Indy Christian .com -- Daily Internet Starting-line: 10/01/2008

Video: Piper Perspective of Election 2008

God's Word

No one will be able to stand up against you all the days of your life. As I was with Moses, so I will be with you; I will never leave you nor forsake you.

Joshua 1:5
NIV

Chris Matthews Mocks Palin For Extending Credit To God

IndyChristian Ed. Note... Again, I've generally tried to keep focused on the potential for The CHURCH to help transform their communities over the next 4 years, as opposed to putting too much attention on all the promises by politicians these days. So I've largely stayed out of the political chatter -- there's already plenty of it without me.

There are times though when that just seems unavoidable -- today is one of them.

Before I seem to defend one party versus the other, let me quickly say I'm embarrassed that in our great country, neither political party really embraces a Christ-honoring platform. One party patronizes us, while the other party jumbles the 'faith-speak'; but bottom line, both sides appeal to SELF-interest, and neither side advocates for SELF-sacrifice.

But come to think of it, why shouldn't they solicit us on that basis? After all, the most segregated hour of the week occurs on Sunday morning. Apparently self-interest is a winning strategy in the Church too.

That aside, let's now listen in as Chris Matthews launches a tirade against 'fundamentalist' Sarah Palin for asserting the God Almighty blessed our nation with abundant resources...

[And btw, YES, Chris... lots of us believe all sorts of wildly-miraculous ways God works in the world He made... including His miraculous offer.]

Thank you Mark Finklestein for bringing this to our attention...

"O beautiful for spacious skies,
For amber waves of grain,
For purple mountain majesties
Above the fruited plain!
America! America!
God shed his grace on thee.

Has Chris Matthews heard America the Beautiful lately? What could be more broadly acceptable than to suggest that God has blessed America with many riches?"

*****

After next Tuesday, may we The Church re-double our ongoing efforts to glorify God among our neighbors. May our counter-intuitive self-sacrifice seem like 'miraculous signs & wonders' accompanying the Good News.

God's Word

The acts of the sinful nature are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God. 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.

Galations 5:19-24
NIV

Facebook Widens The Gap With MySpace... Globally

[ht: Cynthia Ware, Digital Sanctuary ...]

Facebook blew past MySpace in visitors from across the world back in April, but the global gap continues to widen. According to the latest figures from comScore, Facebook attracted 161.1 million unique visitors worldwide in September, compared 117.9 million for MySpace. For Facebook, that number was up from 4.7 percent from the 153.9 million people who visited the social network in August. Visitors to MySpace declined 1.6 percent globally from 119.8 million.

MySpace still dominates in the U.S.... [continued at TechCrunch]

'SOCIALNETWORKING' tags

God's Word

Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others. Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus:

Philippians 2:3-5
NIV

FHL Update: Kindness Weekend - Faith Is Renewed, Hope Is Nurtured, and Love Is In Action In Our City!

By Melanie Reed, FHL International

With a heart filled with faith, hope, and love, mountains can be moved and work made light. The Lord's workers proved the truth of that by offering themselves throughout a very busy weekend for FHL International on several projects.

Kindness Weekend for October 18th and 19th began with prayer outside the new FHL International corporate offices located in Castleton! There were over 30 volunteers working in four shifts from Northview Christian Life who worked not only

on the FHL office, but the entire complex. They picked up trash, raked leaves, cleaned windows and worked on the inside of the new FHL corporate offices. The Northview Christian Life volunteers also completed several other projects throughout Indianapolis, with collaborative help from FHL International.

Over 80 volunteers from Northview cleaned up 6 blocks of the 25th and Dearborn neighborhood and several volunteers through BRAG cleaned up the Binford and 71st neighborhood.

FHL was also blessed by our Lord with the means to provide frozen food to Living Water Ministries. Edward Figueroa and his wife, Gena, have literally, over the past 5-6 years, provided shelter in their own home to over 500 homeless people!

Many people were blessed this weekend by the loving hands of their neighbors. As, Merlin Gonzales, Founder of FHL International, Inc. said: "Truly, faith is renewed, hope is nurtured and love is in action in our city!". Praise the Lord!

If you want to become a Faith, Hope, and Love volunteer and work on a 'mission trip in your own backyard', please contact info@fhlinternational.org or call 317-372-0371

Labels: FHL FHL International, God Faith Hope Love International Inc Kindness Weekend Mobile Food Pantry Communities Service Outreach Merlin Gonzales

The Gospel According To Rupert Murdoch?

Today, well-known billionaire Rupert Murdoch added yet another religious jewel to his media mogul crown.

News Corp (NWS)... of which Murdoch is founder, chairman and CEO... and which owns Fox News and MySpace... also owns Harper-Collins... which owns Zondervan....

...which, according to The Grands Rapids Press today, just bought Bible Gateway (BibleGateway.com) from Gospel Communications.

Details were not disclosed.

[Update: More details provided here. ht:DotComLarry (thanks Rich!)]

[Prequel: Apparently we missed a Twitter scoop re this 5 days ago.]

**********

[previous related story]

God's Word

Then I heard a loud voice in heaven say: "Now have come the salvation and the power and the kingdom of our God, and the authority of his Christ. For the accuser of our brothers, who accuses them before our God day and night, has been hurled down. They overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony; they did not love their lives so much as to shrink from death. Therefore rejoice, you heavens and you who dwell in them! But woe to the earth and the sea, because the devil has gone down to you! He is filled with fury, because he knows that his time is short."

Revelation 12:10-12
NIV

Video: Lukewarm and Loving It...

[ht: jkubecki, Westfield...]

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The World Has Changed. Will You?

[by Ed Bahler...]

So what were you thinking last month as the dominoes fell one right after another: the demise of Lehman Brothers tipping into the rushed sale of Merrill Lynch to Bank of America, then the federal takeover of AIG, followed by the $700B bailout.

What does this financial crisis change for you? In a recent conversation with author and futurist Rex Miller, he shared how traditional institutions like government, business, and churches are not equipped to navigate this rapidly changing complex world...

[continued at EdBahler.com]

Video: Praying For Our Future

God's Word

He said to them: "It is not for you to know the times or dates the Father has set by his own authority. But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth."

Acts1:7-8
NIV

Ask Anything Saturday... PowerPoint on the Web

One of the folks we assisted at the cafe on Saturday, was Pastor Ralph Parrott. He had the same issue that many of us had faced at one time or another -- getting a Microsoft PowerPoint presentation to someone else. And in a format they could view -- after all, not everyone has paid to have the Microsoft product installed on their computer.

Note: This may be especially true in the Christian community because...

[continued at UBcafe.com]

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

God's Word

"'If a man lies with a man as one lies with a woman, both of them have done what is detestable. They must be put to death; their blood will be on their own heads.

Leviticus 20:13
NIV

Evangelism Initiative Spreads Christ's Message

[by Jessica Williams-Gibson, Indianapolis Recorder...]

"Then the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go. When they saw him, they worshiped him; but some doubted. Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” (Matthew 28:16-20)

Pastor Thomas Hill (photo by Janelle Demchak)

The Great Commission charges all believers to spread God’s message to those who have yet to find the love and direction of God. While some true believers follow suit, pastors and religious organizations are lighting a fire under the rest of God’s children to help the unsaved turn their life around and live for Christ.

A. Thomas Hill, senior pastor of Healing Streams Word and Worship Center, believes that although Christ’s followers are given instruction to be evangelists, many don’t share their faith out of fear and not knowing what to say.

His congregation can take part in a class to learn how to witness to others, yet he and his evangelism team use the Drive By Prayer Vigils as a prime opportunity to share the Gospel. After each homicide in Indianapolis...

[article continued at Indianapolis Recorder]

Recent 'EVANGELISM' tags

November 15 -- Evangelism training conference

The IndyChristian Show... for November

God's Word

During the night the mystery was revealed to Daniel in a vision. Then Daniel praised the God of heaven and said: "Praise be to the name of God for ever and ever; wisdom and power are his. He changes times and seasons; he sets up kings and deposes them. He gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to the discerning. He reveals deep and hidden things; he knows what lies in darkness, and light dwells with him. I thank and praise you, O God of my fathers: You have given me wisdom and power, you have made known to me what we asked of you, you have made known to us the dream of the king."

Daniel 2:19-23
NIV

God's Word

Then Jesus was led by the Spirit into the desert to be tempted by the devil. After fasting forty days and forty nights, he was hungry. The tempter came to him and said, "If you are the Son of God, tell these stones to become bread." Jesus answered, "It is written: 'Man does not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.'" Then the devil took him to the holy city and had him stand on the highest point of the temple. "If you are the Son of God," he said, "throw yourself down. For it is written: "'He will command his angels concerning you, and they will lift you up in their hands, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone.'" Jesus answered him, "It is also written: 'Do not put the Lord your God to the test.'" Again, the devil took him to a very high mountain and showed him all the kingdoms of the world and their splendor. "All this I will give you," he said, "if you will bow down and worship me." Jesus said to him, "Away from me, Satan! For it is written: 'Worship the Lord your God, and serve him only.'"

Matthew 4:1-10
NIV

Tear Down The Walls... Put Up The Tables... Nov. 28

"Friday Nov 28th is our sixth annual after Thanksgiving day dinner. Last year was awesome we served over 300 meals and transporting homeless to and from the area shelters and day centers. Over 50 volunteers provided food, clothing assistance and Bibles for any of those needed them. We had volunteers praying with people. It was beautiful..."

[continued at Tear Down The Walls Ministries]

Labels: food

CCDA Miami '08.... Now Officially Underway

We'll be bringing you photos, blogs and even a Twitter-stream from CCDA Miami '08...

photo credit, jrrozko twitpic

Here are key sites to familiarize yourself with...

CCDA.org -- The association's main site.
CCDAmiami08.org -- The convention's special site.
CCDA Facebook group -- for connecting & communicating now & year-round.
#CCDAmiami08 Twitter-stream

Here's more information from our LOCAL CCDA affiliates in Indy.

And mark your calendars for Noon, Thurs, Nov. 20th... We'll have a combined Transform Indiana & CCDA learning luncheon together... at Brookside Community Church. Everyone welcome.

God's Word

And the gospel must first be preached to all nations. Whenever you are arrested and brought to trial, do not worry beforehand about what to say. Just say whatever is given you at the time, for it is not you speaking, but the Holy Spirit.

Mark 13: 10-11
NIV

Video: How Not To Help The Poor

[ht: Rudy Carrasco, our CCDA friend, blogger & tweeter...]

***********

You can follow some of the activity at CCDA Miami 2008... via the CCDA Facebook group.

Please Note: FHL Mobile Food Pantry at Save The Youth Center on October 25!

Please Note: that the date for the Mobile Food Pantry has changed. It has been moved up to this SATURDAY, OCT. 25, 2008. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause. FHL International, Inc. endeavors to meet the needs of those in need where they are and this sometimes causes plans to be changed. (Prov. 19:21) We thank God for you and for your willingness to be flexible and stand in readiness to help. - FHL, International, Inc., Merlin Gonzales, Founder and CEO.

Please mark your FHL calendars for October 25th, 2008. The Mobile Food Pantry will be located at the Save the Youth Center on Saturday to serve those in need in the area. If you need help, please come by. If you would like to help us and your neighbors by volunteering, please contact us by phone at (317)923-5642 or email us at: info@fhlinternational.org or visit our website @ http://fhlinternational.org Thank you and God bless you

Time: Saturday, Oct. 25, 2008
Location: 1704 Trumbal St. , Indianapolis IN, 46218
Contact: (317) 923-5642

Labels: FHL FHL International, Inc. Faith Hope and Love International, Inc. Mobile Food Pantry Merlin Gonzales

God's Word

I tell you the truth, anyone who has faith in me will do what I have been doing. He will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father. And I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Son may bring glory to the Father. You may ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it. "If you love me, you will obey what I command.

John 14:12-15
NIV

Internet Ministry Conference... Underway

Wish I could be there, but it's great to be able to stay in touch with their blogs and Twitter-stream.

[That's the advantage of developing a standard-tag for your organization and/or conference!]

Balancing Discussion: Evangelism vs. Mercy Ministry?

[ht: DJChuang.com]

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Visit The Gospel Coalition.

Labels: gospelcoalition

God's Word

I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were either one or the other! So, because you are lukewarm-- neither hot nor cold-- I am about to spit you out of my mouth. You say, 'I am rich; I have acquired wealth and do not need a thing.' But you do not realize that you are wretched, pitiful, poor, blind and naked. I counsel you to buy from me gold refined in the fire, so you can become rich; and white clothes to wear, so you can cover your shameful nakedness; and salve to put on your eyes, so you can see. 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. To him who overcomes, I will give the right to sit with me on my throne, just as I overcame and sat down with my Father on his throne. He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches."

Revelation 3:15-22
NIV

User-Videos from 'Life On Loan Weekend'...

Continuing following the story at Northview Christian Life Center and Brookside Community Church in Indy's inner city... via SMALL-GROUP teams posting their vids from the weekend. [Cool idea !]

Add Daily Community TV to your page

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Is your ministry producing video that would be great for the rest of the community to know about? Email us the URL. This is goal of building 'community tv' for Indianapolis and beyond.

Northview Video... Life On Loan Weekend

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Listen in as Sr. Pastor Steve Poe gives a send-off devotional this morning.

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IndyChristian Note...

Interviewing Sr. Pastor Steve Poe

(photo credit Jason Chapman, NVCL)

Stay tuned for videos pouring in at Northview's YouTube site... and for coverage by IndyChristian.TV .

[We praise God for all of you at Northview and elsewhere, as you live out Christ-likeness in our city's neighborhoods.]

And visit our cityreaching friend's blog... Eric Swanson, author of 'Life On Loan'.

********

*** SUBSEQUENT UPDATE ***

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

Indy area is flourishing... while rest of state falters

[from the Indianapolis Star...]

Although the Indy area added 6,000 jobs in August to rise to 908,200 positions, much of the rest of the state is in shaky transition as old auto and RV factories close or shed workers and communities struggle to find a new economic engine.

[full article & interactive graphic at IndyStar.com]

Praying For Our Youth...

Praying for our youth... Turn on the radio, turn on the television, turn on the computer and what do you see? Images portrayed are disheartening and disturbing. Shocked? When was the last time you spent time in a school? At times I struggle with the challenges youth face and how they respond to adult issues they are having to deal with. What I am seeing across the board are students that do not know how to communicate? Students automatically think the worst of each other. Others see mixed messages so they struggle with peer to peer and adult relationships.

What's the solution? Ultimately it is Jesus...but what is interesting...when I ask a student what they did on Sunday they respond "I went to church". I recently did a spoof about a Principal doing morning announcements. In the video I announced their will be "Pastor and Teacher" conferences! What a sight that would be. At the end of the day..we still can not afford to let XBOX 360's, cell phones, myspace and facebook to teach our kids the skills they need to be successful in life.

I challenge you..step in a elementary school this week. You maybe amazed at what you will see but more importantly what are you willing and able to do to help make a difference. Do you know there are kids who think going to Gary is like going out of the country? Kids need to see beyond the block... Kids need hope...Kids need Jesus.....Kids need you to bring hope as you show Jesus the Light of the World!

God's Word

For the director of music. Of the Sons of Korah. A psalm. You showed favor to your land, O LORD; you restored the fortunes of Jacob. You forgave the iniquity of your people and covered all their sins. You set aside all your wrath and turned from your fierce anger.s Restore us again, O God our Savior, and put away your displeasure toward us. Will you be angry with us forever? Will you prolong your anger through all generations? Will you not revive us again, that your people may rejoice in you? Show us your unfailing love, O LORD, and grant us your salvation. I will listen to what God the LORD will say; he promises peace to his people, his saints-- but let them not return to folly. Surely his salvation is near those who fear him, that his glory may dwell in our land. Love and faithfulness meet together; righteousness and peace kiss each other.Faithfulness springs forth from the earth, and righteousness looks down from heaven.The LORD will indeed give what is good, and our land will yield its harvest. Righteousness goes before him and prepares the way for his steps.

Psalms 85:1-13
NIV

Church Development Center in Tax Jeopardy

[from the Indianapolis Recorder... Religion Editor Brandon Perry...]

Rev. Melvin Girton, (photo via Indianapolis Recorder)

Without quick intervention the economic development center operated by a local church could be placed on the fast track to non-existence.

The property that houses Christ Missionary Mall economic development center, located at 2954 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Street, is part of a tax sale taking place this Thursday. The sale is held each year for properties whose owners have been delinquent in paying their taxes.

The mall, which sits in an inner city neighborhood on the near Westside, was designed as a non-profit initiative of

[continued at IndianapolisRecorder.com]

Video: Sarah Palin Visits Indianapolis... (Part One)

Labels: politics

Seek God for the City... 2009

[Glad to see Pastor Phil Miglioratti posting this reminder now, well in advance, so we can all be promoting this concept among our churches & neighborhoods for 2009...]

Not too soon to make plans to mobilize Christians to pray for their congregation ... their community ... their city!

>Micro? This amazing prayer guide is a tutorial in how to pray on purpose, with purpose!

>Mezzo? Individuals can huddle with their group or class or committee to pray in unity and harmony!

>Macro? Believers from across the city pray with one mind and one voice on a daily basis!

[continued at Loving Our Communities To Christ]

Labels: cityreaching, prayer

God's Word

As evening approached, the disciples came to him and said, "This is a remote place, and it's already getting late. Send the crowds away, so they can go to the villages and buy themselves some food." Jesus replied, "They do not need to go away. You give them something to eat."
"We have here only five loaves of bread and two fish," they answered. "Bring them here to me," he said. And he directed the people to sit down on the grass. Taking the five loaves and the two fish and looking up to heaven, he gave thanks and broke the loaves. Then he gave them to the disciples, and the disciples gave them to the people. They all ate and were satisfied, and the disciples picked up twelve basketfuls of broken pieces that were left over. The number of those who ate was about five thousand men, besides women and children.

Matthew 14:15-21
NIV

God's Word

"Will a man rob God? Yet you rob me. "But you ask, 'How do we rob you?' "In tithes and offerings.You are under a curse-- the whole nation of you-- because you are robbing me.Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this," says the LORD Almighty, "and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that you will not have room enough for it.

Malachi 3:8-10
NIV

Why Johnny Can't REVEAL

[Catch up with what's going on at this week's REVEAL Conference at Willow Creek. And here's some food for thought along the way... "Top Ten Reasons The Church Can't Multiply".]

Labels: barna, evangelism, metrics, research, reveal, willowcreek

October Book Review: THE CRAFTSMAN by Richard Sennett

This is our first monthly book review here on IndyChristian.com...

Also, just a reminder that reviews to be considered for next month need to be sent to douloschristou [a . t] gmail [ d . o . t ] c o m on/or before NOON on Nov 1st.

“Working Well and Being Well”

A Review of The Craftsman,
by Richard Sennett.

By Chris Smith.

The Craftsman.
Richard Sennett.
Hardcover. Yale UP. 2008.
Purchase:
[ Local Bookseller Doulos Christou Books $22 ] [ Amazon ]

The monastic tradition of the Church, and particularly the Benedictine stream, has gifted the broader Church with a rich heritage that values working hard and working well. This heritage has also been reflected more recently in the writings of Wendell Berry and other writers associated with the new agrarianism. For those readers who are deeply rooted in this heritage, Richard Sennett’s new book, The Craftsman, is an eloquent gift. Sennett, an esteemed sociologist at NYU, sets out in this book to explore “the intimate connection between hand and head” (9). He notes, however, that in the Western world this connection has become strained. Sennett attributes this divide in large part to our use of technology that “we did not make for ourselves and that we do not understand” (7). In demonstration of this point, Sennett posits the example of CAD software. Despite its mathematical precision, CAD eliminates the intimacy that was had in previous generations between an architect and the space in which he was working. In this previous era, the architect would, through a cyclical process of drawing, walking around and experiencing the site, become intimate with the details of the space in a way that the standard use of CAD does not allow.

Over the course of the book, Sennett explores the craftsman, the craft and the nature of craftsmanship. In the book’s first part, a reflection on the craftsman, Sennett introduces the contemporary problem of division of head and hand. His chapter on the workshop environment in which the craftsman works and in which the knowledge of the craft is transmitted from one generation to the next, is a crucial element in his understanding of the craftsman. In his chapter on machines, Sennett traces the rise of industrialism in the nineteenth century, the progress of which served to broaden the chasm between head and hand, and in the words of C. Wright Mills to turn craftsmanship into “an anachronism” (118). Sennett’s exploration of the craft itself is presented in poignant chapters on the mechanics of the hand, recipes and the communication of a craft, “arousing tools” and the struggle against the resistance of materials and the place of ambiguity in craft. In the book’s final section – on craftsmanship – Sennett explores quality and the ability to become a craftsman. The latter of these questions is of particular note because he argues persuasively that anyone can become a craftsman. Indeed, even in the play of children, they are learning basic skills that prepare them for the development of a craft: viz., the “dialogue with physical materials, the discipline of following rules [and] the advanced complexity of making rules” (273).

In the book’s conclusion, Sennett reiterates his intent in exploring craftsmanship: “the craft of making physical things provides insights into the techniques of experience that can shape our dealings with others” (289). Although I bristle a bit at Sennett’s notion of relational techniques, I deeply appreciate his sense that we are fundamentally relational beings and that our labors in the physical world assist us in relating to our fellow-humans. Although Sennett did not explore this point, one wonders also if our inability to relate to others (e.g., the sort of isolation described by Robert Putnam in Bowling Alone), is connected to the terchnologically-induced gap between head and hand that Sennett names at the book’s outset? Although he does not use this theological language, Sennett’s work here seems to reinforce the Christian notion that physical human work has an essential place in the story of God’s reconciliation of all humanity. The Benedictine tradition has been defined by its strong sense of humanity’s dual vocation to prayer and to work. It is easy to see that in prayer we are submitting to God’s reconciling work, but also in our call to work – if we take Sennett’s work here seriously – there is a sort of submission to God’s reconciliation. In other words, to cast Sennett’s thesis theologically, in submitting to physical work of our hands, we are learning the disciplines that help us live more peaceably with all humanity, thus bearing witness to God’s larger work of reconciling all creation.

Sennett’s work, offered in The Craftsman, is a valuable resource for the missional people of God. Not only is it a striking reminder of our call to work, but it also builds a convincing case that one’s diligence in pursuing a craft is intimately connected with his/her adroitness in relationships. I look forward to reading it again, and to savoring (and being challenged by) the fruit of Sennett’s own craft.

Chris Smith is a member of Englewood Christian Church on Indy's near-east side and the editor of The Englewood Review of Books.

( This review was originally published in a recent issue of The Englewood Review of Books )

Labels: Book Review, Craft, Richard Sennett

God's Word

However, as it is written: "No eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceived what God has prepared for those who love him" but God has revealed it to us by his Spirit. The Spirit searches all things, even the deep things of God.

1 Corinthians 2:9-10
NIV

New Media for Ministry Roundtable... Nov. 8th

[from Pastor Bryan Hudson, MultiMediaVision...]

Saturday, November 8 @ 10am to 12noon

New Media for Ministry Pastor’s Roundtable” 1.0 (“one point zero”) will be the first in a series of discussions exploring the growing world of technology, social media and New Media as it relates to effective congregational ministry, outreach and community impact. New Media is a term that defines the convergence of “old media” such as graphics and print with “new” digital media such as Internet based content, digital video-audio, social media. Pastors and their key technology staff/leaders will both share and gain valuable insights. Helpful information and solution resources will be shared.

[continued... and watch the video]

God's Word

then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and purpose. Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others. Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus:

Philippians 2:2-5
NIV

Where Did All The Money (Really) Go?

Neil Cox, Ministry Support Services

Frankly, I didn't really expect to start writing today, but my financial genes have been actively buzzing lately with all the Wall Street talk and the ensuing political rhetoric. Then as if almost divinely directed, I read a local theo-blogger (James Kubecki) write on the financial topic... "Where Did All The Money Go?"

James found a Yale economist's notion 'fascinating' that it's only a fallacy that we lose a pile of money when the stock market tanks."

There's little time or space here to comprehensively address this question of market value; so let me just offer a few items for your reflection...

Just like courtroom testimonies, we see there are plenty of 'experts' on all sides of an issue. And in the final analysis, it's the responsibility of the jurors to discern truth from fiction. Similarly, there are all sorts of 'experts' about global finance...

[continued at LovingChange.com]

Labels: finance, financial, market, money, stock

God's Word

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning. Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made. In him was life, and that life was the light of men. The light shines in the darkness, but the darkness has not understood it , and the darkness has not overcome

John 1:1-4
NIV

Past Lessons: Seeking Wealth Can Be A Vice

by Robert King, Indianapolis Star

Louise Radez remembers the Great Depression. She remembers the hunger all around her. And she remembers that her father's success in repairing shoes was due largely to most folks in Indianapolis being too poor to buy new ones.

But the lessons she learned from that era -- that you live within your means, you pay in cash or you do without -- seem like lost wisdom from an ancient culture in today's America.

[continued at IndyStar.com]

God's Word

Two things I ask of you, O LORD; do not refuse me before I die: Keep falsehood and lies far from me; give me neither poverty nor riches, but give me only my daily bread. Otherwise, I may have too much and disown you and say, "Who is the LORD?" Or I may become poor and steal, and so dishonor the name of my God.

Proverbs 30:7-9
NIV

God's Word

Taste and see that the LORD is good; blessed is the man who takes refuge in him. Fear the LORD, you his saints, for those who fear him lack nothing.

Psalms 34:8-9
NIV

Simple ABC's of Ministry

Identify needs and identify resources. From the very start of the ministry that God had me started, the ministry had been focused on 2 items: Needs and Resources. So I contacted several pastors and community leaders and asked them to meet together to identify those 2 items in our community. We came up with less than a dozen projects, mobilized 7 churches and inspired 200+ volunteers to serve unconditionally. What turned out to be just a one-time 'local mission' became an international ministry within 3 years. The concept (which is not new) is now adopted as far as Cartagena, Colombia.

Join in with what God is doing (and with others who has the heart to transform our community). 2 quick stories:

Southport Presbyterian Church (SPC) was looking for additional projects for their youth. I hooked them up with Jerome Jorman to paint his newly purchased house to be used as 'Group Home' and with David Woodrupp to paint a house of an elderly near the urban area. The result: 2 houses were painted and several changed lives.

Northview Christian Life Church in Carmel was looking for additional projects to mobilize their congregation (see www.nvcl.org for more info on Life on Loan). I contacted the city of Indianapolis Neighborhood Liaison Office and shared with them the opportunity. They came up with projects, hooked them up with Northview. On the 18th & 19th, dozens of volunteers will be helping our city unconditionally.

Identification, connection and mobilization. Identify the needs and resources and connecting them through mobilization of the community. Simple ABC's of Ministry...

God's Word

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. 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. Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints.

Ephesians 6:10-18
NIV

Unifyer 'Church 2.0' Site Up and Growing...

[from Cynthia Ware, Digital Sanctuary...]

"You can see that Greg Atkinson and I are the visual tutorial guides in the far right side of the margin but to make us live you’ll have to click into the site to actually view our presentation in bottom right help icon under video introduction. We shot our footage at the amazing Unifyer offices in Dallas during the ECHO Conference. Not every office has a green screen for filming, much less employees riding scooters through the office. Did I mention they also have unbelievably cool furniture that they acquired from Yahoo!'s offices. But don’t be fooled by all the trendy, hip atmosphere. These guys are only serious about one thing - creating opportunities for more effective ministry by building trust, intimacy and affinity through online connections."

[continued at DigitalSanctuary.org]

Jonathan Tremaine Thomas... on Abortion

IndyChristian Commentary... by Neil Cox, Editor

Because we believe that the Church can do so very much more... every single day... to impact our neighborhoods & communities, we have intentionally tried to steer clear of the political battles that rage today. Moreover, to date, it's been hard to discern one candidate being head-and-shoulders above the other. Neither candidate (IMHO) seems to epitomize Christian principles, or demonstrates he'll be the great defender of the defenseless, and ensure justice for the alien, the poor and the least privileged in society. Both seem to be feverishly waging a battle of rhetoric... especially aimed at the 'middle class' (income up to $250,000... who we kidding?).

We do however advocate heavily for Christ-followers loving our neighbors are ourselves... and being all we can be within our sphere of influence. Here's one such person in our city... taking a strong video stand on behalf of a future generation of the unborn...

[continued to Jonathan Tremaine Thomas' video]

********

We'll consider others of you who may want to make a strong case for an opposing view -- leave a comment or drop us a line with a link to your site.

But we can't take a lot of time or space to interupt our primary mission of connecting & communicating among driven Christians carrying out the Great Commission. Four-hundred people die in our metro area every week. And if Barna's national statistics fit Indianapolis, that means that only 16 of them held to a 'biblical worldview'. So time's a wastin'.

Labels: abortion, mccain, obama, politics, prolife

God's Word

For the director of music. Of David. A psalm. O LORD, you have searched me and you know me. You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar. You discern my going out and my lying down; you are familiar with all my ways. Before a word is on my tongue you know it completely, O LORD. You hem me in-- behind and before; you have laid your hand upon me. Such knowledge is too wonderful for me, too lofty for me to attain. Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence?

Psalms 139:1-7
NIV

We Interupt This Blog From Atlanta...

[from Ed Stetzer's Lifeway Research Blog...]

"Megachurch week stretched to two weeks. Perhaps it needs a new name-- Supersized Megachurch Week. Well, megachurch "week" is not quite done. I will have two more posts, one later today and one tomorrow. Here is what we have covered so far..." [see list and great links]

And now... off to Atlanta... for 'Catalyst'...

Add Daily Community TV

"I will be speaking at the Catalyst Start Lab Wednesday afternoon. I will be doing a live interview via the internet Wednesday afternoon at plantingchannel.com/catalyst. You may also want to check out the New Thing Network's Discover the Dream workshop on PlantingChannel starting at 8:45am eastern time..."

[great article and links today at EdStetzer.com]

[join Ed and others on the PlantingChannel during Catalyst]

[CatalystConference.com]

[Facebook info]

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IndyChristian Note... Here's an aggregated LIVEBLOGGING feed from Catalyst participants. And here's the Twittering going on re 'catalyst08'

Labels: catalyst, edstetzer, innovative, liveblogging, research

God's Word

"This, then, is how you should pray: "'Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us today our daily bread. Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one. for yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen.

Matthew 6:9-13
NIV

Pre-Planning Meeting for 2009 Timeline... Oct. 16th

Those Christian leaders who are anxious to get a jump-start on planning ahead for the 2009 timeline... would be welcome to join us for coffee @ 3pm, Thurs, October 16th... Paradise Bakery on Meridian @ 96th Street.

Bottom line, we believe that the Great Commission in Indy during 2009 is important enough not only to PRAY for, but to also put some collaborative PLANNING toward. This meeting is to get a jump-start on doing exactly that. There are already a number of organizations committed to be at the table that day. Will yours be one of them?

For further info, contact Neil Cox, Eldon Kibbey or Merlin Gonzales.

God's Word

He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. For by him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things were created by him and for him. He is before all things, and in him all things hold together. And he is the head of the body, the church; he is the beginning and the firstborn from among the dead, so that in everything he might have the supremacy.

Colossians1:15-18
NIV

T.E.A.M.M. Work in Tippecanoe

[from Isaac Randolph, Indiana Director, OFBCI...]

Thursday morning I had the honor of being the keynote speaker for the Greater Lafayette Leadership Breakfast thanks to a special invitation from Rev. Brad Bush of Maple Ridge Community Church . Sponsored by T.E.A.M.M. (Tippecanoe Evangelical Association of Ministers and Ministries), its the event was a great way to start the day.

I was very impressed by the work being done by this group faith-based organizations and the special relationship and mutual respect I witnessed between this group and their local elected leadership. I sat down next to Mayor...

[continued at Good Works Indiana]

The Week Ahead...

Add Daily Community TV to your page

Visit the...

And here are just a few of the items for you this week...

Tues... RSI Luncheon
Thurs... Crossroads Bible College Banquet
Thurs... Communications Team (ONLINE) meeting
Sat... Ask Anything Saturday

And mark your December calendar for 12/18 Indy Timeline 2009 Planning Luncheon.

God's Word

. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last, the Beginning and the End. "Blessed are those who wash their robes, that they may have the right to the tree of life and may go through the gates into the city. "I, Jesus, have sent my angel to give you this testimony for the churches. I am the Root and the Offspring of David, and the bright Morning Star." The Spirit and the bride say, "Come!" And let him who hears say, "Come!" Whoever is thirsty, let him come; and whoever wishes, let him take the free gift of the water of life. I warn everyone who hears the words of the prophecy of this book: If anyone adds anything to them, God will add to him the plagues described in this book. And if anyone takes words away from this book of prophecy, God will take away from him his share in the tree of life and in the holy city, which are described in this book. He who testifies to these things says, "Yes, I am coming soon." Amen. Come, Lord Jesus. The grace of the Lord Jesus be with God's people. Amen.

Revelation 22: 13-14,16-21
NIV

IndyStar: Profiles in Faith 2008

[Read special section at IndyStar.com... including each of the individual ministries profiled.]

Today Is Central Indiana Life Chain Sunday...

[hat-tip: Barry Bowen, Editor, ChristianHeadlines.com]

[Visit Central Indiana LifeChain Blog]

'PROLIFE' tags

God's Word

Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective.

James 5:16
NIV

Pulliam: Inner-City Tour Features Bright Spots

Russ Pulliam, Indianapolis Star

Auto dealer Don Palmer had a personal stake in how Congress dealt with the nation's financial crisis last week. But his attention was focused elsewhere, on Indianapolis' urban core, where he led about 60 of his friends on a bus tour of inner-city ministries and neighborhoods.

Palmer wanted his mostly suburban group to see hope amid all the news about crime, drug abuse and broken families. He also has started the Hoosier Christian Foundation to support local ministries.

[continued at Indianapolis Star]

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

Good Works Indiana... Glad No One's Enochlophobic

[from our friend, Isaac Randolph, Director, OFBCI]

photo credit, Good Works Indiana

[Read Ike's account at... Good Works Indiana]

*************

'EMERGENCY' tags

Fishers of Men Evangelism Conference... Nov. 15th

Visit GoodMessengers.com

God's Word

In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.

John 14:2-4
KJV

Video: The Modern Church Historical

[ht: Todd Rhoades, Monday Morning Insights]

God's Word

The LORD is good, a refuge in times of trouble. He cares for those who trust in him,

Nahum 1:7
NIV

The IndyChristian Show... October 2008

Announcement by Neil Cox
IndyChristian Communications Team

We are pleased to announce the arrival of 'The IndyChristian Show' as the latest development in our team strategy to connect & communicate... as we pray and work TOGETHER toward the acceleration of the Great Commission in our city, on our watch.

Mrs. Dian Foreman hosts this monthly show as we present two video stories from the Indianapolis community, followed by 4 significant activities that YOU can get involved in during the month of October.

The show is a production of the newly-forming citywide 'Communications Team' here in Indy. Perhaps you'd like to be a part of the team, as an embedded reporter for YOUR neighborhood?

Ok, let's watch the October episode of... 'The IndyChristian Show'.

God's Word

But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under law. The acts of the sinful nature are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God. 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. Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit. Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other.

Galatians 5:18-26
NIV

Indy Christian .com -- Daily Internet Starting-line

Friday, October 31, 2008

Video: Piper Perspective of Election 2008

God's Word

Thursday, October 30, 2008

Chris Matthews Mocks Palin For Extending Credit To God

God's Word

Facebook Widens The Gap With MySpace... Globally

Wednesday, October 29, 2008

God's Word

Tuesday, October 28, 2008

FHL Update: Kindness Weekend - Faith Is Renewed, Hope Is Nurtured, and Love Is In Action In Our City!

The Gospel According To Rupert Murdoch?

God's Word

Video: Lukewarm and Loving It...

Monday, October 27, 2008

The World Has Changed. Will You?

Video: Praying For Our Future

God's Word

Sunday, October 26, 2008

Ask Anything Saturday... PowerPoint on the Web

God's Word

Saturday, October 25, 2008

God's Word

Evangelism Initiative Spreads Christ's Message

Friday, October 24, 2008

The IndyChristian Show... for November

God's Word

Thursday, October 23, 2008

God's Word

Tear Down The Walls... Put Up The Tables... Nov. 28

Wednesday, October 22, 2008

CCDA Miami '08.... Now Officially Underway

God's Word

Video: How Not To Help The Poor

Tuesday, October 21, 2008

Please Note: FHL Mobile Food Pantry at Save The Youth Center on October 25!

God's Word

Internet Ministry Conference... Underway

Monday, October 20, 2008

Balancing Discussion: Evangelism vs. Mercy Ministry?

God's Word

User-Videos from 'Life On Loan Weekend'...

Sunday, October 19, 2008

Northview Video... Life On Loan Weekend

God's Word

Indy area is flourishing... while rest of state falters

Saturday, October 18, 2008

Praying For Our Youth...

God's Word

Church Development Center in Tax Jeopardy

Friday, October 17, 2008

Video: Sarah Palin Visits Indianapolis... (Part One)

Seek God for the City... 2009

God's Word

Thursday, October 16, 2008

God's Word

Why Johnny Can't REVEAL

Wednesday, October 15, 2008

October Book Review: THE CRAFTSMAN by Richard Sennett

God's Word

New Media for Ministry Roundtable... Nov. 8th

Tuesday, October 14, 2008

God's Word

Where Did All The Money (Really) Go?

Monday, October 13, 2008

God's Word

Past Lessons: Seeking Wealth Can Be A Vice

Sunday, October 12, 2008

God's Word

Saturday, October 11, 2008

God's Word

Friday, October 10, 2008

Simple ABC's of Ministry

God's Word

Unifyer 'Church 2.0' Site Up and Growing...

Thursday, October 09, 2008

Jonathan Tremaine Thomas... on Abortion

God's Word

Wednesday, October 08, 2008