then I met a ten year old girl named Shanika. She fell in love with my camera. Most of my pics of the kids came from her. Her english was fantastic. As I was leaving she just came up and cuddled up next to me and hugged me. And wouldn't let go. I could have taken her home too. She was beautiful.

Many of these kids were my kids age. All they wanted was a little love and physical touch. I just needed to be willing to hold them, hug them, smile at them.

These kids are why we partnered with Alex's House. They are now our kids.

I had trouble holding it together.

I can't wait to share pics.

Day one and two from Haiti

March 11

Mental note: never plan a trip over daylight savings time weekend. Not only do you loses an hour of sleep, but there has been massive confusion over what time it really is in Haiti. Even our pilot was confused, but supposedly the president decreed last week that haiti will stay on eastern standard time, but we've been confused since we got here.

It didn't help that we were delayed two hours in Miami. We finally landed at 6:30. There is one run way. The plane had to do a u-turn on the runway to get to the terminal. That's a first. And customs was a warehouse. Definitely third worldy. But we made it through, even though Clay had to go through twice.

God got us to the guesthouse safe. It's a two hour ride from the capital. But we made it. Driving through Port au Prince, I had my doubts. Driving rules are optional. Pavement exist between potholes. Te whole experience has been surreal and a bit unbelievable. Rubble is still leftover from the earthquake. Many buildings are still uninhabitable. It's like a scene from a documentary. But we made it.

I have to mention the bus ride. All twenty five of us rode an old school bus that seemed to squeeze magically into impossible crevices. And the horn is used as much as the gas pedal.

The accommodations are rustic but much nicer than I expected. Supper was great. Spaghetti and meatballs with bread, and creamy butter, roasted potatoes, and a salad that was lettuce, tomato, onion and pepper. I thought it was great. Best of all was the watermelon for dessert.

Cold shower was very cold, but refreshing. Brushing my teeth with my bottled water was a new experience.

Now it is off to bed. I think it's 11:02. That is if it's the decreed presidential time.

March 12

Thank goodness for ear plugs. I thought roosters were supposed to cockadoodle-do at day break. One outside our room was confused. He sang all night.

Today we toured the new facility that's in the process of being built. I have to say, I love Bill's vision and am so excited that we get to be a part of it.

After the tour we dug... And dug... And dug. I've never dug footings. Now I have. And I'm sore. And we new it would be hot, and it was a draining heat. I can't wait to show ythe pictures of water in a bag that we drank all day. I drank about nine bags. I'm pretty sure the team is fed up with me telling them to drink more. I'd rather them not dehydrate on the first day. We drove by the hospitals last night and none looked like a place I want to visit.

I want Liz to experience this, but I am fearful about my kids. This is not a place for kids. But I do want my kids to see what I am seeing. Trash everywhere. Goats, chickens and cows just roaming.

Now I am hungry. My lunch of three protein bars and dried apples is gone.

A good word from Vince

A Parable

by Vince Antonucci:

Picture this: It's 9/12. The morning after the terrorist attacks in New York City. Experts believe that there are people, possibly hundreds of people, buried alive under the rubble that was only a day ago the World Trade towers. Rescue workers have been called in to dig through the rubble to search for people who might still have a chance at life. And the rescue workers are standing next to the rubble ... arguing. They're debating why the terrorist attacks happened, different philosophies on how to find survivors, what's the best brand of shovel. Meanwhile people buried under the rubble are dying.

I think that's the church today. We were called by Jesus to be rescue workers, helping people to find life. But for some reason, unfathomable to me, the rescue workers spend their time arguing. Many even enjoy debating. Meanwhile the people we're called to save are dying.

For him who has ears to hear...

I dare you

In my "read through the Bible in 90 days" suicide Bible reading plan I've been reading a lot about idols and idolatry. God's pretty anti-idol. In fact, the first to of the Ten Commandments tell us that he's the only God and that we're not to have any God besides him. Idolatry is a biggie.

An idol is anything that takes the place of God in our life. It's anything that we worship above God.

Well, all of this reading about idols has cause me to do a bit of self-inventory asking: What idols do I have in my life? What idols do you have in your life?

Many of us worship all kinds of things other than God. And we don't even realize it.

Here's a list of common idols:

• Money
• Sex
• Power
• Busyness
• The need to be in control
• Relationships

There are all kinds of idols. What takes the place of God in your life?

Here's something that I dare you to ask God: Point out any idols in my life. Show me my idols. Convict me of my idols so that I can worship you and you alone.

Enemies of the Heart - a review

There are certain books, that when I read them, I think: Everybody I know needs to read this book. This is one of those books.

Enemies of the Heart by Andy Stanley has the potential to transform your life. I'm not making that up. I'm not over-stating.

We've all got some junk inside of us that consumes and controls us. And try as we might to pretend it's not there or to sweep it under the rug, it rears its ugly head and hurts us, our friends, our family and anyone else who's unfortunate enough to get in our way.

This book talks about those inside things. Things like anger, jealousy, greed and guilt. These things control us more than we want to admit. Andy gives us a practical, doable plan for ridding our lives of these four controlling emotion.

I'll be honest. This is a tough book to read. It will stretch you. You'll want to stop reading at times because you won't want to do what it says. But you need to press on and read it.

So what are you waiting on. Order it today and read it.

I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review

Hunting you down

This is so cool.

You're probably familiar with Psalm 23. It's one of those that gets read in a bunch of different contexts. It's a great Psalm, filled with encouragement.

Verse 6 says, Surely goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life.

I learned today that the word "follow" is actually a pretty weak translation because it's more of a hunting term.

Which means that God's goodness and love hunts us down all the days of our life. How cool is that?!?! I love that.

No matter who you are, where you've been or what you've done, God is hunting you down, chasing you, coming after you with his love and goodness.

That's just so cool that I had to share.

To chew on

Last Monday and Tuesday a few of us from Hub City Church went down to the churchplanters.com conference. It was very encouraging for each of us. We learned some. Got to eat some great Chinese food. Were inspired. And grew in unity and love for God's church.

Well, I have good news for you. You can listen to the sessions from the conference. Actually, I'd like to make a few suggestions. Go here to listen. Here are my suggestions:

• Velocity Main Session 2C: Brian Bloye
• Velocity Main Session 4A: Pete Wilson

There were many other good sessions and breakouts, but those were the most meaningful to me.

Dear Hub City Church Family

Dear Hub City Family,

I need to apologize. Unintentionally, I've been encouraging you to take the easy way out of something that you need to do. I'm sorry for encouraging you to invite your friends and family to Hub City Church.

Do I want your friends to come to Hub City? Sure I do. I think we've got something worth being a part of. I think more people need to be a part of our church family.

But more than coming to Hub City I want your friends to know Jesus. And I want you to be the one to share Jesus with them.

Some of you almost peed on yourself. But it's true. God has put those friends in your life because he wants you to tell them about him. I'd hate to rob you of that opportunity. I'd hate for you to miss out on something that God put you on this planet to do.

You have a mission to bring Jesus to your world. Go for it. You've got Jesus. Your friends need Jesus. It's a match made in heaven... literally.

Thinking of changing our church name

Thanks to Ed Stetzer for the inspiration.

What I learned from the rain

I went prayer walking in the rain this morning. For some reason the rain reminds me of God, his provision, his Spirit and our need. But I had another thought about the rain.

I can't control the weather. I can only respond to whatever mother-nature sends my way.

It's the same way with God. I can't control God. I can only respond to his movement, his Word, his leading.

Unfortunately I think we get that backwards a lot of times. We try to control God and get him to respond to us. That's as stupid as trying to control the weather.

Our job should be to learn how to listen and respond to the God who does whatever he pleases.

For some reason I think we'd all be a lot happier if we lived in the awareness of this truth. I know I am.

Alex's House Orphanage Talk

How to get along in 5 words week 1

Seeing Miracles

I've always been a little bit jealous of the people that we read about in the Gospels and in the book of Acts. They had the privilege of seeing some amazing supernatural stuff. We read over and over that they were filled with awe and wonder.

I've been filled with awe and wonder lately.

Over the past couple of weeks I've seen God do some miracles. Now, let me be clear. I don't use that word lightly. I don't think I've ever used that word before now. But I've seen some things that can only be described as miracles over the past two weeks.

It's not that I think God wasn't doing anything miraculous before now. But for me, two things are different. I've been praying for miracles. I've been asking God to move in a way that only he can get credit for. And, I've been looking for miracles. I've been looking for God to move in a supernatural way.

I don't want to miss out on the miracles that God is doing on a daily basis. I don't want you to miss out either.

God still does miracles. May he leave us in awe and wonder as we experience his supernatural activity in our lives.

A resource that has been extremely influential for me has been Mark Batterson's book The Circle Maker. I highly recommend it.

How to get along in 5 words

Be honest: There are people in your life that you don't like. You may not even like me! But if you are a Christian then you are called to a different standard in your relationships with the people that God has brought into your life. You need to figure out how to get along. That's what we'll start talking about this coming Sunday at Hub City.

What I've been listening you and why you should listed to it too

I have been listening to a ton of sermon podcasts this week. It has been so good and God has used each one in my life in ways that I can't quite put into words. I wanted to pass them along because I think they are worth your time as well.

Now, what I would recommend, is you going to iTunes and downloading the podcasts, but you can also search for them online.

Rick Warren's sermon: Why Can I Trust the Bible? Everyone needs to listen to this.

Mark Batterson's series on The Circle Maker. Search National Community Church. First sermon is called the Genealogy of Prayer. This series, along with the book (The Circle Maker) is revolutionizing my prayer life right now.

Finally, Mark Driscoll's series called Real Marriage. Search Mars Hill Church - Mark Driscoll. Every married, engaged, and single person needs to listed to this series. I've heard the first three sermons and had Liz listen to them. They are so powerful.

So, stop reading this post and start searching for those sermons and listen and learn. God has something he wants to say to you.

I am sorry ahead of time

Liz and I decided that if I am ever really sick then I am going to be a terrible patient. I should write the doctors and nurses a letter of apology beforehand.

I had to get my shots for Haiti today. They hurt like crazy. I felt like I might need three nurses to hold me down. I know why my kids screamed their heads off.

And I don't know if anybody else had this reaction, but they knocked me out. I have felt like I'm walking through syrup this evening.

Good news is that I get to go back in four weeks for another and then in six months to finish off the set. I can't wait.

So funny... :)

Groupies

I have a confession to make. I used to be a groupie. No, I didn't follow Phil Collins or the Gratetful Dead. I was worse. I followed preachers.

I followed famous pastors who are great communicators. I even idolized a few. I would listen to all of their messages and worship their cool church and try to be like them. I would even compare my situation, my church and my speaking with theirs. I was a groupie.

I've noticed that I'm not the only one who does this. I see it all the time. I bet some of you are preacher groupies. Their name just popped into your head. You worship the cool dude on the big stage at the "happenin'" church.

And you compare your experience and your church and your pastor to them. And it's not that you're trying to intentionally think that the grass is greener on the other side. It's just that you're a groupie.

You need to do what I did.

You need to repent.

If we're going to be groupies then we need to be groupies of Jesus. Putting anyone else in the place of Jesus is called idolatry.

Jesus is the one who makes all the difference. Jesus is the one who redeems, restores and rescues. Jesus is the one we are to worship and follow.

There are some great communicators out there who are leading some great churches. Learn form them. I do.

Just stop worshipping them. They don't need groupies.

Seven day reading plan on the kingdom

Day 1: Matthew 13

Day 2: The kingdom turns the world’s values upside down. Matthew 18:3-9.

Day 3: The kingdom demands forgiveness. Matthew 18:23-35

Day 4: The kingdom isn’t fair. Matthew 20:1-16. It’s about grace.

day 5: The kingdom is open to everyone. Matthew 22:2-14.

Day 6: The kingdom is unexpected. Matthew 25:1-13

day 7: The kingdom requires work. Matthew 25:14-30

168 - 4 = 164 + transformation

Don't you love my math equation?

I was thinking today about time. Each of us has 168 hours in a week. Our life is shaped by how we spend those 168 hours.

What if we could multiply the impact and change the trajectory of our life by taking 4 out of those 168 hours and investing them in something that will have cumulative, positive effect on our lives? If you could, would you?

Here's what I'm talking about:

• Take 1 hour a week to worship with a local church community.
• Take 1 hour and 15 minutes a week to do life together in a small group.
• Take 15 minutes a day to read the Bible and pray.

That adds up to 4 hours. But those 4 hours will transform your life. Those 4 hours are more important than the other 164 hours. Those 4 hours will transform your life and possibly transform your world.

So, how about taking 4 of your 168 hours per week and investing them is something that will transform your life?

I call it the priority of time. The rest of your time and your life will be different because you put priority on those 4 hours.

Download now

I'm digging the new and final David Crowder Band album. They saved the best for last. Songs are raw and real. You should download it.

Now to get the Hub City band to learn some of these...

Now online via video

Thanks to the incredible talents of the amazing Brett Wingard Hub City's sermons are now online via video.

My "Occupy" article in today's paper

You can read it here.

Occupy something that matters.

Option 2

There's been a lot on my mind and heart lately. I am burdened by the burdens that I know so many of my friends are carrying. I am overwhelmed by opportunities and possibilities that are way bigger than me or anything I've ever been a part of before. I am broken hearted over friends who are struggling and suffering. I feel a heaviness.

Maybe you feel it too.

We can go one of two ways when we feel like I feel. I can give up. I can quit caring. I can stop trying. I can go backwards to how things were.

Or I can do what Paul admonishes us to do over and over again. I can press on. I can seek God in ways that I've never had to seek him before. I can trust God like he tells me to trust him. I can persevere.

I choose option 2. Even when I can't see the outcome. Even when it's harder than it has ever been. Even when there's so much uncertainty.

I pray you choose option 2 as well.

People matter

I love this article. There's one line that emphasizes relationship and people over profit. It's fantastic. See if you can find it.

What I Learned Building the Apple Store - Ron Johnson - Harvard Business Review

Some encouragement from a friend

The following was posted by my friend, Shaun Lovejoy. It encouraged me and I wanted to share it. It's good stuff.

Twelve years ago this week, we launched weekly worship services at Mountain Lake Church. Wow. What a ride! God has used me despite my stupidity; and I have learned so much along the way. Here’s the first part of my top twelve lessons I’ve learned in the last twelve years.

1. Having a vision is easy. Sticking to the vision takes extraordinary discipline and effort.

Every pastor and church has a vision. Every one of them I’v ever seen is Biblical. However, even most church planters get sidetracked form their visions within the first few years. We have stuck to our guns. We’ve been “mean about the vision.” It’s made all of the difference!

2. Conviction and Courage is more important than strategy.

My passion and sense of conviction, along with the courage to stay the course is more important than any brilliant strategy I could come up with that no one has ever done before.

3. No plan’s perfect; so work your Plan!

Our ministry plan is not perfect. However, we’ve worked the plan every year the last twelve years and every year we’ve gotten better at what God has called us to do. We don’t have “vision flavor of the month” or “small group method of the year.” We’ve worked our plan. We’ve been consistent in our ministry approach. It’s made all the difference.

4. People come. People Go. Go with the Go-ers.

Don’t focus who’s leaving; focus on who stays. The ones that stay will see the mission through and experience the fruit of mission accomplished! When one leaves; God will bring five to replace them…if we stay focused!

5. God does things the way He wants.

It has almost NEVER happened exactly the way we drew it up. However, that’s the precise thing that has kept us dependent on Him! Proverbs 16:9 (NIV) says: “In his heart a man plans his course, but the Lord determines his steps.” Prophetic verse in my life these last twelve years! So many times, what I deemed as a failure was God’s sharpening and sovereignty at work in my life and church!

6. In God’s Story, ordinary matters.

God loves to use ordinary people. I am one. The very reasons or excuses I might use to disqualify myself from being used greatly by Him make me the perfect candidate for extraordinary ministry! What are your excuses as to ehy God can’t use you? Those are the very reasons God wants to use you; because you’ll know it’s not about you!

7. Change the way people think about church

In the first year of our church, we made a decision: In everything we do, we’re going to seek to change the way people think about church. This is so much bigger than the type of music we do, or our dress, even though they are parts of the equation! It affects everything we do. Examples? Folks don’t have to be “Christians” to go on a mission trip. They might become one by going! They don’t have to be a “Christian” to volunteer at our church, much less, be a member! Our small groups are always not only open to new people, but are going after people who don’t go to church and inviting them to be a part of their group! Every group is responsible to “get off the couch” and serve and care missionally for people groups in our community. Just small simple example of how we’re changing the way people think about church both inside and outside our church in our community.

8. Go after unchurched people

We’re not worried about swapping sheep or reaching professional Christians. If they want to join our mission to reach the lost, great. If not, great. We are here to help as many people as possible find a relationship with God through Jesus. That’s our laser beam focus. Take us or leave us! We’re here to reach people who don’t like Jesus or Christians.

9. Be careful what you ask for

Did you know unchurched people don’t walk in and start tithing? And it probably won’t be a three-month process, either; probably more like three years! Unchurched people smoke and curse in the parking lot, and maybe even in the sound booth! All of these things really happen in our church. Being a hospital for sinners is messy!

10. The right team in the right seats makes all the difference

We’ve always had a great Ministry Team at our church. I am thankful for every one of them, however, the right team members with the right gifts and skills, in the right seats, in the right seasons of the church, allows a church to continue to breath and grow and reach people for Jesus Christ. The wrong team members on the wrong seats for too long will put a lid on the church’s effectiveness.

11. I must measure success God’s Way

Success is being who God called me to be and being obedient to what God has called me to do. I am so tempted to measure success by this week’s attendance. However, I’m never as good as people think I am when we’re exploding numerically; and I’m not as bad as I think I am when we’re not. My role is to be obedient to the call and stay sane, centered, and happily married in the process. That is success!

12. God is faithful.

God never gives up: on me; or on my ministry! He hasn’t given up on you, either! Don’t give up on yourself. We only fail when we give up. God never gives up. He is faithful!

Good reminder from Rick Warren

Satan Doesn't Mind Bible Study Never Applied by Rick Warren

Everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. Matthew 7:24 (NIV) Receiving, reading, researching, remembering, and reflecting on the Word of God are all useless if we fail to put them into practice. We must become doers of the word (James 1:22 KJV). I understand this is a hard step, because Satan fights it so intensely. He doesn’t mind you going to Bible studies as long as you don’t do anything with what you learn. We fool ourselves when we assume that just because we have heard or read or studied a truth, we have internalized it. Actually, you can be so busy going to the next class or seminar or Bible conference that you have no time to implement what you’ve learned. You forget it on the way to your next study. Without implementation, all our Bible studies are worthless. Jesus said, “Everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock.” (Matthew 7:24 NIV) Jesus also pointed out that God’s blessing comes from obeying the truth, not just knowing it. He said, “Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them.” (John 13:17 (NIV) I cannot overstate the value of being a part of a small Bible study discussion group. We always learn from others truths we would never learn on our own. Other people will help you see insights you would miss and help you apply God’s truth in a practical way. The best way to become a doer of the Word is to always write out an action step as a result of your reading or studying or reflecting on God’s Word. Develop the habit of writing down exactly what you intend to do. This action step should be personal (involving you), practical (something you can do), and provable (with a deadline to do it). Every application will involve either your relationship to God, your relationship to others, or your personal character. Talk about it – What has God already told you to do in his Word that you haven’t started doing yet?

The Book That Made Your World - a review

If you know me then you know that one thing I say all the time is that the best habit you could ever develop is the habit of reading the Bible on a daily basis.

There are so many reason why you should develop this habit, but if you're on the fence then you should read The Book That Made Your World. I guarantee it will win you over. It will show you the importance of the Bible even if you don't believe it's true.

This was one of the most fascinating books that I have ever read. It's also one of the longest books I've ever read. :)

In one sentence, this book shows how western civilization, the culture that we live in, has been shaped by the Bible. We would not have the freedoms, rights and prosperity that we have if it weren't for the truths that are in the Bible.

You should read this book because you will learn something. I know I learned a lot. Some of it I need to reread. You should also read it as a warning. It's almost prophetic in showing how things will be if we continue to devalue the Bible in our culture and our lives.

I believe that God's Word is the ultimate authority for life. If you want to see how it's power has shaped and formed our society and world for good then take the time to read this book.

Starting off right

Happy new year! Welcome to 2012.

The new year began with my whole family staying up to watch the ball drop. It's the first time in years that I've stayed up till midnight, but I couldn't be outdone by my kids. On the upside, they slept till almost 10 this morning. That has never happened before.

When I got up at 9 this morning I woke up with a desire to do something new in 2012. My incredible sister-in-law gave me an iPad for Christmas. I've decided to make the most of it by using one of youversion's Bible reading plans. I may have bitten off more than I can chew because I chose the "read through the Bible in 90 days" plan. Not sure if I can do it, but I'm going to try. I made it through day one. Only 89 days left. (Stop reading now. Search "youversion" in the app store. Install it and use it. I highly recommend it.)

I'm trying this because I know that my life is the sum of my habits. And the best habit that we could ever develop is that of reading the Bible on a regular basis.

One thing that jumped out to me from today's reading was the messiness of the Bible. I mean, why in the world would God include stories about a brother killing his brother, or a husband claiming that his wife is his sister to keep himself safe. If I were God, and I were putting together the Bible, those are stories that I would have left out.

But God includes the messiness. He works through the messiness. He accomplishes his purposes in spite of the messiness. That is an encouragement to me at the beginning of 2012. May it encourage you also.

Video from our Christmas Eve service

New

I'm loving this series we're doing right now at Hub City called He will be called.... You can listen online here to the messages. It's a teaching series all about who Jesus is, what he is like and why it matters.

And it does matter. Jesus is more than a good teacher. He's more than a role model. He's more than some historical figure that reshaped the course of History. He's the Wonderful Counselor, the Mighty God, the Everlasting Father, and as we'll see this week, the Prince of Peace.

But as I was getting ready for this week's sermon I was reminded of something that's a game changer about Jesus and for us.

Jesus came to make us new.

We need to be made new. At least I know I do. I need more than bandaids on my sin problems. I need more than good advice on how to navigate life. I need to be made new.

And so do you.

That's what's so incredible about this time of year. It reminds us that God stepped out of heaven, moved into our world, lived a sinless life among us, died and rose from the dead, to make us new. 2 Cor. 5:17 says, If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has gone and the new has come.

That is good news. That, like the birth of Jesus 2000 years ago, changes everything.

Levi's speaking debut!

It's too small a thing

I came across this verse out of Isaiah today.

“It is too small a thing for you to be my servant
to restore the tribes of Jacob
and bring back those of Israel I have kept.
I will also make you a light for the Gentiles,
that you may bring my salvation to the ends of the earth.” - Isaiah 49:6

I LOVE this because this is exactly what God is saying to us at Hub City Church.

We are a little over three years old as a church. God is using us in Spartanburg. He's blessed Movies in the Park and the Garage Unsale. We've seen many lives rescued because of God's grace and mercy.

But if we just stayed where we are then it would be too small a thing. God has more in store for us.

That's why I am so amped about Hub City's first overseas missions partnership. I'll give you all the details next week, but I'll tease it by saying that God is going to use us, Hub City Church, to make a radical difference in one of the most needy places in the world.

I'll talk a bit about it at Sunday's Gathering, but I am so glad that God has called us to more than just Spartanburg. We get to be a light to the nations!

Love

All we need is love. Or at least that's what The Beatles used to sing.

It's also what Jesus said.

Jesus says that the most important commandments are to love God and love others.

In his letter to the Church at Ephesus Jesus holds it against them that they have forsaken their first love and admonishes them to return to love.

In John we're told that love for one another is the one thing that should characterize us as disciples.

With all this talk on love I'm left asking myself: How am I doing with loving others? How am I doing loving God? When people think of me do they think of someone who loves?

And let me ask you: How are you doing with love?

A lampstand

Last night I suggested to Nathan that he read through the first three chapters in Revelation for his daily Bible reading. I have been praying that God would reveal more of himself to Nathan and teach Nathan how he should live as a follower of Jesus, and there is so much in those three powerful chapters.

Well, this morning I had the thought that I should read those chapters with him so we can talk about it. So I read chapter 1 and something jumped out at me that I never really paid attention to before.

Jesus calls the seven churches the seven lampstands.

Think about a lampstand. It doesn't produce the light. It just holds the light and provides the best container for the light to do what the light does, which is dispel the darkness.

It got me thinking about Hub City. We aren't the light. We're just a container that holds the light and does our best to make sure that the light (which is Jesus) can shine as bright as possible so that darkness is eradicated.

I was hoping for God to speak to Nathan, and I know he will. But he used that to speak to me. Hub City: We are a lampstand. Let's do what lampstands are meant to do.

Why we do good

Have you noticed that it's pretty in-vogue to do good. I was at the gym yesterday and the Today Show was interviewing Richard Branson on his new book that talks about using your business to do good. Movie stars like Angelina Jolie are known for their goodwill work around the world.

It has me wondering: Why do people do good works?

I could be wrong because I can't see into someone's heart, but I think that a lot of people are doing good to earn favor with God, or "the gods", or Allah, or the "big man in the sky", or "you fill in the blank." They are trying to make sure their good deeds outweigh their bad deeds.

And while that's all fine and good because people are helped, the truth is, your good deeds will never, ever, outweigh your bad deeds. I don't care how much good Richard Branson or Brangelina or you ever do. You just can't be good enough.

That's what makes Christmas such a great reminder to all of us. God knew we would never be good enough so he sent his Son to earth. He came to live the perfect life that we couldn't live and pay the price we could never pay.

As a result of what Jesus did we can do good works, not to earn God's favor, but to show our love for the God who came to save us. In other words, we do good not to earn favor from God, but because we've been shown favor by God.

How to be close to God

We know this, but you can't be relationally close to someone if you never spend time with them.

It's the same way with God. To be close to him you must spend time with him.

But how? Where do you start?

I'll share something that's helped me through the years. Reading through the Psalms does more for my relationship with God than anything else. Most of the Psalms are prayers. At the same time they are words from God and about God. That means that as I read a Psalm I can both talk to God and hear from God at the same time. They are conversational.

And it's easy to discipline yourself to read through the Psalms. You can read a Psalm a day. Or, I like to read 5 Psalms a day. Doing that takes you through the entire book in a month. And it's amazing how different Psalms express my heart at different times.

For example, today is December 2 and so I read Psalms 6-10. I needed Psalm 6 and 8 today. I needed to pray them. I needed to hear from God through them.

So if you want to be close to God I suggest you head to the Psalms.

Advent Reading Guide

Not sure why I haven't posted this yet, but I'm encouraging Hub City to spend some time this Christmas season focusing on Jesus. This Advent Reading Guide is a great place to start.

Advent Reading Guide 2011:

Nov. 27 – Philippians 2:5-11
Nov. 28 – Ephesians 2:13-22
Nov. 29 – Colossians 1:13-20
Nov. 30 – Hebrews 4:14-16
Dec. 1 – 1 John 5:1-12
Dec. 2 – Revelation 1:12-18
Dec. 3 – Revelation 22:7-21
Dec. 4 - Isaiah 9:2-7
Dec. 5 - Isaiah 40:1-5
Dec. 6 - Isaiah 40:9-11
Dec. 7 - Genesis 3:8-15
Dec. 8 - Genesis 15:1-6
Dec. 9 - Deuteronomy 18:15-19
Dec. 10 - Psalms 89:1-8
Dec. 11 - Isaiah 11:1-10
Dec. 12 - Zechariah 6:12-13
Dec. 13 - Micah 5:2-5a
Dec. 14 - Malachi 3:1-6
Dec. 15 - Isaiah 52:7-10
Dec. 16 - Isaiah 7:10-14
Dec. 17 - Mark 1:1-3
Dec. 18 - John 1:1-8
Dec. 19 - John 1:9-18
Dec. 20 – Luke 1:5-25
Dec. 21 – Luke 1:26-45
Dec. 22 – Matthew 1:18-25
Dec. 23 – Luke 1:46-67
Dec 24 – Luke 2:1-20
Dec 25 - John 3:16-21