the thirsty pastor ~ isaiah 55:1-2

Two by our friend John Piper that will make you think...

2009-06-17T00:31:00.001-05:00

Simply wrong...but funny!

2009-04-09T10:50:00.003-05:00

Please pray for my friend's son

2009-03-31T19:19:00.003-05:00

Jeff Sorvik and I have been friends for a long time. He is a fellow church planter and pastor in the Duluth area where he pastors a really cool church plant up there calledAnchor Point Church. He really needs our prayers right now as his 17 year old son, Josh Sorvik, was in a skiing accident this past weekend. He has a severed spinal cord and it looks like the is going to be paralyzed from the waist down. Please pray that God will heal his spine - and that he will walk again! He is only a senior in high school. As a parent of boys, and one who is 17 (David), my heart breaks and cries out to God on behalf of Josh and the Sorvik family.

1 Praise the Lord, O my soul;
all my inmost being, praise his holy name.
2 Praise the Lord, O my soul,
and forget not all his benefits—
3 who forgives all your sins
and heals all your diseases,
4 who redeems your life from the pit
and crowns you with love and compassion,
5 who satisfies your desires with good things
so that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s.

Newsweek on Christians calling themselves "followers of Jesus"

2009-03-19T09:53:00.004-05:00

Newsweek has done a nice piece here about how the new evangelicals don't like to be associated with a denomination, or to even call themselves "Christian" as that carries baggage. Hmmm.... Seems like we've been saying this for 15 years...

Only in Florida

2009-03-18T15:25:00.002-05:00

The sign says "Bikers and Hikers, Move to the side of the road when vehicle approaches."

Ideas that are chaning the world

2009-03-18T10:13:00.005-05:00

According to a Time Magazine Article, the New Reformed Movement is #3 on movements that are changing America! A renewal of a picture of God as holy, just, sovereign, and yet, infinitely loving is one our nation desperately needs and we are proud to be part of this movement of churches. May God protect us from arrogance or loving doctrine above God himself! It is a pretty fair article, and definitely a good thing for Time Magazine to see the impact of culture by sound theology. Let us live up to our press, now!

Penn Jillette on a gift of a Bible

2009-03-06T17:26:00.002-06:00

This has had a profound impact on me... Penn is no follower of Jesus yet, but REALLY listen to what he says and how impacted he is by this man who genuinely loved on him. Penn is an ardent atheist, but moved by this gift of a Bible.

Oh my gosh, this is funny!

2009-02-01T14:14:00.002-06:00

I THINK MY WIFE IS A CALVINIST! by Brandon Milan (brandonmilan.wordpress.com

I love John Piper!! But.... this is funny!

2008-11-08T22:34:00.002-06:00

Predestination

2008-11-08T20:25:00.003-06:00

In my study for tomorrow's sermon on predestination I stumbled across this little animation as well as this website . I admit, I am a Calvinist who is pretty at peace with the philosophy behind the idea... Problem with that is, most people are not at peace with it, so this is a great place to fuel your thoughts. Give both a look and let me know what you think. Tough topic!!

A great weekend

2008-10-20T09:18:00.011-05:00

This picture was taken moments after the best duck hunting of my life. Dirk Korth (my best man 20 years ago) and I were hunting in No. Dak. last weekend (October and set up on the north end of a pothole. The mallards were coming in like nobody's business - we shot 5 in about an hour and a half.

Then, we went to jump "Treichler hole" which is a pothole that was named for David and I last year as we did quite well hanging out at this little body of water, bagging teal as they approached the western edge. This year, however, we never made it. We came in between two different potholes where the teal would just come in ON THE DECK, wings cupped, right at us as we sat on the southern edge of the pond. Amazing. I have never experienced anything quite like it in all my years of hunting.

Needless to say, we both had our legal limit by 1:15pm, and went home for a well deserved lunch, nap and to do a little strutting at the duck camp with the other guys. What a great day last Saturday was!!

20 years in waiting...

2008-07-09T14:23:00.007-05:00

but the wait just makes the new relationship all the more pleasant....

I am the proud parent of a 2003 Victory Classic Cruiser!!!

So, here's my new baby. I purchased it from a guy in Denver, and am flying out on Sunday to drive it home. I had bikes before I was married, but gave it up for Lent (which is code word for Married, Married with Children.) Looking forward to drivin' my beautiful bride of 20 years down the lane with this hoss.

Pray for great weather, safety and great times with God (and killing sin while I'm at it!) driving the 900 miles home this next Sunday and Monday.

One happy rider,

Trike

Widening the Narrow Gate

2008-05-29T16:37:00.003-05:00

As I have evaluated who I am, I think I am a pretty decent verbal communicator. I think my ability to think quick, and effectively is something that God has blessed me with, and is a blessing to others through teaching, encouraging, getting coffee and even preaching. I am pleased with that.

However, I am just a terrible writer - which is why blogging is so very hard for me. I write how I talk. Choppy, using dashes and parenthesis and exclamation points all the time, since I want to have emotion and passion in my writing. I have read much of what I have written and, at best, I give myself a C+ (because we all think we are above average - see Garrison Keelior!)

Every now and then, someone writes something that is EXACTLY what I am thinking and feeling, but could just never put into words. Below is one of these thoughts. Leah Grimes in a Hopester for a few years now, and quite honestly, and amazing writer. She has written something today that has really encapsulated my own thoughts about the "happy" gospel.

If you like what she has written, then let me know, and I'll pass it on. If you disagree with her, and love Joel Osteen and his message, then write a comment to me, and I will defend it. I agree with her 100%, so don't go find her to pick a fight. Get on your theological boxing gloves and you and I can go! (in a nice, Minnesota, Norwegian way - which means we will just ignore each other with massive passive agressiveness and then each die of stomach ulcers very young!)

Enjoy a great piece of writing about a controversial subject

~ Trike

Widening the Narrow Gate
by Leah Grimes

“[My goal] is to give people a boost for the week” –Joel Osteen (Lakewood Church)

"THIS IS A HARD TEACHING"

In my personal opinion, Osteen (along with countless others) presents a gospel that few could find offensive, and even fewer could reject. Over the past decade, Osteen’s message of “happiness” “positive thinking” and “financial prosperity” has attracted a loyal following of “itching ears” across the nation and around the world.
Though I refuse to judge the heart and motives underlying this man’s message, I find myself incapable of ignoring the implications of such teachings…

Basic logic would dictate that very few people would object to a gospel which promises happiness, success and wealth in return for being a “good” person and thinking “positive thoughts.” Recent nationwide surveys affirm this logic.

Yet I wonder…Since when has the Gospel of Jesus Christ become so inoffensive to the world? Since when has the narrow gate that few would find (Matthew 7) become so wide and easily found?

I wonder how many first-time attendees at Osteen’s church (and churches all across the nation for that matter) walk away from the weekly sermon saying, “That was a hard teaching.” Yet this was the exact response that Jesus Christ elicited from His own followers in John 6, “On hearing it (Jesus’ teaching), many of his disciples said, ‘This is a hard teaching. Who can accept it?’ Aware that his disciples were grumbling about this, Jesus said to them, ‘Does this offend you?’ ...many of his disciples turned back and no longer followed him.”

The American church, in general, continues to cowardly tip-toe around every portion of Scripture that may be considered even slightly offensive or controversial. Preachers have resorted to producing neutral sermons that offend none and encourage all. The focus has shifted from the cost of discipleship and total transformation to church growth, attendance figures, and filling the seats. We have adopted a numbers-centered mentality…if we entertain, if we make people “feel good,” people will come back and the church will grow. "We now seek to comfort sinners, not to convert them."

DIET WORLD: SEE IF YOU CAN TASTE THE DIFFERENCE

Following stagnant church attendance in the 1960’s and 70’s, Evangelical leaders resolved to make the American public “feel good about going to church again” by proving that church was “worth their time.”
The game had changed. No longer were congregants asking “what can I offer God and this church?” but rather “what can God and this church offer me?” Sermons began sounding more and more like self-help messages…decorated with the occasional humorous antidote, movie clip and feel good family story. Please hear me correctly… Self-help teachings (Think: how to manage finances, how to have a healthy marriage, etc…), humor, stories, and illustrations all have their appropriate place within the body of Christ.
Yet it is my firm belief that every man, woman, and child that sets foot within the four walls of any church, is above all else, in desperate need of the message of salvation that comes through faith in Jesus Christ, not a 3-point sermon on “How to become a better person” or “How to experience success in life.”

Through the atoning death of Jesus Christ at Calvary, we, who were by nature objects of wrath were made alive in Christ even though we were dead in our sin (Ephesians 2). The redeeming Gospel of Jesus Christ is the means through which dead people are made alive…not through which bad people are made better or unsuccessful people are made successful.

Jesus attracted massive crowds when He performed miracles while in the marketplace. Many began to follow Him, enticed by the prospect of blessing and healing. Yet it is when Jesus began to speak of the cost of discipleship that many deserted the faith. In Mark 10, a rich young man approached Jesus, asking “What must I do to inherit eternal life?” Jesus responded, “Go, sell everything you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.” The Word of God says that “At this the man’s face fell. He went away sad, because he had great wealth.”

If you listen closely…you will hear a desperate world crying out to the church, “What must I do to have peace?!?” “What must I do to have joy?!?” “What must I do to find purpose?!?” “What must I do to inherit eternal life?!?”
And what is our response? Do we, like Jesus, stand upon the very Word of God and boldly challenge the world to pick up its cross and follow Christ?
Or…
Do we encourage them to be a better person? To join a church? To read the most popular Christian book by the most popular Christian author? To listen to KLOVE? Do we offer them a “diet” version of the world that they have spent years addicted to, and yet have still been left wanting…or do we offer them a drink without cost from the spring of the water of life (Revelation 21).

CONCLUSION OF THE MATTER

I am a very young woman; I know very little…yet what I know, I offer freely as a platform for greater thought and discussion. For the past 23 years (much to the credit of my parents’ discernment) I have been blessed to attend churches that cling to the Truth of the Gospel and preach it boldly, with conviction. Yet I know that many have not been as fortunate.

I do not wish to seem ignorant of the many battles currently plaguing the modern-day church. The difficulty of competing for the attention of congregants (especially the youth) in an increasingly distracting world should not be underestimated. The need to be relevant, savvy, and entertaining often seems great. It is therefore incumbent upon my generation to find a way to be relevant while refusing to compromise the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

As a young girl I was given the following charge…everyday these words fall with greater urgency on my heart…

“Preach the Word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage-with great patience and careful instruction. For the time will come when men will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear. They will turn away from the truth and turn aside to myths. But you, keep your head in all situations, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist.” -2 Timothy 4

**Disclaimer: Joel Osteen is admired by many as an influential pastor. I have nothing personal against the man. He just served as an example.
**I want to credit Jim Elliff for inspiring many of the thoughts found in this note.

Overcoming Sin ~ Free version online

2008-04-29T14:53:00.004-05:00

Here's the link for Overcoming Sin, which is 3 different books by John Owen ("The Mortification of Sin", "Of Temptation: The Nature and Power of It," and "Indwelling Sin"). You are limited to a few pages at at time, but believe me, that is about all you can handle at one time anyway.

Our schedule for reading for the next few weeks will be:
April 27th - Chapter One (pages 45-49)
May 4th - Chapters Two and Three (pages 49-57 for chapter 2, 57-63)
May 11th - Chapter Four (pages 63-66)

It is not much pages each week, but I will warn you, OWEN is TOUGH SLEDDING!! He is not easy to read, even with this new edition that has footnotes for 'old' words and updated English. However, I seriously would encourage you to take some time to really ponder these amazing truths.

If you would like your own copy, we have one left on our Hope Books bookshelf, and 12 more on the way (hopefully by this weekend, but that might be pushing it.) Our suggested donation to the Hope Books fund is $15.

Worship God! Kill Sin! Do as much damage to the kingdom of darkness as you can!

Trike

The Matrix meets Ping-Pong

2008-04-29T13:23:00.000-05:00

Is it dumb? Yup! Is it cool? Yup!

What is Sin?

2008-04-20T13:03:00.006-05:00

Welcome to the world of trying to KILL YOU SIN before it KILLS YOU!! At Hope, we are now in a 10 week sermon series using John Owen's Mortification of Sin. To start out the series, today's message was a Biblical Theology of sin click here to listen the message. I challenged the whole church afterwards to think through a thorough definition of sin and to post it here as a comment. Short or long, we'd love to hear what you all are thinking.

If you would like a copy of the powerpoint click here.

For a copy of the sermon notes, click here.

I'll be in Orlando all week, but I will be commenting and reading as well. Have a great week, and KILL SIN!!

Trike

April's Free Audio Book

2008-04-16T22:05:00.002-05:00

I know NOTHING about this book, but I like Chesterton, and a fiction is something I am ready for AND I ABSOLUTELY know this --- I love to listen when I drive and I love FREE! Click here for this month's freebie from christianaudio.com. Use the code APR2008. Enjoy!!

How to be a blessing to the city...

2008-03-18T17:06:00.004-05:00

I had the opportunity to meet and interview the Mayor of Minneapolis, R.T. Rybak in December. He was gracious enough to meet with me and our team as we prepared for the Don't Waste Your Life sermon series, answering the question: "How can a church be a blessing to the city of Minneapolis?" He is a great guy, and I thoroughly enjoyed our time together. Here's the finished product (in two parts due to size limitation):

R.T. Rybak on how to be a blessing to a city - interview with Steve Treichler (part 1)

R.T. Rybak on how to be a blessing to a city - interview with Steve Treichler (part 2)

Major Controversy here...

2008-02-24T21:23:00.002-06:00

If you are into controversy, watch this trailer for Ben Stein's new upcoming movie, Expelled: No Intelligence Allowed. After you watch it, google "Ben Stein Expelled" and read the blogosphere about it. Wow!! Is this a hot potato!!

FAKT 1034 - "Life is like a cigarette. Smoke it to the butt."

2008-02-09T17:49:00.000-06:00

A few months ago, I ran across an incredible short claymation film by Adam Elliot - Harvie Krumpet. Wow! I love this little 20 minute film, and especially his "Fakts". Harvie is a guy who struggles incredibly, but has one amazing truth - that life is to be lived, and lived well no matter your circumstances. That is where Fakt #1034 comes in.

Through the wonders of the internet (Thanks again, Al Gore!) and Atom Films, you can watch this wonderful, dark, thoughtful film right here. I'd love to hear your thoughts.

AtomFilms.com: Funny Videos | Funny Cartoons | Comedy Central

Jonathan Edwards is my homeboy!

2008-02-08T19:48:00.000-06:00

THE RESOLUTIONS
of
Jonathan Edwards
BEING SENSIBLE THAT I AM UNABLE TO DO ANYTHING WITHOUT GOD' S HELP, I DO HUMBLY ENTREAT HIM BY HIS GRACE TO ENABLE ME TO KEEP THESE RESOLUTIONS, SO FAR AS THEY ARE AGREEABLE TO HIS WILL, FOR CHRIST' S SAKE.

Remember to read over these Resolutions once a week.

1. Resolved, that I will do whatsoever I think to be most to God' s glory, and my own good, profit and pleasure, in the whole of my duration, without any consideration of the time, whether now, or never so many myriads of ages hence. Resolved to do whatever I think to be my duty and most for the good and advantage of mankind in general. Resolved to do this, whatever difficulties I meet with, how many soever, and how great soever.

2. Resolved, to be continually endeavoring to find out some new contrivance and invention to promote the aforementioned things.

3. Resolved, if ever I shall fall and grow dull, so as to neglect to keep any part of these Resolutions, to repent of all I can remember, when I come to myself again.

4. Resolved, never to do any manner of thing, whether in soul or body, less or more, but what tends to the glory of God; nor be, nor suffer it, if I can avoid it.

5. Resolved, never to lose one moment of time; but improve it the most profitable way I possibly can.

6. Resolved, to live with all my might, while I do live.

7. Resolved, never to do anything, which I should be afraid to do, if it were the last hour of my life.

8. Resolved, to act, in all respects, both speaking and doing, as if nobody had been so vile as I, and as if I had committed the same sins, or had the same infirmities or failings as others; and that I will let the knowledge of their failings promote nothing but shame in myself, and prove only an occasion of my confessing my own sins and misery to God. July 30.

9. Resolved, to think much on all occasions of my own dying, and of the common circumstances which attend death.

10. Resolved, when I feel pain, to think of the pains of martyrdom, and of hell.

11. Resolved, when I think of any theorem in divinity to be solved, immediately to do what I can towards solving it, if circumstances do not hinder.

12. Resolved, if I take delight in it as a gratification of pride, or vanity, or on any such account, immediately to throw it by.

13. Resolved, to be endeavoring to find out fit objects of charity and liberality.

14. Resolved, never to do any thing out of revenge.

15. Resolved, never to suffer the least motions of anger towards irrational beings.

16. Resolved, never to speak evil of anyone, so that it shall tend to his dishonor, more or less, upon no account except for some real good.

17. Resolved, that I will live so, as I shall wish I had done when I come to die.

18. Resolved, to live so, at all times, as I think is best in my devout frames, and when I have clearest notions of things of the gospel, and another world.

19. Resolved, never to do any thing, which I should be afraid to do, if I expected it would not be above an hour, before I should hear the last trump.

20. Resolved, to maintain the strictest temperance, in eating and drinking.

21. Resolved, never to do any thing, which if I should see in another, I should count a just occasion to despise him for, or to think any way the more meanly of him. (Resolutions 1 through 21 written in one setting in New Haven in 1722)

22. Resolved, to endeavor to obtain for myself as much happiness, in the other world, as I possibly can, with all the power, might, vigor, and vehemence, yea violence, I am capable of, or can bring myself to exert, in any way that can be thought of.

23. Resolved, frequently to take some deliberate action, which seems most unlikely to be done, for the glory of God, and trace it back to the original intention, designs and ends of it; and if I find it not to be for God' s glory, to repute it as a breach of the 4th Resolution.

24. Resolved, whenever I do any conspicuously evil action, to trace it back, till I come to the original cause; and then, both carefully endeavor to do so no more, and to fight and pray with all my might against the original of it.

25. Resolved, to examine carefully, and constantly, what that one thing in me is, which causes me in the least to doubt of the love of God; and to direct all my forces against it.

26. Resolved, to cast away such things, as I find do abate my assurance.

27. Resolved, never willfully to omit any thing, except the omission be for the glory of God; and frequently to examine my omissions.

28. Resolved, to study the Scriptures so steadily, constantly and frequently, as that I may find, and plainly perceive myself to grow in the knowledge of the same.

29. Resolved, never to count that a prayer, nor to let that pass as a prayer, nor that as a petition of a prayer, which is so made, that I cannot hope that God will answer it; nor that as a confession, which I cannot hope God will accept.

30. Resolved, to strive to my utmost every week to be brought higher in religion, and to a higher exercise of grace, than I was the week before.

31. Resolved, never to say any thing at all against any body, but when it is perfectly agreeable to the highest degree of Christian honor, and of love to mankind, agreeable to the lowest humility, and sense of my own faults and failings, and agreeable to the golden rule; often, when I have said anything against anyone, to bring it to, and try it strictly by the test of this Resolution.

32. Resolved, to be strictly and firmly faithful to my trust, that that, in Proverbs 20:6,‹A faithful man who can find?Š may not be partly fulfilled in me.

33. Resolved, to do always, what I can towards making, maintaining, and preserving peace, when it can be done without overbalancing detriment in other respects. Dec. 26, 1722.

34. Resolved, in narrations never to speak any thing but the pure and simple verity.

35. Resolved, whenever I so much question whether I have done my duty, as that my quiet and calm is thereby disturbed, to set it down, and also how the question was resolved. Dec. 18, 1722.

36. Resolved, never to speak evil of any, except I have some particular good call for it. Dec. 19, 1722.

37. Resolved, to inquire every night, as I am going to bed, wherein I have been negligent,- what sin I have committed,-and wherein I have denied myself;-also at the end of every week, month and year. Dec. 22 and 26, 1722.

38. Resolved, never to speak anything that is ridiculous, sportive, or matter of laughter on the Lord' s day. Sabbath evening, Dec. 23, 1722.

39. Resolved, never to do any thing of which I so much question the lawfulness of, as that I intend, at the same time, to consider and examine afterwards, whether it be lawful or not; unless I as much question the lawfulness of the omission.

40. Resolved, to inquire every night, before I go to bed, whether I have acted in the best way I possibly could, with respect to eating and drinking. Jan. 7, 1723.

41. Resolved, to ask myself, at the end of every day, week, month and year, wherein I could possibly, in any respect, have done better. Jan. 11, 1723.

42. Resolved, frequently to renew the dedication of myself to God, which was made at my baptism; which I solemnly renewed, when I was received into the communion of the church; and which I have solemnly re-made this twelfth day of January, 1722-23.

43. Resolved, never, henceforward, till I die, to act as if I were any way my own, but entirely and altogether God' s; agreeable to what is to be found in Saturday, January 12, 1723.

44. Resolved, that no other end but religion, shall have any influence at all on any of my actions; and that no action shall be, in the least circumstance, any otherwise than the religious end will carry it. January 12, 1723.

45. Resolved, never to allow any pleasure or grief, joy or sorrow, nor any affection at all, nor any degree of affection, nor any circumstance relating to it, but what helps religion. Jan. 12 and 13, 1723.

46. Resolved, never to allow the least measure of any fretting uneasiness at my father or mother. Resolved to suffer no effects of it, so much as in the least alteration of speech, or motion of my eye: and to be especially careful of it with respect to any of our family.

47. Resolved, to endeavor, to my utmost, to deny whatever is not most agreeable to a good, and universally sweet and benevolent, quiet, peaceable, contented and easy, compassionate and generous, humble and meek, submissive and obliging, diligent and industrious, charitable and even, patient, moderate, forgiving and sincere temper; and to do at all times, what such a temper would lead me to; and to examine strictly, at the end of every week, whether I have done so. Sabbath morning. May 5, 1723.

48. Resolved, constantly, with the utmost niceness and diligence, and the strictest scrutiny, to be looking into the state of my soul, that I may know whether I have truly an interest in Christ or not; that when I come to die, I may not have any negligence respecting this to repent of. May 26, 1723.

49. Resolved, that this never shall be, if I can help it.

50. Resolved, I will act so as I think I shall judge would have been best, and most prudent, when I come into the future world. July 5, 1723.

51. Resolved, that I will act so, in every respect, as I think I shall wish I had done, if I should at last be damned. July 8, 1723.

52. I frequently hear persons in old age, say how they would live, if they were to live their lives over again: Resolved, that I will live just so as I can think I shall wish I had done, supposing I live to old age. July 8, 1723.

53. Resolved, to improve every opportunity, when I am in the best and happiest frame of mind, to cast and venture my soul on the Lord Jesus Christ, to trust and confide in him, and consecrate myself wholly to him; that from this I may have assurance of my safety, knowing that I confide in my Redeemer. July 8, 1723.

54. Whenever I hear anything spoken in conversation of any person, if I think it would be praiseworthy in me, Resolved to endeavor to imitate it. July 8, 1723.

55. Resolved, to endeavor to my utmost to act as I can think I should do, if, I had already seen the happiness of heaven, and hell torments. July 8, 1723.

56. Resolved, never to give over, nor in the least to slacken, my fight with my corruptions, however unsuccessful I may be.

57. Resolved, when I fear misfortunes and adversities, to examine whether I have done my duty, and resolve to do it, and let the event be just as providence orders it. I will as far as I can, be concerned about nothing but my duty, and my sin. June 9, and July 13 1723.

58. Resolved, not only to refrain from an air of dislike, fretfulness, and anger in conversation, but to exhibit an air of love, cheerfulness and benignity. May 27, and July 13, 1723.

59. Resolved, when I am most conscious of provocations to ill nature and anger, that I will strive most to feel and act good-naturedly; yea, at such times, to manifest good nature, though I think that in other respects it would be disadvantageous, and so as would be imprudent at other times. May 12, July 11, and July 13.

60. Resolved, whenever my feelings begin to appear in the least out of order, when I am conscious of the least uneasiness within, or the least irregularity without, I will then subject myself to the strictest examination. July 4, and 13, 1723.

61. Resolved, that I will not give way to that listlessness which I find unbends and relaxes my mind from being fully and fixedly set on religion, whatever excuse I may have for it-that what my listlessness inclines me to do, is best to be done, etc. May 21, and July 13, 1723.

62. Resolved, never to do anything but duty, and then according to Ephesians 6:6-8, to do it willingly and cheerfully as unto the Lord, and not to man:‹knowing that whatever good thing any man doth, the same shall he receive of the Lord.Š June 25 and July 13, 1723.

63. On the supposition, that there never was to be but one individual in the world, at any one time, who was properly a complete Christian, in all respects of a right stamp, having Christianity always shining in its true luster, and appearing excellent and lovely, from whatever part and under whatever character viewed: Resolved, to act just as I would do, if I strove with all my might to be that one, who should live in my time. January 14 and July 13, 1723.

64. Resolved, when I find those ‹groanings which cannot be utteredŠ (Romans 8:26), of which the Apostle speaks, and those‹breakings of soul for the longing it hath,Š of which the Psalmist speaks, Psalm 119:20, that I will promote them to the utmost of my power, and that I will not be weary of earnestly endeavoring to vent my desires, nor of the repetitions of such earnestness. July 23, and August 10, 1723.

65. Resolved, very much to exercise myself in this, all my life long, viz. with the greatest openness, of which I am capable of, to declare my ways to God, and lay open my soul to him: all my sins, temptations, difficulties, sorrows, fears, hopes, desires, and every thing, and every circumstance; according to Dr. Manton' s 27th Sermon on Psalm 119. July 26, and Aug.10 1723.

66. Resolved, that I will endeavor always to keep a benign aspect, and air of acting and speaking in all places, and in all companies, except it should so happen that duty requires otherwise.

67. Resolved, after afflictions, to inquire, what I am the better for them, what am I the better for them, and what I might have got by them.

68. Resolved, to confess frankly to myself all that which I find in myself, either infirmity or sin; and, if it be what concerns religion, also to confess the whole case to God, and implore needed help. July 23, and August 10, 1723.

69. Resolved, always to do that, which I shall wish I had done when I see others do it. August 11, 1723.

70. Let there be something of benevolence, in all that I speak. August 17, 1723.

Husbands, love your wives!!

2008-02-02T02:01:00.001-06:00

One thing that has become very important to me is that men start acting like men. I taught on this last fall in our "God Created them Male and Female: WHY?" message series and still feel this is such an important biblical concept to understand and apply in God's design. We have way too much confusion going on in homes with men who won't take the intiative to really put on their cleats and get dirty to get in the game with their wives and children. Men, lead out in loving, and not dominating ways. Love your wives!

With that said, it is extremely humorous to think about how relationship can and do go south when either person tries to dominate the other. For an example:

(Ephesians 5:22-33, NIV)
22 Wives, submit to your husbands as to the Lord. 23 For the husband is the head of the wife as Christ is the head of the church, his body, of which he is the Saviour. 24 Now as the church submits to Christ, so also wives should submit to their husbands in everything. 25 Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her 26 to make her holy, cleansing her by the washing with water through the word, 27 and to present her to himself as a radiant church, without stain or wrinkle or any other blemish, but holy and blameless. 28 In this same way, husbands ought to love their wives as their own bodies. He who loves his wife loves himself. 29 After all, no-one ever hated his own body, but he feeds and cares for it, just as Christ does the church-- 30 for we are members of his body. 31 “For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh.” 32 This is a profound mystery--but I am talking about Christ and the church. 33 However, each one of you also must love his wife as he loves himself, and the wife must respect her husband.

Found a new place to rock your brain... to Jesus!!!

2007-12-27T11:57:00.000-06:00

I just came across a relatively new Christian Rock internet only station that is worth a listen if you are into "head banging" like all of us 80's rockers like to do! It's called The Blast.FM and I've been enjoying it all morning!

THE POLITICALLY CORRECT TWELVE DAYS OF C*****MAS

2007-12-25T06:26:00.001-06:00

On the 12th day of the Eurocentrically-imposed midwinter festival, my potential acquaintance gave to me,

TWELVE males reclaiming their inner warrior through ritual drumming.

ELEVEN pipers piping (plus the 18 member pit orchestra made up of members in good standing of the Musicians Equity Union as called for in their union contract even though they will not be asked to play a note...)

TEN melanin-deprived, testosterone-poisoned scions of the patriarchal ruling class system leaping,

NINE persons engaged in rhythmic self-expression,

EIGHT economically-disadvantaged female persons stealing milk products from enslaved Bovine Americans,

SEVEN endangered swans swimming on federally-protected wetlands,

SIX enslaved fowl-Americans producing stolen, nonhuman animal products,

FIVE golden symbols of culturally-sanctioned enforced domestic incarceration, (NOTE: after a member of the Animal Liberation Front threatened to throw red paint at my computer, the calling birds, French hens and partridge have been reintroduced to their native habitat. To avoid further animal American enslavement, the remaining gift package has been revised.)

FOUR hours of recorded whale songs,

THREE deconstructionist poets,

TWO Sierra Club calendars printed on recycled, processed tree carcasses,

and a Spotted Owl activist chained to an old-growth pear tree.

Merry Christmas!! These guys are awesome!!

2007-12-22T14:41:00.001-06:00

Just a reminder...

2007-12-15T22:16:00.000-06:00

Preparing for Ruth and looking at the incredibly scandalous genealogy of Jesus I came across this anonymous quote:

The next time you feel like GOD can't use you, just remember...

Noah was a drunk, Abraham was too old, Isaac was a daydreamer, Jacob was a liar, Leah was ugly, Joseph was abused, Moses had a stuttering problem, Gideon was afraid, Samson had long hair and was a womanizer, Rahab was a prostitute, Jeremiah and Timothy were too young, David had an affair and was a murderer, Elijah was suicidal, Isaiah preached naked, Jonah ran from God, Naomi was a widow, Job went bankrupt, John the Baptist ate bugs, Peter denied Christ, The Disciples fell asleep while praying, Martha worried about everything, The Samaritan woman was divorced, more than once, Zaccheus was too small, Paul was too religious, Timothy had an ulcer...AND Lazarus was dead!

No more excuses now. God can use you to your full potential.

Besides you aren't the MESSAGE, you are just the MESSENGER!

Another free audio book

2007-12-03T22:01:00.000-06:00

Wow! I LOVE FREE STUFF!!!

I'm groovin' on this free audio book thing - really enjoying Edwards' "Religious Affections" and this month it is John of the Cross' "Dark Night of the Soul". Just click here for this month's freebie from christianaudio.com. Use the code DEC2007. Enjoy!!

To all my TULIP Brothers, here's a pick up line she will NOT be able to resist!

2007-11-20T13:55:00.000-06:00

Free Audio Book!

2007-11-20T10:29:00.001-06:00

Every month this organization gives away a free audio book. This month's is Jonathan Edward's Religious Affections, probably one of the most influential books written during the 2nd Great Awakening. Use the coupon code NOV2007 to take advantage of this freebie!!

The absolute heresy that the Prosperity Gospel gives.

2007-11-16T16:53:00.000-06:00

I know I don't do a lot of ranting on this forum, but those of you who know me fairly well will know that I do my fair amount. In recent years I have been on the watch out for a heresy so wrong, so devestating that if IS "another gospel" like Paul said in Galatians 1. It is radically spreading all over America, but is even stronger and gaining more steam in Africa, China, Central America.It is NOT the gospel of our Lord. It is NOT the gospel of suffering for his name. It is NOT the gospel of grace. It is a gospel of health, wealth, and personal satisfaction. It is ultimately wrong, and not only wrong - it is leading people AWAY from God.

It is the Prosperity Gospel and it is very dangerous.

Romans 1:18ff say:

18 For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who by their unrighteousness suppress the truth. 19 For what can be known about God is plain to them, because God has shown it to them. 20 For his invisible attributes, namely, his eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly perceived, ever since the creation of the world, in the things that have been made. So they are without excuse. 21 For although they knew God, they did not honor him as God or give thanks to him, but they became futile in their thinking, and their foolish hearts were darkened. 22 Claiming to be wise, they became fools, 23 and exchanged the glory of the immortal God for images resembling mortal man and birds and animals and creeping things.

24 Therefore God gave them up in the lusts of their hearts to impurity, to the dishonoring of their bodies among themselves, 25 because they exchanged the truth about God for a lie and worshiped and served the creature rather than the Creator, who is blessed forever! Amen.

You see, the definition of SIN is that we exchange the glory of God (CREATOR) for the worship (CREATION). Paul says in 1 Timothy 6:

17 As for the rich in this present age, charge them not to be haughty, nor to set their hopes on the uncertainty of riches, but on God, who richly provides us with everything to enjoy. 18 They are to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share, 19 thus storing up treasure for themselves as a good foundation for the future, so that they may take hold of that which is truly life.

In other words, riches are a possible HINDRANCE to the kingdom, not a sign of being in it. They do not provide life. God has given us things to enjoy - but NEVER to worship or to IN ANY WAY put before him or , even worse, to say that riches and health are signs of being in God's blessing. What about Job? What about Joseph? What about Paul? What about Jesus?

Romans 5
1 Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. 2 Through him we have also obtained access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and we rejoice in hope of the glory of God. 3 More than that, we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, 4 and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, 5 and hope does not put us to shame, because God's love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us.

Whatever happened to a good theology of suffering for the kingdom?

How did we ever let it be that we are "almost on the same page" as these people who are spreading the WRONG GOSPEL?

Why are we not "contending for the gospel (Jude 1:3) as we should to protect the church from this incredible wrong?

I don't know the answers to these question, but I do know that I have had an ilk and disdain for this theology for a long time.

Let me share with you my former mentor and friend, John Piper, as he states it much more elequantly than I can, but with the same disdain:

The uncomfort we feel by listening to this is the very reason why we need to fight for the gospel.

Think about it...kinda scary huh?

2007-11-16T16:29:00.000-06:00

Hot Wives and Church Marketing

2007-11-09T12:10:00.001-06:00

I'm just going to post this, and I'd love to hear your reactions!

Gonna Fly Now

2007-11-02T18:26:00.000-05:00

I am a huge Maynard Ferguson fan, and a major Rocky fan! Maynard died in 2006, but this tribute to him rocks! Thanks to Tim LaBerge for showing me this youtube video tribute:

Happy Reformation Day!!

2007-10-31T10:17:00.000-05:00

For those of you who might not know, today is Reformation Day. Four hundred ninety years ago, Martin Luther nailed his 95 theses to the Wittenburg Church door, setting in motion the process that would be known as the Reformation.

Lyrics:
When I was just ein junger Mann I studied canon law,
While Erfurt was a challenge, it was just to please my Pa,
Then came the storm, the lightning struck, I called upon Saint Anne,
I shaved my head, I took my vows, and Augustinian! Oh...

Chorus:
Papal bulls, indulgences, and transubstantiation
Speak your mind against them and face excommunication.
Nail your theses to the door, let’s start a Reformation.
Papal bulls, indulgences and transubstantiation.

When Tetzel came near Wittenberg, St. Peter’s profits soared,
I wrote a little notice for the All Saint’ Bull’tin board:
“You cannot purchase merits, for we’re justified by grace!
Here’s 95 more reasons, Brother Tetzel, in your face.” Oh… Chorus

They love my tracts, adored my wit, all were exempleror,
The Pope, however, hauled me up before the Emperor.
“Are these your books? Do you recant?” King Charles did demand.
“I will not change my Diet, Sir, God help me here I stand!” Oh… Chorus

Duke Frederick took the Wise approach, responding to my words,
By knighting ‘Georgre’ as hostage in the Kingdom of the Birds.
Use Brother Martin’s model if the languages you seek,
Stay locked inside a castle with your Hebrew and your Greek! Oh… Chorus

Let’s raise our steins and Concord Books while gathered in this place,
And spread the word that ‘catholic’ is spelled with lower case;
The Word remains unfettered when the Spirit gets his chance,
So come on, Katy, drop your lute, and join us in our dance! Oh… Chorus

In the beginnning God made them male and female sermon series update - Books/Articles/Website resource list available online

2007-10-26T09:51:00.000-05:00

Here is the list I was promising of good resources about maleness, femaleness, marriage, sexual abuse, homosexuality and also on recovering some of the sanity in your sexuality that God desires. I know there are more out there, but this is a start.

It is located at hopecc.com/sundays/books.html

Finally, Ford makes a car worth considering...

2007-10-24T09:28:00.001-05:00

I'm not much of a Ford guy, but I may switch after viewing this new ad and how it helps rid the planet of unwanted felines!

On fear, and preaching about God's design of women

2007-10-01T11:18:00.000-05:00

Yesterday was a banner day for me. I had much anxiety about preaching on the subject:

"Is there more to being a woman that being 'hot'?" (Powerpoint is available here.

It's not that I haven't thought about the issue - I have. Even before becoming a Christian I had a strong interest in trying to figure out what is going on in the mind and hearts of women, primarily because I was very interested in girls in High School, and desired to be married someday. Since becoming a follower of Jesus in 1983, I have studied, restudied, talked, and debated many times over the issue of how God designed men and women 100% equal in value, but VERY different in design. God's 'Different by Design' pattern of maleness and femaleness is not something to be feared, maligned or rejected - but celebrated. I have thought deeply about the issue, was totally prepared for the message (in fact, I had EASILY another HOUR of material that didn't make it into the sermon!).

No, my fear was primarily because I knew how hurt and exploited women have become in our culture through body image issues, the radical feminist movement which says 'men suck' and yet forces women to disgard their femininity and become masculine in many ways, and through their own struggles with understanding their God given, graceful role as women.

I had real fear...

And it didn't get easier to preach at the second service either. I had just as much fear. I knew that no matter what I said, there would be come dear, lovely daughter of Eve out there who so drastically has been hurt by men, that what I was intending to be a healing message would instead be seen as, once again, a male dominance speech.

However, in spite of my anxiety, I knew this was a message the men and women of Hope needed, and so taking a line from Cor's sermon last week, I stepped out in as much courage as this guy could muster, asked God for the strength to make it through and preached what I knew God had for us yesterday.

And an amazing thing happened... Women were blessed... God showed up remarkably and I have had more emails, calls and positive comments on that message during the last 24 hours than I have ever had about any sermon in 11 years of pastoring at Hope. God met us last Sunday, September 30th, in only ways that his Spirit can. I really do think that some major healing and truth was happening in that room and I praise God for it. He is SO good to us all, men and women:

"“And it shall come to pass afterward,
that I will pour out my Spirit on all flesh;
your sons and your daughters shall prophesy,
your old men shall dream dreams,
and your young men shall see visions.
Even on the male and female servants
in those days I will pour out my Spirit."

~Joel 2:28-29 (ENGLISH STANDARD VERSION)

I began the message by sharing an AWESOME video off YouTube that has blown me away for about 2 weeks with God's absolute, pure, powerful love for women. If you have 5 minutes and 32 seconds, please watch it. It'll be the best spent time you have today! It can be found here as well.

Too good!

2007-09-27T12:06:00.000-05:00

I know I've been delinquent here for quite some time. Fall has just gotten hold of me in a real way. However, a friend of mine just sent me this, and it is great. It's comedian Steve Harvey who is introducing Jesus Christ. Enjoy!

35W Bridge Collapse

2007-08-02T15:17:00.000-05:00

Like many others, as soon as I heard the news of the collapse, I knew I needed to do something. I went to HCMC to volunteer, but was then directed to the Red Cross to help with being a pastoral counselor. I have much to write about my experiences there in the last 12 hours, and more on that later.

However, I just read the musings of my friend, John Piper as he processed the event with his 11 year old daughter. I have an 11 year old son, and just love his post. I include it here in it's entirety and it can be found at Bethelehem Baptist Church's site.

Putting My Daughter to Bed Two Hours after the Bridge Collapsed
By Pastor John Piper
August 1, 2007

At about 6 PM tonight the bridge of Interstate Highway 35W over the Mississippi River in Minneapolis collapsed. I am writing this about three hours after the bridge fell. The bridge is located within sight of Bethlehem Baptist Church. Most of us who minister at the church cross this bridge several times a week. At this point I don't know if any staff was on the bridge. Desiring God offices are about a mile from the bridge.

There are no firm facts at this point about the total number of injuries and fatalities. When we crossed the bridge Tuesday on our way out of town, there was extensive repair work happening on the surface of the bridge with single lane traffic. One speculates about the unusual stresses on the bridge with jackhammers and other surface replacement equipment. This was the fortieth anniversary of the bridge.

Tonight for our family devotions our appointed reading was Luke 13:1-9. It was not my choice. This is surely no coincidence. O that all of the Twin Cities, in shock at this major calamity, would hear what Jesus has to say about it from Luke 13:1-5. People came to Jesus with heart-wrenching news about the slaughter of worshippers by Pilate. Here is what he said.

"There were some present at that very time who told him about the Galileans whose blood Pilate had mingled with their sacrifices. And he answered them, 'Do you think that these Galileans were worse sinners than all the other Galileans, because they suffered in this way? No, I tell you; but unless you repent, you will all likewise perish. Or those eighteen on whom the tower in Siloam fell and killed them: do you think that they were worse offenders than all the others who lived in Jerusalem? No, I tell you; but unless you repent, you will all likewise perish.'"

Jesus implies that those who brought him this news thought he would say that those who died, deserved to die, and that those who didn't die did not deserve to die. That is not what he said. He said, everyone deserves to die. And if you and I don't repent, we too will perish. This is a stunning response. It only makes sense from a view of reality that is radically oriented on God.

All of us have sinned against God, not just against man. This is an outrage ten thousand times worse than the collapse of the 35W bridge. That any human is breathing at this minute on this planet is sheer mercy from God. God makes the sun rise and the rain fall on those who do not treasure him above all else. He causes the heart to beat and the lungs to work for millions of people who deserve his wrath. This a view of reality that desperately needs to be taught in our churches, so that we are prepared for the calamities of the world.

The meaning of the collapse of this bridge is that John Piper is a sinner and should repent or forfeit his life for ever. That means I should turn from the silly preoccupations of my life and focus my mind's attention and my heart's affection on God and embrace Jesus Christ as my only hope for the forgiveness of my sins and for the hope of eternal life. That is God's message in the collapse of this bridge. That is his most merciful message: there is still time to turn from sin and unbelief and destruction for those of us who live. If we could see the eternal calamity from which he is offering escape we would hear this as the most precious message in the world.

We prayed during our family devotions. Talitha (11 years old) and Noel and I prayed earnestly for the families affected by the calamity and for the others in our city. Talitha prayed "Please don't let anyone blame God for this but give thanks that they were saved." When I sat on her bed and tucked her in and blessed her and sang over her a few minutes ago, I said, "You know, Talitha, that was a good prayer, because when people 'blame' God for something, they are angry with him, and they are saying that he has done something wrong. That's what "blame" means: accuse somebody of wrongdoing. But you and I know that God did not do anything wrong. God always does what is wise. And you and I know that God could have held up that bridge with one hand." Talitha said, "With his pinky." "Yes," I said, "with his pinky. Which means that God had a purpose for not holding up that bridge, knowing all that would happen, and he is infinitely wise in all that he wills."

Talitha said, "Maybe he let it fall because he wanted all the people of Minneapolis to fear him." "Yes, Talitha," I said, "I am sure that is one of the reasons God let the bridge fall." I sang to her the song I always sing,

"Come rest your head and nestle gently
And do not fear the dark of night.
Almighty God keeps watch intently,
And guards your life with all his might.
Doubt not his love, nor power to keep,
He never fails, nor does he sleep."

I said, "You know, Talitha, that is true whether you die in a bridge collapse, or in a car accident, or from cancer, or terrorism, or old age. God always keeps you, even when you die. So you don't need to be afraid, do you." "No," she shook her head. I leaned down and kissed her. "Good night. I love you."

Tonight across the Twin Cities families are wondering if they will ever kiss a loved one good night again. Some will not. I am praying that they will find Jesus Christ to be their Rock and Refuge in these agonizing hours of uncertainty and even loss.

The word "bridge" does not occur in the Bible. There may be two reasons. One is that God doesn't build bridges, he divides seas. The other is that usually his people must pass through the deadly currents of suffering and death, not simply ride over them. "When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you" (Isaiah 43:2). They may drown you. But I will be with you in life and death.

"Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or danger, or sword? As it is written, 'For your sake we are being killed all the day long; we are regarded as sheep to be slaughtered.' No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am sure that neither death nor life . . . will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord." (Romans 8:35-38)

Killed all day long. But not separated from Christ. We go through the river. Not over it. He went before us, crucified. He came out on the other side. He knows the way through. With him we will make it. That is the message we have for the precious sinners in the Twin Cities. He died for your sins. He rose again. He saves all who trust him. We die, but because of him, we do not die.

"Jesus said, 'I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live, and everyone who lives and believes in me shall never die.'" (John 11:25)

Talitha is sleeping now. But one day she will die. I teach her this. I will not always be there to bless her. But Jesus is alive and is the same yesterday today and forever. He will be with her because she trusts him. And she will make it through the river.

Weeping with those who weep, and those who should,

Pastor John

Psalm 71:20 "You who have made me see many troubles and calamities will revive me again."

Facing your fears...

2007-07-13T15:28:00.000-05:00

Just give me a little slice of that Jesus stuff, eh?

2007-07-10T14:00:00.000-05:00

“I would like to buy about three dollars worth of gospel, please. Not too much—just enough to make me happy, but not so much that I get addicted. I don’t want so much gospel that I learn to really hate covetousness and lust. I certainly don’t want so much that I start to love my enemies, cherish self-denial, and contemplate missionary service in some alien culture. I want ecstasy, not repentance; I want transcendence, not transformation. I would like to be cherished by some nice, forgiving, broad-minded people, but I myself don’t want to love those from different races—especially if they smell. I would like enough gospel to make my family secure and my children well behaved, but not so much that I find my ambitions redirected or my giving too greatly enlarged. I would like about three dollars worth of gospel please.” (D.A. Carson, Basics for Believers, an exposition of Philippians), pp.12-13

One of my heroes died a few minutes ago...

2007-06-14T17:14:00.000-05:00

As a new follower of Jesus in the mid 1980's, I was desparately looking for spiritual mentors and heros to replace the ones that were after their own glory, or worshipping sports or rock starts. Billy and Ruth Graham have been, and still are, two of my absolute heroes in the faith. Ruth passed from this life into the arms of Jesus Christ at 5pm Eastern time. I never met her, but have been influenced by her life and faith in Jesus. For a good synopsis of her life and calling, go to this news report from the Charlotte Observer. God is faithful till the end!!

Shameless Plug

2007-05-28T23:03:00.000-05:00

I am open to anyone who would love to let me ride their motorcyle. Nice day like today makes me long for the road, but my wonderful bride will not allow me to own one. Anyone got two and would like to have a riding buddy for a day?

This finally does it!!

2007-05-28T22:19:00.001-05:00

For those of you who were unsure about the FACT that Macs are absolutely the superior maching, check this out:

http://www.time.com/time/photogallery/0,29307,1622338_1363003,00.html

Yup, that's right. Al Gore uses a MAC. So, all you PC users, take that!

Trike

Food for thought...

2007-05-18T15:04:00.001-05:00

Comments?

Attention all church planters (or wanna be CPs!)...

2007-05-16T22:32:00.000-05:00

I would like to invite any of you who would like to explore church planting to an event held here in Minneapolis July 23-27th. It is being put on by some of my new friends at GCA (Global Church Advancement) and is headed up by Steve Childress of Reformed seminary. I have been very impressed with their biblical, theological and missional church planting strategies and invite you to check them out here. You may even notice that I will be leading two seminars on Leadership Development - check out the picture. I am actually impressed that they put that one online! Pretty cool.

If you have questions about going for the week, please email me, and we'll make it happen!

Trike

Psalm 49 and what is important...

2007-05-16T22:28:00.000-05:00

Like others at Hope, I am reading the Bible in a year through the Discipleship Journal reading program. I am behind, but what is new! I enjoy God's word, and yet, the busyness and pace of life stops me from getting all that I desire in his word. I always have the attitude that I will read more and longer if I do this Bible-in-a-year program, than if I don't. Tim in God's word is what the goal is, not to 'get through something.' It is transformative, and I am loving what I am reading.

A few days ago, I was meditating on Psalm 49:

1 Hear this, all you peoples; listen, all who live in this world, 2 both low and high, rich and poor alike: 3 My mouth will speak words of wisdom; the utterance from my heart will give understanding. 4 I will turn my ear to a proverb; with the harp I will expound my riddle: 5 Why should I fear when evil days come, when wicked deceivers surround me-- 6 those who trust in their wealth and boast of their great riches? 7 No man can redeem the life of another or give to God a ransom for him-- 8 the ransom for a life is costly, no payment is ever enough-- 9 that he should live on for ever and not see decay. 10 For all can see that wise men die; the foolish and the senseless alike perish and leave their wealth to others. 11 Their tombs will remain their houses for ever, their dwellings for endless generations, though they had named lands after themselves. 12 But man, despite his riches, does not endure; he is like the beasts that perish. 13 This is the fate of those who trust in themselves, and of their followers, who approve their sayings. Selah 14 Like sheep they are destined for the grave, and death will feed on them. The upright will rule over them in the morning; their forms will decay in the grave, far from their princely mansions. 15 But God will redeem my life from the grave; he will surely take me to himself. Selah 16 Do not be overawed when a man grows rich, when the splendour of his house increases; 17 for he will take nothing with him when he dies, his splendour will not descend with him. 18 Though while he lived he counted himself blessed--and men praise you when you prosper-- 19 he will join the generation of his fathers, who will never see the light of life. 20 A man who has riches without understanding is like the beasts that perish. (Psalms 49:1-20, NIV).

The part that really stuck out to me was verses 5-12 ---> though I may live a life worthy of naming lands after me (or buildings like Amundson Hall at the U of M where my chemistry dept was housed at the U of M), the reality is that all of us are dust. We will all die. What is a life well lived? What is a legacy for the future that actually makes a difference? Only what is given to God, fully, without holding back. Every one of us fears insignificance...yet, the reality is we get that significance only when we find ourselves getting value in God and his glory alone. When I spread God's fame, when I allow him to be all, when I no longer look to get buildings named after me but seek to pursue sharing the glory of Christ with others, then (and only then) will I be satisfied and then (and only then) will I have a significant life. Lord Jesus, please make me into a man who loves you with a radical, courageous love and not look to make a name for myself. Amen.

Is this Hope Community or what? (part last one)

2007-04-13T17:28:00.000-05:00

Is this Hope Community or what? (part tree)

2007-04-12T17:25:00.000-05:00

Is this Hope Community or what? (part deaux)

2007-04-11T17:24:00.000-05:00

Is this Hope Community or what? (part one)

2007-04-10T17:21:00.000-05:00

I wish I was an artist!

2007-04-07T15:33:00.000-05:00

This is really cool!

Dang, pretty good for a kid who went to public school!

2007-04-05T15:52:00.000-05:00

Give it a try at Classic IQ test and see if you can only get 2 wrong!

“THE JOY OF KNOWING HOW SINFUL YOU REALLY ARE!”

2007-02-24T00:14:00.000-06:00

One of the things I love to do is find people who say the exact same theological things that I say and cherish, but say it so much better. Charles Spurgeon (1834-1892) is one of my heroes of the faith. He was an English preacher, and was powerfully used of God to draw thousands and thousands of people to faith in Jesus Christ. He was a brilliant man, not formally trained, and was a bit “rough around the edges” on a variety of fronts. I like him!

One of my favorite things to say at Hope is, “The most graceful thing I can tell you is how sinful you really are - that way you will so know your NEED for a Savior!” Listen to how my friend, Charles Spurgeon also said this:

If I be self-righteous, I need no Christ to save me in my own opinion. How, then, can I come with such a confession as this, “Nothing in my hands I bring,” when I have got my hands full. How can I say, “Wash me,” when I believe myself white? How can I say “Heal me,” when I think that I never was sick? How can I cry, “Give me freedom, give me liberty,” when I believe I never was a slave, and “never in bondage to any man?” It is only the man who knows his slavery by reason of the bondage of sin, and the man who knows himself to be sick even unto death by reason of the sense of guilt: it is only the man who feels he cannot save himself, who can with faith rely upon the Saviour. Nor can the self-righteous man renounce himself, and lay hold of Christ; because in the renunciation of himself he would at once become the very character whom Christ says he will receive. He would then put himself in the place of the sinner, when he cast away his own righteousness. Why, sirs, coming to Christ implies the taking off the polluted robe of our own righteousness, and putting on Christ’s. How can I do that, if I wittingly wrap my own garment about me? and if in order to come to Christ I must forsake my own refuge and all my own hope, how can I do it, if I believe my hope to be good, and my refuge to be secure; and if I suppose that already I am clothed sufficiently to enter into the marriage supper of the Lamb? Nay, beloved, it is the sinner, and the sinner only, who can come to Christ; the self-righteous man cannot do it; it is quite out of his way—he would not do it if he could. His very self-righteousness fetters his foot, so that he cannot come; palsies his arm, so that he cannot take hold of Christ; and blinds his eye, so that be cannot see the Saviour."

Hey, it's the 25th Anniversary of being Minnesota State Curling Junior Champions!

2006-11-07T00:08:00.000-06:00

I was just reminiscing here tonight, and realized that I am coming up on a major milestone. No lie, 25 years ago this next January I, along with 3 other good high school friends, won the coveted State Junior Curling Championship of Minnesota! Here's proof (look at 1982). What, never heard of the 2nd fastest game on ice ever? I'll pray for you.

What a great thought...

2006-10-29T01:43:00.000-06:00

I'm taking a class in The History of Christian Preaching, so if you are a reader of this blog, you will find I will be dropping a few of my new friends quotes here and there. I came across this one, and I think it is profound, especially as we worry about all the things we are trying to do for God in our lifetime. If you trust in the absolute sovereignty of God, then Thomas Fuller's 17th Century quote gives you complete comfort:

"God’s children are immortal while their Father has anything for them to do on earth.”

Dude, for a heart like this!

2006-10-29T01:23:00.000-06:00

“I need more grief, I plainly need more of it. I am far from that which I ought to have. I can sin much! I cannot repent much. My dryness! My dryness! Woe unto me! Would that I had such grief, or even more! But of myself I cannot obtain it. I am parched, I am parched like a potsherd [pottery fragment]. Woe is me! Thou, O Lord, O Lord, a fountain of tears. Give me a molten heart.”

~Lancelot Andrewes, from his devotional, Private Devotions.

Simply put, let's VOTE out cats

2006-10-26T09:25:00.000-05:00

Why do we have cats? I have no idea what it is about them, but they simply HATE me! Every cat I have ever known has hated me with a passion. They hiss at me. Try to bite me. Purposefully look at me in a most disrespectful "I hate you, scumball" glance. Won't come and play, but just mock me with those "YOU go and get the ball, stupid" look when I throw it for them.

One of my very first memories in life is having my arms completly scratched up by a mad cat who didn't like me playing with it. To this day, I still have no idea what is wrong with the game "Pull the Cat's Tail Really, Really Hard." Why can't we all pass a UN resolution to just simply rid the entire planet of the things... I mean, if we live in such a civil society that we can vote out Pluto as a planet, create a coffeemaker that grinds AND brews our coffee, couldn't we figure out a way to have a catless society?

The best post EVER on the internet is from my friend Rebekah. Someone has to go to the powers that be and make this happen. We need an international relief effort to rid ourselves of this cancer.

I have the same problem in our neighborhood that Rebekah has. Cats everywhere. Breeding to make more cats. Thinking they own the place, especially all of my potted plants as their personal Port-a-Potty. Fighting with one another in the streets at 200dbs this past summer on a bi-weekly basis...(I'm serious, it's LOUD at 2am! I thought someone was being mugged in front of my house).

For all of those who love cats, let me just say this: your cat is fine - it's the rest of the entire world that I would like to root them out of. Yours are neat, playful and fun. The rest are pure evil.

I sure wish someone would have told me this when I had youngens!

2006-07-27T10:58:00.000-05:00

My response to Andy

2006-06-02T10:08:00.000-05:00

Andy (and all),

I now know why I am considering becoming Amish...

Whatever happened to just the old "family camping trip?" Or going fishing? Or talking with a group of friends? Or going hunting? Why is our vast prosperity leading us into more and more need for elaborate escapes from the realities of life?

I say this as I personally struggle with engaging in and understanding our current American culture so I might win some. I struggle with this. I own a larger home than my parents ever did, enjoy perks of living in the 21C (like the personal computer I am typing on now - and it's fast too, God forbid I would have to wait 1 extra second per web page...) and am remodeling my basement for a place for family and friend hangouts. I take a swing at our consumerism culture and find my self hitting myself square in the nose... I hate and love our American choices.

I think this is why I have fallen in love with fly fishing as of late. Its me, a river, a trout, and deciding who is smarter (I won't tell you who normally wins...) However, even as I went to a midwest fly fishing expo this spring, you can spend literally thousands of dollars on gear, trips, training, etc. Sigh... I thought this was to escape all of this, and yet there it is again.

I think part of it is that we are so stressed out living the incredibly fast paced life we live (mostly due to our consumerism and technology) that we will pay ANYTHING just for some rest (or what we percieve to be rest.) For instance, I bought a really nice chair to put in my bedroom a year ago SO THAT I would have a niche in the corner to read my Bible and pray. Not that this is wrong - I think it was a good decision - but it highlights the whole issue. I have in my wallet a card that goes behind my credit card that says: GOD HAS MADE ME A STEWARD OF HIS RESOURCES. Good reminder every time I pull that puppy out.

There is a fine, but very definate line, between ENJOYING things and experiences (1 Timothy 6:17) and WORSHIPPING things (Matthew 6:19-24). God help us all!

Help us, o guru of consumerism, Professor of Philosopy and stuff! What say you? As we rub the belly of this budda, what can you give to us to empower us? Heal our land and our habits!

I loved the description of the class. I'm sure it was life changing for those students, and a great reminder for you. However, American culture will quickly suck all the life out of their learning without the "eternal vigilance which is the price of freedom..."

Hope all is well with you out there in "fly over country." It is beautiful these days in MN. Will you be around at all this summer?

Take care, my friend,

Trike

An email from my friend Andy

2006-06-02T10:06:00.000-05:00

Steve, Stan, and other friends at Hope,

When I was at Bethel, I started developing a course to go look at consumerism in Las vegas and Los Angeles, and once I got to Creighton I kept working on that plan and now I've completed my first version of that class, so I thought I'd tell you a little about the 18 day class. (I sent parts of this to other friends too)

The class was on how business and development affect culture and society, focusing on Las Vegas and Los Angeles, with a camping trip to Grand Canyon and later to Joshua tree national park. Issues we focused on were how business transforms and affects our values, and our vision of what the good life is; how development makes the quality of life better or worse for people in terms of new places to live and play, and the resulting sprawl, traffic issues, and ways to deal with that (public transport, smart growth, etc). We also thought about water issues, since we spent a lot of time in the southwest. Environmental issues were considered also.

We visited with city leaders in Las Vegas, LA, Boulder City Nevada and Ventura California. We visted companies in the LV and LA areas, talked with CFOs, managers, workers, a showgirl, an artist, a film critic, a hollywood historian, a biologist working on preserving wetlands fromdevelopment, a farmer near LA, firefighters, and a lot of other people.

Our focus was to consider consumerism, hyperreality creation and the commodification of values.

Consumerism: how people are encouraged to find their identity through consuming things: Vegas entertainment, Vegas commodities (Gucci Bags at Ceasars or Wynn Casino, purchasing bigger houses, ferrarris, hummers, LA hollywood consumerism, the materialism at Santa monica, Newport beach, etc...) Shopping centers are temples to this religion... Happiness comes through the act of consumption-- at restaurants, movies, bars, stores, taxis, etc etc...

Hyperreality: virtual realities which we create which are 'better' than reality: TV and Movies which present idealized realities which don't actually exist, edited versions of reality through the news, etc., cleaned up versions of reality like the 'grand canyon experience' on the disneyland railroad, or The Venetian casino, where the canals are filtered and chlorinated and the ceilings always have blue sunny skies with beautiful fluffy white clouds..much nicer than the original Venice, which is fairly dirty and has gross canal water.... and there are simulacrum as well-- realities which purport to be representations of another reality, but which actually have no real original-- like Cartoonland at Disneyland, where they have recreated a city which is based on fantasy (cartoon) or Excaliber casino, which is a replica of King Aurthurs Court-- something which previously only existed in legend and lore. Or consider the life of Celine Dion: Living in a Mansion on the artificial lake in the desert called "Las Vegas Lake" (as unnatural as a Sahara Sea or Death Valley Swim park) she is helicoptered daily to her workplace: a Roman Colloseum at Ceasars Palace, where she has a replica of part of her house so that when her son comes with her to work he won't feel like he isn't at home. Celine's life is a world of hyperreality, where experience is fantasy and the true reality is covered over in fiction.

COMMODIFICATION of values: the ways in which business finds ways to associate commodities with your values, so that to maintain those values, you must purchase commodities. For example: purchasing a $69 pass to Disneyland for each of your kids plus yourself becomes an essential part of the american family experience (plus the hotel stay, and really good parents will also provide the park-hopper pass so that the california park can also be experienced, etc etc) and when you are that close to Hollywood, a good parent would pay $50 more for a universal studios pass un in Burbank. To be entertained you NEED to lose money on the floor in Vegas, preferably at one of the nicer places, where you can have a "real vegas experience" in the standard 700 sq foot rooms. THis is entertainment, and now that Vegas has been dubbed the American City, this is an essential AMerican experience-- it is, in fact, an essential experience for anyone who wants to understand America, which is why it is filled with foreigners trying to understand America better. (It is, of course, the American which the 911 terrorists were fighting against-- an america of cheap easy sex without penalty, lavish opulence, no spiritual concern in the midst of total materialistic pleasure) In LA, it is essential to buy breast implants to be beautiful, the latest styles feel fit to be seen on the street, cars and gasoline to go to work, buy food, get home, see friends-- any movement at all requires purchasing a vehicle and gasoline, at the very least--- And then simply providing a house for your family where your two kids get their own room will likely cost well over 500,000...

So, thats a bit of what the class was about. It went well, and I look forward to doing it again next year. I think I will have them read: The Walmart Effect, The Tipping Point, Fast Food Nation and parts of THe World Is Flat, among other things.

I think that as Christians we often don't realize the ways in which our consumer culture affects our values. This class helped me think more seriously about that.

Hope your summer is going well so far. I'd love to hear from you, and hope to visit sometime this summer.

Andy

Happy Birthday to me!

2006-04-21T08:44:00.000-05:00

Last night, Cor and I had a great opportunity to hang out with about 25 people from Macalaster College who love Jesus Christ. We were invited to come and share at the MCF (Mac Christian Fellowship) and it was great to see such a great turnout at a school that has prided itself in the past when it departed from it's Christian and Presbyterian roots in the 70's. Way to go, God!

Cor started the evening by asking for everyone's name, their major, and to share when it was that they started to take God seriously. Great questions, and it opened up some students to sharing some cool things about their lives and spiritual journeys with Jesus.

I didn't even realize it until my friend Leonard emailed me about 5 minutes ago this morning to remind me that it was today, at 6:30am in a shower stall on the fourth floor of Frontier Hall way back in 1983 that Jesus Christ became relevent to me. So, today marks my 23rd "spiritual birthday". You think I would know something by now... God is just too good and patient to be my friend.

I am very aware that not everyone has a "date" or time that they can say that is when they decided to follow Jesus. When did I fal in love with Carole? When did I decide to go to the U of M? When did we decide to have children. Most decisions are a long pattern at first questioining and then a series of processes, and when the exact decision is made is most likely over a long period of time of working through the issues. Most people that I have known have come to know and love Jesus Christ in this way.

However, I don't do things the way most people do... I pretty much had my questioning, processing and decision time all wrapped up into that 45 minute shower that morning. I know this: I went into that shower with serious angst regarding my uncertainty about where I stood with Jesus, and I left knowiwng that I had settled the issue.

Too bad I have become a Baptist in my theology of baptism...otherwise that shower might have counted!

On another note, it is my wife's birthday (physical) today! Kinda cool that on the day when I was born again into the kingdom, she was celebrating her birthday into the world. I love you, babe, and am so blessed to be your "main sqeeze" [anyone under 30, do a google search on what that means]. By the way, we are WAY past the time when we are counting the number of candles on the cake!! Happy Birthday, baby!

Trike

I know this is a spoof...

2006-04-12T14:48:00.000-05:00

...but it is just too hilarious! Especially the line that explains the features of this game, "With network play enabled, you can steal members from other churches and earn points just like you saved them yourself." The description to this game is below. Perhaps we should go into the gaming business with church! Why not - to many Mega Church pastors, isn't really a game anyway?

Here's the description:

Features
Imagine if you could create the church you wanted, any way you wanted.
Put together a worship service exactly the way YOU want: hymns, no hymns, drums, no drums. Are you from Wisconsin, start Polka Mass! Start a building campaign, ask for donations.
Be the next Joel Osteen as you play Mega Church.
Amazon.com Sales Rank: #378 in Computer & Video Games (See Top Sellers in Computer & Video Games)
Yesterday: #131 in Computer & Video Games
Shipping Information: View shipping rates and policies
Shipping: Currently, item can be shipped only within the U.S.
ASIN: B000B659FE
Dimensions: 5.40 inches x 1.50 inches x 7.50 inches
Date first available at Amazon: August 24, 2005
Average Customer Review: Based on 9 reviews. Write a review.

Product Description
Pastor a simulated church and create your own Christian empire
Build a church from the ground up
Hire and fire staff
Deal with idiots, naive volunteers, and denominational egos
Attract fickle unchurched people with Bingo, revival meetings or fasting--it is all up to you!
Select a pre-loaded community
Xurban or suburban church plant (for those who want it easy or just starting out)
Or pastor an inner-city, multi-ethnic 80 year old church with 50 members and $1 million mortgage debt (for those who really want a challenge)
Choose a denomination (Lutheran, Catholic, Baptist, Pentecostal plus many more obscure factions)
Or load a brand new emergent plug-in
Take weekly offerings and go over budget
Start your own radio or cable-access show
Attend the latest conference to hone your skills
Implement the latest ministry fad
Review weekly attendance and giving records
Earn points with God by winning souls for Christ
With network play enabled, you can steal members from other churches and earn points just like you saved them yourself.
The possibilities are endless! To grow your church, work on all the strategic variables,

Write a mission statement
Choose a logo
Get a billboard
Hire a professional musician
Buy plasma television for your PowerPoint presentations
Prayer, study and preparation get thrown in there too--and the mysterious (or fickle) will of God! Deal with real-life scenarios including,

Troublesome board members
Elderly donor who wants to buy a new organ
A son starts using drugs
Your trusted deacon sleeps with your secretary
The city starts a construction in front of your building
Offering stolen
Denominations and Bible colleges use it to prepare potential church planters or associate pastors. It is better than an internship!

Do it all without a degree, license or even the Bible! Just like Joel Osteen

Proverbs 23 to 31

2006-04-12T14:06:00.000-05:00

I really enjoyed this "doing a book of the Bible together" thing. It was fun, and I plan to do another book together in May. Anyway, I had a bunch going on here at the end of the month and didn't get my postings in. Here's my verses from Proverbs 23-31:

4 Do not wear yourself out to get rich; have the wisdom to show restraint. (Proverbs 23:4, NIV).

29 Do not say, “I’ll do to him as he has done to me; I’ll pay that man back for what he did.” (Proverbs 24:29, NIV).

9 If you argue your case with a neighbour, do not betray another man’s confidence, 10 or he who hears it may shame you and you will never lose your bad reputation. (Proverbs 25:9, 10, NIV).

7 Like a lame man’s legs that hang limp is a proverb in the mouth of a fool. 9 Like a thornbush in a drunkard’s hand is a proverb in the mouth of a fool. (Proverbs 26:7 and 9, NIV).

14 If a man loudly blesses his neighbour early in the morning, it will be taken as a curse. (Proverbs 27:14, NIV).

14 Blessed is the man who always fears the LORD, but he who hardens his heart falls into trouble. (Proverbs 28:14, NIV).

11 A fool gives full vent to his anger, but a wise man keeps himself under control. (Proverbs 29:11, NIV).

7 “Two things I ask of you, O LORD; do not refuse me before I die: 8 Keep falsehood and lies far from me; give me neither poverty nor riches, but give me only my daily bread. 9 Otherwise, I may have too much and disown you and say, ‘Who is the LORD?’ Or I may become poor and steal, and so dishonour the name of my God. (Proverbs 30:7-9, NIV).

8 “Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. 9 Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy.” (Proverbs 31:8, 9, NIV).

Hoping to become wise by living according to his word,
Trike

Jesus on a Tortilla Chip? Only in America

2006-03-28T23:27:00.000-06:00

Check this out, if you need a laugh (but you have to do it soon - as the auction ends this next Friday and will only be posted for 30 more days)

Proverbs 22 - keeping your name

2006-03-27T09:55:00.000-06:00

A good name is more desirable than great riches; to be esteemed is better than silver or gold. (Proverbs 22:1, NIV).

In this age of "do whatever it takes to get ahead" very little is mentioned anymore about the value of your word, or keeping your name honorable. What am I doing right now to keep my "name" honorable for generations to come, so my great, great grandchildren have something honorable to look upon with a good memory? O Lord, you are the only one who can keep my name good, and you do it for the glory of Your Name!

The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not be in want. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he restores my soul. He guides me in paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. (Psalms 23:1-3, NIV).

Trike

Proverbs 21 - Marital Discord

2006-03-27T09:42:00.000-06:00

Better to live on a corner of the roof than share a house with a quarrelsome wife. (Proverbs 21:9, NIV).

I'm sure this one could go both ways, husband or wife, but I couldn't resist the picture.

Trike

PS - this passage is NOT my experience. I am married to a wonderful, loving, kind, beautiful, caring and godly woman. (Is that how you wanted me to write that, honey?)

Proverbs 20 - the wisdom it takes to counsel others

2006-03-27T09:34:00.000-06:00

The purposes of a man’s heart are deep waters, but a man of understanding draws them out. (Proverbs 20:5, NIV).

Lord, give me the wisdom, patience, and courage to be a friend to those who are needing me to "dive deep" with them. Lord, give others the same as they dive into my "deep waters" to help me become more like You. It will be painful, but the reward of You is worth it!"

Trike

Proverbs 19 - Disciplining children

2006-03-27T09:21:00.000-06:00

Yes, I am back... for those of you who were following this daily, I apologize for the weeklong silence - we took a needed R and R trip to San Diego with the Chmieleski family. And it was wonderful! I really enjoyed hanging out, playing cards, swimming in the pool (ocean was about 33° F!) and going to Sea World. My kids favorite was a night at Dave and Busters, an INCREDIBLE video arcade that has all the latest and greatest games. Good times, and good memories.

I am caught up on my Proverbs reading, and will be catching up here online with you all as quickly as I can. From Proverbs 19, verse 18 hit me:

Discipline your son, for in that there is hope; do not be a willing party to his death. (Proverbs 19:18, NIV).

I know there has been a lot written about disciplining children, and it is not my intention to enter into a wild discussion about spanking here. However, biblically, disciplining and punishing children FOR THEIR GOOD is a common theme. Never is abusing, beating, or excessively carrying out anger condoned. Never is punishing a child because you are angry and need to lash out at them acceptable.

However, it is also not okay biblically to simply "reason" with a child. Children are not "reasonable" in the sense that you can rationally communicate truth to them. They need clear, loving, and certain boundaries. One thing my principal told me when I was an eighth grade teacher I have never forgotten. He said, "It is not the severity of the punishment, it is the certainty of it." That has been my philosophy with my kids since then. Kids do not need severity, but loving, certain, clear boundaries.

This proverb even goes so far as to say that if you don't provide these boundaries, you are contributing to him or her becoming a fool, and you become a "willing party to his death." Wow!

Trike

Proverbs 18 - Pride

2006-03-18T09:06:00.000-06:00

Before his downfall a man’s heart is proud, but humility comes before honor. (Proverbs 18:12, NIV).

I fully believe that God has designed the human heart to run most effectively and sufficiently on Him. He is the one who is our "gas" for our tanks. He is the one who will satify the deepest longings of our hearts. He is the one who we were designed to worship - and not just for his own purposes. No, we are most satisfied and happy in life when we are in a dependent, loving, worshipful relationship with God. He gets the glory! We get the joy! Simple, yet incredibly important point that I need to remind myself of every day.

The pastor of the church where Hope was born, John Piper, has written very effectively about this. My favorite of all of his books is one of his first - "The Supremacy of God in Preaching". The title makes it sound like it is a book about preaching, but it is not at all really. It is a book about God, and how he desires to be the center of our lives. This desire of God to be glorified and our desire to be satisfied ARE NOT in conflict - they are beautifully harmonious.

However, each one of us is also hardwired by the great fall of our ancient ancestors (Adam and Eve) into thinking we can become self-suffient. We say to God, "No thanks, I've got it taken care of - I can fill myself up with accomplishments, family, sex, TV, March Madness, porn, and a whole host of other things. The god I have created in my own image is much better than the real deal because I am in control of this one."

The reality is, however, this "god" NEVER satisfies. As much as I struggle with all the things in life that I try to substitute for God, I know (and I am convinced all people do) that it never satisfies. Mick Jagger sings it. You can hear it on any secular love song, or especially any country song. The Beatles said, "All we need is love" and then they broke up. [Little Larry Norman quote there for anyone paying attention.]

Piper says in his book, The Supremacy of God in Preaching

We take the mirror of God's image, which was intended to reflect his glory in the world, and turn our backs to the light, and fall in love with the countours of our own dark shadow, trying desparately to convince ourselves (with technological advances or management skills or athletic prowess or academic achievements or sexual exploits or counterculture hair styles) that the dark shadow of the iimage on the ground in front of us is really glorious and satisfying. And in our proud love affair with ourselves, we pour contempt (whether we know it or not!) on the worth of God's glory.

My we learn to be humble, get honor and give God glory.

Trike

PS - I'm hoping to be able to blog in San Deigo as part of a family R and R trip - but if not, I'll post a bunch when I get back next Thursday. Peace out, for his glory and our joy!

Proverbs 16 & 17 - a two for one day!

2006-03-17T08:38:00.000-06:00

Been insanely busy here as we are preparing to go to San Diego as a family with the whole Chmieleski clan. This is going to be a great time of connecting as pastoral families, and to get some R&R in light of the recent events at Hope. We are all pumped to be going.

Anyway, here's the two proverbs that impacted me and that I am working on memorizing/meditating:

4 The LORD works out everything for his own ends--even the wicked for a day of disaster. (Proverbs 16:4, NIV).

15 Acquitting the guilty and condemning the innocent--the LORD detests them both. (Proverbs 17:15, NIV).

God is just. He allows nothing to pass by that will not receive his justice - nothing. In fact, that's why the cross is so scandelous to some - God HAD to pour out his wrath upon Jesus (Romans 3:15) in order for his justice to be satisfied. No, this is not "divine child abuse" because the son willingly laid down his life (John 10:18). These proverbs encourage me to know that God is just - he will punish all sins, including mine! That is why Jesus Christ is so very, very precious to me.

Trike

Proverbs 15:17 - Proof that South Beach is better than Atkins...

2006-03-16T08:44:00.000-06:00

Better a meal of vegetables where there is love than a fattened calf with hatred. ~ Proverbs 15:17

Seriously, great proverb! Read it last night before I went to bed at about 2am, so that's why the late post.

Trike

Proverbs 14 - The privitization of the heart

2006-03-14T08:35:00.000-06:00

Each heart knows its own bitterness, and no-one else can share its joy. ~ Proverbs 14:10

In these recent days, I have given a lot of thought regarding the beauty, wonder and danger of our heart. Proverbs 4:23 tells us that we are to "Guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life." From it can come all kinds of things - beauty, wonder, love, creativity (as I sit here at Dunn Brothers typing this, there is a elderly man pouring his heart into a pencil sketch of a young girl [his grand-daughter?] - it is wonderful!), passion, and kindness. However, as I have seen all too frequently from myself and others, out of this same place, "the heart" as proverbs calls it, can come evil beyond belief, unbridled anger, lusts that would make Hugh Hefner blush, and bitterness and unforgiveness that will burn in hole in us and everyone around us if we let it.

You don't have to be a rocket scientist to believe that bitterness and unforgiveness will ruin your social life, and your health. In fact, there is a whole organization called A Campaign for Forgiveness Research committed to the study and promotion of forgiveness for the enhancement of life and well-being here. This secular organization has promoted studies that show, among many other things, that "studies show that letting go of anger and resentment can reduce the severity of heart disease and, in some cases, even prolong the lives of cancer patients."

Why then, do we allow our "secret heart" to turn so black? Why then do we constantly return to the 'vomit' of dark thoughts, bitterness, lust and incredible selfishness? Is there any hope for our darkened hearts?

Yes there is, and it quite simple - Paul states in 2 Corinthians 10:4, 5

The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds. We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.

The answer is to allow the Spirit of God, through the Word of God to TAKE CAPTIVE EVERY THOUGHT and make it OBEDIENT TO CHRIST!! This requires a daily dose of God's word and prayer (a devotional life - what a concept!) that will free us from the bondage of the waywardness of our private hearts. Is there any dark parts of your (and my) heart that needs the light of Jesus to shine on it? Let it go... Let Jesus absolutely transform you... Simply confess it to him, and allow him to change you. Repeat this process as long as it takes to let it go and receive healing. Be diligent about your heart, because it WILL WANDER AWAY if you don't!

"O God of my heart, transform and change my private heart of darkness into a valley of flowering, obedient thoughts to You!"

Trike

Proverbs 13 - Hope

2006-03-13T23:02:00.000-06:00

12 Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a longing fulfilled is a tree of life. ~ Proverbs 13:12

Just think if we would have named the church Deferred Hope Community Church...sorry, it's late and I'm tired...

Proverbs 12 - Use thy tongue for good!

2006-03-12T22:54:00.000-06:00

Reckless words pierce like a sword, but the tongue of the wise brings healing. ~ Proverbs 12:18

To quote Spiderman's uncle, "With great power comes great responsibility..." Words have amazing power - to hurt or to heal.

Watch out for beautiful women who lack discretion... Proverbs 11

2006-03-11T23:19:00.000-06:00

Like a gold ring in a pig’s snout is a beautiful woman who shows no discretion. ~ Proverbs 11:22

Women are a thing of beauty...those that lack discretion are dangerous...

Proverbs 10 - what do I delight in?

2006-03-10T13:08:00.000-06:00

A fool finds pleasure in evil conduct, but a man of understanding delights in wisdom. ~ Proverbs 10:23

I have always felt that a great indicator of how I am doing with God is to ask, "What is it right now that would give me joy?" If the answer is something that is out of bounds of God's ways, then I am not doing well, and my heart needs work! If it is something like communing with him, or fly fishing so that I can enjoy God, or that I can enjoy my wife deeply through communication and friendship, then God is active. Ask yourself, what do I take pleasure in, what do I delight in?

Proverbs 9 - Do I handle people's criticism well?

2006-03-09T23:00:00.000-06:00

“Whoever corrects a mocker invites insult; whoever rebukes a wicked man incurs abuse. Do not rebuke a mocker or he will hate you; rebuke a wise man and he will love you. Instruct a wise man and he will be wiser still; teach a righteous man and he will add to his learning. ~ Proverbs 9:7-9

One of the very hardest things about the Christian life is that I need to listen to the correction or rebukes of people around me. Now, I will be the first to admit, some people have very poor motives when they correct others: Revenge, Hatred, Arrogance, Concealment of their own faults, and, quite frankly, just plain old Meanness. However, I am instructed to look for the "kernal" of truth in what they say, no matter how small. What can I learn from this? What can benefit me for the future in what they are saying? Is this simply malicious, or is there something, ANYTHING, that I can take away.

That, to me, is the difference between someone who is a mocker and someone who is trying to become more like Christ. As one of the leaders at Hope, I take a certain amount of hits. It is a LOT less than most pastors I know, but they are still there. Each time this happens, I need to ask myself what element of this is true, and what else is going on in our relationship that would precipitate something like this. "O God, make me a wise man who "will become wiser still, and who will take correction as a gift from You!"

Trike

Proverbs 8 - The arrogance of wisdom

2006-03-08T11:45:00.000-06:00

But whoever fails to find me harms himself; all who hate me love death.” ~ Proverbs 8:36

If you stop and think about it, it is quite an amazing thing for "widsom" to claim that "she" is the only way to life. That if you spurn her as your first lover, you are in fact relegated to becoming a fool, someone whose life is leading only to the pathways of death. This it TOTALLY TRUE, since God is the author of wisdom from infinity past (see the rest of chapter 8 for this insight.) Interesting thought... and great verse..."wisdom" is totally justified in it's boastfulness then. [not like the picture!]

Take it easy there, Big Boy! - lessons from Proverbs 7

2006-03-07T16:41:00.000-06:00

With persuasive words she led him astray; she seduced him with her smooth talk. All at once he followed her like an ox going to the slaughter, like a deer stepping into a noose till an arrow pierces his liver, like a bird darting into a snare, little knowing it will cost him his life. ~ Proverbs 7:21-23

This is a little note to all the men out there, most specifically, ME! Sex is not something that God designed for us to be out of balance on. It is not something he created in order for us to abuse women. This can happen passively by "secret lusts" or thoughts of fantasy or it can take place actively by taking advantage of women sexually without the bounds of marriage. It is a TRAP, gentlemen! Do not get DUPED! Sex is an absolutely wonderful, worshipful thing when it is done in the boundry of a loving, godly, safe, adventurous marriage relationship.

I need to hear this every single day. The testosterone in my body, my culture, and my own worldly desires keep screaming at me that the girl on the magazine cover or the woman I see walking down the street is something to be "conquered." She is someone's daughter, someone's baby, someone's little girl on her daddy's knee - and perhaps someone else's wife (or wife to be!). She is ultimately God's daughter.

Any other lies I (or we) tell ourselves that our lust is "okay" or that it is "not that bad" does not consider how very dangerous this whole area can be to our very lives, especially our lives with God. Guys, this can wipe us out. It can take us out of the game. It can quite literally ruin our lives. When we bow down at the alter of lust we fail to seek the One who really satisfies and we settle for a little hor dourve instead of the banquet feast God has for us.

All that to say to us men: Spring is coming - Guard your hearts!

Trike

Proverbs 6

2006-03-06T19:01:00.000-06:00

Can a man scoop fire into his lap without his clothes being burned? ~ Proverbs 6:27

Simple verse...Simple to interpret in context.... We all need to quit farting around with sin - especially the sin of lust! You can not play with this fire and not get burned. I NEED to constantly be reminded of this, so Proverbs 6:27 is the winner for today. Nuff said...

Day Five - Are we wise yet?

2006-03-05T19:41:00.000-06:00

Today was a great day of worship at Hope, and then having a few people over for lunch. Been a bit busy, so I think I will just give you the verse that hit me today, and give you more tomorrow.

For a man’s ways are in full view of the LORD, and he examines all his paths. ~ Proverbs 5:21

See ya tomorrow,

Trike

Day Four of our March to Wisdom

2006-03-04T15:14:00.000-06:00

Once again, I hit a chapter that I have been ministered to for many years. The following passages have meant a lot to me in the past, and especially verse 23:

7 Wisdom is supreme; therefore get wisdom. Though it cost all you have, get understanding. (Proverbs 4:7, NIV).

18 The path of the righteous is like the first gleam of dawn, shining ever brighter till the full light of day. 19 But the way of the wicked is like deep darkness; they do not know what makes them stumble. (Proverbs 4:18, 19, NIV).

23 Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life. (Proverbs 4:23, NIV).

25 Let your eyes look straight ahead, fix your gaze directly before you. (Proverbs 4:25, NIV).

Proverbs 4:23 has been one of the most important verses in my life. It kept me from several bad moves in my realationship with women in my college years. It kept me from allowing my "urges" to drive me instead of my God given "passion", which I think is so important for this current generation to also think about.

Since I have already memorized those verses, I needed to look for something new, and, once again, was pleased to find vr. 26

26 Make level paths for your feet and take only ways that are firm. ~ Proverbs 4:26

I am at a point in my life where I need to constantly decide to chose between what is "good" and what is "best", especially in my role at Hope and with outside minsitry opportunities. There are just so many things one can give themselves too, but only some are "firm."

Also, this is a great verse to think about when it comes to being enticed by sinful urges. The footnote in the NIV says that the verse could also read, "Consider the paths for your feet and take only ways that are firm." I need to seek wisdom daily for good decisions to not give myself to sinful urges or to settling for what is good as opposed to best. "Father, make this happen by your Spirit, for your glory and for my joy!"

Trike

Day three - Proverbs 3

2006-03-03T16:20:00.000-06:00

Well, today the Lord did a cool thing. I really enjoyed all of Proverbs 3, but some of the verses that really impacted me I have already memorized:

5 Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; 6 in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight. 7 Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the LORD and shun evil. (Proverbs 3:5-7, NIV).

9 Honour the LORD with your wealth, with the firstfruits of all your crops; 10 then your barns will be filled to overflowing, and your vats will brim over with new wine. (Proverbs 3:9, 10, NIV).

27 Do not withhold good from those who deserve it, when it is in your power to act. 28 Do not say to your neighbour, “Come back later; I’ll give it tomorrow”--when you now have it with you. (Proverbs 3:27, 28, NIV).

Such great wisdom to live by! However, this time through Proverbs 3, verse 34 hit me:

He mocks proud mockers but gives grace to the humble. (Proverbs 3:34, NIV)

Wow! I was hit once again how God really dislikes pride and arrogance in our lives. He loathes those who are proud, and especially those who mock those are correcting us. This passage actually says that God "mocks" those who are mockers. Amazing... Reminds me to keep my heart humble, or God will do it for me!

See you tommorow for Ch. 4,

Trike

Proverbs 2 - Day TWO

2006-03-02T13:48:00.000-06:00

Well, I've gotta confess, the proverb that God really put on my heart was actually 5 verses long (gulp - remember, I am committing myself to memorize these things... and I don't even remember where I put my car keys today!). Anyway, here is today's for me:

My son, if you accept my words and store up my commands within you, turning your ear to wisdom and applying your heart to understanding, and if you call out for insight and cry aloud for understanding, and if you look for it as for silver search for it as for hidden treasure, then you will understand the fear of the Lord, and find the knowledge of God. ~ Proverbs 2:1-5

After reading that passage I have two instant reactions:
1. I get fired up! Such a great thing to pursue! Such a challenge! Do I really WANT to know and fear God THAT bad? Am I willing to forgo all else to find the "pearl of great price" (Matthew 13:45-46)?
2. I feel so lazy! I am so easily satisfied with how far I have come, with the knowledge and blessings that have come from knowing Jesus Christ as I already do. Yet, I want so much more. I want to know him and fear him and love him with more and more of my heart. I want him to daily influence and intervene in my daily existence from the mondane to the magnificient.

I'd love to hear what God is teaching you this day. Yesterday's comments were great!

Trike

Day ONE of March to Wisdom

2006-02-27T20:16:00.000-06:00

Hey, glad to have you along for the ride of our March through Proverbs - I know, it's corny, but hey, it works for me.

Anyway, feel free to post your own insights into Proverbs or just what God hit you with during this month. Posts will be made daily by me with the verse that impacted me during my reading of Proverbs, and with the verse that I am working on memorizing for today. 31 verses of Proverbs in 31 days... I used to be able to do this in the 'old' days - let's hope it is still there...

So, for the first chapter of Proverbs, God spoke to me about making sure I keep my heart open to hear his voice when he rebukes me. In this proverb, "wisdom" is personified and says:

"If you had responded to my rebuke, I would have poured out my heart to you and made my thoughts known to you."
Proverbs 1:23

Am I purposefully, non-defensively listening when I get corrected by others, or the Spirit of God? Am I asking intensely, "God, is this true? Does this person have my best in mind... Is this a word from you? Are you trying to show me something through this rebuke?" Or, if it is just a thought that has come, do I ask, "Is this thought that has come into my mind from you, or is just something that has flown through, brought on by the enemy or my perfectionist tendencies? Does this point me to Jesus, or away from him?"

In other words, do I listen with my heart as hard things are said to me. This does not mean that everyone who says something against me needs to be given a "You're right!" immediately. No, sometimes people say things that are not accurate, or vengeful to us. As a leader, sometimes this is the case. However, what is the "kernal" of truth in what is being said? Am I looking for that like treasure to form me more and more to be like Jesus?

If so, then God promises to "pour out" the heart of wisdom to me, and make the thoughts of wisdom know to me! Very cool!

I'd love to hear what God is speaking to you about Proverbs one. Add your proverb and thoughts in the comments section.

Are you up to the March to Wisdom challenge?

2006-02-20T11:05:00.000-06:00

The proverbs of Solomon son of David, king of Israel: for attaining wisdom and discipline; for understanding words of insight; for acquiring a disciplined and prudent life, doing what is right and just and fair; for giving prudence to the simple, knowledge and discretion to the young— let the wise listen and add to their learning, and let the discerning get guidance— for understanding proverbs and parables, the sayings and riddles of the wise.
~ Proverbs 1:1-6

Proverbs is an incredible book of Scripture. It is filled with the sayings of the wise - principles that, if followed, lead to knowing Christ better, and living a life of integrity. However, it is not a book of promises - in other words, if you do these things you will get rich, or get your health back, etc. It is a gift for us to know how to live life successfully in this murky world.

This March, I would like to challenge our entire church (anyone else who surfs onto this blog) to do something - join me on a “March to Wisdom.” I am going to be reading the book of Proverbs one chapter per day, and would invite everyone (men, women and children) at Hope to join in with me if you would like to. There are 31 chapters of Proverbs and 31 days in March. Perfect! 1 Chapter per day.

After you have read a chapter, I would ask you to pick out one proverb and then either memorize it, put it on a card to meditate on, or just write it in a journal. I’ll be memorizing 31 proverbs and posting my “Journey through Proverbs” online on my blog - www.stevetreichler.blogspot.com. I would invite you all to add your proverb of the day to the comment section each day as well, adding any comments how your proverb has ministered to you.

Seeking wisdom with you this March,
Trike

Sorry, blog readers - just been so busy

2005-11-30T16:16:00.000-06:00

I have been in the midst of getting ready for a missions trip to the Ukraine, finishing two major projects for my Doc of Ministry at Trinity in Deerfield, and, I know, life isn't too busy - let's remodel our basement! With all of that, I am sorry, but I've put blogging on hold. I'm replacing my old worn out laptop this Friday with a new one, and will have to start breaking it in. I'll catch up with thoughts about my classes, ministry season at Hope right now, dreams for the church planting efforts here at Hope as well as my trip to the Ukraine soon.... keep posted!

An amazing website

2005-09-17T20:02:00.000-05:00

Just came across one of the coolest free websites on the web - bible.org. There is an entire Theology Class offered FREE, called "The Theology Program" and it includes readings and video of classroom instruction.

If nothing else, check out their 216 Theology Questions Answered" page - it is awesome, with video of each answer.

I haven't listened to all of it, so be discerning in what they are teaching, but from a first glance, it looks real helpful and sound. Helped a bunch with prepping for the intro to the gospel of John.

Keep lovin' the word,

Trike

Too busy to blog?

2005-09-07T12:28:00.000-05:00

Dude and Dudettes,

I want to say I am so sorry that I have been negligent in updating my site here. I'm back in the saddle now!

For those of you who get crazy busy in the fall, like me, here's a little something that will save you a bunch of time - trust me:

Bunnies do "It's a Wonderful Life in 30 seconds"

And, for those of you who have bunch of free time, check these out!

Time Wasters

Enjoy!

ST

A thrilling game...

2005-07-30T09:37:00.001-05:00

Wow! What a Little League AA (10-11yr olds) Championship Game last night. The Orange Team put out this kid for pitching that we had never seen before, and whose velocity and control was incredible. Little League rules state that a kid can only pitch 3 innings, so needless to say, we we were waiting until we could get past this kid. We didn't score any runs the first three innings.

Calvin started for us as pitcher, and did a fine job. The first two innings he gave up just one run each. Then in the 3rd, no fault to his pitching, but the ended up getting 5 runs.

I had to have a little "sermon" to keep the kids from getting dispondent, now being down 7-0 in the bottom of the 3rd (we were home). It seems to have paid off, as the kids kept themselves in it, although, with "Joe Smoke" out there, we still were not able to fashion any runs.

Nathan came in a pitched the rest of the game. They didn't get any runs at all in the 4th. We, however, were now facing a human pitcher, someone like we had seen all year. We rallied for a 5 run inning, making the score at the end of 4 innings 7-5 - HEY, we're back in this thing!!

They got one in the top of the 5th (which in our division is our last inning). So, we were down three going into the final at bat. Ezra, one of my favorite kids on the team, got a great hit right down the 1st base line to start the inning. He was able to steal second on a past ball. The next two batters, unfortunately, struck out, leaving us with 2 outs. Carrington drew a walk, and Ezra stole third on the play (very funny here, he actually walked to third, thinking that he had drawn a walk from 2nd to third as well - but there was no one one 2nd base!). Kevin, out top of the order guy got a hit, scoring Ezra to make it 8-6, and Chris also got a hit, now loading the bases.

Dononvan was up. Donny has been my most improved player of the year. He came this year with very little baseball experience, but, man, has he shown up and worked hard! He was so nervous he was grabbing his stomach to breath. Bases loaded, two outs, down by two. Wow, I felt for the little guy. Lots of pressure. He quickly got 2 strikes against him, and was able to lay off a couple of lousy pitches that were way out of the zone. Finally, with a 2-2 count, he swung at a good pitch, but didn't get all of it. It was back to the pitcher, but he would have to make a good play to get Donny out. Unfortunately for us, he did, and the game was over. If that play would have been an overthrow, we would have scored two runs, and the game would have been tied.

Very sad players, but I couldn't be more proud as a coach! They worked hard, were class acts in winning and losing this year, and left every little last bit of their effort out on the field.

Afterward, we had an award ceremony for the 2nd place medalions, and then we had our last team get together where I awarded each player with a personal award for their accomplishments this year. Kudos to the 2005 Midway Little League Runners Up, the M&Ms (Maroon team)! To quote Hoosiers, "I love you guys!"

We're going to the BIG DANCE, This Friday night, 8pm!

2005-07-27T23:35:00.000-05:00

The Lord is just too good to me. I've experienced a serious healing of sorts from my back pain, enough so that I could coach our little league team tonight. What an exciting game! We beat the Red team, who we have lost to every time we have played them in the regular season. Excellent starting pitching from Danny, and good relief from Chris in the 4th inning. An "in the park home run" from Nathan, doubles by Calvin and Donovan, as well as just great defensive plays by Chris, Ezra, Jonnell and Talvin all kept us in this game. However, the game ball went to Levi Nelson for his 5th inning "Shut-em-down" perfomance. He stuck out all three batters and allowed us to keep our 7-3 margin. (NOTE - we only play 5 innings in AA Little League)

Now on Friday night, at Midway Little League Field (1 block East of Hamline on Marshall Ave - take a left and the field is at the end of the block) we are going to be playing for the League Championship! Kudos to the kids and the hard work they have put in. If you want to go, there are no ticket prices, and I guarantee a great game. Game time is 8pm.

Ouch!!

2005-07-26T15:31:00.000-05:00

It doesn't look like much of an injury, but for the second time in about 5 years, I have herniated (ruptured) a disc in my back. This one came about as just a sore back on June 28th, but within 2 weeks I was wincing in pain. Then, last week when I was taking a class on Postmodern Preaching I was doing all I could to not just scream at the top of my lungs! I left the last day of class at lunch time, and was fortunate to have a buddy named Dan who bummed me a couple of Vicodin for the trip home (did I just admit to taking a non-prescription narcotic? - we'll keep Dan's last name just between him and me, eh?!?)

Anyway, made the 6 hour journey back from Trinity near Chicago, and was bedridden in pain for the next 3 days. Got some of my own drugs from my doc for pain and for swelling he prescribed a steroid (can you say - AHHHNOOLD! I knew you could!). Also, Chris and Claudia Roberts came and prayed over me on Sunday.

On Monday, I was able to get up and around without excruciating pain, and went to my back specialist. Turns out I hav ruptured disc, which either the steriod will allow time for the body to dissolve or we'll have to go back in there through surgery again.

I'm doing well, not in the pain I was in, but it still hurts some. If you are willing, seeking the great, awesome healer in Jesus Christ would be appreciated.

I'll update you'll soon.

Trike

Pastor on Sabbatical!!

2005-07-14T15:07:00.000-05:00

The pictures say it all...and, no, I don't own this beauty...but one can always pray. Thanks to Katie Feldhahn's dad for the great day of riding this gorgeous Victory!

Let's Trash the Joint!!!

2005-06-21T15:52:00.000-05:00

I'm reading a GREAT book right now by Craig Van Gelder on "The Essence of the Church: A Community Created by the Spirit." I just have to share this great quote I just read. Van Gelder is commenting on Jesus' teaching in the parable of the Strong Man (Luke 11:14-23):

Jesus then teaches two important truths. He first notes that if it is by the "finger of God that I cast out the demons, then the kingdom of God has come to you" (20). The kingdom of God is not just about ideas and words; it is also about power and confrontation. The children of the kingdom should expect to be involved in a power encounter with the evil one, a conflict between kingdoms that requires reliance on God's power for victory.
The second point Jesus teaches on this occasion is that God's redemptive reign as inaugurated in the person and presence of Jesus has defeated and bound the strong man, Satan. The children of the kingdom are now to participate in this great redemptive drama by plundering the strong man's stronghold. They are to reclaim lost territory by bringing back to right relationship with God what was lost in the fall. The enemy has been defeated and is bound. Although his power still operates, he has encountered someone stronger. Greater is he who is in the children of the kingdom than he who is in the world.
Page 83, emphasis mine.

This fires me up! Go plunder the strong man's plunder!!

A goal reached...

2005-06-16T23:01:00.000-05:00

As you can see from our pastoral photo above, Hamlet, Cor and I went golfing this week. Alright, not really, but there is a close resemblance, don't ya think?

Anyway, I really did go golfing with Matt McNiece this Monday morning and acheived a goal I have been working on for about 5 years...I beat 90! Without any "foot-wedges" or "gimme a mulligan"s or "that's a gimme", etc. I played it straight up and beat 90!! I have beaten 90 many times before, but never "staight up" or not giving myself a few breaks - i.e., that ball that went in the water was of the devil, so I better hit a godly ball, etc.

Keeping score the right way, I have scored exactly 90 a few times, and 91s and 92s flourish. BUT, I just couldn't seem to break the old 90 mark!

Well, in the presence of our Lord and Matt McNiece (Jesus being just a bit more important in that gallery of spectators), I did it! Scored an 88 (44 on both sides) on Como Golf Course in St. Paul on Monday, June 13th, 2005. And, CJ, no I did not hit your house on the back nine!

Trike

One AWESOME LITTLE LEAGUER...yes, he is my son, Calvin (Ripkin) Treichler!

2005-06-08T19:07:00.000-05:00

I am having the time of my life coaching Little League this year once again. Here's some of my recent pictures of my boy playing his heart out at our last game (okay, I'll fess up - we won BIG - 7 to 3!)

Look at that determination...look at that "ready position"
...whose kid is this anyway?

GREAT CUT!! Too bad the ball is in the catcher's glove though...

Signed,

One proud Coach and Dad

One of my favorite places on earth...

2005-06-05T23:28:00.000-05:00

In college, I had the opportunity to attend a Navigator Summer Training Program which was held at the headquarters of the Navs in Colorado Springs. Glen Eyrie, which means "valley of the eagle's nest", is a stunningly beautiful place right on the foothills of the Rockies. I spent that summer in the mid-80's there, and have fallen in love with this wonderful setting ever since.

In fact, we are always looking an opportunity to someday move out to the Colorado area, ANYWHERE. My heart is forever in Colorado! Well, maybe we'll retire out there... God seems to be directing to Minnesota for a variety of reasons for the time being...don't worry.

Anyway, if you ever get the chance to spend some time at the Glen, DO IT. Here's their website.

Carole and I just had the great opportunity to sharpen our marriage during a 4 day retreat at the Glen two weeks ago. It was one of the most relaxing, encouraging and refreshing times in my entire life. AND, to be there with my wonderful bride of 17 years was just a memory that neither of us will ever forget. I am the most fortunate man on the face of the earth to have such a beautiful, loving, soft-hearted, and wonderful mother as my life-partner, and thanks be to God (and that wonderful person who gave us the free airfare to get out there! - you know who you are!).

Lord, thanks for Carole and for the joy she is to my heart. Thanks so very much that my heart still goes "pitter-patter" when I see her after being away for a time. You are just too good to allow me the opportunity to enjoy her and to have her be in my life. Your grace is almost too much for me to bear ---- You're just too good when I stop to think about it, and the gift of a sharpened marriage and the joy it brings to my heart is evidence of your outpouring of goodness to me. You're Awesome!

I passed! I actually DO have a world view!

2005-06-01T09:19:00.000-05:00

Below are my results from a online quiz that I got from my friend Mark Van Steenwyk to see what your predominant world views are. I am SO HIP - I scored as a postmodernist.

[TOTALLY SARCASTIC SIDE NOTE - doesn't it completely defy the whole postmodernism thing to take a test to see that you are postmodernist! I mean, should I, as a postmodernist, be completely concerned with the parameters of this quiz - shouldn't I be DECONSTRUCTING IT TO DEATH - shouldn't I be unable to answer any question with definition at all - in fact, why am I trying to say anything at all in this blog entry, since it is all filled with words which are completely meaningless to describe anything anyway - END OF TOTALLY POSTMODERN SARCASTIC RANT]

However, my most second place was "FUNDAMENTALIST" - which is someone who totally believes in absolutes...how screwed up is that? I'm a messed up person. Do I believe everything is black and white - or that the entire world is open to interpretation? I need a sabbatical to figure myself out (I should as the elders for another month to figure this quiz out!)

I'm not sure it's worth more than 3 minutes of your time (but, that's all it takes, so go ahead and see how you score. The link is here.

I SO DIG the little graphic that describes my world view too. Pretty much sums up what is going on inside my head most days...

Here are my results:

You scored as Postmodernist. Postmodernism is the belief in complete open interpretation. You see the universe as a collection of information with varying ways of putting it together. There is no absolute truth for you; even the most hardened facts are open to interpretation. Meaning relies on context and even the language you use to describe things should be subject to analysis.

Postmodernist

56%

Fundamentalist

56%

Cultural Creative

50%

Romanticist

38%

Idealist

25%

Existentialist

25%

Materialist

19%

Modernist

13%

What is Your World View? (updated)
created with QuizFarm.com

Fishing the Blue River in Silverton, Colorado

2005-05-24T23:29:00.000-05:00

Carole and I spent the last 6 days at a marriage retreat in Colorado. Our first 4 days were part of an organized retreat at the home of the Navigators, called Glen Eyrie. The Glen is an absolutely fantastic place, that Carole and I spent many days at where we were on staff with the Navigators in the 1980's. This time, this Marriage Get-Away was a fantastic time of working on our marriage, hanging out with other couples, and just getting time together to talk, pray and read the word together.

In addition, we were able to just spend time hanging out. About a week before we were to go out to CO, Carole says to me, "You are going to bring your fly fishing equipment, aren't you?" I think this is some kind of a test, because usually the answer would be, "What!?! Bring fishing stuff when we are going on a marriage get-away...of course not, dear!" But she was serious! So I asked, "Who are you, and what have done with my wife?"

She chuckled, but said, "I would love to spend a day or two fishing with you." Well, that turned into two and 1/2 great days of fishing in the Rocky Mountains. First, at Eleven Mile Canyon - where I must have seen 100 trout, none of which were biting, but seeing them was great.

The next trip was up to the Blue River in Silverton, which is on the way to the major ski hills on I-70 - near Copper Mountain and Dillon, CO (home of the Dam Brewery - known for their slogan - "Go get your own dam beer!" - didn't make it to the pub this time, maybe next). Incredibly beautiful territory as you can see from the picture above. But, the runoff was so severe, the fishing was worthless.

The only place where they we biting was at Glen Eyrie on a hiking path in Queen's Canyon directly behind the conference center. If you keep on this path, it goes up a really cool waterfall and then up to the "punch bowls". This hiking path is simply breathtakingly beautiful. Here you can see a little guy that made his way onto my fly (Blue Wing Olive #22 for you fly fishing gurus).

Having a great time on sabbatical...wish you all were here!

Trike