Brother Marty

Been a While

2011-07-28T00:42:00.002-04:00

Tonight I attended the last night of the church's revival where I was pastor for 3 years until this past June. It was awesome. I was surrounded by loving church members. I was also invited by the new pastor to come anytime.

There is a love, a Christian love, that permeates everything. That love is in this church! I felt my spiritual batteries recharged and loved every minute of it. I truly hope to be able to make it back frequently to this loving church.

I pray that there is a loving, Holy Spirit filled, atmosphere where you worship. It is like the MasterCard commercials....Priceless!

There's a Place

2011-02-05T01:15:00.004-05:00

Often I wonder if it is only those in the monastic/contemplative bent who can find that special place..."the place"...where they meet God. Of late I've been finding myself in what I believe to be "that place" and being utterly overwhelmed by God's presence.

Sister Theresa of Avila found that place. Other saints through the centuries have found that place. It is a living, breathing place where God takes control of one's body, mind and spirit. And being willing to enter into that place is a very personal decision. Many good Christians view contemplative or quiet time with God to be a waste of time. They contend it's more like transcendental meditation or some New Age pursuit at the expense of studying The Word. I don't fall in that camp.

My first experience where the Holy Spirit totally overwhelmed me was around 1989 when I was praying to let Jesus totally into my life. I had been suffering from a painfully enlarged liver with no medical solution to be found. In that instance it just "happened". A result of that experience was that the liver pain was gone...and it remains gone to this very day. It was decades later before I found myself in "that place" once again. Four years ago when praying with two other men I again experienced being overwhelmed by The Spirit. The result of that experience led me to enter into pastoral ministry. God seems to do extraordinary things in my life after these experiences.

Fast forward to the present. In the past 3 months I've been deliberately setting aside time to sink into deep prayer; praying until the words run dry. My motivation is not to seek an experience, rather, to seek God's heart for healing in the lives of others. I follow the pattern of A.C.T.S. in my prayer:

Adoration for God the Father, Jesus Christ, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. This adoration is so powerful that if you can imagine a medieval peasant being brought before a king to be honored...the trembling sense of unworthiness...the awe that a nobody like you can be in such great presence.
Confession to God for all my shortcomings. Bring to mind every bad deed, thought, action or inaction that separates one from walking in His will. Complete and total confession that I am a sinner, saved by grace.
Thankfulness for having the saving knowledge that I am a forgiven child of God. Thankful for each and every blessing...down to having clean water to drink and bathe in; having vision and hearing; food to eat; people who love me; every little thing that reveals God's grace being showered over my life.
Supplication for those who are suffering. Telling God how my heart aches for those in my world who are fighting difficult battles with whatever their particular demons may be. It's important to note that the supplications ARE NOT for myself. If we have surrendered ourselves to God's will then praying for ourselves is denying that surrender.

When entering into prayer in this manor - motivated by a hurting heart for another - God gives me the reassurance that my prayer is heard. It is in the final part, the supplication, where words run dry because I am not able to adequately express the depth of my pain for the person being prayed for. When the words run dry I find myself speaking in tongues. When I finally manage to stop listening to my words because they sound so strange, that language flows freely from my lips...being the exit from the wellspring of my spirit. Then the words stop. My mouth no longer works. My knees can no longer hold me up. Every muscle is beyond control. Sometimes it stems from a totally overwhelming peace yet at other times a totally overwhelming pressure. Jacob wrestling with God and getting a hip knocked out of joint comes to mind.

There are no appointed times or places for these intense prayer sessions. Again, I'm not seeking some experience, rather, surrendering to a calling to intercede for another. When my spirit gets "stuck" on someone and I can't get their hurt out of my head and heart...then its time to find a time and place to drop to my knees and pray this way Wherever that physical place may be, it becomes "the place" where God stops me from what I'm all about in order to let me know what He's all about.

Unanticipated Feedback

2011-01-27T22:05:00.002-05:00

As I prepare to step down from pastoral ministry our District Superintendent visited with our Pastor Parish Relations Committee this evening to discuss the future. I was at the meeting for the first part and he asked the committee what they thought about the time I was appointed to them. In other words, "how has Brother Marty done"? Their answers were humbling to say the least. No bad grades, just good ones. I thought that surely someone would have articulated the shortcomings I see in my ministry there but no, nothing bad.

I share this because of what was said when the DS asked about what positive things I brought to the congregation. All agreed that it was the healing services we conducted with relative regularity. I had NO IDEA that these services were perceived as powerful or meaningful. It was just me doing what I thought God was leading me to do. But it was more than that.

Unbeknown-st to me these services had a strong impact on those within the congregation. I thought it was them just giving into the wants of their pastor, but it was more meaningful than that. These services touched the people of the church in a way I hadn't imagined. One woman who was under the care of an orthopedic surgeon for "hand therapy" testified that the healing service did more for her hands than all the medical procedures. Another testified that a broken neck didn't require a "halo" because of healing prayer. Another said that a good year was added to his terminal sister's life because of prayer. I had no idea! No idea!

I pray that God uses me for His glory in whatever lay ministry I may go into. I'm just so utterly humbled to be on the sidelines when the report cards come in. I never ask nor ever will ask if prayer helped. I'll just hear the testimonies when and where God so wills that I hear.

Humbled.

Do Denominations Matter...Really?

2011-01-24T21:06:00.003-05:00

Serious question...if you even care about these things. I've wondered about God's calling to me and I've come to the conclusion that it isn't being a pastor. Rather, it's being a non-denominational conduit for connecting with God's healing mercies. His healing doesn't have anything to do with Catholic, Methodist, Baptist or even the unchurched. It has to do with the love of Christ for every living, breathing human being. In the healing people come to testify about how God enters their lives. That's what it is all about.

Is it possible for us to embrace God's mercies regardless of our denominational relationship with Him? Hmmm...tough question. But I contend that God reveals Himself in every situation where His healing is experienced. If the testimony of the one healed brings someone to know Christ...regardless of denomination/persuasion...then the mission is fulfilled. Isn't God so much greater than what we give Him credit for?

Our God...is an awesome God...who reigns from heaven above...with wisdom, power and love...our God is an awesome God. (Thanks to the late Rich Mullins).

Just my thoughts on Christian Healing. Where are you in God's plan? Are we above denominations and the sort and more importantly about God's plan for ALL? I wonder if we can embrace the healing mercies of Our Lord outside of our denominational affiliations. I just wonder.

Brother Marty

The Power of The Name of Jesus

2011-01-19T22:06:00.002-05:00

Sometimes it seems that people don't give credence to the name of Jesus. It is a powerful name. All too often we fail to call upon the name of Jesus in life's situations. Shame. There's power in the name, power in the blood, and power in calling upon His name for whatever life throws at us. There's power in the name of Jesus. Can we all call upon Him in whatever situations we're in? Can we call upon His name for healing? Can we call upon His name for a map to navigate us through this thing called life? I call upon His name for healing, forgiveness, and fortitude. Call upon the name of Jesus.

Thoughts on Leaving the Ministry

2011-01-04T22:07:00.001-05:00

It’s peculiar how I was a lay speaker and how I routinely (at least annually) turned down opportunities to pastor a church. Mind you, in rural areas it is very common for a lay speaker to take a pastoral role because there are insufficient elders (official pastors) to take care of the small churches. While I routinely said “No” to the offer to pastor a church we got a new district superintendent. He wouldn’t take no for an answer. So, I took on a church…then another church. And now I look at the prospect of perhaps taking on another church. I’m done. Finished. Put to pasture.

I took on the pastoral task as a favor to the district in which I serve. Done it and have many T-shirts to show for it. But as of this summer at the annual conference, there will be a new pastor appointed to my church. I’m through “pretending” to be a minister when I’m merely a certified lay speaker. I’m announcing my resignation at our District Committed On Ministry meeting January 8^th. It is with some regret yet some empowerment that I make my position known. Me, a regular parishioner, stepped up and answered the calling from the “boss” over the district to do him a favor. Two and a half years later, I feel I’ve answered that request and am calling it quits.

My calling is NOT into the pastoral ministry. My calling is to pray for people to be healed and receive Christ into their hearts. The weekly demand of coming up with a sermon and conducting services of worship IS NOT what I’m called to do. I’ve come to grips with this and am acting in accordance with this reality check.

So, “Brother Marty, pastor at Midway UMC” will no longer be my title. I will have no title and be empowered by that. I’ll just be that member of a congregation who has a gift and is willing to share that gift with anyone who comes forward to accept the power of Christ’s love into their lives. Nothing “official” from a pulpit…just me.

So, I thank those who may read this for their surrender of their lives to be set aside for the furtherment of the faith. I’m not set aside. I’m a bi…make that Tri-vocational Certified Speaker who stepped up when the call was made who has now determined that it is time to step down and become one who looks to the likes of You for empowerment and encouragement. I’m so terribly humbled to know the many pastors I’ve met in this short time I’ve been lifted up to be called a member of clergy. I’m not. Just a lay speaker who took a turn at being a pastor.

In the love of Christ….

Marty (NOT brother Marty)

What is important - The Healing Stories of Christ

2010-09-21T23:09:00.002-04:00

Instead of Bible Studies on various books of the Bible, I've decided to take my church down the road of the Healing Stories of Christ. I've posted all of them here on this blog and will refer to these posts for our Bible Studies. My question is this: Have you...that is...YOU...benefited from these accounts of Christ's healings? I know that I have.

Just a question. Click, read, and let me know.

Thanks!

Marty

They Raised Their Hands

2010-07-27T22:59:00.002-04:00

We are in the midsts of Revival. We have a guest evangelist, a friend from within the faith, who kick's butt when talking about being a disciple of Christ. No punches pulled. His messages have been faithfully embraced.

I ask. I wonder. Can we become First Century Evangelists? Can we? Don't think so until there is a change in the hearts of those coming and sharing. But if the evangelist does his job, we will all be better for it.

Is there revival happening in your church? Just want to know. Share.

National Day of Prayer

2010-05-05T22:47:00.004-04:00

I've been dubbed as the pastor who delivers the closing prayer at our community's National Day of Prayer event sponsored by the local Chamber of Commerce. I have vacillated between being ecumenical and leaving Jesus out of the prayer and inclusive, to Christians, in keeping Jesus the central part of the prayer. Tough. Really...tough. You see, it is a day where people of all faiths can come together and supplicate to the God of all religions. Yet, in the Bible Belt, it is practically a given that all who attend will be followers of Jesus Christ. Still, I ponder.

If there are only a few who believe in the God of all creation who attend, will I diss them with a prayer that is Jesus-oriented. What of Jews? What of Muslims? We all believe in the God of the Old Testament. But not all agree with Jesus and the New Testament. I ponder. I worry.

But I have resolved that it is the life that comes from the Holy Spirit, that Jesus promised, in which we live today. Those who don't know this wonderful blessing are on the outs. They need to hear the message. So, tomorrow, I will speak of the power and presence of the Holy Spirit that may be foreign to non-Christians. I will not waver. I will not fade. I will not fail to bring the promise of hope and redemption that comes from the Holy Spirit, that ONLY Jesus promised.

Debate is settled. Jesus is the Hope, the Life, and the Resurrection for believers. Not tainted nor diminished. That will be my prayer. Pray for ME!

I will end the prayer with the Lord's Prayer. I pray for unison in it's saying. In that, there will be a confirmation that God is in power and God is in charge...at least, in the lives of believers. And believers will pray this prayer with me. All Power and Glory to God Almighty!

Reaffirmation of Baptismal Covenant...WOW!

2010-04-18T21:26:00.002-04:00

When I post it is traditionally about healing. Like, the healing ministry or a healing service, or a specific situation where I felt God's calling to be used by Him for His glory bringing about a healing. But today is different. Yet, not. Today at my church we had a service where we reaffirmed our baptismal covenant. Brothers and sisters in Christ...it was AWESOME!

For my fellow UMC readers, it's on page 50 of the UMC Hymnal. For those not of this particular persuasion, it is a liturgy about remembering and revisiting our baptism. You see, many were Christened as infants and do not recall their baptism. Others, as adults, do recall their baptism. But taking the time to reflect and recall those things pertinent to being baptized as a follower of Jesus Christ is oh, so, important.

Today's scripture reading was from Acts 9 where Luke tells of Saul's conversion after seeing a bright light and hearing and speaking to Jesus. But if we catapult to Acts 22: 14-16 we see Paul's personal reflection upon that day when he was baptized. Here is what Paul had to say about that:

¹⁴"Then he said: 'The God of our fathers has chosen you to know his will and to see the Righteous One and to hear words from his mouth. ¹⁵You will be his witness to all men of what you have seen and heard. ¹⁶And now what are you waiting for? Get up, be baptized and wash your sins away, calling on his name.'

Therein lies the message for all of us: "...what are you waiting for? Get up, be baptized and wash your sins away, calling on his name." You see, Paul was still Saul until he was baptized. He was a guy who had this wildly awesome experience, but had not yet committed himself to serving that lord he encountered. It was at baptism that Saul became Paul. When he turned his life over to the risen savior and made his life available for His service. Saul became Paul at baptism...NOT at the Damascus road event that led him to this point. This is important.

Many of us receive a revelation that Christ is, indeed, God. Many of us are overwhelmed by the power and presence of the Holy Spirit. But...Big BUT...we're nothing in the kingdom until we "get up, be baptized and wash your sins away, calling on his name." That is what I'm talking about...getting up and going about God's business.

This service of reaffirmation of our baptismal covenant was so potent...so moving...that it could not happen without someone reporting on it. I am that reporter! Today over half the church came to the alter, refreshed themselves with the baptismal water by dipping their hands in it and letting it evaporate...then going to the alter on bended knees and reaffirming their relationship with God the father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. This preacher was humbled, awed, and overwhelmed with the power and presence of the Holy Spirit. God touches people when they come with a contrite heart to His throne. That...I repeat...THAT...happened today at our worship service. Over half of our congregation was on bended knee at the alter.

I heard exclamations of "I love you" and "God loves you" and "Jesus loves you" and "Save me Lord from myself". I could not prevent tears from falling from my eyes. It was that moving. The love and passion that comes from following Jesus can rise up in otherwise quiet followers to the point where it must express itself. Today, in my small church, it expressed itself!

To all Christians who have been baptized into the faith I say: Revisit that event; relive that event; reclaim that victory over self and "get up and go" with the assurance that sins are washed away. Proclaim Christ as the redeemer of all the world.

Again, I say that Paul was Saul who had this wild experience. It wasn't until Ananias told him to get up and get baptized then go tell the world that Saul became Paul. What's your name? Is it due for a change?

What to Pray for?

2010-01-27T22:43:00.002-05:00

Challenging thoughts run through my head in my service to Our Lord. Challenging. I have a dear member of our church who is in her final days, as prescribed by her doctor, under hospice care. What do I, a minister of healing do? What do I pray for? She has had a 3 year extension of her life through healing prayer. But now, with a failing heart...what do I do? Do I pray for a miracle or pray for acceptance? What a dilemma! I'm torn between praying for healing versus praying for reconciliation. She knows where she's going at the right time, but do I pray to extend that time? Anybody ever been caught in this situation? I would appreciate your thoughts.

Christian Healing is More Prevalent than Most Think

2009-12-18T22:14:00.003-05:00

I've been examining my personal recordings of how, when and where God healed in my presence. It's staggering! More importantly, I've been asking of other pastors who have an active healing ministry what they've observed. Again, it's staggering! Of us United Methodists who participate in one form of healing ministry or another, I've observed that there are a lot of UMC chaplaincies withing the Order of St. Luke the Physician. It's an international order of believers in the current, real, and true healings that take place in the name of Jesus Christ. Again, staggering.

I mention this because it is my belief that more and more healing takes place in large and small UMC congregations without being made headline news. I can tell of emphysema, heart and blood disorders, cancer, broken bones and more being positively affected by healing prayer. In some cases, merely being positively affected...in others, being totally healed. It's awesome, yet underreported.

I issue no plea for testimonials...just make the statement that healing is more prevalent...much more prevalent...than regular media would report. God is alive and at work through the power of the Holy Spirit...more than many fear to attest. Fear or not...it's TRUE!

Letting God be God - Amazing!

2009-10-30T07:52:00.003-05:00

Last Sunday was our Praise and Worship contemporary Sunday. It was a good service capped off by the message from Mark 10: 46 about blind Bartimaeus receiving his sight. After reading the scripture a man near the front asked that we pray over his back, saying that he just couldn't stand the pain. I told him we would pray over him after the message. When the sermon was over the closing video played..."Amazing Grace My Chains Are Gone". The man came to the front pew and I called over 2 prayer warriors to pray with me. We prayed with intensity and confidence. After about 3 minutes of prayer we thanked God for his amazing grace, and finished singing along with the video. As I stepped to front-center of the congregation to give the benediction, the man who we had just prayed over stepped in front of me and exclaimed "The pain is gone...Really, the pain is gone!" We hugged right there in the front of the church with tears welling up in most the eyes I could see through my own tears. Finally the benediction was given and church was over.

Wednesday night bible study rolls around and the same man we prayed over on Sunday came in, saying "The pain is still gone - it hasn't come back" He commenced to tell how he'd been working on a backhoe all day putting in pipe. He says that his back always hurts from working on the backhoe but it didn't hurt that day at all. His testimony created a wonderful atmosphere for our study and when we closed with prayer he testified once again. It was like a child saying he got just the birthday present or Christmas present he wanted...excitement that couldn't be squelched. It is amazing how when we let God be God how he reveals his love, mercy and grace beyond measure. Amazing!

Wow...God Protects and Provides

2009-10-04T22:50:00.002-04:00

It was last Thursday when a friend, a minister in the faith, was in a terrible car accident. I got word early in the morning and by 10 am I was there in the emergency room with another pastor from a local church to "be there". But simply "being there" wasn't on the agenda. The power of the Holy Spirit catapulted me there and when I arrived she was in the emergency room with another local pastor. She was telling of how in the accident she felt like she was in a plastic bubble wrap being sheltered from all that was happening...duh...better than air bags...it was the presence of the Holy Spirit encapsulating her from the realities of her situation. The car had rolled numerous times and she managed to climb out and be sitting on the car wondering why nobody had stopped. Unbeknown est to her there were many who had stopped. She was in shock yet upheld by God's presence. When I got to the emergency room she was recanting what had happened. I must admit that on the trip to the hospital I was overwhelmed with the Holy Spirit and could barely drive. When I got to the room all I could do was pray and place my hands upon her. After a brief embrace she said...."let's pray". The prayer was powerful and spirit filled. Another local pastor arrived and we prayed...then I begged forgiveness to leave. It was shared that the local ER had done X-Rays and they were awaiting the results. I got a call later that day that she had been ambulanced to a major city hospital some 2 hours away because they had found signs of fractures in her neck and upper back. That was that.

The next morning as we did our devotional, my wife told me to bring her the phone book so she could look up her father-in-law's number so we could call to get a report. I said..."wait a minute, honey, let me check my emails"...and there it was! An email from our friend who'd been in the accident saying that they came home the night before at 11:30pm...after the doctors said that whatever fracture she had must have been from when she was young as it is an old fracture that had healed years ago. DUH!

God is God...Great always. When He demonstrates His presence in all situations for His believers it is always Awesome. I thank God that He made His presence known in this situation and in all situations where we turn to Him first...not last...and invite Him into our world.

Shalom and peace...in Christ....

Marty

Overwhelmed by prayer requests

2009-09-06T22:02:00.002-04:00

Does it ever happen to you? We tell people that if they let us know there is a need we will pray for that need? Well what happens when you wake up and look in your inbox and there are 5 to 20 needs for prayer? Where does one begin?

That's my scenario, as I've signed on to be a prayer partner in many chains. It isn't in me to lift up every prayer concern and I'm finding myself somewhat overwhelmed...like in Bruce Almighty when the character who took on God's powers was overwhelmed with prayers. I shrink back from what I wanted to be to the real, human me. But I cannot withdraw from this one particular chain. I just cannot. So I start each day with a list of people to pray for who I don't know, and will never meet, but can connect through prayer with them. I succumb and I pray.

If that's all we can do to be the heart, hands and feet of Jesus...then let us pray. I've limited myself to one list and I pray fervently for each name lifted up on that list. I ask if you are on such a chain that you limit your ability to pray for those on that list. It isn't easy nor is it fair, but it is reality checking in on our abililty to be about God's business for those we choose to affiliate with...sad...but imposing nonetheless. Pray fervently for those who come your way and don't be diluted by praying away the special prayers you have for those on your list's. Does this make any sense? I'm just hoping that my prayers are answered...and the chorus of prayers is pleasing in God's eye.

The Joy of Being Busy Being Pastor - Long Time No Post

2009-08-30T21:16:00.004-04:00

It was June when I last posted about healing. This post is NOT about healing but rather about the joy of being a pastor. In the year and change that I've been what's called "lay supply" meaning a lay person pastoring a church, it's been quite a ride. The people at this appointment welcomed me and I've returned that honor with a commitment to be the best I can be. Sunday worship has about doubled even with some families leaving...maybe because they don't like my ponytail....not sure. Regardless, what a joy it is to be their pastor.

The greatest joy I've had to date came today. FIVE people were baptized! I know that is not a significant number to some big church people, but with attendance from 50 to 60 per week, and having 5 baptized in one day is a mind-boggling event - at least for me! But you know what? While it was a very good affirmation of what God has me doing there...it pales by comparison to what these 5 people felt as they said "Yes....Jesus...I die to the old world and am born to your world" Oh God....I'm so humbled to have been a part of this. Life-changing things are typically personal, private, and nothing to be shared. But no...not baptism. It was a public event for these people, in front of the congregation and family and others, saying..."I'm dead to the old me, and alive for Jesus!"

After the baptism at the local lake, I went back to the church to get my "dry clothes". I intended to very briefly go in and get my clothes and get out. But no...it didn't work that way. The husband of one of the women baptized saw my car outside and came in to say...."My wife wanted to scream ... 'Yoo Hoo' when she came up but she didn't." I told him..."son...she DID". Yes, this new child of God did, indeed, scream "Yoo Hoo" when she came up from her baptism but didn't remember.

What a privilege, honor, and joy to be a part of this life-changing event for others. And you know what? If there's a healing aspect to this it would be: Dead to the old, Alive for the new. In Christ, Jesus, we can die and be born again. If that isn't a healing story...don't know what is. Now that beats anything!

Our Sunday Night Healing Service

2009-06-09T06:54:00.003-04:00

There's nothing "Same old same old" about the God we serve. Last Sunday evening we held a healing service at our church. Strangly, the people who earlier in the month said they needed healing prayer didn't attend. There were 12 adults and 5 children in attendance. My initial response to this small number was disappointment, but what a foolish thing that notion turned out to be.

Throughout the Gospel we have accounts of Jesus healing just one person at a time. In those individual healings many marvel at the greatness, mercy and grace imparted in those single acts. What foolishness is it for one to be distraught by small numbers seeking healing when all heaven rejoices over just one person coming to Christ?

Sunday evening was as powerful as could be imagined. The power and presence of God was undeniable and verifiable. Four people (including myself) sat in for others in need of prayer while the prayer team prayed fervently over them. One came for prayer for liver problems, another for vision issues, another for headaches and stomach pains, another for chronic abdominal pain, another for saving from matters of the flesh, and yet another for stomach pains. The prayer over each individual was so filled with love, so filled with compassion, so filled with confidence that there was a nearly electric atmosphere in the sanctuary. Many swooned upon feeling the Holy Spirit flow through their bodies. One was slain unconscious; another unable to get out of the chair without assistance. None came seeking signs and wonders, but God demonstrated that He was in control and in our midst.

I never ask for a report card as to whether anyone felt healing. Nonetheless, the exuberant expressions on each face gave a testimony. Within 24 hours here is what has been shared: One person being prayed over by proxy was at the emergency room awaiting what was thought to be emergency surgery for an apparent abdominal rupture. After being prayed for the doctors were not able to find anything needing surgery and the pain subsided. At the end of the prayer time the patient was released from the hospital. Another person prayed for by proxy was told last week that his pancreatic cancer could not be treated with chemotherapy. Monday he saw the doctor and he said that he would schedule him to begin chemo later in the week. The person asked why he could have chemo now when just last week they said it would do no good. The doctor said: "Last week it wouldn't have done any good, but now we can treat it." The brother of the patient called Monday saying "Preacher, I've got a praise report". We both praised God with our mouths and tears of joy.

What other reports will we receive? I don't know. If the bear hugs and tears of joy weren't testimony enough, I'm sure there will be more to tell as time goes by. I know this: God doesn't fit in the box we try to put Him in and it's totally awesome when he shows us the folly of our disbelief.

To Skeptics and Believers Alike....God Heals

2009-05-14T23:25:00.004-04:00

A couple with a child diagnosed with scoliosis came and expressed prayer. I didn't know what to pray but touched his back and prayed that it is not right for someone in love with the message of Christ should suffer. I touched his back, and prayed for his healing. Nothing more...nothing less.

At church Wedenesday night the parents of this child came foreward and acknoweledged that their son is free of this dibilitating disease. He is free of scoliosis. What an awesome God we serve! All praise and honor go to the God we serve. Praise God!

Amen.

A Season Ends...A New One Begins

2009-05-05T23:37:00.004-04:00

It's been since last September that we held a healing service. This past Sunday 2 members of the congregation were lifted up by others as needing prayer. At that moment I asked if they wanted to have a healing service and there were many "Yes, yes, yes"'s shouted out. As May is a very busy month in the life of this rural congregation *(many homecoming/memorial services to attend at other churches), we set the date for the healing service for the first Sunday in June. Of course, those needing healing prayer before then, were welcome to seek it.

After Sunday services concluded one of the two people in the congregation lifted up came up and asked for a prayer. We stood there in the front of the church praying fervishly for her macular degeneration. When we finished we both exclaimed our love for God and one-another...then walked our separate ways.

It is so good to see a season of few healing services come to an end and usher in a new season. Isn't it strange how sometimes our walk goes in seasons rather than being a constant?

"Oh (chuckle chuckle) So YOU Heal People? Ha!

2009-03-02T07:04:00.005-05:00

My wife and I attended a banquet where I was to give the invocation last Thursday evening. Whenever I'm doing anything public in service to Our Lord I wear my Order of St. Luke the Physician pendant. Often it becomes a conversation starter. Well, it did that night. The banquet was held in the family life center (nice, big facility) of a large UMC congregation in the neighboring town. The banquet was to benefit educators in the public school system and a member of that congregation's spouse is a teacher in the system. During the social time prior to the banquet this man, we'll call him Tim, looked at the pendant and asked "is that the symbol for the Santa Fe Railroad?" I said that it did kind of resemble it but no, it's the symbol for a religious order I'm associated with. I explained that it was a healing order to which he replied:

"Oh (chuckle chuckle) so YOU heal people? Ha!"

I briefly replied saying "No, I don't heal anyone, God heals". He immediately changed the subject and we both moved on to socializing with others.

That church holds monthly healing services the first Sunday evening. With a congregation of over 400 maybe 20 come to the healing service. It's essentially the same 20 who come to every Sunday night service. It's a pity that of those who call themselves Christians so few embrace intercessory prayer for healing. The majority don't witness the miraculous hand of God at work in these sessions so they fail to see it with their own eyes, hear the testimonies with their own ears, and feel the love within their own lives. Perhaps it's because of the bad rap that healing gets from the charlatans on TV. Perhaps it's because they genuinely don't believe it happens. I don't know. I do know that the majority is being deprived of the blessing that comes from praying for others in this way.

Frankly, I believe that most mainline Protestant pastors are reluctant to preach on the gift of healing for fear that the congregation will think that they are a whacko. If they do hold healing services at some other time than Sunday morning, it's often promoted with the same enthusiasm as the announcement that the womens group will meet next Monday night. We don't want to lift it up much higher than that for fear that we'll get replaced by the majority next year. We''re afraid that most will think...

..."Oh (chuckle chuckle) so YOU heal people? Ha!"

The Joy of Healing Prayer

2009-02-09T07:32:00.003-05:00

Last night my Sunday night church group accepted an invitation to attend another local UMC for a healing service. I was one of the two pastors administering healing prayer along with a prayer team of 5 others. The expressions on the faces of those who came forward for healing changed from drawn and dread to beaming radiance in the course of praying for them.

One woman who is facing surgery Thursday for scoliosis emerged from the prayer saying that she's ready to go home now if that's God's will - whether she's healed or not she knows that God loves her and would accept her into His glory. It's all in His hands now.

A man with prostate cancer scheuled for surgery Tuesday rose from the prayer chair with a beaming smile, confident that with God everything will be ok. The prayer team and the whole church shared his joy. Likewise with the others who came for prayer.

The healing prayers were administered as follows: The pastor for the church anointed the prayee with oil making the sign of the cross on the forehead, then on each hand, then led the prayer team in laying upon hands while he prayed for the specific condition. This lasted 1 to 3 minutes depending upon how he was moved by the spirit to pray. Once he was finished I closed the prayer by lifting the subject's chin and asking them to look at me while I prayed the Order of St Luke the Physician's prayer for laying upon hands, which is: "Our Lord Jesus Christ who gave authority to his disciples to lay hands upon the afflicted that they may recover, have mercy on you; give you strength in spirit, strength in soul; strength in body, but most of all give you faith in His power to heal. By His authority committed unto us we lay hands upon you in the name of Jesus Christ, our lord and savior."

When the final prayer was given the tears of joy abounded. By the end of the service the presence of the Holy Spirit was so intense that while the benediction had been given, nobody ran for the door. All basked in the love that only comes from The Lord.

God's will is just that. Whatever healing he brings to those who came forward is what it is. But in the process of praising Him and interceding with love on behalf of those needing healing, there is a joy that He reserves for special times...times like these when we're all about His business. That is the joy of healing prayer.

A Praise Report That Blew Me Away

2008-12-22T16:38:00.004-05:00

Just as we were beginning to start Sunday School yesterday a member of the class got up -interrupting the class - and gave the following narrative:

"I saw David Pitts Wednesday and I asked him how he was doing. I hadn't seen him since we buried his father October 30th. He said he was fine and then told me that his grandson went to the doctor for more tests the day before. He has a blood problem like hemophelia. Well, he said that the doctor asked his parents what was going on...this is the best test ever! The father said that he knew what happened. When they were at the eating after the funeral the pastor there asked if he could pray for the boy. He prayed for him and since then he hasn't even had one bruise! The doctor said that he'll be happy with medicine and miracles wherever they come from.

Folks, he said that that boy doesn't take to strangers well. He said that at the visitation he was fascinated with Brother Marty. He went up to him and wanted to be held by him. Brother Marty told the proud grandpaw that his little grandson will make a great running back somewhere, someday. When he said that David told him...that ain't gonna happen with this boy...you see...he was born with a blood disorder. He can't play like other kids. He bruises easily and cuts don't heal well at all. Then the next day after the funeral Brother Marty asked his mom and dad if he could pray over the boy...he told them that it certainly couldn't hurt...so they said okay. Brothers and sisters...God is not out of the miracle business...and Brother Marty.....what can I say....them folks are moving to the area in about a month and I know where they're going to go to church. God bless you, Brother Marty."

The very moment he told this to the class (half of the congregation) I was overwhelmed and started trying to stop the tears of joy that were streaming down my face. All I could do is sit there saying "Praise God, Praise God, Praise God." A woman from a few pews back came up and gave me a paper towel - with tears flowing down her cheeks. I looked around and there wasn't a dry eye in the room. They started with the lesson but I couldn't focus on anything other than praising God...so I left for my office to try to regain my composure for the service that would begin 45 minutes later.

I get personal praise reports from individual whom I pray for from time to time. But this one came from right field. Like it says in the title of this blog, we need to shout it from the highest peaks that God is not out of the miracle business.

Christian Healing: Why Do I Share These Things?

2008-12-15T17:44:00.002-05:00

I often resist posting about a healing session because I believe that there are those who believe and those who don't...and nothing I say can change those perspectives. But the occasional email I get from someone who has a testimony about God's healing power motivates me afresh to share. To those who don't believe God answers prayers in a powerful way, I must say I disagree. To those who say that if God uses someone for healing then why don't they go to the local hospital and pray away everything that ails the patients...I must say...you don't understand. God decides who He will heal including when and where. Those called to provide healing prayer do so as led by God to do.

I don't put up a sign inviting people to come for healing. I have in the past - on the church sign - and only a few outsiders came. It's like the Gospel account of the woman with the issue of blood...she sought out Jesus. When people seek to find healing in the name of Jesus, they are drawn to people who believe that Jesus will heal them...if only they ask with everything that is in them. Read through this blog to find examples of what I'm talking about. If that is too time consuming, then let me tell you about this past weekend.

After a Saturday morning of running around to the hardware stores and Walmart, I came home and checked the phone for messages. I had two messages at my office and one at home all saying that a church member was in need of Christian counseling. I went to her house with her brother and she was a mess. She has cancer in her thorax and was for the first time confronted with fear that she won't survive the treatments. Fear was gripping her every expression. I said, "I'm here...do you want me to pray for you?" She said she wanted prayer...and wanted to have faith again that she will make it. We prayed. I put my hand on her head and prayed away the agent of Satan: Fear. I put my hand on her upper chest and prayed that the cancer cells be washed away by the power of the Holy Spirit. She, her brother and I were all shaking uncontrollably in the presence of the Holy Spirit filling her body with a washing of everything bad inside of her. When God said stop, we stopped. Tears of joy were streaming down her face. Her brother was crying and I was spent. I could hardly hold my head up, the drain was so intense.

She had not been able to get out of bed for the past week as a result of the chemo treatments. We talked more then I anointed her head and chest with oil then prayed for the staying power of the anoitment. She got up and walked us to the door. I had to regain my composure before trying to drive the 20 miles home. That was Saturday.

Sunday morning, who is in church with her non-churchgoing husband? She was. I greeted her and she asked if I was ok. I asked her why she thought I wouldn't be and she said that whatever had a hold of her left and she hoped that it hadn't got a hold of me! I assured her that I had prayed away anything that may have come from her to me (which I did before driving home). We both looked into each other's eyes and smiled. BUT...it doesn't end there. That night was the church Christmas program. Again, she and her husband were there!

I call that God's healing. I don't know yet if the cancer is gone (but if it is it wouldn't be the first time) but I do know that Satan's grip on her is gone. I know that she has no room in her life for fear. And without that fear she has a renewed vigor. All I can do is praise God.

This past weekend tells the story of Christian healing. Like the woman with the issue of blood, she sought Christ's comfort and healing. When the calls were made to me to come pray with her, I believed that I was the hands and heart of Jesus brought to her. I certainly didn't plan on it as I had already planned a full day with no healing prayer anywhere on the agenda. But when God calls I dare not refuse.

I never ask for money. If we have a healing service at church we never take an offering. It isn't about money. It isn't about ego. It isn't about religion. It isn't about anything other than learning to love our God with all our hearts, minds, bodies and souls AND loving our neighbors as ourselves. If God gives you the tools to build something...Build It! If He gives you a gift for singing, then sing. If he gives you a gift for administration, then administer. And if he gives you a gift for healing...heal.

What a Wonderful God We Serve

2008-12-12T07:55:00.004-05:00

A member of the local United Methodist church where I attended prior to becoming a pastor at another UMC church was suffering from a punctured colon after gastric bypass surgery. What should have been a routine procedure was anything but. Last Thursday morning I got word over the phone that she was in critical condition and that the doctors couldn't find the source of the puncture. They were considering another operation if her condition didn't improve. That was early Thursday morning. At work I got the morning deposit together and walked to the bank, a mere half block away. I stopped in a botique along the way. It is owned by a fellow church member and in the shop was another member. We talked about the person in the hospital and as we talked we were drawn to pray for her. We prayed powerfully and thanked God for the healing He was providing. That was Thursday.

Sunday I was in Birmingham (Alabama) where the church member had been hospitalized. I mentioned to my wife that we should stop in and visit the woman who had the problems. She told me that she had been released last Thursday afternoon. WOW! Yesterday I stopped in the botique and the same two women were there. We spoke briefly when one of them said, "Isn't it awesome how God answers prayers?" We looked at each other silently for a moment and all said "Praise God".

I stay constantly awed by the wonders of Our God. When we turn to Him and pray with boldness, He answers boldly. May we continually acknowledge His riegn.

More on the Power of Love

2008-11-15T16:44:00.003-05:00

I was asked to explain more about the power of love and healing. I don't know that I have the wisdom to accurately relate how love enters into healing more than I've said in my previous post...but I will try. I'll try because in the past week I've been brought into some situations where God revealed things to me that I hadn't considered before. Isn't it marvelous how Our Lord gives us just enough...then when we think we have it He gives just enough more to challenge what we thought we understood? With that said....

The love that brings about healing isn't the love we have for those in need. It is God's love, brought into the situation through us. Let's try that again to make sure it is clear: It isn't our love...it's God's love, that heals. Those of us in the healing ministry recognize how love heals, but we often believe that it is OUR love that heals. No! It is God's love that heals. We simply facilitate the actions of God's love.

With that statement made, let me confess shortcomings of healers' facilitation of God's love. We're human. We're who we are with all the baggage that comes with anybody struggling through life. But in spite of ourselves, we can, at times, be conduits for the love of God to work miraculously where our love falls short. That's the essence of it all. Being willing to be used by God. I'm utterly humbled that God uses me. I'm a sinner-supreme...while at the same time a servant-supreme. I take a back stage to what God wants and merely be the mouth, the hands, and the mind of Christ. When that happens, miracles happen. Don't get me wrong; I often stand on the sidelines of God's love. But if my mouth can say what God wants said, and my hands can be the hands of God, I succumb and say..."Lord, use me"!

No ego trip here, rather, a confession that I'm not worthy. But I'm willing. In that state of unworthiness God manifests Himself extradorinally time and time again. Were I to give any advice to someone wanting to see a miraculous healing, I would say, let God work through you. Let God burn in your heart until you feel the same pain as those to whom you would minister to. Let God be the one who makes it happen, not you. Let go...and let God.

Not an easy notion to entertain, but one that we must not only entertain, but make a reality. Let God be the fountain of love that enters into a situation, and let go of anything that is about oneself in order to be a channel for the love that is beyond explanation. Again...I'm not worthy...but willing. Can you be willing to let God work through you? If there is love in your heart, He will heal. If, no matter what you feel about the afflicted one, your desire is to be about God's business FIRST...the things of this world, including illness, pain, suffering, and disease, will all go away. Our Lord wants nothing to stand in the way of us giving Him all our praise. He will heal!

The Power of Love

2008-11-07T13:57:00.004-05:00

Love incarnate. That is Jesus Christ. When he told us that we could do all that he did and more through the Holy Spirit, many did not know what that meant or how it could be. Of late, I've had my eyes opened to what that meant and how it could be. Live Love.

Love the terrorists who vie for our demise.

Love the racists who see through hate-filled eyes.

Love the rulers who yield power more that care.

Love the loveless, close to home and everywhere.

When love rules our lives, Christ resides within us, empowering us to be His hands, feet, heart and soul. But it's so hard to love sometimes...and some people. In spite of how our "of this world" minds react to negativity, we must force ourselves to look at all that happens through the eyes of love, not the way we would see things. When that happens, the power of love is revealed.

Laying hands on someone and praying for them is meaningless without a genuine love for the very soul of that person. When we pray for healing we're actually praying for wholeness such that the love of Christ literally dwells within our midst. When our spirits are no longer at a dis-ease with love, then disease, pain, broken hearts and all that ails us is washed away. It has happened to me and to those with whom I've prayed. It has also failed to happen when that deep, Christlike, compassionate love was not mutually felt and embraced.

I pray that when someone prays for healing that it first stem from a desire to love more; that it comes from a desire to be utterly filled with Christ's love. In that prayer, in that state, God heals.

Healings all around us

2008-10-29T22:16:00.002-05:00

It has been a long while since I last posted. In that while, there have been numerous healing services. A woman with problems with back and leg pain has been healed. A woman with back pain has been healed. One with bone cancer has been healed. One with blood cancer has been healed. Dear Lord...what a wonderful manifestation of your love has been realized here in our little neck of the woods. I stand in wonder of your healings. I stand in wonder of your willingness to minister to our little flock. I'm in wonder!

Please, Lord, keep on keeping on. We're ready and willing. I'm awed by Your Presence and Your willingness to minister to us. To those who don't have healing services...please do so. You'll be marvelled by the love of Our Lord. Awesome!

What of When the Healer Needs Healing?

2008-08-21T23:35:00.002-04:00

Sunday night was a wonderful night for me. I have a hip problem and it has plagued me since June. I threw out my hip at Vacation Bible School when I was prompted to participate in a kickball competition. I kicked the ball like there was no tomorrow. I kicked it out of the park a few times and was on top of the world. Since then, my right hip has been giving me sheer hell.

After a few months of waking up in the night screaming in pain, my wife said that I should have the people of the church I pastor to pray for me. It was humbling. I asked for them to pray for me, and lay hands upon me in the name of Christ. The love was overwhelming.

That night and the day after I had no symptoms of the ailment that had afflicted me. The next day, Tuesday, I was in pain. I asked God to take me to that place where the love was so strong and fervent..and the pain went away. It was miraculous. So I continue in that same way, to recapture the love that was shown to me that night, and at every attempt to recapture it...the pain goes away.

How powerful is the love of Christ? We challenge it and refrain from it...but the power of Christ's love is a mountain that cannot be moved. When we go to Him, in humility, He washes away our pains and sufferings, and makes us new creatures in Him. I'm a new creature in Him, today!

Healing Revival Tonight in a Rural Alabama Methodist Church

2008-07-31T00:07:00.004-04:00

Tonight was the culmination of a 4 night revival for the church I pastor. I've been there since late May and they've been told via my sermons and prayer meetings that I believe in the power of the Holy Spirit, specifically, as it relates to the sign-gift of healing. Sunday through Tuesday was all about the power of the Holy Spirit, specifically, being baptized in the Holy Spirit. Tonight, it was the final night and the Holy Spirit was present....INDEED! Eight people (from an attendance of about 40) came for healing. More powerfully, I asked everyone to close their eyes and be in prayer for everyone there, and I asked who wanted healing prayer without having to come publicly - to receive it where they sat. Three quarters of those there raised their hands. What an awesome God we serve.

First things first...of those who came for healing we prayed for suicidal tendencies, demonic possession, as well as diabetes, arthritis, lung disorder, addiction to alcohol, cancer and other maladies. The expressions of those for whom prayer was administered moved the entire congregation. More specifically, each one prayed for felt the overwhelming presence of the Holy Spirit. I was so totally drained from the prayer that the prayer team sat me down in the prayer seat and prayed over me until I was able to continue the service. (I didn't realize that it was so obvious that I was drained and depleted...but their prayers worked wonderfully and I continued.) Then came the most challenging, demanding, prayerful experience I've ever had in the healing ministry.

A young husband came to the alter for prayer. He had just recently lost his mother (a week ago) and was in a terribly difficult situation with his step father about everything. He was forbidden to attend his own mother's funeral. He was distraught. When I looked him in the eyes and asked what he wanted prayer for, his eyes became bloodshot and he said...."I want to leave my wife. I want to leave my child to be. I want to leave this world. I don't want anything good." At once I realized that I was talking with a young man who was possessed. Rather than anoint him one time with the sign of the cross with oil, it was put on my heart to anoint him three times. I looked him in the eyes and asked if he wanted deliverance. He shrugged. I asked again...he shrugged. Then I called him by name twice and he said yes.

I've only once before been called upon by Our Lord to cast out demons and I was weak in faith at that time...but I couldn't resist the word of God as it pertained to this young man. I tried to sit him down but he resisted. I tried again and he resisted again. I said..."In the name of Jesus accept His love". He sat down. He looked at me with piercing, bloodshot eyes and I asked him if he was ready for healing prayer. He didn't say anything. I told him I was going to pray for him whether he wanted it or not. I complimented him on beating down the resistance to make his way to the alter. So we prayed. There were 5 prayer warriors plus me praying for him. And we prayed. Without knowing the names of the demons in him (and not wanting to know their names) I prayed over him saying that Jesus knew who was trying to control his life and in the name of Jesus they are to be bound and cast from him. I was moved to bind and cast out 3 different demons in this young man in the name of Jesus Christ.

At once, his bloodshot eyes became clear. He proclaimed Christ as the ruler of his life. His countenance became one of calm and peace. But we didn't stop there. We continued to pray over him for strength and perseverance in Christ for the moments, days and weeks ahead. Oh what a glorious time it was in the service of our risen Lord.

We closed the service by praying for those who lifted their hands earlier that didn't want to be publicly brought into the love of The Lord. My friends, it was a powerful ending to a wonderful 4 nights of revival. Indeed, revival happened in our rural church in Alabama. It happened in ME!

In Christ....

We're Leading Up To Healing Revival, Wednesday

2008-07-28T23:17:00.003-04:00

The theme of the revival this year at our little rural church is Baptism In The Holy Spirit. I've been talking about how the gifts of the Holy Spirit are not limited to those early Apostles, rather, for all believers who succumb to and totally submit to the presence of the Holy Spirit in themselves. It is an awesome thing to let Christ live through us today. When reflecting upon John 17: 20-22, it is apparent that we are here now, to be Christ for the world.

As Christ healed...we heal. Period. I've witnessed everything from freedom from terminal cancer to beyond...and it is awesome to behold. Are we worthy? The question I would ask is are we willing? I am willing. Are YOU?

The last thing I seek is to make hippocrates of anyone in the healing ministry. Rather, may we be subject to His will? I make myself subject to His will in these regards while I'm unworthy, yet willing. In a back-handed way I ask, can we all? Let us be subject to His will and create new persons in Christ, through the mystery and majesty of His presence. I'm awed by His presence. Aren't we all? In His name I pray...Amen.

Revival Preaching Night Two

2008-07-28T22:43:00.006-04:00

Tonight I was able to use some of the material I had worked on so hard to be a part of the sermon. I say "some" because of the 5 typewritten pages of material, I used 2 illustrations and 2 sermon passages. The rest was not what I had planned, rather, what God wanted to be said. And powerful it was! With attendance of about 40 people, a father and his very young son came to the alter. A stalwart of the church that most would perceive as being one who wouldn't do such a thing, came to the alter for prayer. A woman whom most would think had it all together, came to the alter for prayer.

When the service was over, one man who I thought slept through the service shook my hand so vigorously that I thought he was going to take it home with him. His wife fell into my arms and thanked me for letting God talk with her. WOW! I could give 20 more inspirational anecdotes but the thing that really got to me was when the church was almost empty, and we were ready to turn off the lights and head home, 3 came back into the church for prayer. A half hour later we were working on a plan to bring the spouse of one who came back to grow to yearn to have Christ in his heart. What an honor and privilege to be approached for prayer like that. I was moved in the Spirit, deeply.

I've never been one to do the revival thing. I always thought it was hokey, if you know what I mean. But being charged with bringing revival to our small church I've grown immensely under the umbrella of the challenge. I'm being revived in the process. I share with the attendees that when I point a finger to them saying they're too much consumed with feeding the flesh...3 fingers are pointing back at me. I'm as much challenged and changed by revival as those to whom I'm preaching. What an unexpected thing.

I don't know if any of the Methodist preachers/pastors who may stumble across this blog are equally impacted. I would hope so. God isn't through with any of us. As the bumper sticker says....."Sorry, God isn't thru with me yet". Whatever our position may be, may we all be stricken by the notion that we are a work in progress, and that God isn't through with us yet. At least, I've come to understand, He's not through with me.

The power of the Holy Spirit was evident tonight. Arms were raised in praise, tears were shed in joy, and lives were changed. At least a few, in a rural area. But it's one person at a time through which the kingdom is brought down for us all to revel in. I thank God for the few who made a BIG impact in my ministry. May I be more greatly used for His purposes. I hope that this sharing empowers someone else to be equally challenged and utilized by God, the Father, Jesus the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Amen, amen, and Amen!

Revival Preaching

2008-07-28T08:56:00.003-04:00

Prior to last night I'd never preached at a revival service. I had prepared and studied my sermon for days. I prayed and prayed that God would speak through me what he wanted those in attendance (as well as myself) to hear. Of the six pages of prepared text, all that I used was the scripture. After reading Acts 2, nothing else I'd prepared came out of my mouth! God revealed what he wanted us all to know: When we say that we're not worthy of the gifts of the Holy Spirit...we are living a lie! We say we're not worthy when we're actually saying "I'm not willing".

This revelation cracked open the hard shell that our souls keep tightly bound around the indwelling Holy Spirit. Realizing this, we open our minds to the realization that God is never finished with us. He wants us to open our hearts, minds and souls to the abundance that comes from loving Him with all that is in us. The more we open up to Him, the more His Holy Spirit works through us.

I've been so blind for so long, I pray that now I can stop living the lie of unworthiness, and start living a life of willingness. In Jesus' name I pray.

God Heals....Some of Us Let Him Use Us

2008-07-17T23:20:00.002-04:00

I've been slow to post as I'm otherwise engaged with my time and attention. But tonight I want to share. At our church's youth gathering tonight we had a 19 year old give a sermon and testimony. I was moved by it. When she was finished, one of the 9 kids came to the alter to give her life to Christ. I was specially moved by her preaching as she told of the various miraculous healings she has witnessed since being baptized in the Holy Spirit.

When she finished her sermon, and after prayer, I took the pulpit and endorsed her words about how the Holy Spirit will fill you and change you. Before she spoke I pulled her aside, at the urging of the Holy Spirit, and said to her, "Let the Holy Spirit speak...and you just be the mouthpiece"...or words to that effect. At least 3 times during her sermon, she looked at me and said..."I didn't plan this but I've gotta share it". It was awesome.

As with all young people, there were scoffers and disbelievers of what she had shared. I took the lead and (as an older geezer) endorsed what she had said about God working miraculously in the lives of true believers. The kids took the message seriously. She now feels empowered to share with a broader audience. She asked me if she could deliver the sermon this Sunday...and I told her she could. It is the culmination of a weekend youth retreat, so it is appropriate that church on Sunday be reflective of that. What joy in that person. What radiance in her. What a move of the Holy Spirit I witnessed as she left grateful for the opportunity to share what God has put on her heart with the church.

How many of us hold on to our territory so hard that we cannot let someone come in and interrupt it with a testimony and word from God that is placed on their hearts? I will gleefully step aside this Sunday for this young lady's testimony and message. (Although I did tell her to pray for discernment, as this will be a mixed/blended crowd of new and mature Christians). I don't know what she will preach, but I will support it as I know it is Christ working through her.

I titled this post about healing. This young girl prayed for and witnessed the healing of a deaf child at Children's Hospital in Birmingham, AL. She let's God use her. Can we all learn to let God use us? His providence is more than we can imagine.

A year later...the river is still wonderful

2008-07-14T20:59:00.002-04:00

It's been about a year since I posted about swimming in the river. But, darn it...it's worth posting about again. Today I walked to the river. Our river is one of the cleanest in the entire USA. There were no canoes, kayaks or otherwise travelers on the river. I walked down (about 100 yards from the house) and looked upstream and downstream...and saw nobody. I took off my clothes and jumped in. Normally I'd wear shoes or something to protect my feet, but today I didn't. From the top of my head to the heels of my feet it was wonderful!

There is a mystic comfort that comes from being totally washed by nature...AKA...God's revelation to us all. Today, I was washed. My swimming was like a baptism. Does that make any sense? I was one with the creator...and one with one of the elements of this earth...water. I only wish that others could feel this wonderful presence of God's love for this part of His creation. I felt at one with it...I felt at one with Him.

The lack of gravity...the lack of burdens...the lack of anything worldly is what God has for us who dwell deeply in His nature. Be it a walk in the woods...or a dive into the lakes, oceans, or rivers...do it and embrace it. There's no telling what will be revealed! God is love...and nature is love made manifest.

Marty

A Morning on a Mission

2008-06-25T08:20:00.003-04:00

A week ago I woke up on a mission. Earlier in the morning I was awoken with a vision. I saw a woman cut open from head to toe, and outstretched hand to hand, with bright white light emanating from her entire body. That is, except for the dark spots that shielded the light in different parts of her body. I've had these visions before. They tell me that someone needs healing prayer. It wasn't a comfortable vision and I went back to sleep hoping that it would go away. When the alarm went off, I arose with the same vision.

During our morning devotional I shared this vision with my wife. She said, "God will lead you to who it is that he wants to use you for His healing". As I left for work I stopped at the place in the woods where I have my private prayer every morning and sought discernment. I tried to think of what woman I knew of who needed healing prayer and I thought I had it figured out. NOPE. The moment I walked into my office the first thing one of my associates said was that a neighboring business owner had a migraine and that I needed to pray for her. HOLY SMOKES! This does not happen every day...in fact it had never happened before. I immediately went to that person's business and we prayed and thanked God for His healing. Two days later I had occasion to see the woman and she gave her testimony. She said that she started feeling better the moment we finished praying and that by the end of the day she was operating on "all cylinders" as she put it. She went on to say that she'd been coping with that headache for over a week and it hadn't come back since we prayed.

My prayer is that God does this more often, as I relish every opportunity to stop and acknowledge His greatness with fellow believers. In the process, my hope is that it will bring non-believers to Christ.

The Healing of the Microphone ;-)

2008-06-25T07:47:00.003-04:00

Every once in a while God brings awe and wonder to us in ways that we cannot anticipate. Last Sunday I filled in for the pastor of a local church for the early morning service. I preached on John 6: 35 on the topic of believing in Jesus and never thirst or hunger again. Specifically, I addressed how we can thirst for healing in our lives, and how believing in Jesus - with everything in us - He will quench that thirst.

As the service started, I got wired up with the wireless microphone and the worship leader stood at the pulpit where the stationary microphone is. When that mic at the pulpit is on, it glows red. About 5 minutes into the service, the pulpit mic went dead. The worship leader fidgeted with it and ultimately gave up and proceeded through the service without it (it didn't occur to me to offer him the wireless...must've been a God thing). When it became time for the message, I went to the pulpit with my wireless turned on and began my sermon. (I always opt for the wireless mic as I do not stay behind the pulpit...I walk around, make gestures, all that stuff.) I was about 3/4 of the way through the message and said, "If only we can believe with everything in us that God heals, He will heal!"...and at that very moment (as I would later be told) the pulpit microphone lit up. I was totally unaware of it as I wasn't looking at it.

At the very moment the service concluded, a man rushed the alter and asked me if I noticed what happened. With a dumbfounded look on my face I said "no...what?". He said that God healed the microphone and told me that the light came on precisely when I mentioned believing and God will heal. The moment we were finished with our conversation, the worship leader came up to me and asked me if I saw what happened with the microphone. I told him that I had just been informed. I observed others chitchatting and pointing to the pulpit. Wow!

In retrospect, I may have slapped my hand on the pulpit for emphasis and - like smacking the TV on the side when it isn't working right - it came back on. Then again, I honestly don't recall whether I did or didn't, as I was a bit caught up the the Holy Spirit at time. Still, I pray that God touched someone through this unexpected event.

Neophyte in Ministry - DUH!!

2008-06-17T22:16:00.002-04:00

Anybody ever been caught off guard and propelled into situations where you thought you were unprepared? I thought that. Really. But not now. I've put "myself" in the back seat for a ride that only the Holy Spirit can drive. I look up and see glimpses of what it is all about....but only glimpses. When I ask..."what shall I do in this situation"....I'm assured that I should sit in the back and let the Holy Spirit drive. OK...I'm in for the trip!

Today I had a wonderful opportunity to pray for someone. She and I instantly became brother and sister in Christ. She suffers from migraines and physical malaise that accompanies it. God put it on me to pray for her and I was uplifted from the experience. I hope she was. But it was for ME that her malady came to my attention. I was moved to take time off of work and do something of God. And ya know what? I was lifted. My sincere prayer is that she was lifted as well. I know that she hugged me and assured me that God was with her...and me at the time of prayer. WOW!

I ask people of God if they recognize when the Holy Spirit is overwhelming them. Some say they have a flitter in the eyes...others say they have a flush feeling....for me...my toes contract uncontrollably. Today...while praying with my friend, my toes contracted uncontrollably. Not me...the Holy Spirit was in charge.

This is personal stuff but I think it is universal as well. Does God touch you in a special way when you are overcome by His presence through the Holy Spirit? Just wondering.

Reflections on Death as the Ultimate Healing

2008-06-17T22:06:00.003-04:00

In the past month I've come to have to deal with death in a manner in which I was not prepared. In one situation, a young boy died from a brain tumor...in the other, one who's time had come. I can deal with both emotionally...but it is the "intellectually" thing that somewhat disturbs me. That is, until I come to realize that death is the ultimate healing for some. In the cases mentioned above, it was just that. Today I spoke with the recent widow of a man in my newly appointed church and she volunteered that her children had come back to support her in this difficult time. She said that they have never been united before, but now they are...and God orchestrated these events to bring the family closer together. There is a love amongst family members that never materialized before now. That is a healing!

In the other, I can only speculate based upon what others have told me. But I was there for the healing services for the young boy. I held him, prayed for him, and shared that it is the love of God that manifests itself in trying times. Reported to me is that the family has congealed, and become one...for the first time. What a tragic catalyst for this to happen...but happen it has.

So, in venting these situations, I become more in tune with the fact that my will, our will, is not God's will. May we be always subservient to God's will.

Stepping into the Unknown

2008-06-17T21:48:00.002-04:00

My first official week into my first real appointment in the Methodist faith and I have a funeral to conduct. On the one hand, awkward, on the other, a blessing. I had the privilege of meeting the person who has since deceased in the week prior to my appointment becoming official. He, and his family, touched me and my wife in a very deep and sincere way. Now, being the new pastor at the deceased's church it is in my hands to conduct a funeral....but without a body. He donated his body to science.

I lift up this situation as I cannot find in the "Pastor's Pocket Edition" of the Book of Worship for a situation such as this. Perhaps in the full Book of Worship there is a liturgy for this type of occasion...but I wouldn't know as I do not possess one. Is there any help anyone can provide that may give me an assist in this situation? I'm leaning towards the "Family hour or wake" section of Services of death and resurrection. The Holy Spirit will provide, but if someone can provide some helps it would be appreciated.

On a personal note, I can't think of a better way to be brought into a body of believers than to be there to be a spiritual guide in difficult times. I'm truly blessed, humbled, and wanting to serve in the highest possible way. Thank you in advance.

When God Shows HIS Will to be HIS

2008-06-13T00:12:00.004-04:00

I pray for people regularly. I touch them, pray for them, and move on. I constantly seek God's will in each and every situation. Today, a boy for whom I prayed for healing was buried. He died from a cancerous brain tumor which could not be stopped by prayer nor medicine. He was the recipient of the "Make a Wish" foundation in his last days and visited the beaches of Puerto Rico. He was buried today. God challenges us all.

I entertain the notion of questioning God's will when an innocent dies after much prayer and supplication. I entertain it. But when all is said and done, I do not know God's will, so I cannot question it. I merely submit.

A very young man, age 11, was taken to be in God's glory a few days ago. Today we buried what was left of him. I do not question...while I entertain the notion of questioning....I merely submit.

Teens and Contemporary Worship

2008-06-12T23:11:00.002-04:00

Tonight I had an opportunity to share with teenagers the love of Christ. We were talking about how and if we hear God talking to us, and I shared that while praying after the worship music that God touched my heart and revealed to me that I should love everyone who was there...as nobody was there against their will. To my surprise, when I shared that God spoke to me, inquiring minds wanted to know what God sounded like. I believe that in sharing that experience with the kids some were moved to listen to that quiet voice, discounting it as not being mere conscience...but the actual voice of God. A few hung around afterwards sharing how they thought they were nuts thinking they heard God telling them to do this or that...or refrain from things. It was awesome. I found myself cultivating a new, deep love for fellow worshipers, regardless of age. It was too cool.

No outside electronic goodies

2008-06-06T22:32:00.002-04:00

While this is a blog about healing...I must confess that there are times where I must get off subject. Today, because of a remodeling we have going on, our satellite reception died. It was just a little bump or something, but the satellite didn't bring our regular TV and music channels. So tonight the Mrs. and I listened to old CD's in the CD player that we haven't used for over a year. I must admit, it was lots of fun to dance and sing the oldies. We had a special time together in the midst of being cut off from the world. I think that when I'm longing for the good times....I might just jar the antennae a little off base. T'was a good night.

She Said NO

2008-06-05T23:36:00.002-04:00

Today I got my breakfast from where I usually get my breakfast. The cashier had smashed her thumb under the cash register and broken a bone. Her cast was off and she appeared to be healing. I asked..."How's your thumb?". She said that it was hurting and that arthritis had settled into it and it was very painful. I asked if I could hold her thumb and she said, "NO". I didn't elaborate on how I'm into the healing ministry...I just asked if I could hold it. She said no. How sad, as I was moved to hold her and minister healing prayer to her. But she said no.

How often do we make efforts to bring Christ into the lives of those around us who need His love? How often do we try to minister to those in need? I felt rejection, as I felt Christ's rejection when He gave his all for us. I know...I'm just me, but it imprinted upon my brain the rejection of love. Of Christlike love. I just wanted to pray over her...but she said "NO". So now I'm convicted to ask her again, tomorrow, and again...the next day, to let me hold her thumb. OK...it may seem "out there" to some, but I'm convicted that if she lets me hold her hand and pray...she will be better. All glory to God! Those in this ministry are nothing without the love of God. I'll persist until she gives in or asks somebody else to take my order. (psst...love their sausage biscuits...mine with double sausage and mustard....yumm). God'll get her someday...and I pray it will be because of her thumb. Just a thought.

Thanks for your prayers

2008-06-04T23:01:00.004-04:00

This week I "unofficially" began my appointment at my second church. I was briefly appointed as pastor of a dying UMC church that has moved to withdraw from the denomination. Their 8 regular attendees will move where the spirit moves them. I now pastor a church of 60 regular worshipers. I'm so moved by the love and acceptance of these worshipers.

I wish to thank all those who have prayed for me in this period of transition. I'm humbly acknowledging the hand of God in this situation, and the results of prayers as well. Awesome, simply awesome. This is a good church family to be associated with. I'm moved deeply to bring my best. Also moved deeply, to bring God's best. I pray that I may be a facilitator of both. Duh, isn't that what "pastor" is all about?

While this is a blog about healing, it isn't out of line to point out that this appointment is for me both a pastoral, and a healing, appointment. There is a great need for healing here. And I, with the grace of God, will facilitate that healing. But only by the grace of God. Please pray that healing and grace will abound. I have an unyielding faith. Isn't our God an awesome God?

God Heals...in Spite of Us

2008-05-23T20:43:00.003-04:00

God can heal us if only we turn to Him and ask...sincerely ask. I know of a person who is afflicted with many maladies...and she suffers from them daily. After weeks of suffering she simply turned it all over to God and the symptoms simply went away! Is that a testimony or what?

We are all, healers and healee's (if that's a word) subject to the will of God. All too often we try to put God in a box and say, "heal this or you're not real". Or, "heal me or your healing isn't for this time". All rubbish. God's will is merciful...yet reserved for Him alone. I'm currently suffering from a prayer for healing that isn't taking place. It is disturbing, yet grounding. I do not know the will of Our Father. But I pray that it be the same as mine.

An 11 year old boy named Lucas is dying of a brain tumor. I've prayed for him before he knew he had the tumor, and after it became known what had afflicted him. I pray for him daily. If it is God's will that he join Him in heaven sooner than his family wants him to go, so be it. But I pray for healing nonetheless. Will you join me in praying for a healing of young Lucas? Thy will be done...but can I influence that will? I pray that I can. Join me in prayer.
Thank you dear brothers and sisters in Christ....thank you from the bottom of my heart.
Marty

Sometimes We Heal Ourselves

2008-05-20T00:12:00.002-04:00

Often people make it a "God thing" that they are healed. More often than not...it is a "get real with yourself" thing that brings about healing. Ministers of healing are often the facilitators of this phenomenon. With that said, there are exceptions.

There are times when the will of the person being prayed for has nothing to do with their healing. It is purely by the mercy and grace of God. I could cite many times where the person being prayed for truly lacked faith, but the mercy of God overwhelmed the situation, and brought about healing. What a conundrum this brings. In spite of a lack of faith, our wonderful, loving God, Heals.

Why, I don't know. How, I have no clue. But heal, He does. And I'm proud to be a witness of this. I am overwhelmed at times by what He does...but subservient at all times to letting Him do His will through me or anybody He chooses. Isn't our God an Awesome God?

My prayer is that we all let God, through the Holy Spirit, influence our lives in ways we cannot imagine...we dare not imagine...and bring His fullness to this world we call Earth.
In Jesus name I pray...Amen.

Some Make it Tough to be in the Healing Ministry

2008-05-19T23:49:00.004-04:00

Just gotta say, there is an outpouring (if you buy into this stuff) in Lakeland FL. A certain person in the name of Todd Bentley from Canada (no ill references to decent Canadians intended) is Big Time into revival in Lakeland, FL. I hold this person in disdain.

Give me money. Buy my CD. Be a "partner" for $30, 50, or 100 more a month...and God will bless you in a special way. I'm almost embarrassed to be in the healing ministry! Why do these charlatans get such press and support from churches throughout the nation? I don't get it? Is there nobody who has discernment? Again, I'm somewhat embarrassed to be in the healing ministry because of charlatans of this like.

Some may read this blog thinking that I'm into anything "healing". Nope. Not. I'm into the healing that comes from God, Almighty, who sometimes picks on someone like ME to be a facilitator. I do not buy into the alleged revival of this Todd Bently person. Not for a moment. It's all about making a dern good life off of sheep willing to give big bucks to be in his good graces. Charlatan...nothing less.

If I offend any friends who follow this blog, I am sorry that I have rained upon your parade. If you think he is of God....you are mislead. For anybody who doesn't know about Todd Bentley, please Google his name and read. Your eyes may be opened.

I know of two people from our very small community who have attended the revival in Lakeland, FL...and none are any better for it. Oh yes, they felt an euphoria at the time...but their symptoms and problems came back immediately after coming out of the influence of the hypnosis that this supposed revival is all about. False. False. False.

Our loving Lord reveals Himself through deep, spiritual, selfless prayer and love. In that, healing comes. If you have to buy anything...BEWARE!

I sometimes wish I could pave the way to easy street by being a charlatan...but God says NO...don't fall for that crap. Please, believers...don't fall for that crap!

Prayers answered by a powerful prayer warrior

2008-05-15T00:15:00.002-04:00

A woman who works at a nursing home is a faithful believer in the power of God's healing. She often prays for people in their last days and her prayers are answered by means of extending some lives so that finalities can be facilitated. Unfortunately, her health became an issue with cancerous tumors invading her body. She was lifted up in prayer and simultaneously lived a prayerful life. When she went to the doctor for a pre-op exam, he informed her that her tumors were totally gone. No sign of them at all! Praise God!

I do not see this as an ordinary event, while statistically in the realm of normal, natural healing. Nope...I see it as the hand of God at work in a servant. Call me stupid, naive, or sheltered (which I'm definitely not)...just call me a believer in the miracles in Christ. Do you believe in miracles?

Marty

Awesome Intercessory Prayer

2008-05-01T22:40:00.002-04:00

A dear church friend had emergency double bypass surgery this past Friday. On Thursday night a group of us met to pray for her. It was an awesome time of prayer and the presence of the Holy Spirit was felt by all. NOT to our surprise, she sailed through the procedure. Call it coincidence...or call it divine intervention...we call it God answering our prayers. The presence of the Holy Spirit was strong that night. No if's, and's, or but's,...God was there when we prayed.

No matter what life throws one's way...turn to The Lord in prayer and supplication, and His mercy shall prevail. Can't say anymore than that. Our God, is an Awesome God!

Cool Sermon by Bishop Willimon....and I met my new charge

2008-04-13T21:39:00.003-04:00

Last Saturday we had a Methodist Festival, called Celebrating New Life. Our bishop, Will Willimon, delivered a sermon in the worship service that followed the lectionary. I have no idea how many pastors took his message and worked it into their own Sunday sermons, but I know of at least one. In the Luke passage for last Sunday, from Luke 24, is the account of the walk to Emmaus. Jesus revealed himself to the two with whom he had joined on the walk to Emmaus. Bishop Willimon suggested, why didn't Jesus, upon his resurrection, go to Pilate and show up next to him saying...."I'm Back"? Why didn't he go to Rome to the emperor and say..."I'm Here"? No, rather, Jesus showed up clandestinely to his own followers and revealed himself. What a wonderful experience it was hearing this beautiful sermon on how Jesus revealed himself to his followers, against their own better judgment, he revealed himself.

Jesus reveals himself today to us all, yet we sometimes find it hard to fathom. He reveals Himself every Sunday in every church. Yet, we find if hard to fathom. Remember, He said...."when two or three are gathered in my name, I am there..." yet we find it hard to fathom.
Well, Jesus comes to us each and every Sunday morning, evening, and Wednesday, when we gather in His name. Are we humbled by His presence, or otherwise engaged that we don't stop to see he is there? Psst...He is there.

Tonight a mere 14 people gathered together to worship. Jesus was there...and we were touched by His presence. Can we expect Him to be there when there are 50, 100, 500, or more? Yes, indeed! As a popular hymn suggests...."Surely the Presence of the Lord is in This Place"...I'll ask...."can you feel His mighty power and His grace?".

On another note, last week, at the festival, I met with key people from my future charge. I introduced myself to them and said that I was their next pastor. What a warm embrace I received from them. What a warming in the Holy Spirit there was. I pray that in the next few months when I'm put in their charge, I'll faithfully serve and be the person that God means to have there at that time. I am deeply humbled, and taking on a servant's heart. Any prayers that one wishes to lift up on my behalf are deeply appreciated.

Nothing from Vegas Stayed in Vegas

2008-04-08T21:36:00.004-04:00

After 3 days of exhibiting in Las Vegas and staying at a local hotel and casino, I'm proud to say that nothing from Vegas stayed in Vegas. We brought back plenty of great leads and contacts and it was a good business venture. I have to admit that I was awed by Caesar's Palace, with the artificial sky and statues of Roman Emporors...it was awesome to behold the creativity of man to replicate early Roman times. The shops were overpriced and the food overpriced...but it was all good. Very good.

We have nothing to hang our heads about as everything was good and above board. We met some truly wonderful people. Everything from born-again Christians to Orthodox Jews...and the rest of humanity...we met plenty of good people and made plenty of good contacts. Everything from Vegas came back as leads and prospects.

Some of our best contacts were people of Christ who were making a living in Sin City. We met numerous Christian cabbies. To the shagrin of those with us, I engaged numerous cabbies about their spirituality and was amazed to find many bibles in cabs. I recall one Phillipino cabbie who was into the healing ministry and a follower of Father Fernando Suarez, a Catholic priest who is in the ministry. What a joy to converse with him.

So, even in the midst of Sin City,there is hope. I'm glad I was there to be a part of the hope.
In Christ....
Marty

My Annual Trip to Sin City

2008-03-31T23:14:00.002-04:00

Once again I head to Las Vegas on business. Once a year my business requires that I go to Las Vegas to exhibit and find new customers. It is always good for business, yet a glimpse of what it must have been like to have been in Sodom. I remember from last year seeing billboards, traveling signs and giant high definition movies depicting lust on the faces of major casinos. I remember free newspaper machines with porn on seemingly every corner. I remember illegals passing out passes to sex shops and venues that elevate everything associated with sin as an attraction. Yep, going to Las Vegas.

In what free time I have I hope to find people who are feeling equally like fish out of water. They're there...I know. Please don't get me wrong, as I'm not ignorant to the ways of the world. Not at all. It's just that the underbelly sticks out so very obviously there that it always brings me down. I'll eat very good food, and see an uplifting show. Around and between these things, I'll be exposed to things I'd rather not. I'll probably have a good time even while being around the filth. I can say this: There's nothing that I'll want to do in Vegas that I'll want to stay in Vegas. I want to bring back good sales leads and good memories of the good we find there. Forget the rest.

Preacher vs Minister

2008-03-17T20:56:00.003-04:00

I get caught up in the differences between being a minister (to a congregation) and a preacher. While I struggle, although mostly victoriously, with being a preacher...I struggle more with being a minister. To be that person who comes to the side of families in times of trouble...well...that isn't what I signed on for. But it comes with the territory.

I see the need to share the scripture for a "person of God" to make things more bearable. There is a need in a difficult situation and I hope to help make it easier to bear. That's ministry...and something I've not dealt with. I think that is a "pastoral" problem. So, I'll deal with it and hope that God provides a way. While I've not yet confronted such a situation in the early days of my charge, I know it will come. Is there some manual for this stuff? Maybe the Book of Worship for Methodists? Maybe the school of hard knocks. Don't know.

I share these thoughts because I'm a few months away from being appointed to a church with about 100 on the roles...with about 75% attending regularly. I worry, and yet I anxiously await the opportunity. While I'm not seeking advice...I'm merely venting about the prospects of facing matters of faith for which I'm not prepared. I know...God will make a way.

Putting things in perspective, preaching connects one with a congregation. Hopefully that will lead to a ministering perspective that I may not perceive me being capable of providing. Yet, it may.

Thoughts, ponderings, reflections from a lay person appointed to be a "MINISTER" to people of Christ. I pray that I'm adequately equipped to serve in situations where called to serve. Nonetheless....DUH...I'm a preacher...never before a minister.

But hold on a minute. This blog is about healing. I must admit that I'm a minister in this regard, but only to those who seek this specific type of ministry. Is it possible to connect the healing ministry with the world of general ministry? Notions are popping around in my mind that the answer is yes. So there may be something to draw upon. Time will tell.

Ever Been in a Tight?

2008-03-16T22:52:00.003-04:00

It's a saying we use to say...ever been caught unprepared...or not ready for what you were responsible to do? I ask again...ever been caught in a tight? Today, I was.

I had been behind all week in my real job...and had to deliver a sermon and conduct worship at a new assignment. At 4am this morning I was up trying to cover all the bases. No sermon to speak of ready for delivery...no well planned order of worship....just plain behind. I thought about giving $39.95 for a subscription to desperatepreacher.com but wouldn't succumb to that. So I sucked it in and studied, and studied, and left for church with only a hope and a prayer. Funny how God works! The sermon was "spot on" as my Euro-friends would put it. God works in wonderfully mysterious ways. But wait....there was the Sunday night service! Again...insufficient preparation...only prayer...but it too was a success.

I humble myself before Our Lord. Isn't it awesome when the Holy Spirit convicts us and takes over our meager human preparations (or lack thereof) to empower us to deliver what our sovereign Lord wants to happen? I stand on the sidelines just in awe.

So I offer this testimony up to anyone who may be reading. Sometimes, Our Lord provides, in spite of ourselves. Imagine what He can do when we give Him all He deserves. I think that's what tonight's sermon was about. I'll have to review my notes to be sure.

Brothers and Sisters in Christ

2008-03-12T21:55:00.002-05:00

I must acknowledge the wonderful posts, replies, and words of encouragement since announcing that I've been appointed to a pastoral position. Duh, I'm just a Jesus Freak!

I'm particularly moved by those who find a renewal in their positions by virtue of my newfound-enthusiastic appointment. Too cool. May my experience bring excitement and enthusiasm to anyone who is reading.

So, here I am with the task of bringing true worship to a congregation that has lived without it for all too long. Next week (the week after Palm Sunday)...Easter Sunday...I'm bringing communion to them. It's been years since they've had communion. What a privilege. I hardly know what to say or do...cuz it's such a wonderful thing to embrace. While I'm not an elder...I'm having the elements blessed/consecrated by one. And they will experience the love of Christ, through communion, in a deeper way than before. Is this cool or what?

So starts my ministry as a local lay pastor. I'll report as time progresses, and hope to report good things.
Marty

Slain in the Spirit - A Personal Baptism

2008-03-09T22:22:00.002-05:00

Wow, don't know if I should go here, but I will. I have a friend who's been seeking an experience where he could be "slain in the spirit" and experience God's overwhelming presence in his life. Two weeks ago it happened. He brought a relative of his, a charismatic, to visit me at my office. We secluded ourselves and talked about things of The Spirit. In the midsts of our dialogs, there was a presence that could not be denied. It was the presence of the Holy Spirit. And my friend sought a personal experience with the Holy Spirit.

I've "been there...done that" but was especially moved by my friend's desire to be slain. In the midst of our prayer, in the ecstasy of having God present among us, he was ready. He was "swooning" as in, feet planted securely upon the ground but moving about in circles. I was overwhelmed and asked the charismatic relative of his to invoke the Holy Spirit in him at that time and place. He put his hands upon him and told him to experience the love and mercy of God, NOW, and submit to it. He did, and he was overcome by the Holy Spirit.

I share this because this friend has been a missionary to South America and Africa. He has seen others overwhelmed this way, but never experienced it for himself. He had a sort of "envy". That day was his day. And it was, indeed, a blessing to him. My friend, was baptized in the Holy Spirit. It is a baptism, that if you haven't experienced, should make you yearn for it. It is wonderfully Godly experience that should be yearned for. And for those who experience it, it is a pivotal, point to that day, experience.

I only share this because there may be some who are entertaining the notion of being "slain in the spirit" or merely stepping into the unknown in the name of Jesus. DO IT! You may be surprised by what is revealed to you. Trusting in Christ is the key to knowing what tomorrow may bring, because you are equipped to deal with it, whatever it may be. Trust in The Lord, and let Him have His way with you....be slain if that's what it takes. But trust in Jesus Christ.

On Healing Services....Worth It Or Not?

2008-03-09T21:52:00.003-05:00

In late February our church held a healing service. It was open to the public and to anyone who would come. We had nobody in particular to pray for, but advertised and spread the word by word of mouth, and it happened. There were over 20 who came.

We prayed over a boy with a brain tumor. We prayed over a man with lung disease. We prayed over a child of God who had a bone tumor. We prayed. And we prayed.

I NEVER ask for a report card on how God worked in the situations prayed for. I just don't do that. I trust that word will come back to us about how God entered into the situations we prayed for. I cannot report on this or that, but I can report that there was a testimony given today in our church about the results of that service. A woman came forth to ask us to pray for her daughter who has a tumor on the bone in her arm. That tumor led to her bone breaking unexpectedly. She testified that when we prayed for her daughter, with her being there to represent her by proxy, that the bone tumor had healed more in one week than it had in the 5 months of medical treatment. Isn't our God an awesome God? She went on to testify that she had had a terrible headache, which she never has, and that the headache was miraculously healed when we prayed over her for her daughter. Again, an awesome God!

The man with lung disease....left under his own power, pulling the detached oxygen tank and breathing under his own power. I don't know the fate of the child with the brain tumor. In due time, I'll get feedback.

I pray that we, Christians, and even those of the Methodist fold, appeal to our Lord for miracles to happen and that God manifests His glory in our lives. He will reveal Himself...if only we invite Him to do so. I'm a witness to miracles. Are you?

First Post in over a MONTH!

2008-03-09T21:25:00.002-05:00

Sometimes life, and church life in particular, make for busier days than normal. I, being a self-employed person, have been busier than usual with work as well. But, it's time for an update.

This week I answered the call to enter into ministry. I've been appointed as pastor over a small, shrinking church. But that definition may change. Today was the first day of me being the shepherd of a small flock. I love these people. They are so very open to anything and everything that I can bring to their congregation. Imagine that...a clean slate from which to start! I turn to God for guidance and direction. Already He has responded. They don't have an order of worship for their weekly gatherings...they don't follow any particular liturgy....they don't have music...they don't have bible study...they don't have much...but what they have, they have with enthusiasm. And it is my privilege to be there for them.

This church is marked to be dropped from the denomination because of their shrinking numbers, lack of payment to be part of the fellowship...and because they are a dying church. I'm a living, breathing, God-loving leader, and if they accept me, there will be change. I will lead...and Lord willing...they will follow.

How many of us have ever been given a clean slate? Truly...a clean slate where those in worship have said...."whatever you think is good for us, Pastor, we will do"? It is an awesome privilege and honor to lead willing followers into the unknown. I am overwhelmed by the prospect, while, simultaneously enthused. Duh...who wouldn't be?

I don't ask for prayer for me in this situation...but if you're so moved to do so...PRAY! These 10 people can turn into 15....then 20...then more.....and more.....if they embrace the move of the Holy Spirit to ignite them into witnessing and inviting others to share in the praise and worship of Our Lord, Jesus Christ. I know that I'll be pushing the envelope for them to go out into the community and witness. Did that today...let's see what next week brings.

So, that's what Brother Marty's been up to lately. Working his butt off in the day job...preaching every Sunday evening at our praise and worship service, and getting appointed to a church that is on it's last dying leg. Lotsa fun...lotsa challenges....but most importantly, lotsa opportunities to serve Our Savior. I love it. Anybody else had any challenges lately?

The Girl and the Others....

2008-01-21T00:40:00.000-05:00

In the last post I spoke about the girl asking about the pendant I wear. There were others with her. Specifically, there were four others. I responded to her, but saw the amazement in the eyes of the others she was with. While speaking to her others were moved to be part of the conversation. I saw in the eyes of one, a special gift. He was looking at her, but listening to me. How strange.

I mention (and blog) about this because we don't often realize the effect we have on "others" when we share what God has in store for us. I saw a kindred spirit in those listening. I saw a fascination for what God can do in the eyes of those lurking on the sidelines. I saw more than this one person wanting to be part of God's ministry to us lost souls...I saw hope.

I share this because I want to share how sharing the message of hope offered through following Jesus Christ is bigger than we know. May we all be ministers of His love, grace, and mercy, to those who seek, as well as those who are bystanders. You never know what it will turn into.

FINALLY...a Question About the Pendant I Wear

2008-01-21T00:12:00.000-05:00

I wear a necklace with the pendant of the Order of St. Luke the Physician to church and all religious meetings I attend. Tonight, someone finally asked me about it. It is a necklace with the logo of The Order of St. Luke, the Physician....(like seen in the left sidebar of this blog) and I was enthused to talk about it. To my amazement, this young lady (17 by my best guess) was enamored by it and inquired as to what it meant. I told her that it is a symbol of people who believe in the healing miracles of Christ...for today. I further told her that I'm an associate member of the order and that we pray, in a special way, for healing to come to those who need it. She said..."I want to be part of this". I invited her to be a prayer team member when we hold a service to pray fervently for relief of what ails the people who come. She was ecstatic. So, I'll call her daddy and ask that he give her permission to come pray with us at our next service.

I was awed by the faith of our youth. This child is wanting to participate in the revelation of God's glory, in the healing of someone. Are you as grounded by this as I am? God works wonderfully through children (and a 17 year old is a child...as I am a child of God) and I'll invite this young person to pray for others at the earliest opportunity.

God works mysteriously through us all. May this sharing of the desire of a young person serve as testimony that God isn't through with us yet. By No Means!

Small, Rural Churches

2008-01-19T06:57:00.000-05:00

I'm part of a small, rural church. I preach and worship at other small, rural churches. I find worship in congregations of less than 50 to be refreshingly different than when I was a member of a church with 4000 members. Not better or worse, just different.

Last Sunday we installed the officers for the next year. When every member of every committee was called to the front of the church it was interesting to see that the majority of those in attendance that morning were up front. Most of the people who come to church are responsible for some facet of the life of the church.

Worship can be interestingly more sincere when most who gather together are accountable to each other for the life of the congregation. There is more of an intimacy when everyone knows one another rather than being a "number" in larger gatherings. I can't think of a single time in the 6 years I've been in a rural church that I didn't give or get at least one hug. As best I can recall, I hugged someone twice in the 11 years I spent at the big church.

The culture at my home church isn't unique to that congregation. When delivering a message to other like sized congregations I find the community of believers to be equally warm and hospitable. Not because of anything having to do with the message, rather, something to do with the joy of gathering together in Christ's name. In that special time of worship, small numbers tend to get to deeper level of intimacy.

In the larger churches the intimacy comes in small group bible studies, discipleship courses and the like. That's wonderful. But Sunday morning is more corporate and ritual. Less personal. I find no fault with that in any way, as it is what it needs to be. But small church Sunday mornings where intimacy and communal worship are combined, is beautiful.

Praying With Authority

2008-01-18T22:38:00.002-05:00

Do you ever pray with authority? Seriously, is there ever a time in your prayer life where you believe that God is listening, moreso than ever before? Those times come to me. Those times come with a humility that is indescribable. God's authority, for me to embrace. Awesome!

OK...this may be hard to swallow by some, but it is indescribable to me that I know God hears my prayers and will act upon them. And when I open my eyes, my ears, my heart and my soul, His glory has taken place where I prayed it would. Not every time, but often enough to know that I'm a work in progress, and with time, my faith, but a grain no larger than a mustard seed, is sufficient. Our God is an awesome God!

May I entreat anyone who reads to believe...believe with all your heart...that God listens and answers. Can I ask that of you?

In Jesus' name.....

Lent...What To Post?

2008-01-14T23:47:00.000-05:00

Last year I made a vow to post daily on the miracles of Jesus. Can't (shouldn't) do this again for lent this next year, but I want to vow to make daily posts uplifting Christ. What to do this year....I don't know?!? Or should I? Last year it was about the personal healing experiences recorded in the Gospels of Jesus healing people. Maybe this year it might be about the healings in Acts or the letters of the church fathers? Again, I don't know.

Maybe it will be a sharing of what Google brings to me from the daily posts throughout the blogosphere about healing. Daily I'm uplifted by these accounts I receive through these wonderful accounts of the love, mercy, and grace of God working His miracles throughout the world. Do you get overwhelmed by them, or should I be a wellspring of hope by reporting them. I don't know. Lent is a special time for me as I hope it is for all Christians.

We'll see what is put upon my heart this year. But I will be faithful.

Total Depravity

2008-01-14T22:59:00.000-05:00

Do you ever entertain the notion of total depravity? I mean personally...not from a pulpit or a Sunday School desk. Personally.

All too often we focus upon the death and sacrifice of Jesus, rather than the promise he made that God would send the Holy Spirit to make us even stronger followers of the light and the love of God The Father. We bury Jesus, but fail to embrace the risen Christ. He lives...He lives...Christ Jesus lives today. Forget the tomb and remember the ascension. Through that ascension the gift of the Holy Spirit is here for us TODAY...if only we succumb to it.

I often get caught up in the sacrifice of Jesus. Who wouldn't? But the true, higher calling, is to embrace the resurrection and the gift of the Holy Spirit. It's not an easy goal to have; being a kingdom servant...but a necessary goal for all who call themselves disciples. Accepting this notion, calls for acknowledging one's total depravity. I don't experience it as often as I should. But when I do...I witness God working miracles in these people He calls His children. And He will through you, too, if only you submit.

I hope that I'm not perceived as preaching, rather, sharing what God has put on my heart tonight. He wants our total submission...not part of us...not a budgeted amount of time...but all of us. And in that submission, confessing our total depravity, He will reveal Himself in ways we cannot imagine.

May the abundant grace and mercy of Our Lord rain down upon every follower of Jesus Christ. And may we stop burying Him and start following Him..."Repent, for the kingdom of God is near." That's what Jesus said...can we believe it? Can we accept it? Can we follow it in light of His resurrection and ascension into heaven? Or are we stuck in his burial? I follow the risen Christ and His promise for us all.

Discernment - a Key to Discipleship

2008-01-14T08:59:00.000-05:00

Counselors and therapists make careers in discernment. What is the root cause for what ails someone. Why is this attitude or that problem really there. How do we help to make it go away? I learn so much from the committed Christian healers as it goes to the issue of healing physical problems, when I realize that the physical manifestations of pain and disease so often stem from a mental or spiritual affliction.

At one of our healing services someone came forward for healing. She had a general malaise and was in a deep depression. What could I pray for? What healing was she truly in need of. She is a friend and I knew that she was very upset about the loss of her sister who had been in Hospice for a few weeks prior to passing on. I was stuck in the moment, not certain what to pray for. I closed my eyes and prayed that God would reveal how to pray for her. Suddenly I heard myself telling her to let it go..."you're not responsible for her dying. It was God's timing and you had nothing to do with it." ...is what my mouth said without my brain directing it! We then prayed for her to be released from guilt and when we had finished she was radiant.

In that moment I realized that God revealed what it was for which she truly needed healing. I realized that in my quest to be a better disciple God provided the discernment that I could not. Discernment is a gift that we can open ourselves to through deep prayer. And when that moment of discernment comes, one may find themselves speaking prophetically and simply following what God has revealed. I pray that the next time I'm called for healing prayer that true healing comes through God revealing the root cause so that it can be healed, rather than the symptoms.

I Finally Pastor a Church (kind of)

2008-01-14T01:01:00.000-05:00

It's called Common Ground. Believers of all denominations are welcomed to praise and worship thru music. Housed in our Methodist church, it reaches out to Baptists, the unchurched, as well as others of different denominations. We welcome all followers of Jesus Christ.

Tonight we had a mere 30 worshipers. It will grow. The power of praise and worship through music is new to me...yet compelling to me. I serve as the preacher in this service. And when planning, I serve somewhat as a pastor. For me...unchartered territories. But it is an awesome experience. We're three months into this and it is growing...not so much in numbers, but in new faces. Two joined our church last week because of this ministry...and I expect yet another in the next week or so. More to come.

Common Ground is just that...a place for believers to come together to worship Our Lord...on common ground. Forget denominations...forget preachers...rather, come together for common worship. In the process, some will identify with the host church. Two did last week...may there be more.

On Being Slain in the Spirit - aka - Resting in the Spirit

2008-01-14T00:27:00.000-05:00

I have a friend who desires to be slain in the spirit. He somewhat envies those who experience this phenomena. I don't know how to address this desire he has. It's more than a conversion experience, rather, it's something that overwhelms one. It is the very presence of God in one's life, to such an extent that it overwhelms one, to the point where you can do nothing except God's cleansing of your spirit and soul. I speak with first-hand experience of this.

I have somewhat of a disdain for those desiring physical manifestations of the Holy Spirit, yet, I desire it at the same time. A conundrum, if you will. I believe that it is a personal experience that can only be accepted...personally. When it happened to me in 1988 I was awe-stricken. It changed my life forever. But it was me...in God's time and at His place for me. I cannot command it nor entreat it. It is personal.

I see it, in reflection, as an event that God had planned for me. It was personal. If God so deems to reveal Himself to another the same way...I'm all for it. But if He withholds and decides not to reveal Himself to others...may His will be done. My heart hurts for my friend, as he deeply seeks a closer relationship with God. Perhaps, in time, God will wreak his heart, and overwhelm his existence, that he feels slain. In the Lord's timing...only.

Gifts Given.

2008-01-06T22:11:00.000-05:00

I can't explain why God does what he does through me...why me...why me?
I dare not resist what he wants from me...dare me...dare me.
He puts in my path those needing His mercy.
He wells up my eyes, I bow and I curtsy,
Why does He do what he does through me...why me...why me?

Responding to Him, I reach out and touch.
Responding to Him, His agenda is much.
I become all about Him.
On purpose, not a whim,
Responding to Him, I reach out and touch.

A woman was sick, with hemorrhage and pain.
God said "Hold her...her life's not in vain".
She called me to say....
It all went away...
He does it again...and again...and again.

------------
Last Monday at our New Year's Eve vigil, a woman in our church confided in our pastor that she was suffering from hemorrhaging and pain. She was planning on going to the doctor's office the next day. Pastor said we should hold a brief healing service for her after the service. I approached her and asked if she would be willing to stay for healing prayer. She said that she was feeling very sick and had to go home as quickly as possible. All of a sudden I was overwhelmed with the desire to pray for her and I asked her if I could pray for her right then and there. She said...."ok". I held her...prayed to God mentally, and when she wanted to break away I said..."Wait". As I held her a tear came to my eye. I was moved to kiss her cheek. I said, "It is done". That was that.

I called yesterday trying to speak to her husband about helping with moving some furniture. She said: "I'm healed...I don't need to go to the doctor. The problem went away. Thank you". WOW!!!

All glory and honor goes to God, our Father. Again, I say...why me?

If God chooses any of us to serve Him with the gifts he freely gives to us all, we should embrace those gifts, and act upon those gifts. Whether it be administration, healing, or any other gift, let us embrace those gifts and put them to work for His kingdom. I am just a humble, unworthy, servant. How do you answer God's calling for you? I, though unworthy, just show up, and leave the rest to Him.

Healed of Cancer - Praise God

2008-01-01T07:01:00.000-05:00

Word came back to me today that God is not out of the miracle business. In the early fall we held a public healing service...that is, one that was advertised and open to all who desired to come. A woman attended with her husband and she was the last to come for healing prayer. She had been diagnosed with a massive cancerous growth. Her prospects were bleak. We prayed for her and laid hands upon her. I remember that the Holy Spirit was powerfully present at that very moment.

The couple came from about 30 miles away and I'd not seen or heard from them since. Until yesterday. The husband called a mutual friend and he called us to say that the doctors were dumbfounded. After analyzing her last MRI they said that the growth is gone! There is no sign that it was ever there and they have no way to explain it. She and her husband know what happened to it...God made it go away.

God blesses the faith of believers. God blesses us all when we turn to Him with expectancy, humility, and faith, regardless of what the world throws our way. Praise God!

In the Name of Jesus

2007-12-27T04:24:00.000-05:00

I remember when I first moved to Alabama from Michigan how strange it seemed to me that people would say "In Jesus' name...Amen" at civic meetings, school functions, and other non-religious settings. Aside from the being politically correct perspective, I saw it as belittling the Gospel. There is power in the name, and that power should be respected and revered.

In church functions (outside of Sunday worship) a blessing for food or whatever event that was about to happen would always end with "in Jesus' name...amen". I guess that there is certainly some sincerity when invoking the name of Jesus for many, yet at times it's as if these are the standard words to say when finishing a blessing or prayer. I reflect upon being raised Roman Catholic and how every prayer would begin and end with making the sign of the cross. I said "In the name of The Father, The Son and The Holy Spirit, amen" so often, and with such routine that it held very little meaning. Maybe it's just me but when it becomes ritual rather than passion-filled, it shouldn't be said at all.

I have been praying to The Father in the name of Jesus lately. I have been believing that whatever a true follower asks in the name of Jesus will be granted. The question that begs to be asked is whether I'm a true follower. I look to John 14: 8-21 for what Jesus said about asking for things in his name. To me, it's clear that Jesus tells the disciples to do as he commands, live as he lived, and ask for anything in his name and it will be done. I don't live as He lived. None of us do.

If I want a team to win, should I invoke the name of Jesus to grant our team a victory? If I'm hoping for a good parking spot at the mall should I invoke the name of Jesus because I'm too lazy to walk a few more feet? Of course not. These aren't the things that Jesus meant. Yet, people flippantly mutter the words "In Jesus' name" with little respect to what it means.

There is so much power in the name that it should be respected and revered. I'm growing to believe that I should call upon the name of Jesus only after much prayer and spiritual preparation before seeking His remedies to life's issues. Only after bowing one's head in humility can His name be proclaimed with authority.

These are the reflections of one in the healing ministry who is witness to, and awed by the power of the name of Jesus Christ. My hope is that this perspective isn't mine alone.

In Awe of The Christ Child

2007-12-25T00:31:00.000-05:00

December 25 is the day we celebrate the birth of Our Saviour. It is the day we recognize that the world would never be the same without Him. For me, it is as if I'm there, a shepherd, spoken to by angels, rushing to behold first hand this great moment. Jesus is born.

Two thousand years later, it is as if I'm there. The miracle of birth. The miracle of miracles, that God would become man...no...a vulnerable infant. At a time when most newborns barely have a chance, this child comes to the world triumphant from the moment of birth...no...conception. The prophecies are fulfilled this night.

With His birth, comes a rebirth in me. With His birth, comes new hope, new direction, a new future...because God became man at this time. And the Gospels of Matthew and Luke give every detail.

May we all gain a new, refreshed, perspective on Christmas this year. May we be humbled by the reminder that God became flesh so that He could better appreciate our lots in life. May we be drawn closer to Him by virtue of Him trusting Himself to mere humans for nurturing and upbringing. I am renewed at this very Christmas. I am renewed in 2007. God became man for me...and for you. Let us not forget this.

May the joy of being a Christian envelope, surround, and uplift each of us in our faith, and move us to share this glorious event to those who do not know of it.

In the name of The Most Holy One I pray....on Christmas day...I pray.
Amen.

Answered Prayers - Praise God!

2007-12-20T17:14:00.000-05:00

I got a call a few moments ago from my brother. He said, "Tell all your praying friends from church, and your town, and the Internet, and everybody everywhere...thank you for your prayers. It's not cancer!"

Thank you, Father, for hearing our prayers.
Thank you, Jesus, for it's in your name we pray.
Thank you, Holy Spirit, for making our prayers complete by picking up where our mere humanity leaves off.
Amen.

Thank you, so many of you, from the bottom of my heart for your prayers and encouragement through these past weeks of terror and uncertainty. Bro' is going to be fine after healing from the holes they put in his head.

To put this in perspective, his initial prognosis was "grim". The mass in his brain was growing and nearly to the point where motor function was threatened before they took a biopsy. From the time that biopsy was taken a week ago...until today....countless prayers were lifted up for the matter to be dead, non-threatening, and for Bro' to have a full recovery. God answered those prayers and in my estimation delivered nothing short of a miracle.

In the love of Christ...again...
Thank you all.

We take a back seat to God's itenerary

2007-12-16T23:12:00.000-05:00

Our God is an awesome God
He reigns from heaven above.
With wisdom, power and love,
Our God is an awesome God.

Those were the words sung at tonight's praise and worship service. They were sang at the beginning and the end...and they are so true! Our God is an awesome God.

What can be added to that? I can add that two people were changed forevermore with their love for Christ. They came to the alter and prayed. They prayed like they never-before have prayed. I was moved to pray with them both and each said that they have lived without Christ in their lives until now. I'm so awed by how He shows Himself to each individual, one at a time. Our God, is an awesome God.
In the love of Christ..
Marty

When it Becomes Personal

2007-12-15T19:21:00.000-05:00

I've been in the healing ministry for 3 years now. I've seen many marvels and wonders of Our Lord's grace and mercy. I'm utterly awed by what He has done. Again, utterly awed. But now it's personal. My brother has a brain tumor. I pray, and pray, and pray. I get to the point where I don't know what to pray for, but I continue to pray. I pray that God can do anything, at any time, and His will will be done. I pray.
Please, dear readers of this blog...pray. Pray that God's will can be affected by prayer. Join me in prayer for my brother. I don't feel worthy of asking this...but it is a big world, and a big sacrifice that Jesus made for each and every one of us. Join me in prayer.
Thank you!

Are There Christians in Japan?

2007-12-11T22:27:00.000-05:00

I write this after visiting Google Analytics and see that there are no visitors to this blog from Japan. I must ask...are there no Christians in Japan?

People from Asia, in general, visit. People from non-Chinese portions of the far east visit. I just wonder about Japan. Is there no healing from God happening in Japan? I believe that it is...just under-reported. If there is an English speaking Japanese follower of this blog...speak up!

I love Japan. I love the things that come from this great country. Psst....so does every American. We buy Japanese. We don't always want to, but it is irresistible when price and value are mixed together. We buy Japanese....and Chinese, and whatever comes across the Pacific. Are there any Japanese who watch this blog? Just wondering.
Marty

Peace, a Gift From God

2007-12-11T21:39:00.000-05:00

At our weekly praise and worship service I had occasion to talk about peace, that is, the fruit of the Holy Spirit as mentioned in Galatians:

"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control." (Galatians 5:22)

When discussing peace I used examples of people who come to healing services. They are always distraught, tense, apprehensive, and yet, willing to come. We anoint them with oil, praise God, and pray. Fervently, we pray. And like a recipe, well worked out, peace comes. It comes with such joy and love, and other fruits of the Holy Spirit that it is something to be at wonder and awe about when given. Peace is a gift. A gift from God.

I reflect upon a man with leukemia who came for healing prayer. He came out of desperation for his condition. We praised God, and then we prayed. At a moment, the prayer stopped and his face was aglow with the peace that can only come from God. He received the gift of peace.

Another woman at another time came for prayer. She suffers from fibermyalgia and her body is in total pain all the time. She had a spirit of depression that overcame her. Yet, she came for healing prayer. God was praised, and she was prayed for. At a moment, she was released from her depression and found peace. Peace that is the gift of God.

All too often we wait until we've used up all our physical resources before we turn to God. Can we learn to turn to God first? Regardless of whether it's after much suffering or at the beginning of a period of suffering...if we can only learn to turn to God earlier than later we can receive a gift....that gift of peace.

To Whom Do We Pray

2007-12-08T07:52:00.000-05:00

In a discussion group the other day we were studying how and to whom we pray...or should pray. It was interesting to draw distinctions about the triune godhead, and in making that distinction, coming to some conclusion as to where our prayers should be directed. The upshot to all this is that we pray to God, the father, in the name of the son, Jesus Christ, through the power of the Holy Spirit. In the past that was a difficult notion for me having been raised Roman Catholic, where it is common practice to pray to saints, that they will appeal to Jesus, who in turn appeals to The Father on our behalf. Those RC roots instill a sense of timidity such that one may not feel worthy of appealing to God, the father, directly.

As a proud protestant, I now look to Jesus as my high priest. I no longer feel timid such that I need anyone other than Jesus to intervene on my behalf. Most of the time I hearken back to the words of Christ when he said that when I ask things of The Father, in His name, my prayers will be heard. That tells me to direct my prayers to God, the father, in the name of Jesus.

There's a freedom that comes from this realization. And a power. If one embraces the words of Christ, He always said that nothing He did was of himself, rather, it was doing the will of The Father. And when asked, "how should we pray", the prayer we call The Lord's Prayer was His response.

This contemplation may seem juvenile but for me, of late, it's been a revelation in my spirit...an empowerment in my ministry...and an enlightenment in my intellect that has been long overdue. Praise God, the father, in the name of Jesus Christ, the son, through the power of the Holy Spirit...amen.

The Holy Spirit Invades

2007-12-06T22:37:00.000-05:00

Tonight I went to a local church that was holding a prayer vigil for a boy diagnosed with terminal cancer. Tears were flowing (including mine) as people prayed for the boy. He is now at St. Jude's in Memphis and prayers were lifted up for him. But, the Holy Spirit convicted me to testify to the congregation that God listens to our prayers. I took the microphone and testified to the marvels and wonders of Our Lord as I've been witness to in the past. I spoke the words of God to this gathering. I didn't intend to, but His words invaded my personality, invaded my plans, invaded my very existence such that I couldn't contain myself. I spoke the words of the Holy Spirit. We prayed...deeply...we prayed.

I'm humbled by the presence of the Holy Spirit at times like these. May God's will be done...and be done AFTER hearing the prayers and supplications of His followers.
Amen.
Afterthought: My heart is torn by the love that this boy has for Christ. May God's grace and mercy intervene in his situation. And may his victory over this malady bring new followers to Christ. I pray. Lord knows...I pray. Please join me in praying for Lucas...only 9 years old.

Moved by Praise and Worship

2007-12-03T00:12:00.000-05:00

Tonight, I saw the faces of young and old, praising and worshiping our Risen Saviour. I was moved to see arms lifted in praise, arms lifted in worship, arms lifted in deep, personal praise. Did I say I was moved?

Our little church has opened it's doors to those who want to come together in praise and worship. I saw it again tonight. There were only 40 there, but it could have been hundreds and the feeling of praise for Jesus would have not been anyway diminished. I was awed.

I encourage all who may read this blog to open your doors to praise and worship experiences. They are wonderful and at the same time without explanation. Praising God is a wonderful thing. It is never without the expression of glory to the name....glory to the purpose...never without granting that God loves us more than we can know. Praise and worship HIM...and you will never fall short. Praise Him!

Spiritual Arrogance

2007-12-02T23:36:00.000-05:00

In my previous post I made reference to me being humbled from a sense of spiritual arrogance. I have a reluctance to post on this, yet a compelling urge to speak to it. What is spiritual arrogance? In my view, it is having the self-view that you have insights into God's will that are more true and convicted that that of other believers who truly seek God's revelation in their lives. I'm drawn to look at the prophetic movement. I'm drawn to look at the healing ministry. I'm drawn to look to those who believe that God speaks uniquely through them, at the expense of others to whom God speaks. I call those who think that they have the unique gift of discerning God's will at this time and in whatever place they may be...to come clean. I feel it is pandering to the crowd.

I study the word-faith movement and see patterns that are somewhat suspicious. Did you know that in every state where there is a "conference" that God reveals a distinct prophecy that that state will receive a special movement in the faith? There will be a special revival in that state that is unique to that state. It will make that state the source of world revival. C'mon.

Does the term "manipulated masses" ring true? I know that if a world famous evangelist said that where I live is where the world will look for revelation, it would be a really cool thing to behold. I might even get so caught up in the notion that I'd write a big check to help that happen. But it's snake oil sales and nothing more.

In the healing ministry, I see those who only come to offer healing services if their "honorarium" is met, and they are given no restrictions on how many love offerings are to be made. Sounds like a good business plan to me. It all comes down to spiritual arrogance, where some individual makes themselves out to be the only true discerner of the will of God. I get appalled!

Personally, I'm guilty of this same, but different, spiritual arrogance. While not financially predatory, it is an ego-driven demon that at times overwhelms me. It says...."Marty...you are the reason this person is healed." I thank God that He opens my eyes to see the fallacy of this thinking. I thank God that he knocks me down and says that I'm making it about me rather than Him. I thank God that today...and every day...I'm not spiritually arrogant. I'm just a humble servant...who sometimes gets awed by God's glory, and foolishly think I have something to do with it.

I'm not arrogant. I'm not spiritually arrogant. But, I'm tempted. Temptation isn't a bad thing. Jesus was tempted...but he did not give in to it. I pray that I continue not to give into it. I entertain temptations, but always, by the grace of God, turn from them. May I, and all in the healing ministry, do the same.

When God Puts Someone On Your Heart

2007-12-02T22:44:00.000-05:00

This past week I had occasion to have the physical needs of two people put on my heart in a special way. One is related to me...the other, a member of a local congregation. Both, have brain tumors. The prognosis for one is not yet determined, the other, dismal. Allow me to share the dismal case.

At our Wednesday night rehearsal and planning session for our praise and worship service, a local Baptist pastor came in the door and waved me over to speak with him. He said that a 9 year old who they thought had viral encephalitis was just diagnosed with a brain tumor and would be moved to another hospital in Birmingham, AL. He said that God told him to come tell me and that he felt led that I would consent to go to the hospital that's 45 minutes away and pray for him. I pray every morning that God leads me to the people for whom he wants me to pray for His mercies and healing. I couldn't resist saying yes, as that is an answered prayer. We drove to the hospital, getting there a little after 9pm, and went into the child's room. We visited shortly then the minister anointed the child with oil, read some scripture, then asked me to pray for him. I led us in prayer, laid hands upon him, and told him stories of people being healed by having faith in Jesus Christ. I told him that God gives us all that we need to deal with whatever life throws our way. I assured him that Jesus knew him personally, and hears his and his family's prayers, and takes them to the Father. Then we left.

The next day when he was transferred to a bigger and more qualified hospital the findings of the biopsy were that he should make arrangements to have the best Christmas ever...as it may be his last. This tumor is so intertwined in his brain tissue that surgery is out of the question. He is undergoing experimental chemical treatments, the side effects of which are tortuous and as of yet still unpredictable. I was devastated and broken hearted for this child.

It was then that I started to truly pray for him. When I visited him in the hospital, it was a bit awkward, and almost a bit contrived. Mind you, I prayed with all that was in me at the time, but it was the next day that I truly felt an intercession on his behalf. And it is now that I feel that same intercession for him. He occupies my consciousness always, and my spirit is intermingled with his wellbeing. I fall prostrate before Our Lord on his behalf. I know that now God is hearing me...now God is listening...now God is showing His mercy to that boy and his family. I know it. Why? Because NOW, I'm truly praying for him.

I lift up this boy in the morning, noon and night. Tears well up as I pray for his healing. I know Our God is a merciful god. I can do nothing to wield His power, but do everything to pray for His mercy. The plight of this boy has knocked out the stilts I thought I was walking upon. It's knocked out my own feet. I fall prostrate before Our Lord in intercession on his behalf. While I cannot discern the will of God, I know that He hears my prayers better now than when I visited the boy in the hospital. He has broken me of arrogance. He has broken me of self. He has broken me for this child. May I remain broken and dependent upon the love and mercy of Our Lord.

Then there's the family member with a brain tumor. My heart is broken for him. It's broken for his wife and children. They will biopsy the tumor in a little over a week and the surgical team will know where to go from there. He and I have mature conversations about faith, the universe, and the grander scheme of things. I'm in awe as to the strength he is showing throughout all of this uncertainty. In over 50 years of being everything that brothers are...I'm in awe of the person he's become.

I pray that I can make the expensive trip to see him and be with him before the verdict is in on his condition. I've been there for him in the past, as he has been there for me. But now, I seek God's presence, more than mine, to be there with him. And I'm sure that it is.

Life...so precious. Life...so eternal. Life...I pray for life for these two. It is only in God's will how these two lives will be lived, but I know that God loves to hear us lift up others...He loves to hear the choir more than a solo...He loves to know that we love through the example of His son, Jesus Christ. May I continually grow to have that same, selfless, compassionate love that Jesus had for those he encountered. I pray, Father God, that your son, Jesus, tells you of our petitions. I pray, Holy Spirit, that you provide the words to The Father that my mere human mind cannot come up with. I pray, with all that is in me, that when Thy Will Be Done, it be a merciful will; it be a compassionate will; it be a will that leads others to know of the sacrifice of your son, Jesus. I pray.

Breakfast Tears

2007-11-28T05:03:00.000-05:00

Yesterday morning I met with friends for the weekly Tuesday breakfast. There are 4 to 5 couples who meet each week and I just love the fellowship. The men sit together and yap about things...while the women sit together and yap about things. I typically sit with the women, as I love being around women.

Conversation drifted to God's awesome power and how He answers prayers. I saw that one woman, Judy, had a walker next to her seat. It's the first time I'd seen her with a walker rather than a wheelchair in over a year. I shared with her how our entire church erupted into applause when sharing the news that she can finally walk again and that many, many peoples prayers for her had been answered. She held my hand and wept tears of joy. She said that she felt all the prayers and is so humbled and grateful that people thought to lift her up. Me and 4 ladies raised our hands in praise right there on the spot!

Next, Val (another of the ladies) and I were sharing concern over a woman who has many, many serious physical maladies. She said that this woman's problems made her think of her daughter and the battles with illness that she fights on a daily basis. Suddenly she stopped talking. She held out her arms and invited me to hold her. As we embraced she said..."Next time she's here we're going to call you so that we can all pray together". I told her I'd be honored to pray with her and her daughter. Val said, "You're making me cry. I should have brought her to prayer a year ago...I just never thought to do it."

Val and I continued in conversation about how when we pray for other people - deeply, sincerely pray - God takes you to another place. She said that in those rare times of deep prayer God takes her out of this world and into another. When she comes back the problems that were there before are gone. And if they're not gone...they're just not problems anymore. She held my hands and said that we need to take her daughter there. She asked me if it were Christmas day when she was there would it be OK to call me then. We just looked into each other's eyes and both nodded yes. We were both crying.

Two of the 4 women had brought their husbands to healing services within the past year. Both of their husbands received God's mercy, grace, and healing. We've all shared tears before - just never at breakfast at the Bulldog Grill. I couldn't have imagined a better way to start the day.

Different Styles of Healing Prayer

2007-11-25T22:39:00.000-05:00

I'm not a "name it and claim it" type of Christian. At times I think that it is because I lack spiritual maturity or authority. At other times I think that it's because God is using me where I am to the best of my ability in His service. But a true self-assessment reveals that I'm humble. I'm humbled that God uses me for His healing. I'm humbled that I, so undeserving, can pray for someone and He answers that prayer. I don't command healing, rather, I supplicate for it. I don't wield God's power, rather, I ask that He wields His power. I just can't come to tell someone that they are healed...because I don't have that knowledge. The one asking for healing, and God, have that knowledge.

Oh, please, don't get me wrong. There are times when I'm tempted to say, "You're healed". But I don't...if I'm not led to do so. I blogged a while back about an incident where I was totally uncomfortable for an afternoon while visiting with relatives...and one was sick. I couldn't leave without having healing prayer for her and when I prayed, God said to me...."it is done". It wasn't me wielding the power of God, rather, it was Him wielding me to be His hands and be the deliverer of His mercy. There is a difference.

I never ask for a report card for God. I never ask "do you feel better?". I know that people are very open to suggestion when confronted with devastating circumstances in their health and wellbeing. I pray when asked to, and I supplicate when asked to, and I stand back and watch as God reveals his grace and mercy in the lives of those who come to Him. When they testify, without my beckoning it, I'm as awed as they are. When they testify, without my beckoning it, they are speaking about how their situation has changed and everyone there is mutually in awe of the power of prayer; the power of faith; the power of love, as the recorded words of Jesus Christ said: "I do nothing that isn't the will of the Father".

I simply cannot say: "You are healed." I cannot. But I can say: "Praise God...He has shown His mercy on you". I'm a spectator...and an intercessor...but not a commander of God's will. I bow before His throne. And pray that He is making a worthy servant of me. All glory to Father God.

Burning Up With The Holy Spirit

2007-11-25T22:23:00.000-05:00

In the forestry business, prescribed burns are something that happens when a landowner or forest management company determines that there is too much undesired competition in the tree plantation for the trees to mature to give the best possible yield. They set fire to the land beneath the trees and let the wind guide the controlled flames to burn out everything undesirable. The trees then have new nutrition, and less competition to their growth.

Our lives are like tree plantations...and we can get a prescribed burn. At times there are too many undesirable things happening within us to foster our growth for maximum yield. There's a flame that can come into our lives and burn out these competitors to our spiritual maturity. It's name is the Holy Spirit. When we invite the Holy Spirit into our lives it will burn away anxiety, burn away selfishness, burn away resentment, burn away temptation and burn away sin. And when we fan that fire it will fire us up for deeper love, fire us up for greater service, fire us up for better relationships and fire us up for spreading the Good News that Jesus paved the way to glory in heaven.

My prescription just ran out...time to get it renewed!

Sermon On The Fly

2007-11-25T13:43:00.000-05:00

This morning I went to a local church where they meet one hour earlier than my home church. My mission was to invite them to our praise & worship service this evening. I'd preached at this church before. When I walked in the door I was greeted with "Good, we've got a preacher after all". I thought they were kidding me, but no. Their pastor took the week off for holiday.

I asked if they were serious about wanting a sermon and they said that they weren't going to let me leave without one. I had prepared a sermon for our Sunday night service, and why I brought a copy of it with me to visit that church is beyond me. We all agreed that it was the Holy Spirit who put that sermon in my hands as I left this morning, because He knew it would be needed before tonight!

As I was leaving I thanked them for giving me an opportunity to do a first run with tonight's sermon...and asked them to come tonight to see the more polished version. God works in mysterious ways!

Church Sign Power

2007-11-20T07:38:00.000-05:00

A person I'd hoped would attend our praise and worship service miraculously showed up. After the service as we met to plan and work out the details for the next one, she stayed, and is now part of the team. I told her that I was happy she came, and somewhat surprised to see her. She said, "I drove past the sign every day, and each day it said, 3 days to go, then 2, then 1, I just had to come because it was like it was talking to me." Wow!

I'm the "sign guy" and I make sure there's something relevant on that sign every week. I have two books; 701 Sentence Sermons, and Another 701 Sentence Sermons by L. James Harvey that I like to refer to for inspiration. At times when there isn't a lot of church activity to advertise, I get out the books and find something that hopefully inspires Godly thoughts. Our sign only has three rows for letters so it cannot accommodate a lot of words. That rules out most of the "sign sermons" as most are rather wordy. Still, there are some gems that fit right nicely. Some of my favorites are:

CH CH
WHAT'S MISSING?
UR

IN THE DARK?
FOLLOW THE SON

STOP BY MY HOUSE
BEFORE THE GAME
-GOD

FIGHT TRUTH DECAY
STUDY THE BIBLE

And this one that won't fit on our sign:

CHURCH IS A HOSPITAL
FOR SINNERS
NOT A MUSEUM
FOR SAINTS

And some that our congregation have requested:

HEAVENLY LOFTS
AVAILABLE
INQUIRE WITHIN

SINNERS WELCOME
JOIN THE CROWD
SUNDAY 11 AM

HAVE YOU TOLD
SOMEONE THAT YOU
LOVE THEM TODAY?

PRAY HARD

KNEES KNOCKING?
KNEEL THEM DOWN

I love this sign ministry. It's been over a year since I've asked our church for ideas for the sign. I think I'll do it again this Sunday.

Wake Up Call

2007-11-19T09:21:00.001-05:00

We had our first praise and worship service last night and I have to admit that I've never understood the dynamics of such services. They are so different from what happens in traditional "church on Sunday mornings". Probably what moved me most were the tears. Tears of joy and love and praise. And...the tears of guilt and sorrow and submission. Tears.

In the midsts of seeing others cry, to my amazement, I felt tears flowing down my own cheeks. Prior to and after giving the message, I stood in the back of the church gazing upon the backs of those attending. Their hands were lifted in praise. They looked up...looked down...but not all around. How deeply were their spirits immersed in praise and worship!

I've denied my worship experience this type of deep praise until last night. No more. I want more. More importantly, I yearn to be used more as a servant in helping to bring others to know the joy that comes from praising the name of Jesus. Sorry, Jesus, that I've not had my eyes opened to the joy that comes from praising your name in this manner until now. Thank you, Jesus, for having patience with me and trusting that you'd get through to me someday. Today's the day. I woke up today with you - and only you - on my mind. What JOY!

Never Done it Before.....

2007-11-18T23:18:00.000-05:00

Our little, tiny congregation hosted an interdenomitational praise and worship service tonight. We had about 30 to attend. It was utterly awesome! Mind you, this is in a town of about 550 people, and to have 30 was a blessing. But I'm in utter awe as to the numbers. I' m in utter awe as to those who attended. It was awesome to see those who attended.
Fifteen people came to the alter, to regive their lives to Jesus. I was moved beyond comprehension...moved by their prayers. Moved by their lust, for Jesus to have a role in their lives. Moved beyond words.

So, without words that exactly describe...I thank, JESUS, for what you have done tonight. Thank you, Jesus.

Your humble servant.....

A Conduit

2007-11-16T08:43:00.000-05:00

My Google Alerts brought me this account of a child being healed of cerebral palsy. I read it and was awed by how people's faith can lead to healing. But then, I reflect on how Jesus said time and again, "your faith has made you whole", or "your faith has healed him".

Those in the healing ministry are not the healers, but a conduit for God's mercy and grace. A conduit must be the optimum connection between two sources. Copper is a better conduit than many other metals for electricity. A sinful, submissive believer is a better conduit for God's healing power than a sinful non-believer. If it were possible to be a sinless believer, that would be the best conduit. Jesus was just that. He was sinless and as such The Father's power worked perfectly through Him.

I pray that in my ministry I be as sinless as I can. When I succumb to sin because of my humanity, may my confessions cleanse me and transform me into an ideal conduit. May I have faith in the power of the blood of Jesus that I no longer carry the burden of sins forgiven, but look to the future with a cleansed soul, ready to take on a servant's spirit. May we all learn to accept the forgiveness of sins, and move forward in service to Our Lord.

Old Poem

2007-11-16T07:56:00.000-05:00

Who can speak, but one who's been
A guest at times, in Satan's den.
Be it felon or liar
Having done or conspire
To go against God - against Him...to sin.

I for one have had temptations
That grew to sin through lack of patience
No time to embrace
God's sweet, gentle grace
But to go against God - against Him...to sin.

Wolves Part Two

2007-11-15T20:53:00.000-05:00

We've been friends of wolves for a number of years. There was a wolf puppy den in a neighboring county where when the wolves were of age, they would be adopted. It was a Native American thingie. But when there were wolves who weren't adopted, but they came of age and had natural instincts kicking in, they were killed. A collection of Native Americans saw this as terrible and raided this kennel in the middle of the night and brought 16 wolves to a place that was better than where they were. That's when we were first introduced to being a family for wolves. Haven't turned back since.

They are the most misunderstood, and most feared canines. If I cannot end my day with a lick from a wolf...I'm unsatisfied. Our fellow creatures are so misunderstood, and so loving, that it is a crime that they are in the situation that they are. Someday, they will be understood, and accepted. Till then...we will be a haven for such.

We're all God's creatures...humans, dogs, cats, wolves, lions, all. Can we find a way to all get along? If I don't need you to have food, let live. If you don't need me to have food...let live. If we don't need anything other than ourselves to let live...then let us let live. May we never put bounty on this wonderful creature, as there is a special spirit that comes from the life of a wolf.

Kinda makes me in awe of my native American friends who hold this creature up in such reverence.

Humans don't understand

2007-11-15T20:15:00.000-05:00

I have wolves. Yep, they're hybrids, but wolves at their core. Humans don't understand. It's all oral. My sweet little malamute/hybrid wolf is all wolf. And she sees the world from a wolf perspective. She is totally oral. She bites my hand when I come home from work, she bites my hand whenever I'm in her presence. She bites....and I bite back!

I'm her alpha...and I'm her omega. Christ is our alpha and omega. I look to Him, and marvel at how He is the alpha and omega. Nothing happens thru Him that isn't the alpha and the omega.

I have wolves...but their character is reminiscent of the character of Christ...tuff to swallow, but wonderful to behold. We are our nature. But we must acquiesce to the Character of Christ. We must. Not always easy or natural, but we much acquiesce to the character of Christ. I think our wolves are Christian. Crazy it may be...but they love and respect us in our moments of prayer. Christian wolves...what a notion! They are silent, and benevolent when we are praying. Wow! The power of God in our, and their, presence.

Our Lord, wonderfully blesses each of His followers with awe and wonder. I'm awed and wondered by this gift of His kingdom. Wolves are cool...and of God.

Sermon Sunday November 11, 2007

2007-11-14T08:07:00.000-05:00

I've been constantly inspired by the evangelistic spirit of a certain Scottish blogger and was moved to deliver the following sermon this past Sunday. I've never posted a sermon before as they are typically cryptic and difficult to follow if only reading. While this is still somewhat cryptic, it flows better than most for reading. Thanks Mark for the inspiration.

Invite Them All

Sunday, November 11, 2007

Luke 14: 15-23

The Parable of the Great Banquet

15When one of those at the table with him heard this, he said to Jesus, "Blessed is the man who will eat at the feast in the kingdom of God."

16Jesus replied: "A certain man was preparing a great banquet and invited many guests. 17At the time of the banquet he sent his servant to tell those who had been invited, 'Come, for everything is now ready.'

18"But they all alike began to make excuses. The first said, 'I have just bought a field, and I must go and see it. Please excuse me.'

19"Another said, 'I have just bought five yoke of oxen, and I'm on my way to try them out. Please excuse me.'

20"Still another said, 'I just got married, so I can't come.'

21"The servant came back and reported this to his master. Then the owner of the house became angry and ordered his servant, 'Go out quickly into the streets and alleys of the town and bring in the poor, the crippled, the blind and the lame.'

22" 'Sir,' the servant said, 'what you ordered has been done, but there is still room.'

23"Then the master told his servant, 'Go out to the roads and country lanes and make them come in, so that my house will be full. 24I tell you, not one of those men who were invited will get a taste of my banquet.' "

This is a parable, that is, a story told about earthly things that have a higher and deeper meaning.

Scholars differ on this parable's meaning. Many say that the message is to the Jews who rejected Jesus. I certainly can't disagree with that because it was told to those in high position in the faith, the pharisees, and it addressed them rejecting Jesus. But The Word is timeless and applicable to every generation that hears it. This is less a history of a story Jesus told to the Jewish hierarchy that applied only to them at that time. Remember, a parable is a story told about earthly things that has a higher and deeper meaning.

The master in this parable is God.

The banquet is coming under the canopy of His grace and mercy, to be a part of the kingdom.

Those who had been invited are those who've said “yes” to the invitation to accept Christ as their lord and savior. Those same people said, “yes, I will come when you ask” but now that the time has come to be a part of this kingdom banquet, they're too busy being self-absorbed to stop their lives long enough to take their seat and be an honored guest. The master says, come, be in my presence and celebrate what I have for you. But no, the invited guests say...no thanks...not now.

Let's look at the rejection to the invitation a little deeper.

*The man who bought the land just had to go see it...but it is evening when supper is held, darkness falling. This is no time to go look at land. Just an excuse to not attend.

*The man who had just bought 5 yoke of oxen. He had to go home and check them out in the fields. It's getting dark and the morning is the best time to till the fields. Just an excuse not to attend.

*The man who just got married. He seeks the flesh more than the spirit, and doesn't even send regrets...he just says no. Just an excuse not to attend.

“Church isn't for me.”

“I have card night at that time”.

“I've got a game to help prepare for.”

“My kids are coming and we can't miss them when they come.”

“I'm behind at work and just can't break away.”

“I've had some things to come up...maybe next time.”

“I want to come but last time I came I didn't feel welcomed by those around me.”

Just excuses.

God calls us to step out of our lives, and into his kingdom. But we say no...not right now.

The master turns to his servant and says, go out quickly into the streets and alleys of the town and bring in the poor, the crippled, the blind and the lame.' His servant does just that.

Who is the servant? The servants are those who do the will of the master. If we do the will of the master, brothers and sisters, we are the servants. We're ministers for the kingdom, preachers, teachers, laborers, nurturers, healers, lovers, discerner's. We do the will of the master. When the master says to go out and bring them in, all of them, we go out into the streets and alleys and share the news that the master has invited them to a great banquet. We persuade them to come and enjoy.

" Sir, the servant said, 'what you ordered has been done, but there is still room.”

And at this the master says to go out further, to the highways and the byways and bring in even more, make them come, for I want my house to be full.

Compel is the word the master uses when instructing his servant to bring even more to the banquet. Make them come. Persuade them to come. Share the glory of the feast and reiterate the invitation.

The servant goes out and brings in even more to feast at this great banquet.

Luke 10:1-3
The Lord sent them two and two before his face into every city and place, whither he himself would come. [2] Therefore said he unto them, The harvest truly is great, but the laborers are few: pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he would send forth laborers into his harvest. [3] Go your ways: behold, I send you forth as lambs among wolves.

(Illustration)

Tony Compolo is a professor of sociology at Eastern College in St. David's Penn. He is a prolific writer and is in demand as a speaker. He tells of one trip to a conference in Hawaii. He arrived in Hawaii in the evening and with the time change from the East he had a difficult time going to sleep. He walked from his hotel to a coffee shop for coffee at 3:30 AM Hawaiian time. As he was sitting at the counter a group of street ladies ' prostitutes came in for coffee. He over heard one of the ladies say that the next day was her birthday and they she had never had a birthday party given for her.

After the ladies left Tony Compolo asked the restaurant owner who the lady was that was having a birthday. He said her name was Agnes. Tony asked if the ladies came in every night at that time. The owner said that they did. Tony said, "I would like to give her a birthday party tomorrow night." The owner said he would bake the cake. The next night Tony Compolo arrived back at the restaurant at 2:30 AM to decorate for the party. At 3:15 the ladies started coming in. Word had spread and it seemed that all the prostitutes in Honolulu heard the news and came to the party. Tony said there he was in a Coffee Shop in Honolulu surrounded by prostitutes. At 3:30 Agnes walked in and they surprised her and sang 'Happy Birthday Agnes.' Agnes was taken back and was in shock. Her knees almost buckled and she had to be helped to a chair.

Harry said, 'Agnes, blow out the candles and cut the cake. The candles were blown out and then Agnes paused and said: Can I keep the cake. I only live a couple blocks from here.

Can I take it home? Tony and Harry agreed and she carefully carried out the cake to her apartment. After she walked out there was complete silence. Then Tony felt led to say, 'What do you say we pray.? He prayed for Agnes and her salvation. He prayed for God's love for her and all her friends.

After his prayer Harry leaned over the counter and said, 'Hey, you never told me you were a preacher. What kind of a church do you belong to.' Tony wasn't sure what to say, he said: 'I belong to a church that throws parties for Prostitutes at 3:30 in the morning.' Harry said: 'No you don,t - if there were a church like that I'd join it if there was.'

-----------

We must not be afraid to get out of the norm, the routine, and reach out to the lost. It can be a creative reaching out like Tony Compolo did, or a loving reaching out, or a healing reaching out, a feeding reaching out, a visiting reaching out, a comforting reaching out, a nurturing reaching out...but reach out we must, for the master said to go to the streets and alleys, then the highways and the byways, and bring them all under the canopy until it is full.

His house is still not filled. Who shall we invite, compel to come? Jesus said to bring in the blind – is that the physically blind or spiritually blind?

He said to bring the crippled – is that the physically crippled or emotionally crippled?

He said to bring the poor – is that the financially poor or the poor in hope, poor in spirit?

And he said to bring the lame – is that those who physically can't do what everyone else can do or is it the ones who are only partially capable of loving or being loved?

If we're

not the one's who reject the invitation, and we're

not the one's invited, then

we are His servants. Let us serve, and go out and bring to the banquet those He told us to bring...without judgment, but with pure obedience.

Let us pray.

Lord, thank you for your word and your love. May I grow to have a servants heart and grow in courage to hear your command to go to the alleys and the streets, then to the highways and the hedges, the byways, and seek those who need to know you. May I persuade, compel, and encourage them to come to your banquet. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.

A Complimentary Letter

2007-11-13T20:16:00.000-05:00

I was awed today to receive a complimentary letter from a pastor for whom I'd been a "fill in" preacher. I was awed by her words. Totally awed. I was complimented on my sermon that I gave in her stead. I usually get letters with a check attached...but this one wasn't such. And I'm glad it wasn't such a letter. She spoke to me where I am. She spoke to me where I am in my walk with Christ.

I lift up all lay speakers in our denomination, wherever they are and whatever they preach. I'm utterly awed by what we do, in this denomination. May the lay speakers be empowered by this post...and moved to do whatever it takes to bring the Word of God to His people. May we preach with authority! God's Authority!
...just another servant.

Regurgitation Preaching

2007-11-13T08:24:00.000-05:00

I was reading a post at TN Rambler's blog about preaching a sermon without a manuscript and I was moved to reflect upon some of my sermons that weren't outlined or scripted. Don't get me wrong...on those occasions where I delivered a message without referring to notes weren't the result of not having an outline prepared...they were times when the Holy Spirit had something else in mind. I have come to refer to those occasions as "regurgitation preaching" times. One can study and compose, and study and study and study, and compose....and have all the pieces in place for a good message, until the moment is at hand to deliver it. The first words are spoken and they're not the words I intended to speak, and I close my folder and just let it flow...it is as if all that I'd taken in is coming out without my control over it. It's as if I'm a passenger on a ride that I don't know where it is going.

I've been moved by so many good sermons that weren't the sermons that the preachers had prepared...rather, they were the words that the Holy Spirit delivered instead. These preachers admit that they didn't plan it that way...it just happened. I'm confident that these preachers experienced a "regurgitation preaching" moment, and took a back seat to let God drive the message that needed to be heard into the hearts and minds of the congregation. One such sermon I heard downplayed the role of a pastor from being a shepherd to a sheep dog. Jesus is the shepherd...a minister does the work of the sheep dog.

I pray for those times of "regurgitation preaching" to be more the norm rather than the exception. Holy Spirit does such a better job at delivering the message than I do.

Bulletins and Prayer Lists

2007-11-12T07:41:00.000-05:00

I've had occasions to be at 4 different churches in the past month within a 30 mile radius of my home church and I found a common denominator in each of these churches...a prayer list in the bulletins. To my surprise and pleasure, I found some of the same names on these prayer lists at each of the different churches. I really shouldn't be too surprised as we are in a rural area and there are a lot of ties that go beyond local communities. Still, I was awed by each church listing the names of those needing prayer in their bulletins.

I have made it a habit of asking a congregation if they pray for each individual by name every day when saying their prayers. To my astonishment, nearly half of the people I ask do, literally, pray for each individual by name every day. They keep their Sunday bulletin with their bibles and bring it out when it's time for prayer.

The joy that comes on Sunday morning when asking for praises and concerns is in the dynamics of people saying, "You can take 'such and such' off the prayer list - she's better". It isn't uncommon for our church to erupt in applause along with "Praise God" when we remove someone from the list.

I'm especially moved by a healing I've seen take place in one individual who's name is on multiple churches' prayer lists. He has been lifted up in prayer, daily, by at least 500 people that I can surmise, although it may be even more. I've witnessed his change from a feeble, cancer-stricken 80 year old shadow of a man, to a strong, healed warrior for Christ. When I saw him at a funeral yesterday, he shook my hand. It was with such power that I thought I was shaking hands with a lumberjack...and the sparkle in his eyes was like a reflection of heaven. I shared with him that I'd seen his name on numerous prayer lists in a couple of counties and he said that he felt the prayers of everyone, and that God has made him a humble, grateful person in the process. Awesome!

Something I have trouble understanding is this: The bigger the church, the smaller the prayer list. The church the next town away has about 300 members and only 10 people on their list. Our church with 35 attending members, has roughly 50 people on our list. Likewise at the other small churches I've visited recently.

It truly is an awesome experience to see and share with others the power of intercessory prayer. It's 7:21 AM and my wife has the bible, the Upper Room, and the bulletin. She just asked, "Ready for devotional?" Time to pray and lift up the names of those we know of who need all the prayer they can get. Please pray for someone today.

Torn and Torn About My Local Church

2007-11-11T18:21:00.000-05:00

I love my local church, the one where I'm a member. Torn, because I may be leaving it soon in greater service to Our Lord. I'm a leader at this church, just cuz that's my nature. But there is a wonderful feedback that comes from members about me being a member. I like membership. I like being one of the flock. There's a comfort that comes from this. But it is all subject to change.

I was asked to pastor another church, and while my membership may remain with the church I love, I will have responsibilities that make worshiping there impossible. YIKES! See what happens when you say yes to some question that you don't want anyone to ask?

In the past month I've preached and assisted with worship at 4 different churches. The sparkle and wonder of meeting new friends in Christ is awesome. There is an immediate kindred spirit. That is wonderful in its own right. But the comfort factor of being with your "church family" is something that is beyond short-term thrills. One can be grounded by faithful, long-term, fellow disciples. Grounded in the fact that common histories are shared, reflected upon, and embraced as some type of granite statue, that cannot be changed. Such is history. But history, is just that.

I look forward to the new challenges service to Jesus will afford me. But I will lament, somewhat, the loss of fellowship with fellow congregants. But one must move on.

I confided with a member of our church that I may be leaving...and she has called me twice since then to ask whether I said yes or no to the invitation. I told her I said yes, but it is conditional. I may not be asked to serve elsewhere....or I may. Don't know and don't want to know. I want to give every bit of energy to this congregation where I serve until such time as I'm asked to bring the same fervor for Christ elsewhere. I will bring a fervor for Christ wherever I go.

My lovely wife, who never wanted to be the wife of a preacher....but then said, never be the wife of a pastor....is with me all the way. I'm overwhelmed with her support. She can be who she is...with me being who I am...and all the pieces will fall in place. I pray for courage at this time in my life.

So, the big question is, will I take the passion for worship that I have at my home church to one where I may be appointed. I think I will. If I don't...shame on me. I think I will.

The Power of a Hug

2007-11-01T05:20:00.000-05:00

There is a power in bodily contact that cannot be overlooked in both the healing ministry and life in general. The hug is an awesome thing. Think about it...two people embracing...not sexually but lovingly. There are numerous women and men - yes - men, who I regularly hug when we meet. Words fail to adequately describe the compulsion to hug someone.

One woman runs a diner and whenever I go in there, she stops whatever she's doing and comes for a hug. I'm empty until she hugs me...and apparently she is as well. A local man of God hugs me whenever we encounter each other in the community...nearly every time we're at the same place at the same time. A greeter at the local Walmart...same thing. And nearly every person I encounter for whom we've had a time of healing together...hugs when we meet.

I recently read of a woman in India who has a hugging ministry. She'll go to an area and people will line up for hours to be hugged by her. Many claim experiencing a healing after they have been hugged by her. She once stayed up hugging people until 7am the next morning, not stopping hugging until the last person received theirs. There's something about a hug.

I know that healing comes about when calling upon Jesus - the word alone is sufficient. But to me, there is an icing on the cake that comes from a warm embrace. I become flush with desire to express my love for certain people whenever I see them...and it typically results in a hug.

There's a funny way of describing proper hugs within a church environment: It must be side to side lasting no longer than 8 seconds. I hope the church police don't follow me around...I'll be in trouble. But all kidding aside, there is power in a sincere, loving, Christian hug. I can't imagine not being able to share the love of our Lord if there should ever be a law forbidding hugs!

Could Mainstream be the Wrong Stream?

2007-10-29T21:14:00.000-05:00

I'm involved in a praise and worship celebration that is outside of the Methodist faith. By "outside" I mean, the local UMC church is host, but those involved are from various denominations. There are some in our church who think that the use of this facility for such things is wrong. They don't respect the moving of the pulpit in order to make the area a stage where worship will focus. Me thinks that is wrongful thinking.

I'm moved by the inspiration of those leaders who want to make this an ecumenical thing. Truly moved. I just pray that we will all move towards the position that bringing people to Christ is the prime motivator...not a secondary one. Forget denominations, I love being involved.

I will post on the forward movements of this endeavour. Simultaneously, I seek the prayers of anyone who follows this blog to do so as well. Thank you for your prayers.

The Look in Their Eyes

2007-10-29T07:30:00.000-05:00

There's something about looking in the eyes of believers. The eyes are the windows to our souls and looking into the eyes of someone while praying for them is awesome. Most people, most of the time, close their eyes while in prayer. Last night after praying for healing for 3 women, I spoke with each one individually afterwards and the look in their eyes was overwhelming. Such peace. Such joy. Such radiance.

At times, when I'm the minister for the healing service, I look into the eyes of the person seeking healing while I pray for them. That wasn't the case last night as I was part of the prayer team, following the lead of the pastor. But on those occasions where I'm the leader, and God so directs me, I look into their eyes while praying for them. When I do this as led, I witness a metamorphosis, like watching a caterpillar turn into a butterfly. It is nothing short of awesome. Awe at witnessing the presence of the Holy Spirit entering into the physical being of the one seeking healing. Awe at seeing the peace that comes only after turning over everything to The Lord. Awe at seeing a 50 year old tormented with pain transform into what looks like an 8 year old trusting in God without reservation. Awe-some.

God breaks down barriers when we pray to him earnestly. There's something truly genuine when one leads another in prayer, while looking into their eyes. It is both humbling and empowering at the same time. I pray to be led more often to witness this wonderful change in people as I'm called to look into their eyes.