Pastor Tony Ashmore continues the series "Touching Wonder" in this Sunday service.
Touching Wonder Part 4
Pastor Tony Ashmore
Sunday, December 27, 2009
www.churchatmirrorlake.com
A Life-Giving Church for People Just Like You!
Whether you are full of questions or ready to jump right in, there is a place for you at The Church at Mirror Lake. Our church is a place where you can build relationships with others, experience God in worship, be empowered by practical, life-giving teaching from God's Word, and have fun doing it.
Together, we are living the Winner's Life as we learn to love, serve, reach, grow and connect. So whether you're a spiritual seeker starting to ask questions about God, or a committed Christian looking to sink your faith roots even deeper, you'll feel at home at The Church at Mirror Lake.
If you believe Jesus really meant it when He said, "I came so people can have real and eternal life, more and better life than they ever dreamed of," (John 10:10 Message Translation) then join us this weekend at one of our Jesus Celebrations. Until then, browse our website (a link is on the right of this page) where you'll find lots of helpful info and feel free to download one of our service messages or subscribe to our weekly podcast where you will receive the fresh, life-giving Word of God.
_________________________________________________________________
Tuesday, December 29, 2009
12/24/09 - Christmas Eve Celebration - Pastor Tony Ashmore
Christmas Eve Celebration and Communion
Pastor Tony Ashmore
Thursday, December 24, 2009
www.churchatmirrorlake.com
Pastor Tony Ashmore
Thursday, December 24, 2009
www.churchatmirrorlake.com
Monday, December 21, 2009
12/20/09 - Touching Wonder PT3 - Pastor Tony Ashmore
Pastor Tony Ashmore continues the series "Touching Wonder" in this Sunday service.
Touching Wonder Part 3
Pastor Tony Ashmore
Sunday, December 20, 2009
www.churchatmirrorlake.com
Touching Wonder Part 3
Pastor Tony Ashmore
Sunday, December 20, 2009
www.churchatmirrorlake.com
12/16/09 - Personal Growth - Joe Keith
Joe Keith discusses "Personal Growth" in this Wednesday evening service.
Personal Growth
Joe Keith
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
www.churchatmirrorlake.com
Personal Growth
Joe Keith
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
www.churchatmirrorlake.com
Monday, December 14, 2009
12/13/09 - Touching Wonder PT2 - Pastor Tony Ashmore
Pastor Tony Ashmore continues the series "Touching Wonder" in this Sunday service.
Touching Wonder Part 2
Pastor Tony Ashmore
Sunday, December 13, 2009
www.churchatmirrorlake.com
Sermon Notes:
The Wonder of Christmas
Luke 11:33 Message “If you live wide-eyed in wonder and belief, your body fills up with light. If you live squinty-eyed in greed and distrust, your body is a dank cellar. Keep your eyes open, your lamp burning, so you don't get musty and murky. Keep your life as well-lighted as your best-lighted room."
Luke 1-2 Joseph, Mary, Gabriel
Joseph: Like any man, he had dreams, probably plans, of what his life would look like:
- Career
- Family:
- Probably a hope to make a solid future for his kids in his village. Probably did not include assuring the future of every boy and girl ever born.
Mary: A young teen-age girl full of dreams:
- Husband and home
- Kids:
Gabriel:
- Had seen it all—the rise and fall of Lucifer
- The creation of Adam and his intimacy with God
- The betrayal by Adam
- Years of disobedience by generations of Adams
The story of Christmas is the story of an awesome God interrupting our temporal, broken world with everlasting plans that include us. Each person involved in the story had plans—for the initial days and years that make up the beginning and for the future that would be forever changed. Some had probably thought about plans for eternity, but most, like us, probably had spent a lot more energy on plans for now. Like Joseph and Mary, each of us are invited by God to participate in wonder—and to find our true destiny beyond our wildest dreams.
Keys to wonder we can learn from Joseph, Mary and Gabriel:
- Faith—Church history is not made by well-financed, well-resourced individuals and institutions. History is made by men and women of faith who have met the living God. “Without faith it is impossible to please God.”
- Obedience precedes understanding—What we see and know is not all there is. The end as we know it is not the end at all. But it does call us to a choice—our way or God’s way. (“Whoever wrestles with God…puts his whole life at stake.” Jacques Ellul) Never forget that nothing is impossible.
- Context is everything. The virgin birth only makes sense in the context God’s eternal plan. Our lives will make sense. Count on it. Live as if He is coming back and Heaven is real.
Touching Wonder Part 2
Pastor Tony Ashmore
Sunday, December 13, 2009
www.churchatmirrorlake.com
Sermon Notes:
The Wonder of Christmas
Luke 11:33 Message “If you live wide-eyed in wonder and belief, your body fills up with light. If you live squinty-eyed in greed and distrust, your body is a dank cellar. Keep your eyes open, your lamp burning, so you don't get musty and murky. Keep your life as well-lighted as your best-lighted room."
Luke 1-2 Joseph, Mary, Gabriel
Joseph: Like any man, he had dreams, probably plans, of what his life would look like:
- Career
- Family:
- The perfect wife
- Sons to inherit his completed dreams
- Grandkids to enjoy
- Probably a hope to make a solid future for his kids in his village. Probably did not include assuring the future of every boy and girl ever born.
Mary: A young teen-age girl full of dreams:
- Husband and home
- Kids:
- Watching them grow up
- Watching them pick wives
- Holding grandkids
Gabriel:
- Had seen it all—the rise and fall of Lucifer
- The creation of Adam and his intimacy with God
- The betrayal by Adam
- Years of disobedience by generations of Adams
The story of Christmas is the story of an awesome God interrupting our temporal, broken world with everlasting plans that include us. Each person involved in the story had plans—for the initial days and years that make up the beginning and for the future that would be forever changed. Some had probably thought about plans for eternity, but most, like us, probably had spent a lot more energy on plans for now. Like Joseph and Mary, each of us are invited by God to participate in wonder—and to find our true destiny beyond our wildest dreams.
Keys to wonder we can learn from Joseph, Mary and Gabriel:
- Faith—Church history is not made by well-financed, well-resourced individuals and institutions. History is made by men and women of faith who have met the living God. “Without faith it is impossible to please God.”
- Obedience precedes understanding—What we see and know is not all there is. The end as we know it is not the end at all. But it does call us to a choice—our way or God’s way. (“Whoever wrestles with God…puts his whole life at stake.” Jacques Ellul) Never forget that nothing is impossible.
- Context is everything. The virgin birth only makes sense in the context God’s eternal plan. Our lives will make sense. Count on it. Live as if He is coming back and Heaven is real.
Monday, December 7, 2009
12/06/09 - Touching Wonder PT1 - Pastor Tony Ashmore
Pastor Tony Ashmore begins a new series entitled "Touching Wonder" in this Sunday service.
Touching Wonder Part 1
Pastor Tony Ashmore
Sunday, December 6, 2009
www.churchatmirrorlake.com
Sermon Notes:
The Wonder of Christmas
Luke 11:33 Message “If you live wide-eyed in wonder and belief, your body fills up with light. If you live squinty-eyed in greed and distrust, your body is a dank cellar. Keep your eyes open, your lamp burning, so you don't get musty and murky. Keep your life as well-lighted as your best-lighted room."
Luke 1--Zachariah, Elizabeth and John the Baptist
Zachariah:
- A member of the priestly order-trained in the ways and service of the Lord and the temple—successful, but something missing
- Did his best to live for God, but what he wanted most had been denied to him
- Where he was supposed to be when he was supposed to be there (on duty with his priestly order—once in his lifetime opportunity to enter the holy of holies)
- Loved his wife, but lived in a culture that counted the ability to have a male heir as a definition of being a man.
- Disappointment, maybe even disillusioned
- Ridicule and lessened authority
- “Too late now” for dreams
Elizabeth:
- Descendant of Aaron—Jewish “royal family”
- Unable to conceive (Luke 1:25 keep people from looking down on me: When a married woman could not have children, it was thought that the Lord was punishing her.)
- Kept her innocence, even after years of disappointment—(evidence: she readily received Zachariah’s advances)
The story of Christmas touches every realm of life, from the rich to the poor (wise men and shepherds), from the esteemed to the despised (Jerusalem-the seat of power and fame to Bethlehem-a little shepherd’s town), from the outcast to the superstar (a pregnant teenager to the ruler of a country). From the start of the story with Zachariah, Elizabeth and John the Baptist, to its culmination with the recognition of Jesus, the baby, as the Messiah in the temple, the story unveils God’s plan for touching His people. It is a story that does not end, and a story that will empower our lives for greatness if we will simply allow the Holy Spirit to restore the awe and wonder it inspires.
That is what we learn from Zachariah and Elizabeth. The culture of our world, the nature of a broken world, works to dull us, to close our eyes to greatness and wonder, and to be lulled into a dutiful religious experience rather than an awe-filled wonderful relationship with a God who won’t stop loving us.
Keys to wonder:
- Child-like-ness
- Expectation—“Can I have…”
- Trust—“Catch me daddy”
- Vulnerability—“Help me, I’m not big enough.”
- Belief—“You said…”
Touching Wonder Part 1
Pastor Tony Ashmore
Sunday, December 6, 2009
www.churchatmirrorlake.com
Sermon Notes:
The Wonder of Christmas
Luke 11:33 Message “If you live wide-eyed in wonder and belief, your body fills up with light. If you live squinty-eyed in greed and distrust, your body is a dank cellar. Keep your eyes open, your lamp burning, so you don't get musty and murky. Keep your life as well-lighted as your best-lighted room."
Luke 1--Zachariah, Elizabeth and John the Baptist
Zachariah:
- A member of the priestly order-trained in the ways and service of the Lord and the temple—successful, but something missing
- Did his best to live for God, but what he wanted most had been denied to him
- Where he was supposed to be when he was supposed to be there (on duty with his priestly order—once in his lifetime opportunity to enter the holy of holies)
- Loved his wife, but lived in a culture that counted the ability to have a male heir as a definition of being a man.
- Disappointment, maybe even disillusioned
- Ridicule and lessened authority
- “Too late now” for dreams
Elizabeth:
- Descendant of Aaron—Jewish “royal family”
- Unable to conceive (Luke 1:25 keep people from looking down on me: When a married woman could not have children, it was thought that the Lord was punishing her.)
- Kept her innocence, even after years of disappointment—(evidence: she readily received Zachariah’s advances)
The story of Christmas touches every realm of life, from the rich to the poor (wise men and shepherds), from the esteemed to the despised (Jerusalem-the seat of power and fame to Bethlehem-a little shepherd’s town), from the outcast to the superstar (a pregnant teenager to the ruler of a country). From the start of the story with Zachariah, Elizabeth and John the Baptist, to its culmination with the recognition of Jesus, the baby, as the Messiah in the temple, the story unveils God’s plan for touching His people. It is a story that does not end, and a story that will empower our lives for greatness if we will simply allow the Holy Spirit to restore the awe and wonder it inspires.
That is what we learn from Zachariah and Elizabeth. The culture of our world, the nature of a broken world, works to dull us, to close our eyes to greatness and wonder, and to be lulled into a dutiful religious experience rather than an awe-filled wonderful relationship with a God who won’t stop loving us.
Keys to wonder:
- Child-like-ness
- Expectation—“Can I have…”
- Trust—“Catch me daddy”
- Vulnerability—“Help me, I’m not big enough.”
- Belief—“You said…”
Friday, December 4, 2009
12/02/09 - What's Next PT4 - Pastor Tony Ashmore
Pastor Tony Ashmore continues the series "What's Next" in this Wednesday evening service.
What's Next - Part 4
Pastor Tony Ashmore
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
www.churchatmirrorlake.com
What's Next - Part 4
Pastor Tony Ashmore
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
www.churchatmirrorlake.com
Sunday, November 29, 2009
11/29/09 - Family Recipes PT4 - Pastor Tony Ashmore
Pastor Tony Ashmore continues the series "Family Recipes" with part 4 in this Sunday service.
Family Recipes Part 4
Pastor Tony Ashmore
Sunday, November 29, 2009
www.churchatmirrorlake.com
Sermon Notes:
Philippians 4:10 (Message) “I'm glad in God, far happier than you would ever guess…I've found the recipe for being happy whether full or hungry, hands full or hands empty. Whatever I have, wherever I am, I can make it through anything in the One who makes me who I am…”
Main Point: God’s family recipe is risky. The family He wanted has rejected and betrayed Him, yet He keeps on loving. Today, we will look at the ingredients of His recipe for family—Dangerous Love
Dangerous Love
1. Every Time He Drove a Nail—When did He know? We know that by the time He was 12, He knew the scriptures and His place in them. Yet, He loved dangerously. John 6:61-65 “The Spirit alone gives eternal life. Human effort accomplishes nothing. And the very words I have spoken to you are spirit and life. But some of you do not believe me.” (For Jesus knew from the beginning which ones didn’t believe, and he knew who would betray him.) Then he said, “That is why I said that people can’t come to me unless the Father gives them to me.”
2. Risk it all to get it all--John 12:24 "Listen carefully: Unless a grain of wheat is buried in the ground, dead to the world, it is never any more than a grain of wheat. But if it is buried, it sprouts and reproduces itself many times over. In the same way, anyone who holds on to life just as it is destroys that life. But if you let it go, reckless in your love, you'll have it forever, real and eternal.”
3. Dangerous Love Ingredients—(Remember “God is love” 1 John 4:16—so we can interchange ‘God’ and ‘love’ in this passage without compromising the scripture. So we can know the actions of Dangerous Love) 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 “Love is patient and kind. Love is not jealous or boastful or proud or rude. It does not demand its own way. It is not irritable, and it keeps no record of being wronged. It does not rejoice about injustice but rejoices whenever the truth wins out. Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance.”
4. Communion represents Dangerous Love—
a. The Bread and the Wine--Risking it all to become one with Him (Paul said if Jesus was not raised from the dead, then we are fools)
b. The Cross--Risking it all to love ourselves (forgiving ourselves, moving beyond our tendencies and failures to go for the best—the image of God in us)
c. The Candles--Risking it all to love others (Forgiving, reconciling, actively seeking influence by moving past our experiences, our cynicism, our low expectations of others)
Final Word:
Luke 19:26 Message "He said, 'That's what I mean: Risk your life and get more than you ever dreamed of. Play it safe and end up holding the bag.
Family Recipes Part 4
Pastor Tony Ashmore
Sunday, November 29, 2009
www.churchatmirrorlake.com
Sermon Notes:
Philippians 4:10 (Message) “I'm glad in God, far happier than you would ever guess…I've found the recipe for being happy whether full or hungry, hands full or hands empty. Whatever I have, wherever I am, I can make it through anything in the One who makes me who I am…”
Main Point: God’s family recipe is risky. The family He wanted has rejected and betrayed Him, yet He keeps on loving. Today, we will look at the ingredients of His recipe for family—Dangerous Love
Dangerous Love
1. Every Time He Drove a Nail—When did He know? We know that by the time He was 12, He knew the scriptures and His place in them. Yet, He loved dangerously. John 6:61-65 “The Spirit alone gives eternal life. Human effort accomplishes nothing. And the very words I have spoken to you are spirit and life. But some of you do not believe me.” (For Jesus knew from the beginning which ones didn’t believe, and he knew who would betray him.) Then he said, “That is why I said that people can’t come to me unless the Father gives them to me.”
2. Risk it all to get it all--John 12:24 "Listen carefully: Unless a grain of wheat is buried in the ground, dead to the world, it is never any more than a grain of wheat. But if it is buried, it sprouts and reproduces itself many times over. In the same way, anyone who holds on to life just as it is destroys that life. But if you let it go, reckless in your love, you'll have it forever, real and eternal.”
3. Dangerous Love Ingredients—(Remember “God is love” 1 John 4:16—so we can interchange ‘God’ and ‘love’ in this passage without compromising the scripture. So we can know the actions of Dangerous Love) 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 “Love is patient and kind. Love is not jealous or boastful or proud or rude. It does not demand its own way. It is not irritable, and it keeps no record of being wronged. It does not rejoice about injustice but rejoices whenever the truth wins out. Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance.”
4. Communion represents Dangerous Love—
a. The Bread and the Wine--Risking it all to become one with Him (Paul said if Jesus was not raised from the dead, then we are fools)
b. The Cross--Risking it all to love ourselves (forgiving ourselves, moving beyond our tendencies and failures to go for the best—the image of God in us)
c. The Candles--Risking it all to love others (Forgiving, reconciling, actively seeking influence by moving past our experiences, our cynicism, our low expectations of others)
Final Word:
Luke 19:26 Message "He said, 'That's what I mean: Risk your life and get more than you ever dreamed of. Play it safe and end up holding the bag.
Monday, November 23, 2009
11/22/09 - Family Recipes PT3 - Pastor Tony Ashmore
Pastor Tony Ashmore continues the series "Family Recipes" with part 3 in this Sunday service.
Family Recipes Part 3
Pastor Tony Ashmore
Sunday, November 22, 2009
www.churchatmirrorlake.com
Sermon Notes:
Philippians 4:10 (Message) “I'm glad in God, far happier than you would ever guess…I've found the recipe for being happy whether full or hungry, hands full or hands empty. Whatever I have, wherever I am, I can make it through anything in the One who makes me who I am…”
Main Point: Sometimes it is our families, those who are supposed to be closer to us than others, that trigger our most destructive and undesirable behaviors. We look at some of the worst things that happened in the Bible and often it was among family members—Cain and Abel, Isaac and Esau, Joseph and his brothers, David and Absalom. We can also find the ingredients for great family, and thriving instead of just surviving family gatherings.
Family Recipes
1. Focus on Celebrating life rather than issues—(don’t compromise your boundaries, but look for ways to release righteousness, peace and joy while others think they’re just sharing a meal) Romans 14:13, 17-19
2. Words that Count—John 14:30 & John 8:26 (words used for Heaven’s purposes or hell’s distractions? Known more for what you are against or what you are for?)
a. Matthew 7:6 Pearls before swine (Do you want people to know how great you are or how great He is?)
3. The Better Thing—Luke 10:38-42 and John 11
2 Different Targets with 2 Different Results
Martha’s target—a memorable meal
Mary’s target—a memorable encounter
Note—we never know what the meal was or how it turned out.
Results are found in John 11:
o Martha is worried about details and can list the reason why things shouldn’t happen
o Mary’s “wasted life” results in those around her being changed—A transformed human will always result in transformed humanity. John 11:45
38 As Jesus and the disciples continued on their way to Jerusalem, they came to a certain village where a woman named Martha welcomed him into her home
40But Martha [overly occupied and too busy] was distracted with much serving (AMP)
38-39She had a sister, Mary, who sat before the Master, hanging on every word he said. But Martha was pulled away by all she had to do in the kitchen. Later, she stepped in, interrupting them. (MESSAGE)
42 One thing only is essential, and Mary has chosen it—it's the main course, and won't be taken from her." (MESSAGE)
40 But Martha was distracted by the big dinner (NLT)
42 Mary has chosen what is best, and it will not be taken away from her." (CEV)
John 11:2 This is the Mary who later poured the expensive perfume on the Lord’s feet and wiped them with her hair
John 11:45 Many of the people who were with Mary believed in Jesus when they saw this happen.
Final Word:
What’s your recipe for making your family time, your gatherings, your time with others, a time when Heaven touches your earth and changes your world?
- Welcome Him
- Lavish your life on Him
- Watch Heaven change your world and those you love!
Family Recipes Part 3
Pastor Tony Ashmore
Sunday, November 22, 2009
www.churchatmirrorlake.com
Sermon Notes:
Philippians 4:10 (Message) “I'm glad in God, far happier than you would ever guess…I've found the recipe for being happy whether full or hungry, hands full or hands empty. Whatever I have, wherever I am, I can make it through anything in the One who makes me who I am…”
Main Point: Sometimes it is our families, those who are supposed to be closer to us than others, that trigger our most destructive and undesirable behaviors. We look at some of the worst things that happened in the Bible and often it was among family members—Cain and Abel, Isaac and Esau, Joseph and his brothers, David and Absalom. We can also find the ingredients for great family, and thriving instead of just surviving family gatherings.
Family Recipes
1. Focus on Celebrating life rather than issues—(don’t compromise your boundaries, but look for ways to release righteousness, peace and joy while others think they’re just sharing a meal) Romans 14:13, 17-19
2. Words that Count—John 14:30 & John 8:26 (words used for Heaven’s purposes or hell’s distractions? Known more for what you are against or what you are for?)
a. Matthew 7:6 Pearls before swine (Do you want people to know how great you are or how great He is?)
3. The Better Thing—Luke 10:38-42 and John 11
2 Different Targets with 2 Different Results
Martha’s target—a memorable meal
Mary’s target—a memorable encounter
Note—we never know what the meal was or how it turned out.
Results are found in John 11:
o Martha is worried about details and can list the reason why things shouldn’t happen
o Mary’s “wasted life” results in those around her being changed—A transformed human will always result in transformed humanity. John 11:45
38 As Jesus and the disciples continued on their way to Jerusalem, they came to a certain village where a woman named Martha welcomed him into her home
40But Martha [overly occupied and too busy] was distracted with much serving (AMP)
38-39She had a sister, Mary, who sat before the Master, hanging on every word he said. But Martha was pulled away by all she had to do in the kitchen. Later, she stepped in, interrupting them. (MESSAGE)
42 One thing only is essential, and Mary has chosen it—it's the main course, and won't be taken from her." (MESSAGE)
40 But Martha was distracted by the big dinner (NLT)
42 Mary has chosen what is best, and it will not be taken away from her." (CEV)
John 11:2 This is the Mary who later poured the expensive perfume on the Lord’s feet and wiped them with her hair
John 11:45 Many of the people who were with Mary believed in Jesus when they saw this happen.
Final Word:
What’s your recipe for making your family time, your gatherings, your time with others, a time when Heaven touches your earth and changes your world?
- Welcome Him
- Lavish your life on Him
- Watch Heaven change your world and those you love!
Thursday, November 19, 2009
11/18/09 - What's Next PT3 - Pastor Tony Ashmore
Pastor Tony Ashmore continues the series "What's Next" in this Wednesday evening service.
What's Next - Part 3
Pastor Tony Ashmore
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
www.churchatmirrorlake.com
What's Next - Part 3
Pastor Tony Ashmore
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
www.churchatmirrorlake.com
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
11/15/09 - Family Recipes PT2 - Pastor Tony Ashmore
Pastor Tony Ashmore continues the series "Family Recipes" with part 2 in this Sunday service.
Family Recipes Part 2
Pastor Tony Ashmore
Sunday, November 15, 2009
www.churchatmirrorlake.com
Sermon Notes:
Philippians 4:10 (Message) “I'm glad in God, far happier than you would ever guess…I've found the recipe for being happy whether full or hungry, hands full or hands empty. Whatever I have, wherever I am, I can make it through anything in the One who makes me who I am…”
Main Point: There are lots of recipes. They all look similar—List of ingredients, mixing and cooking directions—but what sets them apart is the end result—what they produce. A recipe is like a kitchen version of DNA—science can identify the ingredients but they cannot identify the directions that produce life. Our recipe, our DNA, makes us unique and can be used to identify us beyond a doubt. God has a recipe for life that, like DNA, will give us identity and declare us innocent of the charges against us. But it takes more than knowing the ingredients and the directions—we must love what it produces.
What makes a great recipe?
1. Ingredients
- 2 Peter 1: 3-4 “By his divine power, God has given us everything we need for living a godly life. We have received all of this by coming to know him, the one who called us to himself by means of his marvelous glory and excellence. And because of his glory and excellence, he has given us great and precious promises. These are the promises that enable you to share his divine nature and escape the world’s corruption caused by human desires.”
a. We have what we need, the ingredients, the DNA, to live a rich and satisfying life. Note: what we desire is the determining ingredient.
b. It is not enough to have the ingredients—we must have the directions. The same ingredients God has given us for life can produce religion. Instead of freedom, they can be used to produce control and bondage. Instead of relationship, they produce rules and regulations.
2. Directions
- Joshua 1:6-8 “Be strong and courageous, for you are the one who will lead these people to possess all the land I swore to their ancestors I would give them. Be strong and very courageous. Be careful to obey all the instructions Moses gave you. Do not deviate from them, turning either to the right or to the left. Then you will be successful in everything you do. Study this Book of Instruction continually. Meditate on it day and night so you will be sure to obey everything written in it. Only then will you prosper and succeed in all you do.”
a. 1 Samuel 15:22 “What is more pleasing to the Lord: your burnt offerings and sacrifices or your obedience to his voice? Listen! Obedience is better than sacrifice, and submission is better than offering the fat of rams.” We like to experiment with the recipe. Why? Because some recipes have actually been improved through experimentation. But, then there are the tried and true ones. The ones that just work if you follow the directions. Note: our offerings and sacrifices are burnt!
b. John 14:21 “Those who accept my commandments and obey them are the ones who love me.” Note the 1st direction is always to fall in love with God. The rest of the directions are dependent on the first one.
3. “The Proof is in the Pudding”
- Psalm 34:8 “Taste and see that the Lord is good. Oh, the joys of those who take refuge in him!”
• We can only know the recipe is a good one when we have tasted the results. Others can tell us about it, describe how it tastes to them, but until we taste for ourselves we don’t know if it is a recipe we want to use.
• Once we have tasted and found it good, then we are willing to make it a part of our “cookbook”. Then it becomes part of our culture—our DNA.
Final Word:
Like the batter of a great recipe—the waste—that we cannot just throw away, we lick the mixer paddles, clean the bowl, make ice cream flavors based on it—we can determine our DNA-the recipes we are choosing for life—by what we are “wasting” our lives on. 2 instances of waste in the New Testament—
1. The Prodigal Son who wasted his inheritance on what was supposed to be life, and
2. Mary of Bethany—who those watching her pour out a year of her life’s earnings on Jesus described as wasteful. I have decided to waste my life on Jesus.
Family Recipes Part 2
Pastor Tony Ashmore
Sunday, November 15, 2009
www.churchatmirrorlake.com
Sermon Notes:
Philippians 4:10 (Message) “I'm glad in God, far happier than you would ever guess…I've found the recipe for being happy whether full or hungry, hands full or hands empty. Whatever I have, wherever I am, I can make it through anything in the One who makes me who I am…”
Main Point: There are lots of recipes. They all look similar—List of ingredients, mixing and cooking directions—but what sets them apart is the end result—what they produce. A recipe is like a kitchen version of DNA—science can identify the ingredients but they cannot identify the directions that produce life. Our recipe, our DNA, makes us unique and can be used to identify us beyond a doubt. God has a recipe for life that, like DNA, will give us identity and declare us innocent of the charges against us. But it takes more than knowing the ingredients and the directions—we must love what it produces.
What makes a great recipe?
1. Ingredients
- 2 Peter 1: 3-4 “By his divine power, God has given us everything we need for living a godly life. We have received all of this by coming to know him, the one who called us to himself by means of his marvelous glory and excellence. And because of his glory and excellence, he has given us great and precious promises. These are the promises that enable you to share his divine nature and escape the world’s corruption caused by human desires.”
a. We have what we need, the ingredients, the DNA, to live a rich and satisfying life. Note: what we desire is the determining ingredient.
b. It is not enough to have the ingredients—we must have the directions. The same ingredients God has given us for life can produce religion. Instead of freedom, they can be used to produce control and bondage. Instead of relationship, they produce rules and regulations.
2. Directions
- Joshua 1:6-8 “Be strong and courageous, for you are the one who will lead these people to possess all the land I swore to their ancestors I would give them. Be strong and very courageous. Be careful to obey all the instructions Moses gave you. Do not deviate from them, turning either to the right or to the left. Then you will be successful in everything you do. Study this Book of Instruction continually. Meditate on it day and night so you will be sure to obey everything written in it. Only then will you prosper and succeed in all you do.”
a. 1 Samuel 15:22 “What is more pleasing to the Lord: your burnt offerings and sacrifices or your obedience to his voice? Listen! Obedience is better than sacrifice, and submission is better than offering the fat of rams.” We like to experiment with the recipe. Why? Because some recipes have actually been improved through experimentation. But, then there are the tried and true ones. The ones that just work if you follow the directions. Note: our offerings and sacrifices are burnt!
b. John 14:21 “Those who accept my commandments and obey them are the ones who love me.” Note the 1st direction is always to fall in love with God. The rest of the directions are dependent on the first one.
3. “The Proof is in the Pudding”
- Psalm 34:8 “Taste and see that the Lord is good. Oh, the joys of those who take refuge in him!”
• We can only know the recipe is a good one when we have tasted the results. Others can tell us about it, describe how it tastes to them, but until we taste for ourselves we don’t know if it is a recipe we want to use.
• Once we have tasted and found it good, then we are willing to make it a part of our “cookbook”. Then it becomes part of our culture—our DNA.
Final Word:
Like the batter of a great recipe—the waste—that we cannot just throw away, we lick the mixer paddles, clean the bowl, make ice cream flavors based on it—we can determine our DNA-the recipes we are choosing for life—by what we are “wasting” our lives on. 2 instances of waste in the New Testament—
1. The Prodigal Son who wasted his inheritance on what was supposed to be life, and
2. Mary of Bethany—who those watching her pour out a year of her life’s earnings on Jesus described as wasteful. I have decided to waste my life on Jesus.
Thursday, November 12, 2009
11/11/09 - What's Next PT2 - Tony Sherrill
Tony Sherrill continues "What's Next" in part 2 of the series in this Wednesday evening service.
What's Next Part 2
Tony Sherrill
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
www.churchatmirrorlake.com
What's Next Part 2
Tony Sherrill
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
www.churchatmirrorlake.com
Sunday, November 8, 2009
11/08/09 - Family Recipes PT1 - Pastor Tony Ashmore
Pastor Tony Ashmore begins a new series entitled "Family Recipes" with part 1 in this Sunday service.
Family Recipes Part 1
Pastor Tony Ashmore
Sunday, November 08, 2009
www.churchatmirrorlake.com
Sermon Notes:
Philippians 4:10 (Message) “I'm glad in God, far happier than you would ever guess…I've found the recipe for being happy whether full or hungry, hands full or hands empty. Whatever I have, wherever I am, I can make it through anything in the One who makes me who I am…”
Main Point: This month we will celebrate Thanksgiving by coming together and sharing a meal. That meal evokes memories—favorite dishes prepared by favorite people. Those favorite dishes are the result of a recipe—a combination of ingredients that end up producing memories and even identification—Shirley’s Strawberry Cake, Sheryll’s Sweet Potato Casserole, Amy’s Mac’n Cheese.
In the same way, the Bible gives us recipes for great life. There are defined combinations of ingredients that will produce rich and satisfying life. This month we will explore those recipes from God’s Word together.
Recipe for Life…Luke 15:11-24—A Ring, A Robe, and A Party
1. A Ring--He Knows My Name
- Isaiah 49:16 “See, I have written your name on the palms of my hands…”
a. My name means something to Him, even if it means nothing to me. My name, my identity, is important to Him. He knows every hair on my head and every tear I have ever cried. He has never left me, and will never leave me.
b. My name, my purpose, are still intact with Him. The prodigal had spent the inheritance, wasted on the illusion of life promised by the world’s culture. Yet it was restored with the restoration of the ring—his identity and his place in his family. The ring represented the authority of the Father. It carried the weight of His name and the inheritance of His Kingdom.
2. A Robe--Time Has Not Altered My Value to Him
- Matthew 13:45-46 “Again, the Kingdom of Heaven is like a merchant on the lookout for choice pearls. When he discovered a pearl of great value, he sold everything he owned and bought it!”
a. Everything the prodigal had done, all the wasted time and resources, all the regrets and “if only’s”, had not de-valued him to His father. Through the cycle of trying to find worth through a life defined by the world’s culture, of the demoralizing realization of failure, through the humbling walk back, ready to be relegated to a lesser role, his value with His Father remained the same.
b. He knows me and He loves me—now and forevermore.
- Hebrews 4:13-16 - 13 Nothing in all creation is hidden from God. Everything is naked and exposed before his eyes, and he is the one to whom we are accountable. 14 So then, since we have a great High Priest who has entered heaven, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to what we believe. 15 This High Priest of ours understands our weaknesses, for he faced all of the same testings we do, yet he did not sin. 16 So let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive his mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it most.
3. A Party—Surround me with Family
- Ephesians 1:3-6 (Message) - How blessed is God! And what a blessing he is! He's the Father of our Master, Jesus Christ, and takes us to the high places of blessing in him. Long before he laid down earth's foundations, he had us in mind, had settled on us as the focus of his love, to be made whole and holy by his love. Long, long ago he decided to adopt us into his family through Jesus Christ. (What pleasure he took in planning this!) He wanted us to enter into the celebration of his lavish gift-giving by the hand of his beloved Son.
Family Recipes Part 1
Pastor Tony Ashmore
Sunday, November 08, 2009
www.churchatmirrorlake.com
Sermon Notes:
Philippians 4:10 (Message) “I'm glad in God, far happier than you would ever guess…I've found the recipe for being happy whether full or hungry, hands full or hands empty. Whatever I have, wherever I am, I can make it through anything in the One who makes me who I am…”
Main Point: This month we will celebrate Thanksgiving by coming together and sharing a meal. That meal evokes memories—favorite dishes prepared by favorite people. Those favorite dishes are the result of a recipe—a combination of ingredients that end up producing memories and even identification—Shirley’s Strawberry Cake, Sheryll’s Sweet Potato Casserole, Amy’s Mac’n Cheese.
In the same way, the Bible gives us recipes for great life. There are defined combinations of ingredients that will produce rich and satisfying life. This month we will explore those recipes from God’s Word together.
Recipe for Life…Luke 15:11-24—A Ring, A Robe, and A Party
1. A Ring--He Knows My Name
- Isaiah 49:16 “See, I have written your name on the palms of my hands…”
a. My name means something to Him, even if it means nothing to me. My name, my identity, is important to Him. He knows every hair on my head and every tear I have ever cried. He has never left me, and will never leave me.
b. My name, my purpose, are still intact with Him. The prodigal had spent the inheritance, wasted on the illusion of life promised by the world’s culture. Yet it was restored with the restoration of the ring—his identity and his place in his family. The ring represented the authority of the Father. It carried the weight of His name and the inheritance of His Kingdom.
2. A Robe--Time Has Not Altered My Value to Him
- Matthew 13:45-46 “Again, the Kingdom of Heaven is like a merchant on the lookout for choice pearls. When he discovered a pearl of great value, he sold everything he owned and bought it!”
a. Everything the prodigal had done, all the wasted time and resources, all the regrets and “if only’s”, had not de-valued him to His father. Through the cycle of trying to find worth through a life defined by the world’s culture, of the demoralizing realization of failure, through the humbling walk back, ready to be relegated to a lesser role, his value with His Father remained the same.
b. He knows me and He loves me—now and forevermore.
- Hebrews 4:13-16 - 13 Nothing in all creation is hidden from God. Everything is naked and exposed before his eyes, and he is the one to whom we are accountable. 14 So then, since we have a great High Priest who has entered heaven, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to what we believe. 15 This High Priest of ours understands our weaknesses, for he faced all of the same testings we do, yet he did not sin. 16 So let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive his mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it most.
3. A Party—Surround me with Family
- Ephesians 1:3-6 (Message) - How blessed is God! And what a blessing he is! He's the Father of our Master, Jesus Christ, and takes us to the high places of blessing in him. Long before he laid down earth's foundations, he had us in mind, had settled on us as the focus of his love, to be made whole and holy by his love. Long, long ago he decided to adopt us into his family through Jesus Christ. (What pleasure he took in planning this!) He wanted us to enter into the celebration of his lavish gift-giving by the hand of his beloved Son.
Saturday, November 7, 2009
11/04/09 - What's Next - Pastor Tony Ashmore
Pastor Tony Ashmore begins a new series entitled "What's Next" in this Wednesday evening service.
What's Next?
Pastor Tony Ashmore
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
www.churchatmirrorlake.com
What's Next?
Pastor Tony Ashmore
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
www.churchatmirrorlake.com
Monday, November 2, 2009
11/01/09 - Vision Sunday - Pastor Sheryll Ashmore
Pastor Sheryll Ashmore discusses "Where Am I and Why?" in this Vision Sunday message.
Vision Sunday - Where Am I and Why?
Pastor Sheryll Ashmore
Sunday, November 1, 2009
www.churchatmirrorlake.com
Sermon Notes:
Where Am I and Why?
In life, in relationships (with God and others), on the job, in my church
Vision Sunday-November 2009-Year coming to a close-Let’s look at our ministry model and set some goals for the remainder of 2009 and next year.
Ready to grow? If not, why? How do you feel when you hear the challenge to grow? This reveals the condition of our hearts.
Truth is: you’ve been called to greatness! God intends for us to lead a great life.
* Luke 7:28 “I tell you, of all who have ever lived, none is greater than John. Yet even the least person in the Kingdom of God is greater than he is.”
* John 14:12 “I tell you the truth, anyone who believes in me will do the same works I have done, and even greater works, because I am going to be with the Father.”
Why does God want us to live great lives?
* Matthew 23:11 “The greatest among you must be a servant.” Life is not supposed to happen to us-we are supposed to be intentional and make the most of our life by serving others on purpose.
- His greatest desire is for us to live a life that looks beyond ourselves to see the needs and the hurts of others. This means we must continue to mature in our Christian walk. Left to our own thoughts, this does not come naturally. It happens as we allow His love to live in and through us.
Characteristics and excuses for where we are:
- I’ve been hurt (we forget we have also hurt others and hope and expect that they will forgive and move one) So much easier to focus on the times when we’ve been hurt, rather than those times we’ve done the hurting.
- I don’t have time. (grow and mature right where you are-simply make the most effective use of your life-get intentional about being the best coach ever in your home, on the job, doing what you are already doing at church)
Our reaction to life defines us: Those things or people that anger us, make us afraid control us. Others are watching to see if we live out what we say we believe.
- What comes out of our mouth in tough situations? The way you talk gives you away.
- Where was I this time last year? Have I shrunk, stayed the same, grown? Even if I identified myself as a coach last year, I should continue to grow and mature.
The Stadium Scenario
1.) Spectator: person who watches event
What’s in it for me?
Hope I get my money’s worth.
Judgmental
Critical
Notice things need to be done and wonder who will do it-no personal investment
Do I commit or not?
Examples: They do this or that. What do you do about this? They could have done that better. I could do better than them.
I stay here because:
I just can’t make a decision
I’m afraid I don’t have what it takes
* Luke 17:20 NKJV-“The kingdom of God does not come with observation…”
2.) Fan: person enthusiastic about an interest
I do get my money’s worth
I like it
I see things that need to be done or could be done better, but I’m pretty happy watching others do it.
I do cheer others on
Examples: Rah! Rah! Rah! You can do it. You do the work and I’ll cheer you on.
Look at how great our children’s ministry is-they do such a great job.
I stay here because:
I’m having a blast. I’m good at cheering others on. They need me to motivate them. It doesn’t really require much of me.
* Mark 9:40 NLT-“Anyone who is not against is for us.” Spectators and fans are “for us” people. Players and Coaches are “with us” folks.
3.) Player: a person who takes part
I am just not happy watching others make it happen
I am more invested and really want to participate in the victory
It’s important to me that the team performs well and we get the victory
Examples: We can do it. Hey-I’ll help you with that.
Did you notice we need_________? What should be done about that?
I stay here because:
If I go any further, I’m all in. Am I ready for that?
I’m doing great right where I am, why do I need anything more?
I’m really good at what I do. Wouldn’t it be better if I continue doing it?
* Matthew 5:1-2-Message-“When Jesus saw his ministry drawing huge crowds, he climbed a hillside. Those who were apprenticed to him, the committed, climbed with him. Arriving at a quiet place, he sat down and taught his climbing companions.”
4.) Coach: a person who instructs and aligns
It’s important to me that others find their place on the team
I look at the overall game plan and am no longer focused on just “my” area
I notice when something needs to be done in any area and don’t want on someone else to jump in there-if it needs to be done, I can do it.
My greatest joy is helping others find their gifts, get on the right seat on the bus and do well.
Examples: continually casting vision, sees the big picture, understands the importance of the entire team
Our overall game plan is: vision
Tell me what you like to do: making it happen
I know where your gift can be used effectively
I stay here because:
Where else would I be?
This is where I find the greatest level of satisfaction and fulfillment.
This is where I can serve others best
Once I’ve realized all of this, why would I go back to anything else?
In fact, I want to get better and better at coaching
* 1 Corinthians 9:19 “Even though I am a free man with no master, I have become a slave to all people to bring many to Christ.”
Four Groups of People Involved With Every Great Adventure:
1) Those who participate in the whole adventure (with us)
2) Those who started but did not finish (for us)
3) Those who waved at the adventurers from the dock (for us)
4) Those who didn’t even know there was an adventure going on (oblivious)
At the end of the day, I want to be in for the whole adventure. I want people to know I was with them, sold out to make sure they achieved their God-given destiny. I don’t want live to pass me by and I’m oblivious to what’s going on. I want my life to count for the Kingdom of God-I want to be someone He can use to bring many to Christ.
Vision Sunday - Where Am I and Why?
Pastor Sheryll Ashmore
Sunday, November 1, 2009
www.churchatmirrorlake.com
Sermon Notes:
Where Am I and Why?
In life, in relationships (with God and others), on the job, in my church
Vision Sunday-November 2009-Year coming to a close-Let’s look at our ministry model and set some goals for the remainder of 2009 and next year.
Ready to grow? If not, why? How do you feel when you hear the challenge to grow? This reveals the condition of our hearts.
Truth is: you’ve been called to greatness! God intends for us to lead a great life.
* Luke 7:28 “I tell you, of all who have ever lived, none is greater than John. Yet even the least person in the Kingdom of God is greater than he is.”
* John 14:12 “I tell you the truth, anyone who believes in me will do the same works I have done, and even greater works, because I am going to be with the Father.”
Why does God want us to live great lives?
* Matthew 23:11 “The greatest among you must be a servant.” Life is not supposed to happen to us-we are supposed to be intentional and make the most of our life by serving others on purpose.
- His greatest desire is for us to live a life that looks beyond ourselves to see the needs and the hurts of others. This means we must continue to mature in our Christian walk. Left to our own thoughts, this does not come naturally. It happens as we allow His love to live in and through us.
Characteristics and excuses for where we are:
- I’ve been hurt (we forget we have also hurt others and hope and expect that they will forgive and move one) So much easier to focus on the times when we’ve been hurt, rather than those times we’ve done the hurting.
- I don’t have time. (grow and mature right where you are-simply make the most effective use of your life-get intentional about being the best coach ever in your home, on the job, doing what you are already doing at church)
Our reaction to life defines us: Those things or people that anger us, make us afraid control us. Others are watching to see if we live out what we say we believe.
- What comes out of our mouth in tough situations? The way you talk gives you away.
- Where was I this time last year? Have I shrunk, stayed the same, grown? Even if I identified myself as a coach last year, I should continue to grow and mature.
The Stadium Scenario
1.) Spectator: person who watches event
What’s in it for me?
Hope I get my money’s worth.
Judgmental
Critical
Notice things need to be done and wonder who will do it-no personal investment
Do I commit or not?
Examples: They do this or that. What do you do about this? They could have done that better. I could do better than them.
I stay here because:
I just can’t make a decision
I’m afraid I don’t have what it takes
* Luke 17:20 NKJV-“The kingdom of God does not come with observation…”
2.) Fan: person enthusiastic about an interest
I do get my money’s worth
I like it
I see things that need to be done or could be done better, but I’m pretty happy watching others do it.
I do cheer others on
Examples: Rah! Rah! Rah! You can do it. You do the work and I’ll cheer you on.
Look at how great our children’s ministry is-they do such a great job.
I stay here because:
I’m having a blast. I’m good at cheering others on. They need me to motivate them. It doesn’t really require much of me.
* Mark 9:40 NLT-“Anyone who is not against is for us.” Spectators and fans are “for us” people. Players and Coaches are “with us” folks.
3.) Player: a person who takes part
I am just not happy watching others make it happen
I am more invested and really want to participate in the victory
It’s important to me that the team performs well and we get the victory
Examples: We can do it. Hey-I’ll help you with that.
Did you notice we need_________? What should be done about that?
I stay here because:
If I go any further, I’m all in. Am I ready for that?
I’m doing great right where I am, why do I need anything more?
I’m really good at what I do. Wouldn’t it be better if I continue doing it?
* Matthew 5:1-2-Message-“When Jesus saw his ministry drawing huge crowds, he climbed a hillside. Those who were apprenticed to him, the committed, climbed with him. Arriving at a quiet place, he sat down and taught his climbing companions.”
4.) Coach: a person who instructs and aligns
It’s important to me that others find their place on the team
I look at the overall game plan and am no longer focused on just “my” area
I notice when something needs to be done in any area and don’t want on someone else to jump in there-if it needs to be done, I can do it.
My greatest joy is helping others find their gifts, get on the right seat on the bus and do well.
Examples: continually casting vision, sees the big picture, understands the importance of the entire team
Our overall game plan is: vision
Tell me what you like to do: making it happen
I know where your gift can be used effectively
I stay here because:
Where else would I be?
This is where I find the greatest level of satisfaction and fulfillment.
This is where I can serve others best
Once I’ve realized all of this, why would I go back to anything else?
In fact, I want to get better and better at coaching
* 1 Corinthians 9:19 “Even though I am a free man with no master, I have become a slave to all people to bring many to Christ.”
Four Groups of People Involved With Every Great Adventure:
1) Those who participate in the whole adventure (with us)
2) Those who started but did not finish (for us)
3) Those who waved at the adventurers from the dock (for us)
4) Those who didn’t even know there was an adventure going on (oblivious)
At the end of the day, I want to be in for the whole adventure. I want people to know I was with them, sold out to make sure they achieved their God-given destiny. I don’t want live to pass me by and I’m oblivious to what’s going on. I want my life to count for the Kingdom of God-I want to be someone He can use to bring many to Christ.
Thursday, October 29, 2009
10/28/09 - Africa Missions Update
The Africa Missions team discusses their trip and the impact that our church has made on others in this Wednesday evening service.
Africa Missions Update
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
www.churchatmirrorlake.com
Africa Missions Update
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
www.churchatmirrorlake.com
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
2 Corinthians 9:10 “For God is the one who provides seed for the farmer
and then bread to eat. In the same way, he will provide and increase your
resources and then produce a great harvest of generosity in you.”
Protecting Your Harvest:
You have planted your seed; you’ve given your offering. You have expectations of a harvest from your seed. So now it’s all in God’s hands and your responsibility is over, right? No way. The offering is not the end; in fact it is probably more of a beginning. As we see in Paul’s writing to the Church at Corinth, it is God’s desire to see a continual harvest of generosity in our lives.
He gives us the seed so that living open-handed becomes a lifestyle rather than an event. It is important to Him for us to receive the intended harvest so we can truly live generously.
Most of us know the Parable of the Sower from the Gospels. In it, Jesus explains how the key to Kingdom harvest is our hearts, our souls. The parable is also a practical look at effective sowing and reaping. Let’s look at some tips from Jesus on making sure your seed produces a harvest.
o Key Thought #1: Matthew 13:4 “As he scattered them across his field, some seeds fell on a footpath, and the birds came and ate them.”
The birds are eating the seed on the path. The birds represent our enemy-satan and the forces of darkness, and the path represents the choices we make. Our harvest is dependent on protecting our thoughts. As we walk our “path” we will encounter “crossroads” where choices are made. It is here where our enemy seeks to steal our seed. Our choices cannot be driven by fear, doubt or unbelief. They must be a response to God’s Word. Protect your seed by speaking the Word over it. When wrong thinking comes—thoughts like “I should not have given” or “I could have used that money somewhere else”—immediately respond with God’s promises. Note that when Jesus was tempted by satan in the wilderness there is no gap, no hesitation, between satan’s words toward Him and His response with God’s Word. Stay on the path to a full harvest by filling your soul with God’s promises concerning you and your harvest.
o Key Thought #2: Matthew 13:5-6 “Other seeds fell on shallow soil with underlying rock. The seeds sprouted quickly because the soil was shallow. But the plants soon wilted under the hot sun, and since they didn’t have deep roots, they died.”
Here, Jesus lets us know that our seed will be attacked and the key to victory is deep roots. In Ephesians 3:17 Paul tells us that sinking our roots deep into God’s love will release the power of Christ in our faith. In Colossians 2:7, Paul teaches us that thanksgiving is how we become firmly established. In the “heat” of the attack—negative thoughts, fear, doubt or unbelief—sink your roots deep by giving thanks to God for His unconditional love towards us. Fill your heart and your mouth with His praise. In Leviticus 19:19, God warns us that planting two types of seed in the same field will destroy the harvest. When we live with an attitude of gratitude, we keep the negative seeds of doubt, fear and unbelief from messing up the good seed in our field.
o Key Thought #3: Matthew 13:7 “Other seeds fell among thorns that grew up and choked out the tender plants.” Jesus describes the thorns as allowing things to become complicated by the worries and concerns of this world. In Jeremiah 4:3, the Lord warns us that these complications will harden our hearts and choke our harvest.
So how do we keep it simple—
o First, remember a seed cannot produce unless it dies. Release your ownership of the seed. It never was ours to begin with, but we sometimes take ownership of it with our thoughts. It was God’s before you had it, it was God’s when you had it, and it is God’s now that you have planted it. Don’t dig it up by taking ownership of it with worry. Don’t allow complications—bills, unforeseen circumstances, etc.—to birth worry and concern that will dig up the seed. Thank Him for being trustworthy. Remember His promise of a guaranteed harvest. Galatians 6:9 “So let’s not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don’t give up.”
o Second, stay focused. You were focused with the seed. Be focused with the harvest. God’s defined harvest is generosity. Keep finding ways to be generous. When you receive harvest, use it to position yourself for greater generosity. Don’t just spend it thoughtlessly. Be as thoughtful with the harvest as you were with the seed. Give generously, pay off debt. Put yourself in a place where God can pour more harvest through you to advance His Kingdom!
o Key Thought #4: Matthew 13:8 “Still other seeds fell on fertile soil, and they produced a crop that was thirty, sixty, and even a hundred times as much as had been planted!”
Jesus is challenging us to think in Kingdom realms. Think bigger, expect bigger. Our God wants to release a harvest in us and through us that is bigger than we can ask or think. Train yourself to be fertile, rich soil by thinking God-sized thoughts. Pray expectantly, speak expectantly, plan expectantly. Don’t settle for a minimal harvest. Our God is faithful and our enemy is on the prowl for unprotected and unclaimed harvest. Live by faith. Challenge yourself daily by believing and confessing greatness. Jesus plainly states here that we should not only be expecting a harvest, but that we should be expecting big!
and then bread to eat. In the same way, he will provide and increase your
resources and then produce a great harvest of generosity in you.”
Protecting Your Harvest:
You have planted your seed; you’ve given your offering. You have expectations of a harvest from your seed. So now it’s all in God’s hands and your responsibility is over, right? No way. The offering is not the end; in fact it is probably more of a beginning. As we see in Paul’s writing to the Church at Corinth, it is God’s desire to see a continual harvest of generosity in our lives.
He gives us the seed so that living open-handed becomes a lifestyle rather than an event. It is important to Him for us to receive the intended harvest so we can truly live generously.
Most of us know the Parable of the Sower from the Gospels. In it, Jesus explains how the key to Kingdom harvest is our hearts, our souls. The parable is also a practical look at effective sowing and reaping. Let’s look at some tips from Jesus on making sure your seed produces a harvest.
o Key Thought #1: Matthew 13:4 “As he scattered them across his field, some seeds fell on a footpath, and the birds came and ate them.”
The birds are eating the seed on the path. The birds represent our enemy-satan and the forces of darkness, and the path represents the choices we make. Our harvest is dependent on protecting our thoughts. As we walk our “path” we will encounter “crossroads” where choices are made. It is here where our enemy seeks to steal our seed. Our choices cannot be driven by fear, doubt or unbelief. They must be a response to God’s Word. Protect your seed by speaking the Word over it. When wrong thinking comes—thoughts like “I should not have given” or “I could have used that money somewhere else”—immediately respond with God’s promises. Note that when Jesus was tempted by satan in the wilderness there is no gap, no hesitation, between satan’s words toward Him and His response with God’s Word. Stay on the path to a full harvest by filling your soul with God’s promises concerning you and your harvest.
o Key Thought #2: Matthew 13:5-6 “Other seeds fell on shallow soil with underlying rock. The seeds sprouted quickly because the soil was shallow. But the plants soon wilted under the hot sun, and since they didn’t have deep roots, they died.”
Here, Jesus lets us know that our seed will be attacked and the key to victory is deep roots. In Ephesians 3:17 Paul tells us that sinking our roots deep into God’s love will release the power of Christ in our faith. In Colossians 2:7, Paul teaches us that thanksgiving is how we become firmly established. In the “heat” of the attack—negative thoughts, fear, doubt or unbelief—sink your roots deep by giving thanks to God for His unconditional love towards us. Fill your heart and your mouth with His praise. In Leviticus 19:19, God warns us that planting two types of seed in the same field will destroy the harvest. When we live with an attitude of gratitude, we keep the negative seeds of doubt, fear and unbelief from messing up the good seed in our field.
o Key Thought #3: Matthew 13:7 “Other seeds fell among thorns that grew up and choked out the tender plants.” Jesus describes the thorns as allowing things to become complicated by the worries and concerns of this world. In Jeremiah 4:3, the Lord warns us that these complications will harden our hearts and choke our harvest.
So how do we keep it simple—
o First, remember a seed cannot produce unless it dies. Release your ownership of the seed. It never was ours to begin with, but we sometimes take ownership of it with our thoughts. It was God’s before you had it, it was God’s when you had it, and it is God’s now that you have planted it. Don’t dig it up by taking ownership of it with worry. Don’t allow complications—bills, unforeseen circumstances, etc.—to birth worry and concern that will dig up the seed. Thank Him for being trustworthy. Remember His promise of a guaranteed harvest. Galatians 6:9 “So let’s not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don’t give up.”
o Second, stay focused. You were focused with the seed. Be focused with the harvest. God’s defined harvest is generosity. Keep finding ways to be generous. When you receive harvest, use it to position yourself for greater generosity. Don’t just spend it thoughtlessly. Be as thoughtful with the harvest as you were with the seed. Give generously, pay off debt. Put yourself in a place where God can pour more harvest through you to advance His Kingdom!
o Key Thought #4: Matthew 13:8 “Still other seeds fell on fertile soil, and they produced a crop that was thirty, sixty, and even a hundred times as much as had been planted!”
Jesus is challenging us to think in Kingdom realms. Think bigger, expect bigger. Our God wants to release a harvest in us and through us that is bigger than we can ask or think. Train yourself to be fertile, rich soil by thinking God-sized thoughts. Pray expectantly, speak expectantly, plan expectantly. Don’t settle for a minimal harvest. Our God is faithful and our enemy is on the prowl for unprotected and unclaimed harvest. Live by faith. Challenge yourself daily by believing and confessing greatness. Jesus plainly states here that we should not only be expecting a harvest, but that we should be expecting big!
Monday, October 26, 2009
10/25/09 - GameDay PT3 - Generosity - Pastor Tony Ashmore
Pastor Tony Ashmore continues the series "GameDay - Are You Playing To Win?" with part 3 - Generosity "Living With An Open Hand".
GameDay PT3 - Generosity
Pastor Tony Ashmore
Sunday, October 25, 2009
www.churchatmirrorlake.com
Sermon Notes:
Turn Loose and Score
- Deuteronomy 15:7 “Live with an open hand. Don’t be tight-fisted with the blessings the Lord gives you.”
* Note what living with a closed hand does to your body. Open your hand and the whole body feels more relaxed. You cannot hit the long bomb and score profusely unless you turn loose of the ball!
Follow the Playbook
- Psalm 145:16 “You open Your hand And satisfy the desire of every living thing.”
* When we live with an open hand, we are living in the image of our Father—like Jesus did (“I say what I hear Him say and I do what I see Him do.”). His plans for us are better than our plans for us and His plans benefit the whole Kingdom, not just our kingdom.
Open Up the Field
- Proverbs 11:24(Message) "The world of the generous gets larger and larger; the world of the stingy gets smaller and smaller."
* Scoring in the “Redzone” is tougher because the field is smaller and easier for the defense to protect. Living with an open hand creates more opportunities, keeps our enemy on his heels, and is just more fun. It is the faith race instead of the rat race. It is a grace-filled life of wonder instead of a stress-filled life of worry.
Final Word
We all have things we hold with an open hand and things we hold with a closed hand. There’s a big difference between the two. To hold something with an open hand is to have it in your possession, to have rights to it, but not to protect it or view it as an entitlement. To hold something with a closed hand is to clench it and refuse to let it go. There are few things we hold with a tighter fist than money. Or what we call our money. Yet there is no better indication of someone’s heart than holding their money with an open hand and generosity for kingdom work. How closed is your hand on money?
You can know how tightly you hold things when they are threatened to be taken away. We want to be in control. We want to self-manage everything. This is where Paul’s example of missional, Christ-focused living is so helpful. For Paul, his rights were things he held with an open hand. If it is best for the kingdom of God, I’ll give them up. Go without. Make tents. Not have a wife along. Not receive support. Open Hand. Anything for the Kingdom. He said it this way in Philippians 1:21, “For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.” He held his whole life with an open hand. Was Paul a fool or did he realize something we often don’t?
In the words of Jim Elliot, “He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain what he cannot lose.” It only seems like we can hold on to anything. What do we really control? Nothing. God is glorified when we trust Him enough to hold everything with an open hand. God, you can take these from me because I believe what you will do with them is better than what I would do with them. I want what you want, therefore all I have is yours. I have trusted you with my eternity; I can offer everything else to you as well.
GameDay PT3 - Generosity
Pastor Tony Ashmore
Sunday, October 25, 2009
www.churchatmirrorlake.com
Sermon Notes:
Turn Loose and Score
- Deuteronomy 15:7 “Live with an open hand. Don’t be tight-fisted with the blessings the Lord gives you.”
* Note what living with a closed hand does to your body. Open your hand and the whole body feels more relaxed. You cannot hit the long bomb and score profusely unless you turn loose of the ball!
Follow the Playbook
- Psalm 145:16 “You open Your hand And satisfy the desire of every living thing.”
* When we live with an open hand, we are living in the image of our Father—like Jesus did (“I say what I hear Him say and I do what I see Him do.”). His plans for us are better than our plans for us and His plans benefit the whole Kingdom, not just our kingdom.
Open Up the Field
- Proverbs 11:24(Message) "The world of the generous gets larger and larger; the world of the stingy gets smaller and smaller."
* Scoring in the “Redzone” is tougher because the field is smaller and easier for the defense to protect. Living with an open hand creates more opportunities, keeps our enemy on his heels, and is just more fun. It is the faith race instead of the rat race. It is a grace-filled life of wonder instead of a stress-filled life of worry.
Final Word
We all have things we hold with an open hand and things we hold with a closed hand. There’s a big difference between the two. To hold something with an open hand is to have it in your possession, to have rights to it, but not to protect it or view it as an entitlement. To hold something with a closed hand is to clench it and refuse to let it go. There are few things we hold with a tighter fist than money. Or what we call our money. Yet there is no better indication of someone’s heart than holding their money with an open hand and generosity for kingdom work. How closed is your hand on money?
You can know how tightly you hold things when they are threatened to be taken away. We want to be in control. We want to self-manage everything. This is where Paul’s example of missional, Christ-focused living is so helpful. For Paul, his rights were things he held with an open hand. If it is best for the kingdom of God, I’ll give them up. Go without. Make tents. Not have a wife along. Not receive support. Open Hand. Anything for the Kingdom. He said it this way in Philippians 1:21, “For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.” He held his whole life with an open hand. Was Paul a fool or did he realize something we often don’t?
In the words of Jim Elliot, “He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain what he cannot lose.” It only seems like we can hold on to anything. What do we really control? Nothing. God is glorified when we trust Him enough to hold everything with an open hand. God, you can take these from me because I believe what you will do with them is better than what I would do with them. I want what you want, therefore all I have is yours. I have trusted you with my eternity; I can offer everything else to you as well.
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Talking Money and Making Sense Series Doc's
Following are the links to download documents associated with the "Talking Money and Making Sense Series". You will need Adobe Reader to open the files. The "Filing System" document is the setup for the system that Pastor Tony utilizes and demonstrated during the series.
Poverty or Blessing
Filing System
Poverty or Blessing
Filing System
10/21/09 - Talking Money and Making Sense PT6 - Pastor Tony Ashmore
Pastor Tony Ashmore continues the series "Talking Money and Making Sense" with part 6 in this Wednesday evening service.
Talking Money and Making Sense PT6
Pastor Tony Ashmore
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
www.churchatmirrorlake.com
Sermon Notes:
* Not enough that we survive—God wants us to thrive. His ultimate goal is for us to live in the land of more than enough—a land of sowing and reaping.
* 2 Kings 4:1—widow’s husband was a man who loved and served God, but died broke.
5 Precepts for Financial Freedom
1. Keep Good Records
- Know what you are stewarding. Proverbs 24-3-4—Profit comes when we stay abreast of the facts.
2. Tithe and Give
- Proverbs 3:9-10. Keep seed in the ground. Sow little, reap little
3. Save for the Future
- Prov 6:6-8. Saving is a Biblical principle. Pay God, Pay yourself, Pay who you owe
4. Develop a Spending Plan
- Proverbs 16:3-9—a plan (supernatural part) + hard work (natural part) = success Luke 14:23. Do you have a 5 year spending plan. ING’s ad—What’s your number?
5. Enjoy What You Have
- Prosper where you are planted. Hebrews 13:5-6 “Quit waiting until you can make a big dent. Start making small dents now.” Dino Rizzo Proverbs 13:11 “little by little makes it grow”
Bible’s 10 Financial Commandments
- 1 Corinthians 10:11—The things that happened to Israel in their journey were as examples for us in these later days.
1. Be a tither and giver. The tithe is the first and the best 10%. Malachi 3:10
2. Provide for your own family’s needs - 1 Timothy 5:8
3. Purchase a home for you and your family - Jeremiah 29:5
4. Leave an inheritance for your children and grandchildren - Proverbs 13:22
5. Give to missions and ministers - 1 Corinthians 9:9-11
6. Pay your debts and your taxes - Romans 13:8; Mark 12:17
7. Give to the poor and organizations that help the poor - Proverbs 28:27
8. Give generously to every good work - 2 Corinthians 9:6-12
9. Work hard with your own hands - Ephesians 4:28
10. Lay up treasures in your Heavenly bank account - Matthew 6:20-21
a. Souls are the only thing we can take to heaven
b. Influence for the Kingdom wins souls
Practical Application
* Order precedes Increase
* If you measure it, it will improve.
* Budgeting is a Biblical principle
If we don’t budget to tithe and give, we will find ourselves at the end of the month with nothing or little to give, thereby robbing God of an opportunity to bless and us of an opportunity to be blessed.
We are sentencing ourselves to a life lived in the Land of Never Enough.
Talking Money and Making Sense PT6
Pastor Tony Ashmore
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
www.churchatmirrorlake.com
Sermon Notes:
* Not enough that we survive—God wants us to thrive. His ultimate goal is for us to live in the land of more than enough—a land of sowing and reaping.
* 2 Kings 4:1—widow’s husband was a man who loved and served God, but died broke.
5 Precepts for Financial Freedom
1. Keep Good Records
- Know what you are stewarding. Proverbs 24-3-4—Profit comes when we stay abreast of the facts.
2. Tithe and Give
- Proverbs 3:9-10. Keep seed in the ground. Sow little, reap little
3. Save for the Future
- Prov 6:6-8. Saving is a Biblical principle. Pay God, Pay yourself, Pay who you owe
4. Develop a Spending Plan
- Proverbs 16:3-9—a plan (supernatural part) + hard work (natural part) = success Luke 14:23. Do you have a 5 year spending plan. ING’s ad—What’s your number?
5. Enjoy What You Have
- Prosper where you are planted. Hebrews 13:5-6 “Quit waiting until you can make a big dent. Start making small dents now.” Dino Rizzo Proverbs 13:11 “little by little makes it grow”
Bible’s 10 Financial Commandments
- 1 Corinthians 10:11—The things that happened to Israel in their journey were as examples for us in these later days.
1. Be a tither and giver. The tithe is the first and the best 10%. Malachi 3:10
2. Provide for your own family’s needs - 1 Timothy 5:8
3. Purchase a home for you and your family - Jeremiah 29:5
4. Leave an inheritance for your children and grandchildren - Proverbs 13:22
5. Give to missions and ministers - 1 Corinthians 9:9-11
6. Pay your debts and your taxes - Romans 13:8; Mark 12:17
7. Give to the poor and organizations that help the poor - Proverbs 28:27
8. Give generously to every good work - 2 Corinthians 9:6-12
9. Work hard with your own hands - Ephesians 4:28
10. Lay up treasures in your Heavenly bank account - Matthew 6:20-21
a. Souls are the only thing we can take to heaven
b. Influence for the Kingdom wins souls
Practical Application
* Order precedes Increase
* If you measure it, it will improve.
* Budgeting is a Biblical principle
If we don’t budget to tithe and give, we will find ourselves at the end of the month with nothing or little to give, thereby robbing God of an opportunity to bless and us of an opportunity to be blessed.
We are sentencing ourselves to a life lived in the Land of Never Enough.
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
10/18/09 - GameDay PT2 - Disappointment - Pastor Tony Ashmore
Pastor Tony Ashmore continues the series "GameDay - Are You Playing To Win?" with part 2 - Disappointment.
GameDay PT2 - Disappointment
Pastor Tony Ashmore
Sunday, October 18, 2009
www.churchatmirrorlake.com
Sermon Notes:
Disappointment
Why are we disappointed? What's going on in us that makes it so tough?
What is the root cause of the pain, fear, anger?
What is fueling our reaction?
Dis-appointment—to undo the appointment or to frustrate expectations
* Are we putting too much into the wrong appointments? When they are undone they wreck us, set us back, throw us into confusion. Stake your life (righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit) on appointments that cannot be undone.
* When can we expect disappointment to disappear? 2 Thessalonians 1:7 “…when Jesus returns…”
Romans 5:4-5 And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation. And this hope will not lead to disappointment. For we know how dearly God loves us, because he has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with his love.
Jeremiah 29:13 Message “When you come looking for me, you'll find me. "Yes, when you get serious about finding me and want it more than anything else, I'll make sure you won't be disappointed."
Disappointment:
* Unanswered questions—goal: erode trust and attack faith which leads to insulation which leads to isolation
* Hurt, pain, disillusionment—goal: withdrawal and depression, paralysis which lead to insulation which lead to isolation
* Cynicism, inability to trust—goal: self-sufficiency and insulation which leads to isolation
Antidote:
* Trust in appointments made by God—those that will be kept—“though the fig tree fail to blossom and no fruit be on the vine…” “…I will never leave you or forsake you…”. Example—You choose who you make yourself vulnerable to. You choose to be a victim or a victor. There is one, and one alone, who will always keep His appointments and always be by my side, even when I don’t see Him and understand what is going on.
* Unwavering trust in God and His Word—“not moved by what I feel or what I see”. “In Christ, His promises are yes and amen.” Example: When it looked like people we loved, our kids, were making choices that were taking them away from us and God, knowing that the Word of God we had sown in them was good seed and would come up. Opinions, good human practices and principles, all that good stuff were not working, but we knew God’s Word has stood the test of time, has always proven faithful and will always be faithful.
* The ability to look beyond the moment, to believe that in all things God is working and that even though I don’t understand what is going on right now, I will land on my feet and maybe even see the hand of God in what has happened. Example: all the years that led up to where I am now—years of knowing I was called to pastor yet no opportunities, working a job I knew wasn’t my destiny, doing things that seemed like a waste of time. Every one of those things has proven to be helpful—understanding processes, leadership development, group therapy with behaviorally challenged kids.
Sometimes, there will be no answers to our questions, at least not on this earth. That is when we encounter a “crisis of faith”—do we really trust God with our lives, our hurts, our disappointments or are we once again going to depend on our own abilities to meet those needs. Is living for God really what we want or does it just sound good to us? When we say “It is no longer I who lives, but Christ who lives in me”—does that only apply when it is going the way we want it to go? I am not my own, I have been bought with a price and the One who bought me loves me unconditionally and cares for me with more love than I can fathom. If He knows when a sparrow falls from the sky, how much more does He know and care about my hurts? If he knows the numbers of hairs on my heads and has collected every tear I have ever cried, how can I not believe he knows my pain, my aloneness, my rejection and depression and is working to turn what is meant to bring me harm into good?
GameDay PT2 - Disappointment
Pastor Tony Ashmore
Sunday, October 18, 2009
www.churchatmirrorlake.com
Sermon Notes:
Disappointment
Why are we disappointed? What's going on in us that makes it so tough?
What is the root cause of the pain, fear, anger?
What is fueling our reaction?
Dis-appointment—to undo the appointment or to frustrate expectations
* Are we putting too much into the wrong appointments? When they are undone they wreck us, set us back, throw us into confusion. Stake your life (righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit) on appointments that cannot be undone.
* When can we expect disappointment to disappear? 2 Thessalonians 1:7 “…when Jesus returns…”
Romans 5:4-5 And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation. And this hope will not lead to disappointment. For we know how dearly God loves us, because he has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with his love.
Jeremiah 29:13 Message “When you come looking for me, you'll find me. "Yes, when you get serious about finding me and want it more than anything else, I'll make sure you won't be disappointed."
Disappointment:
* Unanswered questions—goal: erode trust and attack faith which leads to insulation which leads to isolation
* Hurt, pain, disillusionment—goal: withdrawal and depression, paralysis which lead to insulation which lead to isolation
* Cynicism, inability to trust—goal: self-sufficiency and insulation which leads to isolation
Antidote:
* Trust in appointments made by God—those that will be kept—“though the fig tree fail to blossom and no fruit be on the vine…” “…I will never leave you or forsake you…”. Example—You choose who you make yourself vulnerable to. You choose to be a victim or a victor. There is one, and one alone, who will always keep His appointments and always be by my side, even when I don’t see Him and understand what is going on.
* Unwavering trust in God and His Word—“not moved by what I feel or what I see”. “In Christ, His promises are yes and amen.” Example: When it looked like people we loved, our kids, were making choices that were taking them away from us and God, knowing that the Word of God we had sown in them was good seed and would come up. Opinions, good human practices and principles, all that good stuff were not working, but we knew God’s Word has stood the test of time, has always proven faithful and will always be faithful.
* The ability to look beyond the moment, to believe that in all things God is working and that even though I don’t understand what is going on right now, I will land on my feet and maybe even see the hand of God in what has happened. Example: all the years that led up to where I am now—years of knowing I was called to pastor yet no opportunities, working a job I knew wasn’t my destiny, doing things that seemed like a waste of time. Every one of those things has proven to be helpful—understanding processes, leadership development, group therapy with behaviorally challenged kids.
Sometimes, there will be no answers to our questions, at least not on this earth. That is when we encounter a “crisis of faith”—do we really trust God with our lives, our hurts, our disappointments or are we once again going to depend on our own abilities to meet those needs. Is living for God really what we want or does it just sound good to us? When we say “It is no longer I who lives, but Christ who lives in me”—does that only apply when it is going the way we want it to go? I am not my own, I have been bought with a price and the One who bought me loves me unconditionally and cares for me with more love than I can fathom. If He knows when a sparrow falls from the sky, how much more does He know and care about my hurts? If he knows the numbers of hairs on my heads and has collected every tear I have ever cried, how can I not believe he knows my pain, my aloneness, my rejection and depression and is working to turn what is meant to bring me harm into good?
Saturday, October 17, 2009
Africa Blog Saturday Night
Final Blog:
The team is on the night bus to Kampala, arriving there at 5 AM Sunday. They will check into the YWCA for a shower and nap before seeing some of the city with an in-country missionary. They will board their flight to Amsterdam Sunday night at 10 PM and, after changing planes in Amsterdam, will arrive in Atlanta Monday at 1:40 PM. Here is the report from Sheryll for the last 48 hours:
Friday was an off-day for the team and they went on a safari. Again, for our team, no day is ordinary. They saw lots of animals, climbed a waterfall, and took a boat up the legendary Nile River. While on the boat trip along with other sight-seers, a big storm with thunder and lightning developed. Their boat captain mistakenly ran their vessel aground in the middle of the river on a sand bar. He needed help from volunteers to jump in the hippo and croc filled river with him and push the boat free. Our men jumped in while all the others sat there watching. They pushed while our ladies guided the boat and watched for crocs. They freed the boat and got the passengers out of the storm. Ever the heroes, our group! Then it was off to a café in Arua for dinner.
The team spent Saturday working in the HIV orphan project. Sheryll said it was the best day yet, and that we would be very proud of our team. Back in camp, the overseer of the group of bush churches the team met with Sunday hiked to see our team before they left. He wanted them to know that the things they had shared with the pastors Wednesday were already being put to use and people who had left the churches were committing to return! He walked all that way because it was important for our team to know of their impact in those churches.
They spent the rest of the day packing for their trip home, then gathered together with the base camp team for a party, complete with beef and rice and a cake cooked over the open fire. Then it was on the bus to begin the long journey home.
Please keep praying for their safe travel and return home.
The team is on the night bus to Kampala, arriving there at 5 AM Sunday. They will check into the YWCA for a shower and nap before seeing some of the city with an in-country missionary. They will board their flight to Amsterdam Sunday night at 10 PM and, after changing planes in Amsterdam, will arrive in Atlanta Monday at 1:40 PM. Here is the report from Sheryll for the last 48 hours:
Friday was an off-day for the team and they went on a safari. Again, for our team, no day is ordinary. They saw lots of animals, climbed a waterfall, and took a boat up the legendary Nile River. While on the boat trip along with other sight-seers, a big storm with thunder and lightning developed. Their boat captain mistakenly ran their vessel aground in the middle of the river on a sand bar. He needed help from volunteers to jump in the hippo and croc filled river with him and push the boat free. Our men jumped in while all the others sat there watching. They pushed while our ladies guided the boat and watched for crocs. They freed the boat and got the passengers out of the storm. Ever the heroes, our group! Then it was off to a café in Arua for dinner.
The team spent Saturday working in the HIV orphan project. Sheryll said it was the best day yet, and that we would be very proud of our team. Back in camp, the overseer of the group of bush churches the team met with Sunday hiked to see our team before they left. He wanted them to know that the things they had shared with the pastors Wednesday were already being put to use and people who had left the churches were committing to return! He walked all that way because it was important for our team to know of their impact in those churches.
They spent the rest of the day packing for their trip home, then gathered together with the base camp team for a party, complete with beef and rice and a cake cooked over the open fire. Then it was on the bus to begin the long journey home.
Please keep praying for their safe travel and return home.
Friday, October 16, 2009
10/14/09 - Talking Money and Making Sense PT5 - Pastor Tony Ashmore
Pastor Tony Ashmore continues the series "Talking Money and Making Sense" with part 5 in this Wednesday evening service.
Talking Money and Making Sense PT5
Pastor Tony Ashmore
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
www.churchatmirrorlake.com
Sermon Notes:
Two Economies:
You get paid for 2 things—what you know and what you do. Find your gift, invest in your gift. God Expects us to succeed in both—You can love God and die broke 2 Kings 4:1 The widow had nothing.
Keys to Success in World’s Economy:
* Hard Work
* Knowledge
* Visions and Plans
Natural + Supernatural = Biblically Blessed
3 Lands:
* Just enough—Egypt—all human effort
* The Wilderness—Just Enough—all supernatural—quail and manna
* More than Enough—The Promised Land—a land of sowing and reaping—human effort combined with the supernatural.
Living in the Land of More Than Enough:
* Keep God and money in the right place.
* Work with a spirit of excellence.
* Be generous.
* Be a cheerful giver.
* Be a strategic giver.
* Recognize seasons.
* Dream Bigger.
* It is OK to fail.
* Live with an abundance mindset.
5 Precepts for Financial Freedom:
1. Keep Good Records
- Know what you are stewarding. Proverbs 24-3-4—Profit comes when we stay abreast of the facts.
2. Tithe and Give
- Proverbs 3:9-10. Keep seed in the ground. Sow little, reap little
3. Save for the Future
- Prov 6:6-8. Saving is a Biblical principle. Pay God, Pay yourself, Pay who you owe
4. Develop a Spending Plan
- Proverbs 16:3-9—a plan (supernatural part) + hard work (natural part) = success Luke 14:23. Do you have a 5 year spending plan?
5. Enjoy What You Have
- Prosper where you are planted. Hebrews 13:5-6 “Quit waiting until you can make a big dent. Start making small dents now.” Dino Rizzo Proverbs 13:11 “little by little makes it grow”.
Talking Money and Making Sense PT5
Pastor Tony Ashmore
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
www.churchatmirrorlake.com
Sermon Notes:
Two Economies:
You get paid for 2 things—what you know and what you do. Find your gift, invest in your gift. God Expects us to succeed in both—You can love God and die broke 2 Kings 4:1 The widow had nothing.
Keys to Success in World’s Economy:
* Hard Work
* Knowledge
* Visions and Plans
Natural + Supernatural = Biblically Blessed
3 Lands:
* Just enough—Egypt—all human effort
* The Wilderness—Just Enough—all supernatural—quail and manna
* More than Enough—The Promised Land—a land of sowing and reaping—human effort combined with the supernatural.
Living in the Land of More Than Enough:
* Keep God and money in the right place.
* Work with a spirit of excellence.
* Be generous.
* Be a cheerful giver.
* Be a strategic giver.
* Recognize seasons.
* Dream Bigger.
* It is OK to fail.
* Live with an abundance mindset.
5 Precepts for Financial Freedom:
1. Keep Good Records
- Know what you are stewarding. Proverbs 24-3-4—Profit comes when we stay abreast of the facts.
2. Tithe and Give
- Proverbs 3:9-10. Keep seed in the ground. Sow little, reap little
3. Save for the Future
- Prov 6:6-8. Saving is a Biblical principle. Pay God, Pay yourself, Pay who you owe
4. Develop a Spending Plan
- Proverbs 16:3-9—a plan (supernatural part) + hard work (natural part) = success Luke 14:23. Do you have a 5 year spending plan?
5. Enjoy What You Have
- Prosper where you are planted. Hebrews 13:5-6 “Quit waiting until you can make a big dent. Start making small dents now.” Dino Rizzo Proverbs 13:11 “little by little makes it grow”.
Thursday, October 15, 2009
Africa Team Update
Sheryll and I had the days mixed up. The team did not go on safari today. That is tomorrow. Today they spent the morning recuperating. Then, they visited the hospital in Arua again. They had a soft drink in a café and ordered some goat but it was going to take an hour to prepare because of their commitments for this afternoon. This afternoon, the ladies are meeting with Muslim ladies in a village to talk about what the Word of God says about family. The guys have been doing manual labor at the base camp, unloading sand and blocks, installing a sink and repairing some faucets.
Tomorrow they get up very early in order to have the best chance to see lions on the safari. The temperatures have been at or above 100 degrees so the lions go to the watering holes early and then stay out of sight during the heat of the day.
Tomorrow they get up very early in order to have the best chance to see lions on the safari. The temperatures have been at or above 100 degrees so the lions go to the watering holes early and then stay out of sight during the heat of the day.
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Africa Team Report 3
Africa Team Blog
Yesterday the team visited a government hospital and prayed with people in the TB ward. The hospital provides free care but the conditions are horrible. There are mangy dogs and cats wandering through the wards, the operating rooms have open windows and the patients are wheeled out of operations to recover under the trees. Many of the people told the team they were hungry. Upon investigating, the team found out the hospital is not able to provide food, each patient’s family is responsible for that. Since many of the patients are refugees from Sudan or Congo, they have no family and subsequently often starve. The team bought what food they could find and will purchase a large bag of rice and some cooking oil when they return Thursday. One of the nurses said people could be found to cook for the patients if the food was supplied.
Yesterday the team visited a government hospital and prayed with people in the TB ward. The hospital provides free care but the conditions are horrible. There are mangy dogs and cats wandering through the wards, the operating rooms have open windows and the patients are wheeled out of operations to recover under the trees. Many of the people told the team they were hungry. Upon investigating, the team found out the hospital is not able to provide food, each patient’s family is responsible for that. Since many of the patients are refugees from Sudan or Congo, they have no family and subsequently often starve. The team bought what food they could find and will purchase a large bag of rice and some cooking oil when they return Thursday. One of the nurses said people could be found to cook for the patients if the food was supplied.
Last night the team slept in a mud hut in the bush about 2 miles from the Congo border. There were poisonous snakes, large spiders, and stories of The Lord’s Army activity nearby in the Congo. Needless to say, not much sleeping. Today was spent conducting training for a group of pastors representing churches in over 70 bush villages! Sheryll said it was one of the most rewarding days yet. She reported that, even with the language barrier, there was camaraderie, a family feel, among them as they talked about being a part of the Body of Christ. The people were very receptive and asked if the team could come back and spend 2 to 3 weeks with them in the bush training church leaders. Dana also participated in the preparation of lunch by killing the chicken at the invitation of the group! Sheryll said that went well when they replaced her dull knife with a sharp one.
Tonight the team returned to the base camp and is enjoying the evening together relaxing after bathing in their outdoor bucket showers. Tomorrow they will take the day off and go on safari. They will rise at about 4 AM, pile in the back of a pickup truck and drive to the national park where a guide will join them for a day of seeing animals, climbing waterfalls and lunch in a restaurant. Les, our YWAM team leader, knew what he was doing when he strategically placed this break in the team’s schedule.
Please continue praying for the team and those to whom they are ministering.
Please continue praying for the team and those to whom they are ministering.
Monday, October 12, 2009
Africa--Monday Night
The day started with the team meeting with the camp missionaries to brainstorm a strategy for a tribe in a remote area of Sudan that has never heard the Gospel. This tribe was cut off from others during World War II when all the roads and bridges to their area were destroyed and never rebuilt. The YWAM team we are supporting found them and our team helped develop plans to reach them.
Next, the team went to men and women’s prisons and spend several hours there ministering to the prisoners. The women were allowed to take the female prisoners outside under the trees for a time of sharing and encouragement. The men’s prison was more strict and the male members of the team participated in a program inside the unit.
Several members of our team gave some of the camp mothers a break by caring for their malaria infected children—giving the moms a much needed time to rest. Most of the families have 5 or 6 kids and malaria infections are common so it is a continual cycle for them. If a child is infected, the mom loads them up on her back, walks about 6 miles on a dusty road in over 100 degree heat to stand in line at a little shack so their child can receive the needed treatment. If treated, most recover within a few days. Malaria is the biggest killer of children in the world.
Tomorrow the team will spend the morning ministering to the sick and hurting in hospitals. Then they will travel to another village to spend the night in order to lead a 5 hour seminar with about 60 pastors who are anxious to spend the day with our group. Our team has been told that this group will be greatly encouraged by their stories about CAML.
Sheryll said that when they first arrived in Uganda and stayed in a hotel in Kampala, they would have described their hotel as minimal at best. It was located on a dark, dirty, dangerous looking alley. The rooms had paper thin walls and the noise outside was non-stop. Now she said they would consider it luxurious!
We are not sure what our communication will be like for the next 2 days, but as soon as I hear more I will give you an update. Keep them in your prayers.
Next, the team went to men and women’s prisons and spend several hours there ministering to the prisoners. The women were allowed to take the female prisoners outside under the trees for a time of sharing and encouragement. The men’s prison was more strict and the male members of the team participated in a program inside the unit.
Several members of our team gave some of the camp mothers a break by caring for their malaria infected children—giving the moms a much needed time to rest. Most of the families have 5 or 6 kids and malaria infections are common so it is a continual cycle for them. If a child is infected, the mom loads them up on her back, walks about 6 miles on a dusty road in over 100 degree heat to stand in line at a little shack so their child can receive the needed treatment. If treated, most recover within a few days. Malaria is the biggest killer of children in the world.
Tomorrow the team will spend the morning ministering to the sick and hurting in hospitals. Then they will travel to another village to spend the night in order to lead a 5 hour seminar with about 60 pastors who are anxious to spend the day with our group. Our team has been told that this group will be greatly encouraged by their stories about CAML.
Sheryll said that when they first arrived in Uganda and stayed in a hotel in Kampala, they would have described their hotel as minimal at best. It was located on a dark, dirty, dangerous looking alley. The rooms had paper thin walls and the noise outside was non-stop. Now she said they would consider it luxurious!
We are not sure what our communication will be like for the next 2 days, but as soon as I hear more I will give you an update. Keep them in your prayers.
Sunday, October 11, 2009
10/11/09 - GameDay PT1 - Communication - Pastor Tony Ashmore
Pastor Tony Ashmore begins a new series entitled "GameDay - Are You Playing To Win?" with part 1 - Communication.
GameDay PT1 - Communication
Pastor Tony Ashmore
Sunday, October 11, 2009
www.churchatmirrorlake.com
Sermon Notes:
GameDay PT1 - Communication
Pastor Tony Ashmore
Sunday, October 11, 2009
www.churchatmirrorlake.com
Sermon Notes:
Let your conversation be gracious and attractive so that you will have the right response for everyone. Colossians 4:6
Understand this, my dear brothers and sisters: You must all be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry. James 1:19
By your words you will be acquitted, and by your words you will be condemned. Matthew 12:37
Communication—Keys to the Game
- Where’s My Headphones—Great Listening Skills—watch out for interceptions like TV and other distractions
- What’s the Play—Clarity—make the vision plain, write it down, make sure you know what you are saying
- Uneven Playing Fields—I know what I am saying! But does everyone else?
- Where’s the endzone?—What is the goal, the purpose—don’t lose sight of the goal. Do we have the same goals? Watch out for distractions like feelings, scoring points for you while the team loses.
Winning Habits
We may think we need to communicate better and that it is a biggie—but that is not where we start with better communication. The solution to better communication begins with addressing what is inside that is driving our communication. Learning to express hate, wrong priorities, etc more eloquently will not solve our communication problems.
- Words make us “known”. The word we translate as sex means “to be known”. The ability to know each other and be known, those skills, are what make or break our relationships.
- 2 pillars of communication—grace and truth. For the law was given through Moses, but grace and truth came through Jesus Christ. John 1:17 NKJV
- Grace—love, compassion, mercy, tenderness, etc.
- Truth—standards, responsibility, honesty, describing the “gap”—the space between what things are like and what they should be, principles, spiritual laws that are just as true as the physical laws, values.
- If we were communicating in the Heavenly way the two are inseparable. When we separate them we love without judgment which results in abuse, hurt lack of accountability and pain or we judge without love resulting in condemnation, shame, hurt and pain.
- I love you and want to be your friend, spouse, etc AND we both have boundaries, values or standards that are important and will present obstacles that must be addressed in love.
- 3 options:
- Split without expression—not deal with it but become symptomatic—no longer talk, retreat to garage, immerse yourself in other things or people
- Split with expression—most of the time withhold but regular eruptions
- Heaven and hell—“to be known”—knowing each other without hiding, fear, judgment or control is like Heaven. Sometimes you have to go through hell to get there—We are dynamic and there are dynamic principles involved in everything we do. We don’t like the storming but if we learn to handle it with the goal of knowing and being known, then we will see real creativity and life in our relationships and communication.
A Worship Lifestyle Changes Everything—Practice doesn’t make perfect—Perfect Practice makes perfect—Communication is a thing of the heart—
“And then he added, “It is what comes from inside that defiles you. For from within, out of a person’s heart, come evil thoughts, sexual immorality, theft, murder, adultery, greed, wickedness, deceit, lustful desires, envy, slander, pride, and foolishness.” Mark 7:20-22
Then I said, “It’s all over! I am doomed, for I am a sinful man. I have filthy lips, and I live among a people with filthy lips. Yet I have seen the King, the Lord of Heaven’s Armies.” Then one of the seraphim flew to me with a burning coal he had taken from the altar with a pair of tongs. He touched my lips with it and said, “See, this coal has touched your lips. Now your guilt is removed, and your sins are forgiven.” Isaiah 6:5-7
Simon Peter replied, “Lord, to whom would we go? You have the words that give eternal life.” John 6:68
10/07/09 - Talking Money and Making Sense PT4 - Pastor Tony Ashmore
Pastor Tony Ashmore continues the series "Talking Money and Making Sense" with part 4 in this Wednesday evening service.
Talking Money and Making Sense PT4
Pastor Tony Ashmore
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
www.churchatmirrorlake.com
Talking Money and Making Sense PT4
Pastor Tony Ashmore
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
www.churchatmirrorlake.com
Africa Team Report 1
This is as reported from Sheryll to Tony. The team has had very little internet access and will have none for the remainder of the trip. They are able to talk via Skype on a cellphone purchased in Uganda.
The team’s camp in Arua is less than 6 miles from the Congo border. There are thousands of Congo and Sudan refugees everywhere, fleeing the violence in their countries. The team is housed in a brick house with an outhouse through the woods. There is no running water and sporadic power supplied by a solar panel. The kitchen for the camp consists of a firepit. They are sleeping on camp mats they brought with them that they will leave behind for others. Sheryll returned from a trip through total darkness to the outhouse and was greeted by a mouse occupying her sleeping mat.
She reports that the conditions there are desperate. If the people want to wash their hands, they pray for rain and go outside. The outhouse is simply a hole in the ground. One of the camp missionaries is named Eric. He is 24 and is from Rwanda. His parents were killed in the genocide and his sister’s arms were cut off. He survived by sleeping among the dead bodies at night because the killers came during the nights to kill again. Now he is serving others in the name of Jesus. Pastor Sam, the founder of the camp, started a church in a major African city that grew to 8 campuses and thousands of people. He left it to start this outpost in the middle of tens of thousands of hurting people. The YWAM missionaries staffing the camp have moved here with their families to live among these people and offer hope. They have taught Muslim women how to sew so they could earn a wage to support their kids. As a result, 16 of them have come to know Christ.
Today in the camp 3 children and 1 adult were taken to the hospital with malaria. Our team all brought repellant with them, but there is no repellant available in the country. Our team attended an Anglican church today that had 3 services—all of them packed with people sitting outside. They then met with the camp leaders to receive their assignments and plans. Tomorrow they will minister to men and women in the prisons and encourage a group of Christians. They were also told they will be meeting with a group of 60 pastors who are anxious to talk to them about the principles we are using at The Church at Mirror Lake.
Sheryll said she now knows a great way to increase the fervor in your prayer life. Simply get on a 1966 bus from Kampala to Arua for 7 hours going 126 kilometers/hour and being driven by a man with one hand texting and the other outside the window blowing the horn at the thousands of people crowding the narrow road!
More reports to come as we are able to communicate. Keep this team and these people in your prayers.
The team’s camp in Arua is less than 6 miles from the Congo border. There are thousands of Congo and Sudan refugees everywhere, fleeing the violence in their countries. The team is housed in a brick house with an outhouse through the woods. There is no running water and sporadic power supplied by a solar panel. The kitchen for the camp consists of a firepit. They are sleeping on camp mats they brought with them that they will leave behind for others. Sheryll returned from a trip through total darkness to the outhouse and was greeted by a mouse occupying her sleeping mat.
She reports that the conditions there are desperate. If the people want to wash their hands, they pray for rain and go outside. The outhouse is simply a hole in the ground. One of the camp missionaries is named Eric. He is 24 and is from Rwanda. His parents were killed in the genocide and his sister’s arms were cut off. He survived by sleeping among the dead bodies at night because the killers came during the nights to kill again. Now he is serving others in the name of Jesus. Pastor Sam, the founder of the camp, started a church in a major African city that grew to 8 campuses and thousands of people. He left it to start this outpost in the middle of tens of thousands of hurting people. The YWAM missionaries staffing the camp have moved here with their families to live among these people and offer hope. They have taught Muslim women how to sew so they could earn a wage to support their kids. As a result, 16 of them have come to know Christ.
Today in the camp 3 children and 1 adult were taken to the hospital with malaria. Our team all brought repellant with them, but there is no repellant available in the country. Our team attended an Anglican church today that had 3 services—all of them packed with people sitting outside. They then met with the camp leaders to receive their assignments and plans. Tomorrow they will minister to men and women in the prisons and encourage a group of Christians. They were also told they will be meeting with a group of 60 pastors who are anxious to talk to them about the principles we are using at The Church at Mirror Lake.
Sheryll said she now knows a great way to increase the fervor in your prayer life. Simply get on a 1966 bus from Kampala to Arua for 7 hours going 126 kilometers/hour and being driven by a man with one hand texting and the other outside the window blowing the horn at the thousands of people crowding the narrow road!
More reports to come as we are able to communicate. Keep this team and these people in your prayers.
Monday, October 5, 2009
10/04/09 - What Gets Your Attention - Billy Hornsby
Special guest speaker Billy Hornsby, President of the Association of Related Churches, teaches on "What Gets Your Attention Gets Your Life" in this Sunday service.
What Gets Your Attention
Billy Hornsby
Sunday, October 4, 2009
www.churchatmirrorlake.com
You can read Billy's blog at: www.billyhornsby.com or get more information about ARC (Association of Related Churches) at www.relatedchurches.com
What Gets Your Attention
Billy Hornsby
Sunday, October 4, 2009
www.churchatmirrorlake.com
You can read Billy's blog at: www.billyhornsby.com or get more information about ARC (Association of Related Churches) at www.relatedchurches.com
Friday, October 2, 2009
09/30/09 - Talking Money and Making Sense PT3 - Pastor Tony Ashmore
Pastor Tony Ashmore continues the series "Talking Money and Making Sense" with part 3 in this Wednesday evening service.
Talking Money and Making Sense PT3
Pastor Tony Ashmore
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
www.churchatmirrorlake.com
Sermon Notes:
7 steps to poverty:
1. be lazy and half-hearted
2. fools, drunkards, gluttons and wasteful people
3. prideful and haughty during prosperity
4. hiding sins
5. love of money (never satisfied)
6. selfishness, greed, stingy, hoarding
7. A scarcity mindset/fearful (I was afraid so I hid my talent—Matthew
25:25) Fear is giving place to the kingdom of darkness since there is no
fear in God’s presence.
Talking Money and Making Sense PT3
Pastor Tony Ashmore
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
www.churchatmirrorlake.com
Sermon Notes:
7 steps to poverty:
1. be lazy and half-hearted
2. fools, drunkards, gluttons and wasteful people
3. prideful and haughty during prosperity
4. hiding sins
5. love of money (never satisfied)
6. selfishness, greed, stingy, hoarding
7. A scarcity mindset/fearful (I was afraid so I hid my talent—Matthew
25:25) Fear is giving place to the kingdom of darkness since there is no
fear in God’s presence.
Monday, September 28, 2009
09/27/09 - Mirror Mirror On The Wall PT3 - Pastor Tony Ashmore
Pastor Tony Ashmore continues the Dressed For Success series with part 3 of Mirror Mirror On The Wall, What Do I See When I Look At Me?.
Mirror Mirror On The Wall PT3
Pastor Tony Ashmore
Sunday, September 27, 2009
www.churchatmirrorlake.com
Mirror Mirror On The Wall PT3
Pastor Tony Ashmore
Sunday, September 27, 2009
www.churchatmirrorlake.com
09/23/09 - Servolution - Pastor Tony Ashmore
Pastor Tony Ashmore discusses "Servolution" in this Wednesday evening service.
Servolution
Pastor Tony Ashmore
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
www.churchatmirrorlake.com
Servolution
Pastor Tony Ashmore
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
www.churchatmirrorlake.com
Thursday, September 24, 2009
37 Days of Sowing
A Season of Sowing—Thanksgiving Offering October 25th
“For everything there is a season…a time to plant and a time to harvest.” Ecclesiastes 3:1-2
We have had some incredible journeys this year as we have come together with a focused purpose to fast 21 days to start the year, read the Bible through together, and progressively pray and fast for the lost, hurting and next generation for the month of August. I think these times have drawn us closer as a church body, encouraged us in our obedience to God’s Word, and made us stronger and more determined to see God’s vision for our church and our lives come to pass.
We have just started another of these journeys that will last 37 days—from September 19th to October 25th. Our Lord has challenged us to bring all the unexpected increase during those 37 days—a tithe of the year—to Him in a Thanksgiving Offering on October 25. It is a declared season of planting for one-tenth of the year that will produce an incredible harvest for the other nine-tenths! We are incredibly blessed by the Lord and sometimes we don’t even notice it. He has challenged us to intentionally notice how much He is blessing us for these 37 days and bring it as an offering to honor Him. Then, we will be more cognizant of the blessing on our lives and use it more effectively for the remainder of the year.
This principle is taught throughout the Bible and has always resulted in a great harvest for those who obey. God told Joshua to bring all the spoils from the first battle to Him and the people of Israel could keep the spoil from the following battles. One of the major Biblical festivals is the Festival of Firstfruits where the people bring the first of their harvest as an offering. Jesus could not be touched after His resurrection until He had been presented to God as an offering representing the great harvest of salvation that was being released!
In 1 Corinthians 16:2, Paul explains the need to have planned, specially set aside offerings. Obviously, any offering given to the Lord is exceptional, but there is a special blessing for offerings that are intentional and strategic. Make it a point to participate in this Season of Sowing.
Here’s how it works:
1. Determine an amount above your regular tithes and offerings that you will give for a special Thanksgiving Offering on October 25th. For instance, Sheryll and I have committed to give $500 above our regular tithes and offerings.
2. Continue giving your regular tithes and offerings each week.
3. Set aside any unexpected increase and add it to your Thanksgiving Offering commitment. For instance, Sheryll and I received an unexpected check for $983 this week. We will give our normal tithe and offering from that this week--$100 or so. The other $883 will be put aside to be given on October 25th along with our already committed $500—bringing our total Thanksgiving Offering to $1383.
4. Every time an unexpected increase occurs, add it to your committed amount, finally bringing the entire increase plus the initial commitment as an offering on October 25th. For example, let’s say that Sheryll and I receive another $600 in unexpected increase between now and October 25th. We would tithe on it immediately—$60—and add the other $540 to our offering account. So on October 25th our Thanksgiving Offering would be the committed $500, plus the $883, plus the other $540 for a total of $1923!
The Bible teaches us that wise people recognize the seasons and that as long as the Earth remains there will be times to plant and times to harvest. These 37 days are a season of sowing. Think of it this way, our $983 check is a nice one, but it really isn’t a huge harvest. But if we plant it by giving it to the Lord in this Thanksgiving Offering, it is a huge amount of seed and we can look forward to a great harvest!
“On the first day of each week, you should each put aside a portion of the money you have earned. Don’t wait until I get there and then try to collect it all at once.” 1 Corinthians 16:2
Monday, September 21, 2009
Mirror Mirror On The Wall Confession
Click on the link below to download the confession for the Mirror Mirror On The Wall series. You will need Adobe Reader to view the document. Adobe Reader can be obtained here.
Mirror Mirror On The Wall Confession
Mirror Mirror On The Wall Confession
09/20/09 - Mirror Mirror On The Wall PT2 - Pastor Tony Ashmore
Pastor Tony Ashmore continues the Dressed For Success series with part 2 of Mirror Mirror On The Wall, What Do I See When I Look At Me?.
Mirror Mirror On The Wall PT2
Pastor Tony Ashmore
Sunday, September 20, 2009
www.churchatmirrorlake.com
Mirror Mirror On The Wall PT2
Pastor Tony Ashmore
Sunday, September 20, 2009
www.churchatmirrorlake.com
Thursday, September 17, 2009
09/16/09 - Talking Money and Making Sense PT2 - Pastor Tony Ashmore
Pastor Tony Ashmore continues the series "Talking Money and Making Sense" with part 2 in this Wednesday evening service.
Talking Money and Making Sense PT2
Pastor Tony Ashmore
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
www.churchatmirrorlake.com
Talking Money and Making Sense PT2
Pastor Tony Ashmore
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
www.churchatmirrorlake.com
Sunday, September 13, 2009
09/13/09 - Mirror Mirror On The Wall PT1 - Pastor Tony Ashmore
Pastor Tony Ashmore continues the Dressed For Success series with part 1 of Mirror Mirror On The Wall in "What Do I See When I Look At Me?".
Mirror Mirror On The Wall PT1
Pastor Tony Ashmore
Sunday, September 13, 2009
www.churchatmirrorlake.com
Mirror Mirror On The Wall PT1
Pastor Tony Ashmore
Sunday, September 13, 2009
www.churchatmirrorlake.com
Thursday, September 10, 2009
Bratislava on Thursday
Thursday in Bratislava:
Forgot to tell you about Tuesday night in Kosice. I received a call Tuesday afternoon asking if I would speak at a meeting for young people ages 15-24 when I arrived in Kosice. I was honored to be asked and accepted quickly. I then spent the rest of the afternoon and the flight time getting ready to speak. I don’t like “canned messages” because I believe in divine appointments. Even if I am speaking on something I have spoken on before, I believe our dynamic God has something specific to say to those who will be listening. I was excited and nervous about this opportunity.
We were greeted at the airport by our driver, one of Miro’s best friends, who whisked into his car and onto the highway. Our plane arrived at 7:15 and the meeting had started at 6 so we were off to the races. We were hitting amazing speeds and one time I think the Kia went up on two wheels as we rounded a steep curve! Needless to say, my prayer life was becoming more and more intimate during this journey. One time we slowed down to about 40 k/m over the speed limit from the 60 to 80 k/m we were exceeding it because it was an area where the police hung out! We arrived at the church about 5 minutes after we had walked off the plane and I was taken to the platform. There was a pretty good crowd of some excited young men and women and I had an amazing time as I spoke through my interpreter Val for about 30 to 40 minutes. I used John 6—the story of feeding 5000 families—and focused on making sure you position yourself to be heard. One next generation leader in that passage of Scripture made sure he was in a place to be heard and Jesus used what that boy had to change the world that day. Heaven wants to hear your voice so you can touch Heaven and change earth.
It was a great evening and a great honor. Afterwards we shared a great meal with Miro, an amazing leader here in Kosice, at his favorite restaurant and took a long walk through this beautiful city center. We encouraged each other about the plans God has for all of us, stirred up dreams about changing our cities, our countries and the world, and just had a great time—a band of brothers who did not even know each other a short while ago and now were joined together by God in a great adventure.
Today we flew back to Bratislava. Lukas headed off to the next conference city—HK—and Danny and I checked into our hotel. Pastor Pasho of Bratislava City Church dropped us off in the Old City and we set out exploring this beautiful place. The first mention of this city in literature was in the year 907 and the castle here has foundations dating back that far. We bought a walking tour book and spent the afternoon exploring history. Then the real adventure began as we decided to use the metro system of trams and buses to make our way back across the city to our hotel. Nothing is written in English. With the help of one young man at the first stop who could speak a little English and a lot of “sign” language, we found our way to Tram #13 which took us to the main train station. After taking a pit stop at the toilet—which we found out was a pay toilet as the attendant chased us into it screaming at us with his hand out—we got on Bus #61 to the airport and 20 stops later got off at the shopping park which is across the street from our hotel. We zipped into the shopping park to purchase a drink and a Magnum—the best ice cream I have ever eaten. Lukas introduced us to them last night in Kosice and Danny is trying to figure out how to get them back to the states without melting.
We will find a place for dinner tonight, Pasho will pick us up at 7:30 in the morning to get to the bus station. There we will catch the 8AM bus to Vienna airport, board a plane for Paris, and then onto Atlanta and home to VR. What a trip. Leaders were trained, connections were made and dreams downloaded from God that will affect our world, here and in VR, for years to come. Can’t wait to get home and share them with you.
Forgot to tell you about Tuesday night in Kosice. I received a call Tuesday afternoon asking if I would speak at a meeting for young people ages 15-24 when I arrived in Kosice. I was honored to be asked and accepted quickly. I then spent the rest of the afternoon and the flight time getting ready to speak. I don’t like “canned messages” because I believe in divine appointments. Even if I am speaking on something I have spoken on before, I believe our dynamic God has something specific to say to those who will be listening. I was excited and nervous about this opportunity.
We were greeted at the airport by our driver, one of Miro’s best friends, who whisked into his car and onto the highway. Our plane arrived at 7:15 and the meeting had started at 6 so we were off to the races. We were hitting amazing speeds and one time I think the Kia went up on two wheels as we rounded a steep curve! Needless to say, my prayer life was becoming more and more intimate during this journey. One time we slowed down to about 40 k/m over the speed limit from the 60 to 80 k/m we were exceeding it because it was an area where the police hung out! We arrived at the church about 5 minutes after we had walked off the plane and I was taken to the platform. There was a pretty good crowd of some excited young men and women and I had an amazing time as I spoke through my interpreter Val for about 30 to 40 minutes. I used John 6—the story of feeding 5000 families—and focused on making sure you position yourself to be heard. One next generation leader in that passage of Scripture made sure he was in a place to be heard and Jesus used what that boy had to change the world that day. Heaven wants to hear your voice so you can touch Heaven and change earth.
It was a great evening and a great honor. Afterwards we shared a great meal with Miro, an amazing leader here in Kosice, at his favorite restaurant and took a long walk through this beautiful city center. We encouraged each other about the plans God has for all of us, stirred up dreams about changing our cities, our countries and the world, and just had a great time—a band of brothers who did not even know each other a short while ago and now were joined together by God in a great adventure.
Today we flew back to Bratislava. Lukas headed off to the next conference city—HK—and Danny and I checked into our hotel. Pastor Pasho of Bratislava City Church dropped us off in the Old City and we set out exploring this beautiful place. The first mention of this city in literature was in the year 907 and the castle here has foundations dating back that far. We bought a walking tour book and spent the afternoon exploring history. Then the real adventure began as we decided to use the metro system of trams and buses to make our way back across the city to our hotel. Nothing is written in English. With the help of one young man at the first stop who could speak a little English and a lot of “sign” language, we found our way to Tram #13 which took us to the main train station. After taking a pit stop at the toilet—which we found out was a pay toilet as the attendant chased us into it screaming at us with his hand out—we got on Bus #61 to the airport and 20 stops later got off at the shopping park which is across the street from our hotel. We zipped into the shopping park to purchase a drink and a Magnum—the best ice cream I have ever eaten. Lukas introduced us to them last night in Kosice and Danny is trying to figure out how to get them back to the states without melting.
We will find a place for dinner tonight, Pasho will pick us up at 7:30 in the morning to get to the bus station. There we will catch the 8AM bus to Vienna airport, board a plane for Paris, and then onto Atlanta and home to VR. What a trip. Leaders were trained, connections were made and dreams downloaded from God that will affect our world, here and in VR, for years to come. Can’t wait to get home and share them with you.
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
09/09/09 - Is Jesus of the Bible Relevant Today - Everett Spencer
Everett Spencer leads a teaching entitled "Is Jesus of the Bible Relevant Today?" in this Wednesday evening service.
Is Jesus Relevant Today?
Everett Spencer
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
www.churchatmirrorlake.com
Is Jesus Relevant Today?
Everett Spencer
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
www.churchatmirrorlake.com
2nd Slovakia Conference
It has once again been an amazing trip to Slovakia to train leaders. Danny and I flew into Vienna and, after a short nap Saturday afternoon, spent Saturday evening and Sunday morning exploring this beautiful city. We had the opportunity to attend mass in the famous St. Stephen’s cathedral. Sunday afternoon we took the bus to the capital of Slovakia, Bratislava. That evening we connected with our training partner, Lukas, and a pastor friend, Pasho. We shared dinner, caught up with what has happened since our last trip, and discussed the plans for Monday’s conference.
Monday we spent the day with about 40 leaders, most of them next generation leaders who are breaking new ground in this country which has passed Albania now as the most atheistic country in the world. The people are not antagonistic toward the church, they just dismiss it as non-relevant and lacking authenticity. I love hanging out with Lukas and Pasho because they are doing something about that as they lead their churches to think outside the norm and reach the unreachable. We met some of Pasho’s new leaders and they are full of energy, vision and excitement. They are hungry for effective tools and principles that will help the church lead the transformation of their country. Danny did a great job with his first experience in training leaders outside of his own church. He connected well with some of the leaders and was able to spend some personal time with them between sessions and at other times.
After the conference we shared dinner with a wonderful group of young Catholic leaders who are taking the gospel all over this country, concentrating on small rural villages. They have gained a lot of influence and are becoming well known. We discussed some ideas on capturing and sustaining their momentum by giving weekly DVD’s of their Wednesday night service in Bratislava to home leaders in the villages where they have made in-roads. They too are hungry for tools to help them be more effective and we plan on connecting them to leaders at CAML who can serve as coaches and friends.
We spent all day Tuesday brainstorming for the future. I am so amazed at how smart God is. He has strategically placed CAML here to make connections that will make us stronger and help Europe. There are so many opportunities to partner with Element Church in Czech Republic. Lukas and Dita, their pastors and our partners here, have a huge vision and some amazing methods for reaching the next generation. Their church has 70 countries represented in their young congregation. They are about to make a move to a bigger location and are doing a virtual re-launch. We have always thought the most effective missions would be through connecting with a local church and working with them as a resource. Even Albania opened to us as we strategized for the future.
Today we are in Kosice for our conference. We are teaching 360 degree Leader. The question and discussion times are my favorite because we share real life with each other. Danny and I just spent an hour answering questions about going through a church rebellion from opposite ends and how God brought reconciliation and restoration. I really didn’t like digging up some of that stuff but I think the group found it very helpful. Danny then shared how the experience helped him be a better leader in working with leaders above him and leaders beside him.
Lukas is such a blessing. I think he will be at CAML in May so everywhere will have an opportunity to fall in love with him like I have. Thank God for the divine connections that have brought us together and have linked our churches as partners in God’s fantastic vision. I am looking forward to spending time with new friends tonight over dinner. Some of the ideas that are being birthed here this week are going to change the world in amazing ways.
More updates tomorrow.
Monday we spent the day with about 40 leaders, most of them next generation leaders who are breaking new ground in this country which has passed Albania now as the most atheistic country in the world. The people are not antagonistic toward the church, they just dismiss it as non-relevant and lacking authenticity. I love hanging out with Lukas and Pasho because they are doing something about that as they lead their churches to think outside the norm and reach the unreachable. We met some of Pasho’s new leaders and they are full of energy, vision and excitement. They are hungry for effective tools and principles that will help the church lead the transformation of their country. Danny did a great job with his first experience in training leaders outside of his own church. He connected well with some of the leaders and was able to spend some personal time with them between sessions and at other times.
After the conference we shared dinner with a wonderful group of young Catholic leaders who are taking the gospel all over this country, concentrating on small rural villages. They have gained a lot of influence and are becoming well known. We discussed some ideas on capturing and sustaining their momentum by giving weekly DVD’s of their Wednesday night service in Bratislava to home leaders in the villages where they have made in-roads. They too are hungry for tools to help them be more effective and we plan on connecting them to leaders at CAML who can serve as coaches and friends.
We spent all day Tuesday brainstorming for the future. I am so amazed at how smart God is. He has strategically placed CAML here to make connections that will make us stronger and help Europe. There are so many opportunities to partner with Element Church in Czech Republic. Lukas and Dita, their pastors and our partners here, have a huge vision and some amazing methods for reaching the next generation. Their church has 70 countries represented in their young congregation. They are about to make a move to a bigger location and are doing a virtual re-launch. We have always thought the most effective missions would be through connecting with a local church and working with them as a resource. Even Albania opened to us as we strategized for the future.
Today we are in Kosice for our conference. We are teaching 360 degree Leader. The question and discussion times are my favorite because we share real life with each other. Danny and I just spent an hour answering questions about going through a church rebellion from opposite ends and how God brought reconciliation and restoration. I really didn’t like digging up some of that stuff but I think the group found it very helpful. Danny then shared how the experience helped him be a better leader in working with leaders above him and leaders beside him.
Lukas is such a blessing. I think he will be at CAML in May so everywhere will have an opportunity to fall in love with him like I have. Thank God for the divine connections that have brought us together and have linked our churches as partners in God’s fantastic vision. I am looking forward to spending time with new friends tonight over dinner. Some of the ideas that are being birthed here this week are going to change the world in amazing ways.
More updates tomorrow.
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
09/06/09 - Vision Sunday - Tony Sherrill
Tony Sherrill recasts the vision of the Church At Mirror Lake in this Sunday morning message.
Vision Sunday
Tony Sherrill
Sunday, September 6, 2009
www.churchatmirrorlake.com
Vision Sunday
Tony Sherrill
Sunday, September 6, 2009
www.churchatmirrorlake.com
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
09/02/09 - Talking Money and Making Sense - Pastor Tony Ashmore
Pastor Tony Ashmore begins a new series entitled "Talking Money and Making Sense" with part 1, "Blessed or Broke?" in this Wednesday evening service.
Talking Money and Making Sense PT1
Pastor Tony Ashmore
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
www.churchatmirrorlake.com
Talking Money and Making Sense PT1
Pastor Tony Ashmore
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
www.churchatmirrorlake.com
Monday, August 31, 2009
08/30/09 - The Top Hat - Pastor Tony Ashmore
Pastor Tony Ashmore continues the Dressed For Success series with part 5 of So Many Hats & Only One HEAD! in "The Top Hat".
So Many Hats Part 5
Pastor Tony Ashmore
Sunday, August 30, 2009
www.churchatmirrorlake.com
So Many Hats Part 5
Pastor Tony Ashmore
Sunday, August 30, 2009
www.churchatmirrorlake.com
08/26/09 - Here We Go Again PT4 - Tony Sherrill
Tony Sherrill discuss "Here We Go Again" in part 4 of the series in this Wednesday evening service.
Here We Go Again PT4
Tony Sherrill
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
www.churchatmirrorlake.com
Here We Go Again PT4
Tony Sherrill
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
www.churchatmirrorlake.com
Sunday, August 23, 2009
08/23/09 - So Many Hats PT4 - The Thinking Cap - Pastor Tony Ashmore
Pastor Tony Ashmore continues the Dressed For Success series with part 4 of So Many Hats & Only One HEAD! in "The Thinking Cap".
So Many Hats Part 4
Pastor Tony Ashmore
Sunday, August 23, 2009
www.churchatmirrorlake.com
So Many Hats Part 4
Pastor Tony Ashmore
Sunday, August 23, 2009
www.churchatmirrorlake.com
Thursday, August 20, 2009
08/19/09 - Here We Go Again PT3 - Pastor Tony Ashmore
Pastors Tony & Sheryll Ashmore discuss "Here We Go Again" in part 3 of the series in this Wednesday evening service.
Here We Go Again
Pastor Tony Ashmore
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
www.churchatmirrorlake.com
Here We Go Again
Pastor Tony Ashmore
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
www.churchatmirrorlake.com
Monday, August 17, 2009
08/16/09 - So Many Hats PT3 - Pastor Tony Ashmore
Pastor Tony Ashmore continues the Dressed For Success series with part 3 of So Many Hats & Only One HEAD! in "Baby Hats".
So Many Hats Part 3
Pastor Tony Ashmore
Sunday, August 16, 2009
www.churchatmirrorlake.com
So Many Hats Part 3
Pastor Tony Ashmore
Sunday, August 16, 2009
www.churchatmirrorlake.com
OYB-August 17
Nehemiah 12:31-38
Nehemiah divides the leaders into 2 choirs—leading in the praise and worship as they celebrate the completion of the walls. One half started at the Dung Gate and moved over the Fountain Gate to the Water Gate. The other half started at the Ephraim (Double Prosperity) Gate and moved over the Old City Gate, the Fish Gate and the Sheep Gate to the Guard Gate.
Great leadership lesson on 2 important aspects of leading others:
1. Lead others to victory by teaching them to praise God through the “dung” parts of our lives, which will lead us to His fountain and release the living Water.
2. Teach others to guard the blessing of God in our lives—prosperity, deliverance from the old ways and old life, increasing influence as fishers of men, continuing growth as the sheep of His flock—by living a life of continual thanksgiving and worship.
Nehemiah divides the leaders into 2 choirs—leading in the praise and worship as they celebrate the completion of the walls. One half started at the Dung Gate and moved over the Fountain Gate to the Water Gate. The other half started at the Ephraim (Double Prosperity) Gate and moved over the Old City Gate, the Fish Gate and the Sheep Gate to the Guard Gate.
Great leadership lesson on 2 important aspects of leading others:
1. Lead others to victory by teaching them to praise God through the “dung” parts of our lives, which will lead us to His fountain and release the living Water.
2. Teach others to guard the blessing of God in our lives—prosperity, deliverance from the old ways and old life, increasing influence as fishers of men, continuing growth as the sheep of His flock—by living a life of continual thanksgiving and worship.
Friday, August 14, 2009
08/12/09 - Here We Go Again Part 2 - Pastor Tony Ashmore
Pastors Tony & Sheryll Ashmore discuss "Here We Go Again" in part 2 of the series in this Wednesday evening service.
Here We Go Again
Pastor Tony Ashmore
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
www.churchatmirrorlake.com
Here We Go Again
Pastor Tony Ashmore
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
www.churchatmirrorlake.com
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
A Fresh Take on Storms
I really love the church. If you are around me any at all you know that. I am quick to remind Christians who knock the church that she is the bride of Jesus and He describes her as glorious and without spot or blemish. We have enough opposition from the gates of hell. We don’t need to become our own enemies. Jesus taught us that a house divided will not stand, yet He is building a church that stands against all odds. Today, as I was praying, I felt the Holy Spirit explained some of the “anti-Church” sentiment to me.
When I say “anti-Church” I am talking about Christians who would find themselves saying things like:
o I don’t like big gatherings.
o I don’t like the politics of the local church.
o We need to get outside the walls. (insinuating that those who gather in the large gatherings never leave the building)
o I’m just going to attend. It gets too complicated when you get involved.
It’s not that those who say these things are “anti-Church” at all; they just don’t like the tension of working through relational dynamics with multiple people having multiple ideas and opinions. Sure, initially we may get things done faster, maybe even better, on our own. But the impact, the sustainable influence, is not there unless we do it as “church”-as a community of believers gathered together around a mission.
Jesus could have done it better and faster on His own, but He chose to work through the messiness and discomfort of multiple relationships with people who each had their own idea of how it should be done. Why? Because He wasn’t just trying to get people to Heaven, He wanted to establish a sustainable influence in the earth! He wanted the world to experience the life of God here. The only way that could be accomplished and sustained through the ages was through a community of faith—the church.
Group dynamics teach us that whenever two or more people come together four things always happen: Form, Storm, Norm and Perform. We don’t mind the Form and Norm parts, and we love the Perform parts. It’s the Storm part that throws us. As humans we respond to the tension of storming with one of two choices, fight or flight. Those I am describing as “anti-church” have chosen the flight option. It is easier to just disengage and do it on our own. The problem is we miss real creativity chances when we won’t stay for the fight. Read Genesis One. God’s creation of the earth was in a storm atmosphere—note: “without form and void.” As we muddle through the storming of relationships, we learn empowering Tree of Life principles that release the life of God on the earth. Our lives become richer and more satisfying (John 10:10). Others are drawn to us because of the Life of God released in the relationship and the dynamics start again! More storming, more tension, more creativity which releases more of the Life of God and draws more people so we can do it again! Don’t run from the discomfort. Don’t join the refugees who stand on the outside avoiding the storm and missing out on the perform. Do what God told Joshua—Be strong and of good courage. Be strong—use the things you are good at and gifted to do. Be of good courage—don’t be afraid of those things that scare you, that you dislike or that make you uncomfortable. It takes both strength and courage to take the land!
The church, worldwide and locally, is God’s plan for this world. She needs you and you need her. Get in there and do life together. Wade through the muck and grime and you’ll find the gold and diamonds. We’ll build influence for God’s Kingdom that will be sustained long after we are gone.
When I say “anti-Church” I am talking about Christians who would find themselves saying things like:
o I don’t like big gatherings.
o I don’t like the politics of the local church.
o We need to get outside the walls. (insinuating that those who gather in the large gatherings never leave the building)
o I’m just going to attend. It gets too complicated when you get involved.
It’s not that those who say these things are “anti-Church” at all; they just don’t like the tension of working through relational dynamics with multiple people having multiple ideas and opinions. Sure, initially we may get things done faster, maybe even better, on our own. But the impact, the sustainable influence, is not there unless we do it as “church”-as a community of believers gathered together around a mission.
Jesus could have done it better and faster on His own, but He chose to work through the messiness and discomfort of multiple relationships with people who each had their own idea of how it should be done. Why? Because He wasn’t just trying to get people to Heaven, He wanted to establish a sustainable influence in the earth! He wanted the world to experience the life of God here. The only way that could be accomplished and sustained through the ages was through a community of faith—the church.
Group dynamics teach us that whenever two or more people come together four things always happen: Form, Storm, Norm and Perform. We don’t mind the Form and Norm parts, and we love the Perform parts. It’s the Storm part that throws us. As humans we respond to the tension of storming with one of two choices, fight or flight. Those I am describing as “anti-church” have chosen the flight option. It is easier to just disengage and do it on our own. The problem is we miss real creativity chances when we won’t stay for the fight. Read Genesis One. God’s creation of the earth was in a storm atmosphere—note: “without form and void.” As we muddle through the storming of relationships, we learn empowering Tree of Life principles that release the life of God on the earth. Our lives become richer and more satisfying (John 10:10). Others are drawn to us because of the Life of God released in the relationship and the dynamics start again! More storming, more tension, more creativity which releases more of the Life of God and draws more people so we can do it again! Don’t run from the discomfort. Don’t join the refugees who stand on the outside avoiding the storm and missing out on the perform. Do what God told Joshua—Be strong and of good courage. Be strong—use the things you are good at and gifted to do. Be of good courage—don’t be afraid of those things that scare you, that you dislike or that make you uncomfortable. It takes both strength and courage to take the land!
The church, worldwide and locally, is God’s plan for this world. She needs you and you need her. Get in there and do life together. Wade through the muck and grime and you’ll find the gold and diamonds. We’ll build influence for God’s Kingdom that will be sustained long after we are gone.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)