like a weaned child

The weaned child   

By Octavius Winslow

1 O Lord, my heart is not lifted up;my eyes are not raised too high;
I do not occupy myself with things too great and too marvelous for me.

2 But I have calmed and quieted my soul,
like a weaned child with its mother;
like a weaned child is my soul within me.

3 O Israel, hope in the Lord from this time forth and forevermore.

—Psalm 131:2.

There are few lessons taught in God’s school more difficult to learn, and yet, when really learned, more blessed and holy, than the lesson of weanedness. 

The heart resembles the vine, which as it grows, grasps and unites its feeble tendrils to every support within its reach. Or, it is like the ivy, which climbs and wraps itself around some beautiful but decayed and crumbling ruin. As our social affections develop and expand, they naturally seek a resting-place.

Traveling, as it were, beyond themselves, breathing love and yearning for friendship, they go forth seeking some kindred spirit, some “second self,” upon which they may repose, and around which they may entwine. To detach from this inordinate, idolatrous clinging to the animate and the inanimate creatures and objects of sense, is one grand end of God’s disciplinary dealings with us in the present life. The discovery which we make, in the process of his dealings, of the insufficiency and insecurity of the things upon which we set our affections, is often acutely painful.

Like that vine, we find that we grasped a support at the root of which the cankerworm was secretly feeding,—and presently it fell! Or, like that ivy, we discover that we have been spreading our affections around an object which, even while we clung to and adored it, was crumbling and falling into dust,—and presently it became a ruin!

And what is the grand lesson which, by this process, God would teach us? 

The lesson of weanedness from all and everything of an earthly and a created nature. Thus was David instructed, and this was the result: “Surely I have behaved and quieted myself as a child that is weaned of his mother: my soul is even as a weaned child.” It may be profitable, tried and suffering reader, briefly to contemplate this holy state, and then the way by which the Lord frequently brings his people into its experience.

to live is Christ

 Greg Von Tobel, the president of Prisoners for Christ, miraculously survived an automobile accident, Saturday afternoon.  Here is his account as he recalls what unfolded.

For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain. If I am to live in the flesh, that means fruitful labor for me. Yet which I shall choose I cannot tell.  I am hard pressed between the two. My desire is to depart and be with Christ, for that is far better.  But to remain in the flesh is more necessary on your account. Convinced of this, I know that I will remain and continue with you all, for your progress and joy in the faith, so that in me you may have ample cause to glory in Christ Jesus, because of my coming to you again.   

Philippians 1:21-26

Here is a short synopsis of what I remember of Saturday.

On Saturday April 24, PFC was having its twice-yearly annual prison volunteer training session.  I left after the lunch break to go to Duvall and had planned on going back when the conference ended before 4pm.

I don’t remember much about the accident.  I do remember seconds before as I slammed head on into an immovable hill.  I remember I couldn’t move, turn the wheel,  break or slow down, seconds before impact. This 5 seconds of the whole ordeal is so totally weird and what I am struggling with the most, trying to process the slowness of time. I thought to myself this will be easy as I thought I was going so slow until I blasted into the side of the hill. Everything went black and as I awoke I could feel blood coming down my face. 

Some eyewitnesses said I sped up, probably thinking my foot was on the break when it was on the accelerator. 

All this was after I had side swiped a car throwing her into an adjacent ditch and crossed over one lane of traffic. The accident happened around 1:15 pm on route 203 inside the city limits of Duvall.

I remember the firemen and the paramedics that extricated me out of the van. They were phenomenally gentle and kind-hearted. They cut my clothes off and placed me on “The Board”.  I would grow to hate the “the Board” as I was on it for almost 2 hours. The medics asked me what hospital I wanted to go to and I said Evergreen.  

A few minutes later in the ambulance they made a judgment call and had a change of plans. They were going to drive me pass two hospitals straight to Harborview.  The word Harborview is like the word cancer.  When those words pertain to you, eternity stops.  I thought to myself, “Wow, I must be hurt worse than I had thought.”  Then I wondered how Rhonda and Ashley would react to the word "Harborview."

I arrived at Harborview about 2:30ish. I was whisked off to a room with bright lights and many people asking me questions, probing, poking, and sticking me.  There were many people in the room, I would say 10 plus.  I just remember the bright lights.

They stabilized me and then whisked me off to the CAT scan and x-rays.  The people in these departments were also extremely friendly and very kind-hearted also.  After they were done they whisked me back to the trauma room and this time it was stark empty, void of people.  Very weird. I heard over the low intercom that there were two air-vac copters less than 5 minutes away. 

Then friends and family started visiting me which made time go by ever so much quickly. Thank you!!!!!!!!!!!!! It made the difference.  
 5 hours after entering Harborview I was now being wheeled out by my friend Bob Jordan and then walking out on my own asking myself what just happened. I was half hoping they would keep me overnight as I was in so much pain in my chest where I had hit the steering wheel.  The slightest sneeze now sends me into extreme pain and facial contortions. They say I have a bruised rib.

From the time that they extricated me from the car I was really at peace. There were several moments of anxiousness when I heard the word Harborview. 

Once I got a grip on that I was totally at peace. I did wonder once, if April 24 would be the day that I would check out of this body suit and meet Jesus face to face. To live is Christ, to die is gain.

Mighty intercession at PFCU

On Saturday, I was privileged to facilitate two classes for the PFC University on "becoming and full-time missionary" and "speakers workshop."  I enjoyed fellowship with many, but especially the men involved at Standing Stones in Wapato. 

In the early portion of the second class, we got a call about a car accident involving Greg Von Tobel.  Greg and Rhonda are puctured, here. 


I'll let Bob Jordan narrate the events:

Today Prisoners For Christ ran its semi-annual prison training – Prisoners For Christ University. It was very well attended as the attached pictures show. Greg Von Tobel was present and did the opening introduction. He left to go home and somehow (it’s still uncertain what happened) he was involved in an automobile accident. He was transported to Harborview Medical Center in downtown Seattle. 

At approx 2:15 we were advised of the accident. We gathered all classroom teachers and students together and called out unto Almighty God for mercy and healing. Immediately afterward we sent word to the Board of Directors and other volunteers for prayer and intercession. God was in our midst as we cried out unto the Lord.

Before the end of the teaching session (we continued the training knowing this is what Greg would want) we received word that he was doing well and cogent and resting. For this we gave God great praise and thanksgiving!

The prayer time on Greg's behalf as we called on the Lord was an incredible highlight of my service with PFC.

Rhonda was at the hospital along with their daughter Ashley and her husband when I arrived. Greg looked pretty banged up and they were administering a shot of morphine. He had a contusion in his chest, but no broken bones. He had some lacerations on the top/back of his head which produced a lot of blood, but was superficial as there was no swelling or skull fracture. 

Kelly Dunn, who is a PFCU teacher and fireman, came by as well at the hospital, along with the Duvall Police Dept. Chaplain. Many others called and were preparing to come down but by then we knew he’d be released. So many prayer warriors out there made the difference.

He was released and walked from the lobby to the car under his own power. Pictures are shared to show how fast things can happen in one day – from leading the PFC University gathering to being in Harborview! 

It’s understood from the medical staff that he’ll be rather sore for a few days, but we continue to rejoice that the man of God is recovering, back home, resting comfortably, and with his family. We also praise God that the other person involved in the accident is well too, and was not hospitalized.

Bob Jordan and Greg are sharing together at Standing Stones.

Continue to pray for Brother Greg beloved, God bless you all!

Space footage and commentary

Join in on an incredible experience as a civilian, the host of a British car show, "Top Gear" is a guest passenger on a U-2 spy plane.  His commentary and footage are staggering. 

They mention "eternity," the "Big Bang," and earth as a speck of dust.  Well, which is it?

19 Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”  Matthew 28:19-20

 9 And they sang a new song, saying,

“Worthy are you to take the scroll
and to open its seals,
for you were slain, and by your blood you ransomed people for God
from every tribe and language and people and nation,
10 and you have made them a kingdom and priests to our God,
and they shall reign on the earth.”  Revelation 5:9-10

U-2 view
Ride a spy plane.  From 70,000 feet you look down 35,000 feet at a jetliner passing below at its normal cruising altitude of 35,000 ft. 

Turn up your sound and expand your picture.  Only the
International Space Station is higher. 

  http://www.wimp.com/breathtakingfootage/

Note at take-off the assist wheels on the outer edges of the wings drop off.   The wings are so long that they need temporary support until lift-off.  What is not shown is during the landing the plane actually slows to a low enough speed that two guys are actually able to grab the wing tips and put those assist wheels back on.

Hop aboard a U-2

Questions for real change

This Saturday, I'll be joining "His Harmony," from our Faith Baptist Church for a concert and follow-up sermon at the Regional Justice Center. 

Whenever they sing, they are really appreciated, maybe more than they know.  I am very excited they are coming and will be carefully inviting the men in the units they will be singing for, today.

I have been challenging the men with what really makes a difference for them. 

• How are you really changing?  
• What are you willing to do that makes a radical change? 
• What do your families and children need from you?
• Where are your sons at?
• What might you be able to do concretely for those you have hurt?

I'd like to encourage you to give this a careful read--t may just touch you.


Excerpt from "Thoughts for young men," by JC Ryle
Young men, time would not permit me to tell you all the fruits this love of pleasure produces, and all the ways in which it may do you harm. Why should I speak of carousing, partying, drinking, gambling, movie-going, dancing, and the like? There are few to be found who don't know something of these things by bitter experience. And these are only instances. 

All things that give a feeling of excitement for the time--all things that drown thought, and keep the mind in a constant whirl--all things that please the senses and delight the flesh--these are the sort of things that have mighty power at your time of life, and they owe their power to the love of pleasure. 

Be on your guard. Do not be like those of whom Paul speaks, "Lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God" (2 Timothy 3:4).



Remember what I say: if you would cling to earthly pleasures--these are the things which murder souls. 

There is no surer way to get a seared conscience and a hard heart towards the things of God, than to give way to the desires of the flesh and mind. It seems like nothing at first, but it tells in the long run.



Church disappointment

 

In Kevin DeYoung's blog, he deals with "Disappointment with the church"

“No one supported me.”
“I didn’t matter to anyone.”
“You didn’t even care.”

Those are among the hardest things a pastor can hear from his congregation, whether it’s about him directly or not. These lines are  also some of the most biting things a church member can say and, no doubt, one of the most painful things a church member can feel. And yet the feelings are felt, and even the thoughts expressed, quite frequently in the life of the church.

The situations which lead people to feel unloved are easy to imagine.
•    A pastor fails to visit a family after their daughter is tragically killed in a car accident.
•    A new couple visits the church for 6 months. They never get invited to the pastors’ home. So they start looking at other churches.

The scenarios are endless and they are all painful, for the sheep and for the shepherds.

So how should church members respond when they feel unloved, unsupported, or like outsiders in their church?

And how should church leaders respond when they are criticized for being unconcerned or the church is faulted for being unloving? 
If you want to read more, go to:
http://thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/kevindeyoung/

Romans Road presentations

Michael and Howard at the Regional Justice Center came right up to me today and quietly stated they wanted to be saved.  They were sincere.  We talked and read Scripture together for about 40 minutes.  In these cases, I work together with the men on a worksheet with the "Romans Road" and follow-up verses which are--

1 John 5:11-13
 John 14:6
Acts 4:12
1 Thess. 5:9-10
1 Timothy 2:5-6

One of the men could barely read.  He dropped out of school as an eleventh grader and stopped trying to learn anything a long time before that.  He said exactly that.  He is 21.  Wow!  He really wanted to read and understand.

Whenever I share, I really focus on repentance and proven change. 

We just don't say we "believe" and then go back to life as usual.  I one is really saved it is an incredible, supernatural work,
John 1:12-13, 2 Corinthians 5:17. 

• We were dead and brought to life.  
• We were blind and now we see.  
• We were transferred from the domain of darkness to the Kingdom of His beloved Son. 

I'll be following up with these men later this week.

Easter worship at Olympic in Forks

Jim Dixon and I traveled to Forks Saturday to provide worship, concert, and sermon for an unprecedented 37 men and two officers at the Olympic Corrections Center in Forks Saturday night.

Jim and I make this trip about four times a year. We go south through Aberdeen and Hoquiam and then north up 101.

Jim and I so much enjoy serving together.  Its a long trip.  Every time we start back home, we are amazed by His graciousness to allow us to serve Him there.

Next Saturday night, I'll be privileged to share ministry with "His Harmony," from Faith, our church, for three units of men at the Regional Justice Center in Kent. They are always so well received.  They have been serving in this way in jails and prisons with PFC for over 15 years.

At Forks, I preached from Acts 26:17-20--

"...I am sending you to open their eyes, so that they may turn from darkness to light and from the power of Satan to God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins and a place among those who are sanctified by faith in me.’...performing deeds in keeping with their repentance."

I continue to be blessed by so many faithful family and friends who support this work in prayer and financially.  It is amazing to participate with so many incredibly loving people of God. 

I want to share with you this post from Tim Challies defining why we worship regularly on Sundays.

Every Easter Saturday, that day between Good Friday and Easter Sunday, I find myself pondering what it must have been like for Jesus' followers on that day. What did they do? What were they thinking? How did they spend their day? What thoughts were running through their heads? 

Their leader was dead; their Messiah had been arrested, beaten, crucified, killed, buried. Miracles had attended his suffering--darkness and earthquake--and yet still he was dead. Confusion must have reigned. Bewilderment.

It's no wonder that Christians worship on Sunday. Muslims worship on Friday, Jews worship on Saturday, but Christians worship on Sunday because that is the day when Christ proved that he had conquered death. This is why we are Sunday Christians. 

We are not Friday Christians who serve a dead Savior, not Saturday Christians still waiting and wondering, but Sunday Christians who serve a living, breathing Savior--one who is alive and one who reigns. 

He died because he had to die. Our sin demanded blood and death. And yet he rose because he had to rise. He was the Son of God; how could death hold him? How could the Creator of all that exists be held down by death? It cannot happen and it did not happen. Christ is risen.

And for 2,000 years Christians have been celebrating Jesus' conquest. I could turn to hundreds of books and songs and poems today. But allow me to turn to one of my all-time favorites, a poem that gives just a glimpse of the hope Christ offers through his resurrection.

Hungry for hope

I am distributing a Bible study on "hope," as the men get really discouraged and need to keep their hearts focused on Him. I am meeting with Dustin at the Regional Justice Center.  He is a 20's young man who is reading the Scriptures faithfully.  He made it through the New Testament a couple of times and now we are walking through the Old Testament.


I am deeply appreciative for so many faithful family and friends who continue to support me as a missionary chaplain with Prisoners for Christ Outreach Ministries. Sometimes, I am overwhelmed in thankfulness.

 I met with Mary Ann Morbley, the program director and my supervisor at the RJC, to go over the four notebooks with materials I use with the men, based on need.  I have received wonderful materials from the solid ministries of  John Piper, Ray Pritchard, and John MacArthur.  There is an ongoing problem when volunteers bring in materials that are not approved or go through Mary Ann. This places the volunteer status of that ministry group in jeopardy.

I have met with 63 men so far this month with five recommitting themselves to the Lord.  I share with a group in the E and D (or Edward and David) Units, regularly for discipleship and prayer.  My purpose is to meet with men as regularly as possible while they are at the RJC to establish a firm foundation in the Lord and the Scriptures for them.

Dustin asks questions about personal application and obedience.  He doesn't want to fit into the woodwork so that he assimilates himself into the world while claiming to be a Christian.  He witnesses to his family who are not saved.

His Dad is in the Mormon church and Dustin wants to understand what the differences are and what is going on.  I carefully avoid criticizing other groups, by RJC volunteer policy, so we open the Scriptures together. He got to see his entire family, this week, which really built up his spirit.

I received a letter from Joseph from the Washington State Penitentiary in Walla Walla.  He survived a frightening racially-driven riot in his unit, recently.  By God's grace, he was not attacked. You may recall he was convicted of a homicide as a nurses aide in Federal Way several months ago.  Joseph learned an reopened investigation continues by the FW Police Department which may result in another trial and a return to the RJC which is a remarkable answer to prayer. 

dearest place on earth

 “Give yourself to the Church. You that are members of the Church have not found it perfect and I hope that you feel almost glad that you have not. If I had never joined a Church till I had found one that was perfect, I would never have joined one at all! 

And the moment I did join it, if I had found one, I should have spoiled it, for it would not have been a perfect Church after I had become a member of it.

Still, imperfect as it is, it is the dearest place on earth to us… 

All who have first given themselves to the Lord, should, as speedily as possible, also give themselves to the Lord’s people. How else is there to be a Church on the earth? If it is right for anyone to refrain from membership in the Church, it is right for everyone, and then the testimony for God would be lost to the world!

As I have already said, the Church is faulty, but that is no excuse for you not joining it, if you are the Lord’s. Nor need your own faults keep you back, for the Church is not an institution for perfect people, but a sanctuary for sinners saved by grace, who, though they are saved, are still sinners and need all the help they can derive from the sympathy and guidance of their fellow believers.

The Church is the nursery for God’s weak children where they are nourished and grow strong. It is the fold for Christ’s sheep—the home for Christ’s family.”

–Charles H. Spurgeon, “The Best Donation,” (No. 2234), in The Metropolitan Tabernacle Pulpit, Vol. 37,  an exposition of 2 Corinthians 8:5 preached at the Metropolitan Tabernacle in London, England, on April 5, 1891.

Mom was a temple piano player in the house of the Lord

My Mom, Jean Richardson, passed into the glory of the Lord, this past Tuesday morning.  We are so thankful we went over to Port Orchard to visit with her as an entire family the previous Saturday.

She was comfortably sedated but she was able to hear Katharine, Andy, Peter, Jon, and me read comforting Scripture passages to her.

We are enjoying a celebration service this afternoon at Steel Lake Presbyterian Church in Federal Way, where Mom was a member for 46 years.  Another service in scheduled for the Adventure of Faith Presbyterian Church in Port Orchard on March 13.

I told Mom several times in her life she was a temple musician in the house of the Lord.  Mom played the piano beginning when she was 6 years old and faithfully practiced virtually every day of her life and was even able to play with amazing poise at Park Vista and Haven Care.  She was the most joyful when she was able to use her musical, hospitality, and service gifts in the local church.

Mom steadfastly loved and served in every church she was a member of from her earliest days in a little Methodist Church in Vancouver, to Boulevard Park, Long Island, NY, Steel Lake for 46 years, and the Port Orchard Adventure of Faith Presbyterian Churches.  Mom regularly read her Bible and prayed and was studying for and hosting her church women's circle Bible studies.

She loved her families and grandchildren with greatest care. She glowed when the entire family gathered together and she cooked awesome, big meals for us.

Mom also loved so many of her neighborhood friends as they participated in the birthday bunch in Federal Way. She so much appreciated when those friends came to see her in Port Orchard.

A week before Mom's passing,  Miles, Teena, and I visited with Mom.  At that point she was able to be up in a wheelchair for 20 minutes.  We shared how much we love her then I read from John 14:1-3 and all about her new home in Revelation 21 and 22.  She even asked me to reread a particular portion from Revelation. 

She laid quietly and comfortably with her eyes closed, again. When I asked her if I could pray the Lord would take her home just as soon as possible, she immediately opened her eyes, picked her head off the pillow, and answered, "definitely, yes!!!"

My brother's family, Miles, Teena, Kaitlyn, and Conner went over Monday night, just hours before Mom passed which was a great blessing for them.

Annie, my sister, who cared for Mom during these past two years in Port Orchard along with Dan, Valerie, Nate, and Natalie, was holding Mom's hand at her side when Mom passed.  Mom led Annie's Camp Fire Girls group all the way through high school.

We were able to call over to Haven Care Adult Family Home to speak with Gayle, Lauren, and Kasey the last two weeks on a daily basis.  What a wonderful year of personalized and professional care Mom received there along with Mary and the Group Health Hospice Care staff.  Mom also received great care at Park Vista before moving to Haven Care to receive daily nursing care.

I remember Mom packing a lunch for me every school day all the way through community college.  Mom and Dad never missed a concert, play, or ball game for Annie, Miles, and me.  They were able to come to Portland when I graduated from Western Conservative Baptist Seminary Seminary in June of 1984, just 10 months before Dad passed away.  Mom came to St. John for my ordination service.

Once as a senior while on the risers just before we were about to sing in our Federal Way High School concert choir, my good friend Gale quietly stated, "Well, there is Mark's Mom and Dad.  (Pointing) They always sit right there.  They are always here."  Those memories stick with me.

Mom visited Katharine and me multiple times in St. John and Union where I pastored and connected with our church families. She joyfully played the organ and piano for services.  She joined us at Faith Baptist Church in Kent where we have been members since 1992 and attended several Kidz Praize musicals and our boys' soccer games.

the perfect scam

In response to my most recent blog about Aaron, a reader and former inmate responded  in such an excellent way, I wanted to pass it on.  In fact, I am using it when I share about "deeds in keeping with repentance."

"but declared first to those in Damascus, then in Jerusalem and throughout all the region of Judea, and also to the Gentiles, that they should repent and turn to God, performing deeds in keeping with their repentance."

Acts 26:20

Here is what my reader wrote: 

I saw hundreds in prison like Aaron.  The most common phenomenon in prison (besides violence) is prisoners who become avid Christians, then fall away soon after.  

What happens is this:  

They walk around with a big, invisible box containing their problems.  Everything they do and everyone they meet is an opportunity to give their problems to somebody else so they don't have to confront them.  

A prisoner hears that "Jesus will take up your burden", and thinks this is the perfect scam.  All he needs to do is give his problems to God and he can just walk away.  He finds out, of course, that Jesus doesn't take responsibility for your problems; He offers the strength to deal with them.  The last thing the prisoner wants is to deal with his own issues, so he dumps Christianity as a waste of time and begins looking for another patsy.  

The moral?  

True rehabilitation begins and ends with taking responsibility.  Christianity can be a huge help, but the prisoner must step up. 

Of all the prisoners I knew during my stay in the Penitentiary system, the only ones who succeeded were those who took concrete, quantifiable steps to face what they had done: apologized, tried to make restitution, got a job, volunteered, and so forth.  

 When I meet an ex-con who tells me he's a man of Faith, I always ask him:  
"What exactly are you doing to repay for your crime and to better yourself?" 

Going to Church means nothing - it's only an empty exercise without commitment.  If you don't live your faith then you really don't have any.

fresh air upon release

An inmate I shall identify as Aaron recently returned to the Regional Justice Center in Kent for a "first violation" after failing community corrections officer expectations. 

After spending a large amount of time with him over the past years, it was disturbing to listen to his excuses for falling as a result of drinking and getting another woman pregnant.

The take home lesson:  
We learn the real heart of the man after he "feels the fresh air on his face" and returns to community life.  

It's just like you and me.  

What are we like after we leave church or finish a productive Bible study or prayer time?

That's the real test!


This account represents an honest side of jail and prison ministry.  From when this man first entered the RJC, he struggled with telling the truth about what he was dealing with as a result of alcohol consumption.  At first, he was charged with domestic violence with his former living partner. He wouldn't reveal what led to the split with the former partner.  

As he gets settled into the jail experience, Aaron displays an amazing capacity to actively invite other men to Bible studies and fellowship together. 


Both times he was released out of the jail system, he failed to attend any church and to pursue small group men's accountability relationships openly available to him.  He is unknowing stumbling over a very dangerous bridge.


How bad was his drinking experience, this time?  I really don't know.  Putting things together requires multiple questions to connect the dots.  He is a very clear thinking and verbal.  He winds his way around the truth as the bridge sways in the wind.  This time, I was very clear about confronting his dishonesty. 


This latest partner found him drunk in the woods.  How bad was it?  I asked him to read Ephesians 5:3-4 and Hebrews 13:5-6 with me.

3 But sexual immorality and all impurity or covetousness must not even be named among you, as is proper among saints. 4 Let there be no filthiness nor foolish talk nor crude joking, which are out of place, but instead let there be thanksgiving. 5 For you may be sure of this, that everyone who is sexually immoral or impure, or who is covetous (that is, an idolater), has no inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and God. 6 Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of these things the wrath of God comes upon the sons of disobedience. 7 Therefore do not become partners with them; 8 for at one time you were darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light 9 (for the fruit of light is found in all that is good and right and true), 10 and try to discern what is pleasing to the Lord.   
Ephesians 5:3-10


4 Let marriage be held in honor among all, and let the marriage bed be undefiled, for God will judge the sexually immoral and adulterous. 
 Hebrews 13:4 

He response to me was that he "would be a lot worse off if she hadn't helped me...I feel really good with her...we love each other...we are really happy together." Well, she's pregnant.   How much was he drinking while he was "feeling all that fresh air"? 

I recommended that he reread those passages.  He finds himself in a very dangerous place on a real life swing bridge beyond whatever actions a judge or officer will take.

proclaiming Christ at the dentist office

My co-worker, Jim Dixon, travels with me on PFC trips to Forks and eastern Oregon and Washington.  He sings his own music with a guitar and plays the piano as a gifted and passionate evangelist. We have enjoyed building a rich friendship together.   He sent me this evangelistic conversation with a dental tech--

"While at my dentist the other day. a new cleaning technician was doing my cleaning and introduced herself as "Shilo."  I asked her what her name meant and she said "gift of God."  As I began to speak of the Lord it was more obvious that she was not born again."

Here, Jim is sharing with a worker when we were visiting at Standing Stones clean and sober living ministry in Wapato.

"I gave her my testimony and she asked some questions and I gave her the truth and reality of Christ. As she was talking I felt that the Lord had a word to her and told her that that word was "surrender". She immediately told me that she knew that that was a word for her and explained why.

She also said that many Christians have of lately been talking to her of the Lord. It was a great day.  I was loving the opportunity to again speak to someone of His Great Goodness."

Acts 1:8 says, "But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth."

...and at jails, prisons, schools, places where we work, and at the dentist's office.

Sharing with an Islamic inmate

While at the Regional Justice Center in Kent last week, I had the privilege of interacting with a Muslim inmate for about 20 minutes.  Our conversation was mutually very respectful, unusual as these kinds of discussions may be highly charged. I actively asked the Lord for a peaceful spirit and His words to speak. We shook hands graciously and thanked each other for a respectful interchange after we finished.

Justin asked me if God was a man in Genesis 18:1-21.

We discussed verses 1-3--

1 And the Lord appeared to him by the oaks of Mamre, as he sat at the door of his tent in the heat of the day. 2 He lifted up his eyes and looked, and behold, three men were standing in front of him. When he saw them, he ran from the tent door to meet them and bowed himself to the earth  3 and said, “O Lord, if I have found favor in your sight, do not pass by your servant.

He clearly intended to prove another Christian inmate wrong and even called this other man over to our table to hear my answer.  Their brief conversation was tense. Debating is not productive. I stated that God is not a man but is described by Jesus and He takes a form as a spirit in John 4.

In Genesis 18, He (the Lord) miraculously appeared as man.  God is not a man.  We struggled together, on that point, and moved on.

Justin cited Moses talked to God "as a man talks to a friend."  So, then, did God speak man-to-man, or face-to-face with Moses?  No, Moses had clear conversation with God, as one friend would talk with another friend, so Moses did not talk with a physical or fleshly man that was God. 

In Revelation 4, then, Justin asked who the Lamb took the scroll from? It was the Father, but Scripture doesn't say what He looks like.

I concluded our time with:
1 Long ago, at many times and in many ways, God spoke to our fathers by the prophets, 2 but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed the heir of all things, through whom also he created the world. 3 He is the radiance of the glory of God and the exact imprint of his nature, and he upholds the universe by the word of his power. After making purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high, 4 having become as much superior to angels as the name he has inherited is more excellent than theirs.  Hebrews 1:1-4

Pray for the safety and work of officers

Please pray for the morale and safety of  officers and their families who are significantly impacted by the five recent deaths of officers in
Seattle...
      Lakewood...
                 and now the ambush event  with two more Pierce County deputies near Eatonville.  We often share and pray with officers at the RJC. 




I traveled with a PFC team to the Fort Lewis Jail Sunday night to put on a concert and preaching service. 

Wayne Orendorff and Jim Dixon shared music, Chuck Boyce reflected on the early years of Jesus, Mike Otto prayed, and I preached from Revelation 5:9-10. 


There were 20 Army inmates and 10 shared with us after the service.  I was privileged to speak with one young man who needed to get his relationship with the Lord settled before he leaves jail and is sent to Afghanistan.  He wants to be able to express his heart for the Lord to other soldiers in the field and be assured of his position with Him in light of the obvious dangers. Another is a baby believer who prayed with me about forgiving a family member and huge levels of abuse there.

Wayne, Jim, and I prayed for an Army chaplain intern near the conclusion of our time there. This officer is being discharged after suffering from severe PTSS as a result of four tours in Iraq and is seeking to faithfully serve the Lord.

Here, Jim Dixon, Chuck Boyce, and Wayne Orendorff  by the PFC Standing Stones clean and sober ministry.

With school out for the Christmas break, I will be joyfully serving at the Regional Justice Center in Kent through these next weeks.

The Chaplaincy Advisory Group is distributing 600 goody bags to inmates and staff over these next days which is always a huge encouragement there.

The evil hunter

 As we reflect now on the recent deaths of police officers in Lakewood and Seattle, we also observe the unfolding accusations around the life of Tiger Woods that started just outside his home.  I see direct connection to my own life and the deceiving and evil nature of sin.  I could be enveloped in public embarrassment, as well.

I think of the men I serve at the Regional Justice Center in Kent and other locations.  I am providing a portion of a column by Pastor and Speaker CJ Mahaney that helped focus my heart on what is swirling around.  Every time I read the name Tiger, I insert my own name.  How about you?

Deception is part of sin's DNA. Sin lies to us. It seeks to convince us that sin brings only pleasure, that it carries no consequences, and that no one will discover it. Sin works hard to make us forget that character, conduct, and consequences are interconnected. And when we neglect this relationship--when we think our sins will not be discovered--we ultimately mock God.

Sin Hunts
We've all experienced it: Sin lies to us. We take the bait. And then sin begins to hunt us.

One commentator on Proverbs articulated this truth like this: "The irony of a life of rebellion is that we begin by pursuing sin...and end up being pursued by it!....You can 'be sure your sin will find you out' (Num. 32:23...)."* In other words, sin comes back to hunt us.

In light of this fact, sin is an enemy Tiger can't manage. He can't shape this story like he does a long iron on a par 5. Tiger doesn't need a publicity facelift; Tiger needs a Savior. Just like me. And just like you. And if by God's grace he repents and trusts in the person and work of Christ, Tiger will experience the fruit of God's promise that "whoever conceals his transgressions will not prosper, but he who confesses and forsakes them will obtain mercy." (Proverbs 28:13).

Conclusion
Tiger cannot intimidate this enemy like he can Pebble Beach or any of the field of professional golfers. And there is no privacy he can claim from this enemy, regardless of his resolve, his silence, or the name painted on his yacht. It's likely Tiger only perceives the press hunting him out of a vain "curiosity about public figures." But Tiger is being hunted and hounded by a far greater foe: the consequences of his sin.

And this story should humble and sober us. It should make us ask: 

• Are there any so-called "secret sins" in my life? 
• Is there anything I have done that I hope nobody discovers? 
• Is there anything right now in my life that I should confess to God and the appropriate individuals?

And this should leave us more amazed by grace because there, but for the grace of God, go I.

This article originally appeared on Sovereign Grace Ministries Blog.

Great opportunity amidst crisis

News reports about the killings of four police officers in Parkland Sunday morning are still unfolding.  The site is not too far away from where Katharine grew up.  As I write, police have not located the accused and believe he could have been fatally wounded.

He was recently released from the Pierce County, Tacoma. Why was the bail set so he could be released?  There are all kinds of unanswered questions. This tragedy could have happened in many places--a post office, school, or grocery store.

The church has another huge opportunity amidst a large community asking solid questions about what we all hold dear.  Rick Warren recognized these times as opportunities to be, "the church's greatest hour."  Ostrich living for God's people isn't what any of us want to be.   What should we do?

Olson suggests taking steps like this:

 
1. build bridges with love and servant leadership in our community.

2. present the Christian message to connect with true spiritual needs.
3. practice hospitality and build redemptive bridges to our neighbors.

4. be the mission of Jesus.

Author David Olson asks two very important questions in his book, "The American church in crisis":

1. How can a church witness survive amidst such iniquity?

2.How does the church speak and act out the gospel in the midst of this overwhelming evil?

We live in what has been called for years a post-modern and post-Christian society. His portrayal of our American culture fits so many we all know--secular yet spiritually "curious."  There is virtually no meaningful religious memory, as in the culture the author identifies from 1965 to 2000. When faithful Christianity is defined "primarily as protecting the truth, insulating our children, and surviving the onslaught of competing thoughts," the battle is lost. 

He suggests further the church at-large is competing for members and dollars by transferring participants hiding behind skirts of a few selected Scripture verses about purity, while burying our talents in the sand for fear of making a mistake with them.

Dangers for young men

While at the RJC sharing in both 1-on1s and in small group settings, one set of messages for young men has consistently been well-received and hard-hitting.  It is from a book by J.C. Ryle entitled, "Thoughts for young men."  It's worth every penny and moment of your time to read for any young man, youth pastor, or parent.  Writing in about 1900, my reflection is his message is written for today's young men.

Men have responded in open tears, repentance, and gut-level agreement as Ryle makes his case.  It may be just what you need for yourself and the young man in your life!

5 Dangers for Young Men - J.C. Ryle

Mike Anderson

Director of the Resurgence
J.C. Ryle's writing will punch you right in the face. He was an Anglican Bishop to the working class of Liverpool during the industrial revolution. He had tough words for tough people, and we could all use a bit of a challenge.

I first learned about Ryle by listening to a Sunday school message he delivered. Ryle wanted the kids to know that they were accountable for their actions, so he told them the story of Elisha calling calling 2 bears out of the woods to kill some kids who mocked him. Could you imagine a little kid's response to that? You can be sure Ryle will bring the truth, no matter how difficult.

5 Dangers from Thoughts for Young Men by J.C. Ryle

1. Pride
Young men, take to heart the Scriptures just quoted. Do not be too confident in your own judgment. Stop being so sure that you are always right, and others wrong. Don't trust your own opinion, when you find it contrary to that of older men, and especially to that of your own parents. Age gives experience, and therefore deserves respect.


2. Love of Pleasure
Youth is the time when our passions are strongest—and like unruly children, cry most loudly for indulgence. Youth is the time when we have generally our most health and strength: death seems far away, and to enjoy ourselves in this life seems to be everything... "I serve lusts and pleasures:" that is the true answer many a young man should give, if asked, "Whose Servant are you?"

3. Thoughtlessness
Not thinking is one simple reason why thousands of souls are thrown away forever into the Lake of Fire. Men will not consider, will not look ahead, will not look around them, will not reflect on the end of their present course, and the sure consequences of their present days, and wake up to find they are damned for a lack of thinking.

Young men, none are in more danger of this than yourselves. You know little of the perils around you, and so you are careless how you walk. You hate the trouble of serious, quiet thinking, and so you make wrong decisions and bring upon yourselves much sorrow.

4. Contempt of Religion
This also is one of your special dangers. I always observe that none pay so little outward respect to Christianity as young men. None take so little part in our services, when they are present at them—use Bibles so little—sing so little—listen to preaching so little. None are so generally absent at prayer meetings, Bible Studies, and all other weekday helps to the soul. Young men seem to think they do not need these things—they may be good for women and old men, but not for them. They appear ashamed of seeming to care about their souls: one would almost fancy they considered it a disgrace to go to heaven at all.

5. Fear of Man's opinion
The fear of man" will indeed "prove to be a snare" (Proverbs 29:25). It is terrible to observe the power which it has over most minds, and especially over the minds of the young. Few seem to have any opinions of their own, or to think for themselves. Like dead fish, they go with the stream and tide: what others think is right, they think is right; and what others call wrong, they call wrong too. There are not many original thinkers in the world. Most men are like sheep, they follow a leader. If it was the fashion of the day to be Roman Catholics, they would be Roman Catholics, if it was to be Islamic, they would be Islamic. They dread the idea of going against the current of the times. In a word, the opinion of the day becomes their religion, their creed, their Bible, and their God.

Dessert in Bothell and Kentridge

Katharine and I recently attended a donor's appreciation dessert for Prisoners for Christ at the Eastside Foursquare Church in Bothell.  The dessert honored workers with PFC and featured the Kate White Band, who presented a concert.

His Harmony, from our home church, Faith Baptist Church, was recognized for 15 years of service providing music ministry in jails and prisoners in western Washington.

I actually went to my first Prisoners for Christ University at Cedar Park in Bothell in 2004 and went on my first eastern Washington missions trip in 2006.  We now take three trips a year and venture into Oregon.  My main ministry is as the associate chaplain at the Norm Maleng Regional Justice Center, the second King County Jail, in Kent.

I'd love to be at the RJC more regularly with greater financial support but the Lord has been faithful to supplement our income as I continue to serve as a guest teacher this year in the Auburn School District. I am seeking to increase my financial support as a missionary chaplain as I receive no funds from the RJC. So many are faithful to provide for us financially, prayerfully, and with heart encouragement.

This past Monday, I also attended my 13th appreciation dinner for the Kentridge High School Chargers football program.  Our KRHS volunteering started for Katharine and me in 1997.  Katharine keeps the sideline score book and I support statistics, whatever the coaches need, and call the newspapers (and sometimes television sites) with the game highlights and statistics.

There is nothing like Chargers high school  football for Katharine and me.  I've enjoyed getting to know Robbie Steen and then Chris and Marcus Subia, from our church. Chris is now playing football at the University of Puget Sound.  Marcus, now a junior, is focusing on basketball so I'll be cheering him on at as many games as I can with Rollin and Karin, Mom and Dad around the Northern Division of the South Puget Sound League.

Keeping football statistics began in junior high when charted games while listening to former Oklahoma coach Bud Wilkinson during college football games on TV and then at Federal Way High School in about 1967.  Scoring baseball games began maybe in the sixth grade.