'Accelerating Driven Christians in the Racing Capital of the World'
'Indy Timeline' of Upcoming Events
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Day 12 of FHL 40-day prayer
EPhesians 6:13, '
Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand.”
Pray that we mind stand together as an army of believers crying out to God Almighty for ‘revival for our city.’
The Sin of Distraction
A Christian woman in Zimbabwe fervently prays for food to feed her hungry son. A Christian woman in Cincinnati fervently prays for guidance as to which color car to buy. A Christian man in China prays for courage to suffer persecution, while a Christian man in Denver prays for courage to face his boredom.
The main problem with being a Christian living in the United States is that we are blessed to the point of distraction. Most of us... [
continued at Howard County Christians]
God's Word
My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me: And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand. My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all; no one can snatch them out of my Father's hand.
John 10:27-29
NIV
Ex-Gay Ministry to Launch Christian Resource
[press release from Exodus International's 'Live Out Loud' Conference today in Marion, Indiana]
June 29, 2006, Marion, IN- As many church denominations continue to debate their position on homosexuality, including the Episcopal Church USA's recent deliberations, key religious leaders from around the country joined Exodus International at a press conference today at Indiana Wesleyan University to announce the launch of a resource designed to educate churches on a biblical,compassionate response to this issue.
The Exodus Church Network is a coalition of churches that stand on the truth of Scripture and offer hope and help to those impacted by homosexuality. Exodus International will provide training and resources to educate church leaders and their congregations on what the Bible has to say about this issue. Former homosexuals will be available to speak and encourage an attitude of compassion towards the gay community as well as church members struggling with unwanted same-sex attraction.
Senior Pastor of Antioch Bible Church in Redmond, Wash. and former NFL Middle Linebacker for the Dallas Cowboys, San Diego Chargers and Seattle Seahawks Dr. Ken "Hutch" Hutcherson took part in today's press conference and said the need for such a resource is imminent. Other speakers included Kristin Johnson, Executive Director of OneByOne, an organization that offers a redemptive, biblical perspective on homosexuality within the Presbyterian Church in the United States of America, Pastor Patrick Payton, Senior Pastor of Stonegate Fellowship Southern Baptist Church of Midland, Texas and Mike Goeke, Director of the Exodus Church Network.
"Many sitting in the pews on Sunday are confused about what the Bible really has to say about homosexuality as well as the attitude we are to have towards those in the gay community," said Alan Chambers, President of Exodus International. "Former homosexuals, like me, have often experienced either harsh condemnation or theological misinformation in the church - neither of which are helpful to those confused and personally struggling with this issue.
"Recent denominational controversy and debate has added to the church's lack of clarity on this topic as well," said Chambers. "Ours is a passionate call to the global church to extend the love and kindness of Jesus Christ, the hope of freedom for those who seek it and the steadfast truth of the Scriptures."
*********************
Exodus International is an interdenominational resource and referral organization that offers help to men and women affected by unwanted same-sex attraction. The organization has been in existence for 30 years, has more than 135 member agencies in its expanding network across North America and ministers to 400,000 people who contact the ministry each year.
Founded in 1976, Exodus International is the largest resource and referral organization dealing with homosexual issues in the U.S. and throughout the world. With over 135 ministries across North America, Exodus is a growing network of former homosexuals dedicated to sharing the transforming power of Jesus Christ.
**********************
The local Exodus affiliate for Indiana is
Hope & New Life Ministries. Brad Grammer, Executive Director.
Day 11 of FHL 40-day prayer
Ephesians 6:10 “
Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms."
Pray that our prayers and acts of service will be Christ centered and that we will call upon Christ and His warriors to do the battle, not us.
Focus for Leaders
“What dreams and goals has God placed in your heart,
and how can I help you achieve them?”
"It wasn’t like I didn’t already know the importance of this, but my resolve to build and release people has been reinvigorated in recent weeks. I find it interesting that managing a ministry can often cause me to stop building the ministry. There is a distinct difference. Managing involves systems and procedures that are very important to the success of our efforts. But BUILDING the ministry will always be about investing in the people."
"Whenever you’re..." [
continued at Lakeview Worship Blog]
God's Word
Jesus replied, "If anyone loves me, he will obey my teaching. My Father will love him, and we will come to him and make our home with him. He who does not love me will not obey my teaching. These words you hear are not my own; they belong to the Father who sent me."
John 14:23-24
NIV
Facing Giants?
1 Samuel 17:45-47 Then said David to the Philistine, Thou comest to me with a sword, and with a spear, and with a shield: but I come to thee in the name of the LORD of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom thou hast defied. 46 This day will the LORD deliver thee into mine hand; and I will smite thee, and take thine head from thee; and I will give the carcases of the host of the Philistines this day unto the fowls of the air, and to the wild beasts of the earth; that all the earth may know that there is a God in Israel. 47 And all this assembly shall know that the LORD saveth not with sword and spear: for the battle is the LORD'S, and he will give you into our hands.
=======================
Life comes at us hard...sometimes in an overwhelming calamity or just the feeling of oppression that we can't shake. Sometimes the "normal" seems to reach out and bite us at every step and every decision we make is apparently wrong. Sometimes our situation even seems hopeless, but we can take hope in our God.
David was in much of the same situation when he faced Goliath the giant. By the world's standards, this young boy had no chance of surviving the onslaught of an 8 foot giant. The entire army of Israel was afraid including King Saul, yet David went forth to meet Goliath. David did NOT go wearing Saul's armor as Saul had tried to get him to do -- David went forth with the LORD!
Our Lord God, our Heavenly Father, our Master and the creator of the universe is always with us when we have Jesus in our hearts as our Savior. Jesus promised us that He would never leave us nor forsake us and we can take that promise to the bank!
So, what do we do when we are facing the giants in our own world, we tackle them face to face, head on, but not in our own strength or our own righteousness or our own means: we face them in the name of the Lord of hosts. When we come at them with God on our side He will deliver us from even the most hopeless of situations and deliver them into our hands. As Paul said, "If God is for us, who can be against us?". In every battle that we face we should turn it over to God and allow Him to make it HIS.
Remember, Matt 11:28-30...Jesus' yoke is easy and His burden is light, BUT we have to come unto Him first.
Pray with me that we rely completely on God for all of the issues of life...
Email me (Pastor Jim) at
pj-brown@sbcglobal.net or visit our website at:
www.calvarychapel.com/hcfw
God's Word
My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends.
John 15:12-13
NIV
Day 10 of FHL 40-day prayer
Ephesians 5:1,2 “
Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God”.
Pray that the week of faith, hope and love, including the prayer walk will be a fragrant offering and a sacrifice to God; that we will live a life of love that will change Indianapolis forever.
Day 9 of FHL 40-day prayer
Rev. 3:19“
Those whom I love I rebuke and discipline. So be earnest, and repent. Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with him and he with me.”
Pray that Christ will manifest Himself as the Open Door and that everyone in attendance will receive His open invitation to respond to His voice; that Salvation will be understood as a free gift from God.
God's Word
Why do you call me, "Lord, Lord," and do not do what I say? I will show you what he is like who comes to me and hears my words and puts them into practice. He is like a man building a house, who dug down deep and laid the foundation on rock. When a flood came, the torrent struck that house but could not shake it, because it was well built. But the one who hears my words and does not put them into practice is like a man who built a house on the ground without a foundation. The moment the torrent struck that house, it collapsed and its destruction was complete.
Luke 6:46-49
NIV
Exodus International... Freedom Conference begins today
[Sponsored by Exodus International. Not a function of Indiana Wesleyan University.]
"The Exodus Freedom Conference is an annual conference covering all areas of homosexuality, providing help for those who personally struggle with it, and those who are affected by a loved one who does. It also provides training for those ministering in the area of homosexuality, and education for all who wish to learn more about this important topic. Please join us for this life-changing week!"
[
continued]
Homeschool co-op forming on west side
"A new co-op is forming on the westside of Indianapolis. The Learning Oasis is an inclusive co-op and will hold classes at the Chapel Rock Christian Church... " [
continued at HomeSchool Nations -- Indiana]
Rich (charity) gets richer
Warren Buffett
Bill & Melinda GatesIn the biggest individual pledge to charity ever, the world's second- richest person has pledged to give 85 percent of his $44 billion fortune to the foundation of the man who has the world’s largest personal fortune. Starting in July, Warren Buffett, chairman and CEO of Berkshire Hathaway Inc., is turning over a large share of his vast fortune to charitable trust of his friends Bill and Melinda Gates.
[
continued at World Mag Blog]
Day 8 of FHL 40-day prayer
Rev.2:11 “
He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. He who overcomes will not be hurt at all by the second death.”
Pray that the teams from the north, south, east and west will hear from the Spirit each day during faith, hope and love week. Pray that He who overcomes will tear down any barriers to church growth and that divisions between denominations will be no more.
God's Word
Then the angel showed me the river of the water of life, as clear as crystal, flowing from the throne of God and of the Lamb down the middle of the great street of the city. On each side of the river stood the tree of life, bearing twelve crops of fruit, yielding its fruit every month. And the leaves of the tree are for the healing of the nations. No longer will there be any curse. The throne of God and of the Lamb will be in the city, and his servants will serve him. They will see his face, and his name will be on their foreheads. There will be no more night. They will not need the light of a lamp or the light of the sun, for the Lord God will give them light. And they will reign for ever and ever.
Revelation 22:1-5
NIV
Day 7 of FHL 40-day prayer
John 3: 5-6 “
I tell you the truth, no one can enter the kingdom of God unless he is born of water and the Spirit. Flesh gives birth to flesh, but the Spirit gives birth to spirit. You should not be surprised at my saying, ‘You must be born again.’ Pray that the events coordinators will have the ability to lead their teams in assisting others to receive Christ into their hearts; that participants will be able to understand what it means to be born again.
God's Word
Find rest, O my soul, in God alone; my hope comes from him.
He alone is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I
will not be shaken. My salvation and my honor depend on
God; he is my mighty rock, my refuge. Trust in him at all
times, O people; pour out your hearts to him, for God is our
refuge.
Psalms 62:5-8
NIV
Pulliam: It's a battle over Bibles behind bars
Russ Pulliam, Indianapolis StarUsually, judges throw the book at prisoners. This time a federal judge is taking the Book away from prisoners in Iowa.
U.S. District Court Judge Robert Pratt has joined with Americans United for Separation of Church and State and ordered a halt to a Bible-based prison program. Pratt ruled against the InnerChange program run by Prison Fellowship at the Newton, Iowa, prison, on grounds that, heaven forbid, the prisoners might read the Bible and convert to the Christian faith.
[
continued at Indianapolis Star]
****************************
Visit
Prison Fellowship Ministry founded by Charles Colson. Learn more about the 'InnerChange Freedom Initiative.
Get in touch with local prison initiatives via Willie Spencer, Prison Fellowship,
Indiana Regional Office.
God's Word
Then the King will say to those on his right, "Come, you who
are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom
prepared for you since the creation of the world. For I was
hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and
you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you
invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was
sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came
to visit me." Then the righteous will answer him, "Lord,
when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give
you something to drink? When did we see you a stranger and
invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? When did
we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?" The King
will reply, "I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one
of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me."
Matthew 25:34-40
NIV
Day 6 of FHL 40-day prayer
John 3: 16
“For God so loved the World that He gave His only begotten son, that whoever believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life.”Pray that this scripture verse will be written on every seat at Conseco field house and that our hearts will reflect the gift of Salvation every day during faith, hope and love week.
Day 5 of FHL 40-day prayer
Isaiah 41:10
“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
Pray that God the Father, Son and Holy Spirit will be our strength and that He will uphold us with His mighty right hand; that we as a united body will not fear anyone or be dismayed.
Partners in Transformation Awards
Winners of 2006 Partners in Transformation Awards Announced
FASTEN has announced the
nine winners of the 2006 Partners in Transformation competition. Cash grants of $10,000, $5000, and $3500 will be awarded to top finalists in each of three categories: Emergency Disaster Response, Long-term Community Recovery Efforts, and Services to “Deep Pockets” of Poverty.
Click here for a description of the winning programs.
The formal Awards Ceremony was held in Indianapolis on Thursday as part of a national symposium on “Multi-Sector Partnerships for Community Transformation” sponsored by the Sagamore Institute’s Center on Faith in Communities.
[
continued at FASTEN Network]
******************************
FASTEN Network director, Amy Sherman was in Indianapolis Thursday, to make these presentations at a
special luncheon hosted by the
Sagamore Institute.
Each and every organization receiving Partners in Transformation awards were notable in several ways. One of the collection of significant ideas, was the concept of a 'virtual warehouse'... a
great concept that could perhaps be highly useful in the Indianapolis area.
******************************
[Ed. Note: Special thanks to Jay Hein, President, Sagamore Institute for these forward-thinking ideas, gatherings, round-tables discussions... which benefit many cities... not the least of which is our own city of Indianapolis.]
God's Word
For I, the LORD your God, am a jealous God, punishing the children for the sin of the fathers to the third and fourth generation of those who hate me, but showing love to a thousand generations of those who love me and keep my commandments.
Exodus 20:5-6
NIV
Day 3 of FHL 40-day prayer
Luke10:8-9
“When you enter a town and are welcomed; eat what is before you. Heal the sick who are there and tell them, “’The Kingdom of God is near you’”.
Pray that all our missionaries will lift up Jesus wherever they go.
God's Word
In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.
Matthew 5:16
NIV
FHL... "Community Makeover"
"Faith, Hope & Love" -- July 24-29, 2006.
Community Makeover... in the name of Christ.
How to (easily) make a better church website
Short answer: Use WordPress (or some other blog software).
[
read more]
God's Word
Remain in me, and I will remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me. I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.
John 15:4-5
NIV
Day 3 of FHL 40-day prayer
John 10:10 “The thief comes to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” Pray that every individual we reach out to during faith, hope and love week will hear from the Spirit of Christ this verse as His mighty angels declare it.
"Faithful Blogs"
excerpts from...Religious journals show spiritual path of everyday lifeBy Dan McFeely, IndyStar.com
Blogs -- the accepted word for "weblog," an electronic journal or diary that can allow people to post comments -- have been a part of online surfing since the late 1990s. Today there are almost 42 million blogs, according to the Web site technorati.com.
And according to the Pew Internet and American Life Project, as many as 20 percent of the 11 million adult blogs are related to religion. Younger bloggers tend to write more about their own lives, but they do not shy away from faith.
Blog readers are also growing... [
continued at IndyStar.com]
**********************
[IndyChristian Ed.Note: While the article references 5 of my reasons to blog, you may want to see all 'Top 50 Reasons To Blog'. Also consider 'Why City Blogging? Top 10 Reasons'.]
God's Word
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the sinful nature with its passions and desires.
Galatians 5:22-24
NIV
Free Pancake Breakfast in Broad Ripple... Sat. June 24th
[
See .doc flyer]
[
Get to know The Rock House]
Day 2 of FHL 40-day prayer
Isaiah 49:18 “Lift up your eyes and look around; all your sons gather and come to you. As surely as I live, declares the Lord, you will wear them all as ornaments; you will put them on, like a bride.”
Pray that each participant in Faith, Hope, and Love week will lift up their eyes to the Lord; that we will have the eyes of Christ with which to see, and the ears of Christ with which to hear His commands.
Faith, Hope and Love starts 40-day prayer
Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
As we begin the 40 days of prayer may we offer ourselves as living sacrifices, holy and acceptable to the Lord our God. (“Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of god’s mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to god- this is your spiritual act of worship. Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to rest and approve what God’s will is-his good, pleasing and perfect will. “Romans 12:1
40-day Prayer, Day 1Isaiah 61:10 “I delight greatly in the Lord; my soul rejoices in my God, For he has clothed me with garments of salvation and arrayed me in a robe of righteousness, as a bridegroom adorns his head like a priest, and as a bride adorns herself with her jewels. “
Garments of Salvation/Head like a priest/Putting on a turban or headband/bride/with her jewels. Pray that we will delight greatly in the Lord as we work together side by side as a unified body. That the week of Faith, Hope and Love we will walk as priests and kings, sons and daughters of the most High God; that He will go before us and proclaim, “the battle is won.”
Video: "Faith, Hope & Love 2006"
[
click to view the "Faith, Hope & Love" video]
[Visit
FHLcommunity.org to get involved.]
God's Word
So Christ was sacrificed once to take away the sins of many people; and he will appear a second time, not to bear sin, but to bring salvation to those who are waiting for him.
Hebrews 9:28
NIV
Dads to be grateful for
My father is a man for whom the glass is always half full. Maybe even more than half.I have often wondered if this attitude comes from being a boy during the Depression or from serving in the infantry during World War II. Perhaps it comes from growing up on a farm with eight brothers and sisters, resourceful parents, open skies and rolling prairies.
Or perhaps it is simply the way God made him.
“It’s not the problem that matters, it’s how you deal with the problem that matters,” he has always said. It was no surprise that when the doctor...
[
continued at LoriBorgman.com]
God's Word
So be careful to do what the LORD your God has commanded
you; do not turn aside to the right or to the left. Walk in
all the way that the LORD your God has commanded you, so
that you may live and prosper and prolong your days in the
land that you will possess.
Deuteronomy 5:32-33
NIV
God's Word
And they sang a new song: "You are worthy to take the scroll
and to open its seals, because you were slain, and with your
blood you purchased men for God from every tribe and
language and people and nation. You have made them to be a
kingdom and priests to serve our God, and they will reign on
the earth."
Revelation 5:9
NIV
Condoleeza... at the SBC Convention
Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice, addressing 12,000 evangelicals who represent the core of the Bush administration's political base, yesterday sought to counter the stirrings of isolationism in the nation, declaring that the "United States must remain engaged as a leader in events beyond our borders."
"Here, ladies and gentlemen, is the choice before our country, before us as Americans," Rice told the annual meeting of the Southern Baptist Convention in Greensboro, N.C.
"Will we lead in the world or will we withdraw? Will we rise to the challenges of our time or will we shrink from them?"[
continued at Washington Post]
[hat-tip, Blews.Network]
God's Word
Or don't you know that all of us who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life. If we have been
united with him like this in his death, we will certainly also be united with him in his resurrection.
Romans 6:3-5
NIV
Burleson: "A Historic Day in the SBC"
Here's a very interesting first-hand account of this week's election at the Southern Baptist Convention's annual conference. Irrespective of your favorite candidate, by all accounts, this year's election was considerably unique... due to bloggers playing some significant roles.
If you had any hopes that 'blogging' would only overhaul politics & journalism, while not phasing the Church... read this account... and think again.
[Here's an inside look from Pastor Wade Burleson... re SBC's paradigm-shift...
Grace & Truth To You]
[
hat-tip, Blews.Network]
God's Word
You have laid down precepts that are to be fully obeyed. Oh, that my ways were steadfast in obeying your decrees! Then I would not be put to shame when I consider all your commands.
Psalms 119:4-6
NIV
Covenant Christian High School Valedictorian
"Top student's interest accelerated by physics"Kari Hall will attend Purdue to take advantage of technology on her way to doing cancer work.
[
continued at IndyStar.com]
Colson: Stop demonizing immigrants
"Christians must work to see that the immigration debate generates light instead of heat."
Charles Colson
Prison Fellowship"Did you know that “95 percent of warrants for murder in Los Angeles are for illegal aliens?” Or that “75 percent of people on the Most Wanted List in Los Angeles are illegal aliens”? What’s more, “Over [two-thirds] of all births in Los Angeles County are to illegal alien Mexicans on [Medicaid] whose births were paid for by taxpayers.”
This is outrageous. Especially since none of it is true![
continued at TownHall]
[hat-tip, LatinoChristians.com]
Gov. Daniels: 'Faith, Hope & Love' Day... July 29th
Indianapolis, IN. – June 14, 2006 – Faith, Hope and Love, an organization building communities, today announced that it has received a
proclamation from Governor Mitch Daniels declaring July 29, 2006 as Faith, Hope and Love Day throughout the entire state of Indiana.
“This is indeed a great honor,” said Merlin Gonzales, Founder and Director of FHL. “Last year we were honored to have July 30 declared Faith, Hope and Love Day by Indianapolis Mayor Bart Peterson. It has been our prayer that FHL would grow beyond the borders of Indianapolis, Indiana, and the United States of America. Knowing the Governor has seen the importance of FHL Week, and because of his declaration for the entire state of Indiana, we are well on our way to changing the world… in our own community.”
The proclamation declares that “the vision is to build communities of faith, hope and love through active participation in improving neighborhoods and by helping those in need.” It also notes that the event brings together churches, government entities and other organizations in the State of Indiana to “bridge the social, economic and spiritual gaps in our community.”
FHL Week will provide daily events such as serving public servants, providing for community restoration, and youth driven outreach as well as opportunities for visitation of the elderly and orphaned. The week-long event will culminate in a party at Conseco Fieldhouse prior to the WNBA Indiana Fever basketball game on July 29 with the FHL Festival. Everyone will enjoy carnival games, food, free t-shirts, music, and can help once again by contributing to the Toiletry Drive, an effort to provide for basic necessities for the children of Indianapolis.
To schedule an interview or to learn more details about Faith, Hope and Love Week or the FHL Festival, please contact Theresia Whitfield at 317-847-3659. More details are available at
http://www.fhlcommunity.org/. Together, we can change the world in your own community.
###
Contact:
Theresia Whitfield
Fletcher Communications
317-847-3659
twhitfield@fletchercomm.comhttp://www.fletchercomm.com/
The LORD shall rule over you
Judges 8:22-23 Then the men of Israel said unto Gideon, Rule thou over us, both thou, and thy son, and thy son's son also: for thou hast delivered us from the hand of Midian. 23 And Gideon said unto them, I will not rule over you, neither shall my son rule over you: the LORD shall rule over you.
----
After the Lord had used Gideon and 300 men to triumph over 135,000 Midianites, the men of Israel called on him to be their king. They wanted him to rule over them, lead them, direct them and protect them.
Gideon's response, as we see in Judges 8:23, was to not only say "NO", but to tell them that the LORD God shall rule over them.
God desires to be the ruler, leader, director and protector over us today just like in the days of Gideon. God, who created the heavens and the earth and all that is in it in 6 days by using only the spoken Word -- God, who is outside of time, who knows all, who sees all, and who is all powerful is uniquely qualified to give us "wise counsel" regarding our lives. He is certainly well known for leading His children and for protecting them as well.
The question we must ask ourselves is: "Do I desire to be led by God"? If the answer to this question is "NO", then we must see that we have placed ourselves in a position higher than God, we have become our own god and our pride is preventing us from seeing the creator and lover of the universe as just that -- GOD!
When we reject God, even in part, we are saying in essence that we know more than God and we want to lead ourselves. How sad it is to think that the creation can know more than the creator.
If the answer is "YES", then praise God for your humility and willingness to submit to His loving care and perfect plans for your life. As you lay your life on the altar of sacrifice (Rom 12:1), God will certainly honor your sacrifice and bless you richly with all spiritual blessings from above.
Pray with me that we allow God to rule over us every day of our lives...
Email me at
pj-brown@sbcglobal.net
Pray: Al Mohler... eye surgery
Dr. Al Mohler had to have eye surgery at Duke University. [
continued at Adrian Warnock's Blog]
Then,
here's an excellent news item (after Dr. Mohler's eye surgery) from the Southern Baptist Convention's annual conference. He was able to participate in a discussion of maintaining harmony amid important theological debate... such as the historical theological debate regarding the sovereignty of God vs. the responsibility of man (ie, free will).
[Recall that as president of Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in Louisville, Dr. Mohler helped lead the recent "
Together For The Gospel" conference drawing 3,000 pastors from various denominations and engaging in difficult theological issues.]
Update: SBC Elects Frank Page as Moderator[
continued]
[see previous post at IndyChristian.com re bloggers playing a role in this election]
God's Word
And this is the will of him who sent me, that I shall lose none of all that he has given me, but raise them up at the last day. For my Father's will is that everyone who looks to the Son and believes in him shall have eternal life, and I will raise him up at the last day.
John 6:39-40
NIV
Lindell Cooley... June 30th
"Lindell Cooley (Worship Leader), raised as the only child of a minister in Northern Alabama, Lindell Cooley was surrounded by ministry and music throughout his formative years. His first practical musical experience came when he was taught to play the tambourine at the age of five. From there, he went on to play the drums, bass guitar, organ and piano. Nearly three decades later, he is drawing on all those musical skills and more as president of Music Missions International (MMI) and music minister..." [
continued]
God's Word
Here is a trustworthy saying: If we died with him, we will also live with him; if we endure, we will also reign with him. If we disown him, he will also disown us; if we are faithless, he will remain faithful, for he cannot disown himself.
2 Timothy 2:11-13
NIV
Faith, Hope and Love Challenges Indianapolis and Surrounding Cities Residents and Businesses
Indianapolis, IN. – June 12, 2006 – Faith, Hope and Love, an organization building communities, today announced it is challenging the residents and businesses of Indianapolis and surrounding cities to make a difference in their own communities. As area churches, corporate entities and government agencies gather together to support the efforts of Faith, Hope and Love Week, Merlin Gonzales, Director and Founder of Faith, Hope and Love is urging residents and business leaders to take ownership of their own communities.
“This is the opportunity of a lifetime,” said Gonzales. “We have seen tragedy in a recent multiple homicide. We have seen homelessness in our communities. We have witnessed children going without essentials. Faith, Hope and Love is reaching out to these people and to others in need, and we want to encourage others to do the same. This doesn’t have to be a one time event; it can be a daily occurrence in the lives of neighbors helping neighbors.”
Gonzales says residents don’t have to be part of a church or corporate sponsor to participate in the daily activities during Faith, Hope and Love Week, scheduled for July 23 – 29, 2006. Every small effort by an individual or business can be a life-altering event for the one in need. Faith or affiliation makes no difference in this opportunity to join alongside a community organization to right wrongs, change scenery, say thank you, lend a hand or give an encouraging smile. Everyone gets to play when organizations, individuals, and resources come together.
FHL Week will provide daily events such as serving public servants, providing for community restoration, and youth driven outreach as well as opportunities for visitation of the elderly and orphaned. The week-long event will culminate in a party at Conseco Fieldhouse prior to the WNBA Indiana Fever basketball game on July 29 with the FHL Festival. Everyone will enjoy carnival games, food, free t-shirts, music, and can help once again by contributing to the Toiletry Drive, an effort to provide for basic necessities for the children of Indianapolis.
To schedule an interview or to learn more details about Faith, Hope and Love Week or the FHL Festival, please contact Theresia Whitfield at 317-847-3659. More details are available at
http://www.fhlcommunity.org/. Together, we can change the world in your own community.
###
Contact:
Theresia Whitfield
Fletcher Communications
317-847-3659
twhitfield@fletchercomm.comhttp://www.fletchercomm.com/
God's Word
The City of the LORD, Zion of the Holy One of Israel. "Although you have been forsaken and hated, with no one traveling through, I will make you the everlasting pride and the joy of all generations. You will drink the milk of nations and be nursed at royal breasts. Then you will know
that I, the LORD, am your Savior, your Redeemer, the Mighty One of Jacob. No longer will violence be heard in your land, nor ruin or destruction within your borders, but you will call your walls Salvation and your gates Praise. The sun will no more be your light by day, nor will the brightness
of the moon shine on you, for the LORD will be your everlasting light, and your God will be your glory. Your sun will never set again, and your moon will wane no more; the LORD will be your everlasting light, and your days of sorrow will end.
Isaiah 60:14-16, 18-20
NIV
God's Word
But be sure to fear the LORD and serve him faithfully with
all your heart; consider what great things he has done for
you.
1 Samuel 12:24
NIV
Apostles Creed... the video
How cool is this, from an Indianapolis youth group.
[Congrats to Pastor Justin Young, Superhua. And his super-youth.]
The Chronicle... Indiana Edition -- June
June Issue's lead article:
"KidsGames takes values-based initiative to the streets of Indianapolis".
[
Visit TheChronicleOnline.Net - Indiana Edition]
[
Click here for the .pdf version of the paper]
Kids Games Indianapolis 2006... opens tomorrow!
What is KidsGames?A multi-day, multi-group, sport focused, values based, global initiative.
A 5 day program for kids ages 6-14 from 9:00am to 4:00pm – with Opening and Closing Ceremonies to make this experience the BEST KIDS THING ON EARTH! Kids participate in fun sports and a values-based curriculum called “Becoming A Complete Player”.
Opening Ceremony: Sunday, June 11thAt Conseco Fieldhouse (doors open at 2pm) 3pm Kids Parade in representing their host sites, 6pm Fever Game (Half-time will be the KidsGames Torch Lighting!)
Daily Programming: Monday – Friday June 12-18 from 9:00am to 4:00pm at various locations throughout the city
Closing Ceremony: Saturday, June 17 at IUPUI Track and Field Stadium from 9:00am to 1:00pm – competitions, awards and celebration!
Where are the locations? There are 16 “Host Site” locations in Indianapolis for the morning curriculum. Then the afternoon activities will take place at the host sites and also in parks throughout Indianapolis...
[
continued]
God's Word
Acknowledge and take to heart this day that the LORD is God
in heaven above and on the earth below. There is no other.
Keep his decrees and commands, which I am giving you today,
so that it may go well with you and your children after you
and that you may live long in the land the LORD your God
gives you for all time.
Deuteronomy 4:39-40
NIV
Thank You, Indy
Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
Philippians 1:3-6, “I thank my God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”
We are less than six weeks away from the kickoff to Faith, Hope and Love Week. You have all been so diligent in coordinating your time and efforts in preparation for this exciting event borne out of a love for people and our Lord. Your efforts are so appreciated, and God is smiling!
As we head down the back-stretch on the closing laps, I wanted to send you a note of encouragement. I know you’re working hard, and yet, the hard work is just beginning! But we must remember why we’re doing this… for the Glory of the Lord! He has called us to “love our neighbor as ourselves.” By loving our neighbors as we love ourselves, we can change the world… in our own community.
Faith, Hope and Love is a mission trip in our own back yard. Mission trips include reaching out to the lost, the least, and the last. We have our own losts, leasts and lasts in our own communities, and they need the help of their neighbors as well as the love of the Lord. Each community outreach event is an opportunity for us to be fishers of men; an opportunity to be a witness for God’s Kingdom.
I want to encourage you to see each person as an individual who needs Jesus if they don’t already know Him. And if they do, see each individual as a person who needs to grow in their faith. We have the ability to make a difference in the days and weeks to come. Let us not be focused on the negative, the down-trodden, the diversity of our community. Those are, in fact, the people God is calling us to reach!
Our mission trip is so much more than just cleaning up city streets. It is about showing people the love of our Lord, and reaching them for eternity.
I wish you God’s blessings as you continue your diligent work in His Name. I am at your service always!
In Christ,
Merlin Gonzales
Director, Faith, Hope and Love
Field Trip??????????????????????
To all you innovative, driven Christians here in Indy...
Just a crazy thought on the spur of the moment -- perhaps to see just how 'outside the box' ya'll are. LOL.
How many of you would be interested in taking a quick field trip to Taylor University, Sunday afternoon... for the purpose of....
- A. Doing something to break up your boring routine.
- B. Getting to know some other crazy innovative Christians who also want to break up their boring routine.
- C. Crash the party at ICCM -- "International Conference on Computing & Mission". Or at least try.
- D. Hook up with the Tech Mission guys who flew out here from Boston hqtrs to attend the conference and network with innovative, driven-Christian types from Indiana. These are some really driven guys anxious to make a difference via Christian computing centers in cities across the country.
We have no hidden agenda -- In fact we have no plan at all, at present. LOL. Just an impromptu trip and chance to enjoy putting innovative heads & hearts together, to potentially accelerate the Great Commission here in our community, on our watch.
Let me know if you'd like to go. Presumably we'd have little or no cost. We'd try to convene at 1:00 pm on the Taylor campus. Depending on who'd want to go, a car-pool/convoy would have to take place earlier of course.
And if any of you are way too well-reasoned and well-planned to do an impromptu field-trip, but would like to help with the "Urban Tech Day" on 7/29 in conjunction with " Faith, Hope & Love" week in Indy... let me know. We could use all the volunteer help we can get there. Advise.
Blogs draw attention to SBC showdown
"Blogs already have revolutionized secular politics, and whether a subset of it has revolutionized Baptist politics will be seen at the Southern Baptist Convention’s annual meeting June 13-14 in Greensboro, N.C."
"But this time, the struggle is between young conservatives and fundamentalists loyal to the convention establishment. Internal tensions have been thrust into the SBC spotlight mainly by bloggers—the ever-expanding network of ideological entrepreneurs who analyze and elaborate on their own websites. In the year since the SBC last met, reform-minded bloggers in the denomination have begun to form their own community on the Internet—and they have had a lot to discuss. Since 2005’s annual meeting, Southern Baptists have witnessed:
-- The top executives at one of their mission boards resign amid scandal.
-- The president of another SBC mission board embroiled in conflict with trustees.
-- An unprecedented attempt by those trustees to remove one of their colleagues.
-- A decline in the number of baptisms among the denomination’s churches."
[
continued at The Baptist Standard]
God's Word
Rejoice greatly, O Daughter of Zion! Shout, Daughter of Jerusalem! See, your king comes to you, righteous and having salvation, gentle and riding on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey.
Zechariah 9:9
NIV
God's Word
Just as Moses lifted up the snake in the desert, so the Son of Man must be lifted up, that everyone who believes in him may have eternal life. 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 3:14-16
NIV
God's Word
Now about the dead rising - have you not read in the book of Moses, in the account of the bush, how God said to him, "I am the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob"? He is not the God of the dead, but of the living.
Mark 12:26-27
NIV
God's Word
Who has measured the waters in the hollow of his hand, or with the breadth of his hand marked off the heavens? Who has held the dust of the earth in a basket, or weighed the mountains on the scales and the hills in a balance? Who has understood the mind of the LORD, or instructed him as his counselor? Whom did the LORD consult to enlighten him, and who taught him the right way? Who was it that taught him knowledge or showed him the path of understanding? Surely the nations are like a drop in a bucket; they are regarded as dust on the scales; he weighs the islands as though they
were fine dust. Lebanon is not sufficient for altar fires, nor its animals enough for burnt offerings. Before him all the nations are as nothing; they are regarded by him as worthless and less than nothing. To whom, then, will you compare God? What image will you compare him to?
Isaiah 40:12-18
NIV
God's Word
I lift up my eyes to the hills - where does my help come from? My help comes from the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth. He will not let your foot slip - he who watches over you will not slumber; indeed, he who watches over Israel will neither slumber nor sleep. The LORD watches over you - the LORD is your shade at your right hand; the sun will not harm you by day, nor the moon by night. The LORD will keep you from all harm - he will watch over your life; the LORD will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore.
Psalms 121:1-8
NIV
Global Day of Prayer... Indianapolis, Sunday, June 4th
Sunday at the
Indiana Christian Expo...
at the state Fairgrounds...
in coordination with
Global Day of Prayer...
Kirk Cameron is leading worship this morning at 10:30am.
Exhibits (& special concerts) at the Expo are open all day today.
And finally, the
GDOP Service, 4pm (til 6pm).
God's Word
Be careful that you do not forget the LORD your God, failing
to observe his commands, his laws and his decrees that I am
giving you this day. Otherwise, when you eat and are
satisfied, when you build fine houses and settle down, and
when your herds and flocks grow large and your silver and
gold increase and all you have is multiplied, then your
heart will become proud and you will forget the LORD your
God, who brought you out of Egypt, out of the land of
slavery.
Deuteronomy 8:11-14
NIV
Feds seize 'millions'... in Gospel tracts
June 2 /Christian Newswire/ -- Secret Service agents today threatened a Denton, Texas, evangelist with arrest for counterfeiting and seized 8,300 gospel tracts designed as “million-dollar bills,” the leading independent Internet news source WorldNetDaily.com reports exclusively.
[Evangelist Ray] Comfort told WND he was stunned by the action of the Secret Service and expects agents to visit his offices soon. He said he has no plans to abandon the use of the tracts, which are among the most popular of the many his organization distributes. Living Waters is known for its television program, “The Way of the Master,” and an association with actor Kirk Cameron.
Kirk Cameron[
Original story at ChristianWireService.com]
[
Updated comprehensive story at Assist News Service]
Note: Kirk Cameron will be leading worship this Sunday (June 5th) in Indianapolis... in conjunction with the
Indiana Christian Expo and
Global Day of Prayer.
[Here's a link to
866 images on the web related to "million dollar bill"... Not to mention the
90,000 websites related to the phrase.]
God's Word
Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited.
Romans 12:14-16
NIV
Diversity... for Harmony
What a 'wide line-up' of Christian music artists coming to this weekend's Indiana Christian Expo. [Be there,
Friday, Saturday, Sunday.]
Pray with us that this diversity of styles, gathered in one expo, will help pull closer the metro-wide body of Christ... so we can expand the love of Christ.
God's Word
Here is my servant, whom I uphold, my chosen one in whom I delight; I will put my Spirit on him and he will bring justice to the nations. He will not shout or cry out, or raise his voice in the streets. A bruised reed he will not break, and a smoldering wick he will not snuff out. In faithfulness he will bring forth justice; he will not falter or be discouraged till he establishes justice on earth. In his law the islands will put their hope.
Isaiah 42:1-4
NIV
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