Thankful for His Presence

Dear Worshipers,

Jesus, we live in a world where peace seems to elude us. Where fighting and disagreements are far more familiar than understanding and acceptance. A world that seems so divided and so confused. I am thankful today that peace is not the absence of conflict-peace is Your presence in our lives. We need Your peace. We need Your presence. We need You, Jesus.

I know these words have been much on my mind because I had to memorize them, but they really are a beautiful, simple prayer. I struggled bit with why the arrangers had us singing “Silent Night” so quickly after that prayer, but I came to terms with it and want to encourage you with my reasoning.

The song speaks of a quiet night where the holy infant and mother are basking in calmness and light. Then the words, the prayer, “Sleep in heavenly peace.” In a sense it is our prayer for the little baby, our Lord, but in another real sense it is His prayer for us. It becomes a prayer for us to sing to one another, and a very appropriate moment to do so in the work we shared.

We have reminded them of the Christmas story, through word and song, and on the heels of singing some familiar carols and affirming there is peace in the world, we encourage them, “Sleep in heavenly peace.” How does one do that in the midst of the chaos and storm of life? By basking in the calmness and light offered by the babe in the manger, the Prince of Peace.

I want to encourage you in these last days before we come to celebrate Christmas, take some time to cultivate peace in your world. Get quiet. Stop. Light a candle. Be still. Let the Prince flood your soul with the peace that only He affords.

Jesus, help me to keep praying. There is a lot happening and I want to see You in it all, and for others to see You too. In Your Name, I pray. Amen.

In Christ,

Pastor Timothy

Please Be Praying

Dear Worshipers,

Over these next few weeks we will have numerous opportunities as a church to reach out with the wonderful story of Jesus. There will be a number of people in the church building that do not know Jesus personally. We will endeavor to introduce them to Him. Please be praying.

Though this truth will be conveyed through a variety of events and special services, it will be reinforced as we live our lives in a way that shows it is true. For those of us inviting people, they have been and will be watching closely to see if what we believe is how we live. We are not prefect, so do not allow the enemy of your soul to discourage you for he is defeated. Please be praying.

The holidays are a wonderful to share the Light of Jesus, but they can be a very dark time for people too. Whether they are lonely or suffering fractured relationships, there is a lot of pain out there. Let us be like Jesus and step into that mess as God directs. Please be praying.

This is a great time of year to focus on Jesus, but it is very easy to find Him pushed back underneath the tree beneath all the trappings and other stuff. Be certain to take a little time each day during this crazy season to reorient yourself to the Savior. You will be glad you did. Please be praying.

This is a busy season in our worship ministries. A lot of extra stuff for services. This makes it more difficult for us to enjoy the season, and maybe struggle with schedules or attitudes. We need to show grace to one another. Please be praying.

Jesus, help me to keep praying. There is a lot happening and I want to see You in it all, and for others to see You too. In Your Name, I pray. Amen.

Happy Thanksgiving friends!

In Christ,

Pastor Timothy

Beginning, Again

Sunday morning retuning: I wonder what learning opportunities the Lord has brought into your life this week. I know I have been given a few great teachable moments. They are not always easy to receive. Stay filled with the Spirit and teachable.

Dear Worshipers,

Starting, Over. The last, the first. The close of one chapter marks the beginning of another.

We just experienced the last Sunday of the year. The Church Year that is. As Advent begins this week, so does the new Church Year. With the close of the Church Year, I wonder what things have recently come to a close for you. Maybe a relationship, or some other commitment. Maybe you have finished up some training or classes of some sort. Maybe you are looking forward to the close of another semester or starting something else fresh in the days ahead.

I am thankful to the Lord for the cycle of the year. We come around again to the Advent season. Advent means appearing. Implies something new, or at least seeing something which you did not notice before. I wonder for you how the Lord is going to appear to us this Advent season. Where will Jesus show up that you maybe do not expect Him?

I want to encourage you to keep your eyes open. You may be putting up the same decorations you have used for years. Have you lost the wonder that the tinsel and lights first brought to you? As you begin to celebrate the season, do so with wide-eyed wonder, Ready to spot Jesus at every turn in the road. He is already there. You know this. Begin to really look for Him, again.

I believe Jesus wants to show us some things about Himself in this season that will knock our socks off, but we need to do the preparation to receive it. Quiet yourself now before all the hustle and bustle really begins and commit to let this new season bring something new in you.

Jesus, open my eyes to see you. I believe You want to teach me some things, and I confess I want to learn them. Help me so I can.

Happy Thanksgiving friends!

In Christ,

Pastor Timothy

For Whom are You Thankful, and Why?

Sunday morning retuning: Have you laid down that penchant for revenge that you have been carrying around for too long? Have you taken a few minutes to give that situation over to God? Stop wrestling with Him and give to Him today. Why not right now?

Dear Worshipers,

We are upon the week on Thanksgiving. What? A week you say? Isn’t it a day? Well, yes it is, but it is a different week for me so I think of it differently. Besides that, isn’t it really more of a lifestyle than an event? Alright, before you dismiss my quips as attempts to over-spiritualize life, let me take a slightly different approach.

I would like to challenge you to do something. I think it is a very biblical concept. “I thank my God every time I remember you.” [Philippians 1:3] That’s what Paul said to the church in Philippi. Expressing thankfulness to someone for something that your appreciate about them. I am not going to over-spiritualize this, and I want to caution you not to either.

Here’s the challenge. Write a note. A “thank you” note. It seems like such a simple thing. But it can have a profound impact. Take my word for it.

I try to make a regular habit of this. I do not do it as often as I would like, but it is a regular thing I do. There have been quite a few times that God has really used that in a relationship in ways I could not have imagined. Maybe there is someone that could really use a word of encouragement from you. Maybe God wants to use this exercise to build someone up and you may be the only one capable of doing it.

But maybe there is another angle on this. Maybe the point of the exercise is for you. Maybe you need to discipline yourself to take a few moments and prayerfully consider who you take a few moments to express some appreciation toward. It shouldn’t be very difficult. Maybe a friend at work, a fellow classmate, neighbor or family member. Maybe you need to do this more than this once.

Maybe you will realize that you are not a very thankful person. Maybe a whole list of people will come to mind, maybe only a few. Could it be that this means you are very thankful, or just need to take some time to express it? Only Jesus really knows the answer to that question, but if you ask He will share it with you.

Let’s endeavor to be thankful people. And not just once a year, but all year long.

Jesus, make me thankful. Open my eyes to the blessigs in my life, and teach me to regularly and genuinely express it to them. I want the people around me to know me as thankful, all year long.

In Christ,

Pastor Timothy

Is There Peace in the World Tonight?

Sunday morning retuning: Are you continuing to desire more about Jesus? Are you walking one step behind Him? Are you longing and praying for revival and awakening?

Dear Worshipers,

When I read the title of our upcoming Christmas project, I think of the average person driving by the church on their way down East Market Street. I wonder how many of them know any kind of peace at all. If they where to hear our bold statement, “There is Peace in the world tonight”, how do you imagine they would respond?

Invitation have begun going out. The last people are being recruited to be a part of this labor. Excitement begins to grow. The work continues in choir, orchestra, drama, tech and so on. So what is missing in this list? Prayer.

We must pray. I believe that when we pray it changes things. It softens hearts to receive the invitation to come. It clears calendars of distractions. It helps people to get a good night of rest the night before, and cars to start that morning. It draws those who the Lord has given ears to hear the message of peace. Do you believe it?

I want to ask you to join me in praying. Feel free to pray as the Spirit leads you, but I want to challenge you to join me in praying the prayer I have provided below. I think we are 33 days until this culminates on December 12. Would you commit to praying everyday with me that the Lord will take this labor and use it to bring peace, to bring Jesus the Prince of Peace, into the lives of many who attend that morning? It may very well be the first time they have been introduced to Him that morning.

Jesus, You are the Prince of Peace. Because You have come into this world, there is peace. Peace is not the absence of conflict. Peace is the Presence of God. Will you use this project on Dec. 12 to usher Your Presence, Your Peace into the lives of those who attend? Hear us from heaven. Touch our generation. We are crying out on behalf of those who are longing for peace. Please make Yourself known in the sanctuary that morning and open hearts to receive Your peace. Draw them to this place, and draw them to Yourself. We are trusting You to do what only You can do.

If you are willing to pray with me, drop me a line and let me know. I will then be praying for you by name that God will help you to be faithful to pray for these next 33 days as we trust God together to do what only He can do!

In Christ,

Pastor Timothy

To China, and Back Again

Sunday morning retuning: What a great insight into the Church in China! How exciting to consider how God might want us to partner with them in the years ahead. What was your take away?

Dear Worshipers,

As Pastor Myron and Sharon are endeavoring to walk one step behind Jesus, the latest part of the journey for them has involved a trip to China. While there they had the opportunity to see first-hand different projects North-Mar Church has contribute to over the years, but most importantly they were given a fresh perspective on the work God is doing in the people of those regions. It was great to hear, but what do you imagine the Lord wants you to do with what you have heard?

Think of it in the form of this question: “Where will God take you to give you a better picture of how He is at work and how you can be a part of it?” As a church, there are some things happening in China that we will have opportunity to be a part of in the days to come. What is God showing you in this season, maybe even today, that is His personal invitation to you to join Him in His work?

As we follow Jesus, we must expect that this will be a part of our experience. He is working, because His Father is at work. He said, “My Father has worked [even] until now, [He has never ceased working; He is still working] and I, too, must be at [divine] work.” [John 5:17, Amplified Version] We should see His active work as an invitation to join Him in it. Do we?

When Jesus heads in that unexpected direction, toward an unexplained experience, will you go with Him, or politely decline. Most of us will not go to China and back, but Jesus wants every one of us to move along, one step behind Him, always joining Him by taking up our part of what He is doing on the earth. It is a marvel that we get to be a part of it.

You may be surprised the way that Jesus wants to use your hands and feet. That reminds me of a song from the Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir called Use Me. Be inspired.

Jesus, thank You for the extraordinary honor of being a part of serving our world. The fact that You could use me is still astonishing to me, but I believe it just the same.

In Christ,

Pastor Timothy

Marking Time

Dear Worshipers,

The battery is dying on my watch. It’s not dead, but it’s dying. How could I tell? I realized the other day that I seemed to be getting a lot done in a short period of time, until I consulted another time keeping device. Much to my chagrin, I was not nearly as effective as I thought I had been.

Even wonder if that is your experience. You are working, but not really certain you are getting as much done as you might think. Maybe you find yourself doing what you are doing, while you are waiting for the right opportunity to really make a difference to come along. In essence, you are marking time. Waiting for the right opportunity.

It makes me think of that song we have heard/sung the last few weeks, but not really. You know, “While I’m waiting, I will serve you while I’m waiting. I will worship while I am waiting. I will not faint. I will move ahead bold and confident. Taking every step in obedience, while I’m waiting.” That one - link. I say not really because this song talks about actively waiting, but passively marking time.

Makes me think of an absolutely great book that I mostly read a few years ago. "Don't Waste Your Life", by John Piper. It is a excellent exposition on living for the glory of God and why. I encourage anyone who wants to think a little more about this to get a copy and prepare to be changed.

But back to my watch. Time was passing more quickly than I realized. This is almost always the case. I want o make my life count. Jesus wants to use me. The Father has planned things for me to do. But am I pursuing those things or my own agenda?

I want to encourage you to ponder this. Am I marking time, waiting for the right opportunity to come along, or is the “right” opportunity the one I find myself in currently? Holy Spirit help me to see.

Jesus, thank You for making a difference in my life. For creating me and recreating me with divine purpose. Use my life to help others see You. Please Lord. I don’t want to mark time, but make the most of mine.

In Christ,

Pastor Timothy

For Building Up the Body of Christ

Dear Worshipers,

Last week I shared about my excitement in seeing people equipped for the work of ministry. I elaborated on what this equipping looks like in the ministry of worship we share, but I did not explain the rationale for this beyond the fact that it is described as my role as a pastor to equip. Ephesians 4:12b tells us clearly that the intent in equipping is “for building up the body of Christ.”

Over the last few months I have responded to my wife’s inspiration and commitment and have begun working out. A part of this for me has been weight training which I never would have imagined I would do, much less enjoy. I am a novice, but there are some things that I have begun to learn that apply to this principle in Scripture of building up the body.

One thing I have learned is that it is a painful process. In order to build muscle, you have to work it, in effect tearing it down, and then provide the rest and resources it needs to rebuild. I do not think I ever knew this, and if I did I was really ignorant of the implications to my spiritual life.

You see, if the body of Christ is going to be built, it has to get to work, to exercise it’s muscle if you will. This can be a painful process, especially as we are stretched in new levels. But when we are, and follow that stretching with the rest and resources necessary there is a building that takes place. I have seen this principle at work time and time again in my own spiritual life, and the life of the Church. I trust you have as well.

The other thing I have learned is that it is a choice. I can choose not to lift those weights, or once I am comfortable with a certain limit simply stay there and not increase. But then I am maintaining at best and not building. Just to lift the weight at all is a choice, and not an easy one at times. Once it has been done though, and the building begins to take place, it is a very rewarding experience.

Jesus, thank You for building us up, even though that often is preceded by a painful experience. Meet us in the cave and use those experiences to do what the other, more comfortable ones may never have.

In Christ,

Pastor Timothy

Equipping the Saints for the Work of Ministry

Dear Worshipers,

One of the things that I am most passionate about is equipping saints for the work of ministry. Ephesians 4:12a gives us this job description for pastors and teachers and other servant leaders, “to equip the saints for the work of ministry.”

Though people would understand that someone else would lead for me when I am away, that same someone might ask why another leader would be leading when I am here. After all isn’t it my job to do the leading. See job description in Eph.4:12. The simple reply is no. It is my job to be equipping others to lead, including but not limited to the main leader position.

Equipping means to provide all the tools needed to complete a task. I am working to equip people all around me to do the work of ministry. And not only because the Scripture tells me that’s what I should be doing. There is at least one other obvious reason. Because I simply can not do it myself. There is far more than any one person could ever do.

The responsibility then falls to me to make sure that each leader has all they need to execute the ministry I have entrusted to them. Sometimes I do a better job than other times. The temptation when I don’t do well equipping is simply to do the ministry myself, for on the short term that would be easier. But I am confident my real job is to equip the people of God for the work of the ministry.

So…when you see Gary Montagna leading in my place, or Bill Fleet directing the choir think equipping. When you see Rick Bartunek directing the orchestra in December, or Daniel Young projecting media onto the screens think equipping. When you see a 10th grade bass player and someone who could be his dad singing and leading in worship, think equipping. When you see a young lady painting as an act of worship, or someone directing a drama, or singing a solo, etc. think equipping. Then pray for that person who has stepped out in faith. Then pray for yourself as God calls you to be equipped. Than pray for me as I continue to take risks and equip the saints for the work of ministry.

Jesus, thank You removing our crutches and for taking us to new places to help us trust You even more. You are so good to us. Help us to walk a step behind You until there is nowhere we would rather be.

In Christ,

Pastor Timothy

The Electric Was Off, But the Spirit was ON

Dear Worshipers,

“I have been here a long time, and that was the most powerful service we have ever had.” “I could really sense God’s presence in the quietness and darkness.” “We lost the power, but the Spirit still moved.” I heard a lot of comments like that after our Engage service on Sunday, and I hope you hung around long enough to hear some as well, or have heard some since then. Indeed, the electricity was off, but the real Source of power, the Holy Spirit, was definitely ON!

If you were there, you know what I am talking about. There was a palpable sense of expectancy that settled on us, after we realized we could still have church without the lights screens and sound system. The Lord stripped all the trappings away on a morning when we were focusing on the role of music in our pursuit of God. Interesting.

I have to share with you one little layer of the Spirit’s leading, make that two. I told someone during the second service that though I was aware of Pastor Myron’s passage for Sunday weeks ago, I was not aware of the specific points or the way he would exegete or unpack that passage. That being said, you have to understand that I marvel at the way the Lord led me to select that anthem for Sunday, Favorite Song of All.

But what astounded me even more was the way He led regarding the placement of it in that powerless, power-filled second service Sunday. Choir members will attest to the fact that I sensed God’s leading to still share the anthem, but to move it to a spot just before the message, which I informed them of during the greeting time.

As we sang the song just before that, I felt the Spirit leading me to sit the song aside. I was disappointed by this, because I really wanted to share it and felt like it would tie in so well with the message Pastor Myron was about to preach. I obeyed, and am I glad I did.

We went through the message and I sensed the congregation being especially focused due to the unusual circumstances. Just as Pastor Myron was about to finish the power came back on. Shortly after that, he called for me and the choir to close with the song we had cut. I was concerned that some of the musicians and most of the choir would have left. The musicians were still there, but most of the choir was gone.

We proceeded to sing it anyway, and the Lord used it to encourage the praise of His people. It turned out to be a great close to the service where the power of the Spirit was so evident. It just goes to show you, even when the electric is off, the Spirit is still on.

Jesus, thank You for being on, even when the electric goes out. Thank you for being our real power source.

In Christ,

Pastor Timothy

Pursuing God’s Heart

Dear Worshipers,

Fall is upon us. And with it comes a plethora of new things. School, football, colorful trees, cooler weather, and a new sermon series, to name just a few. This is a series that I am particularly excited about for a myriad of reasons.

I like the title. Isn’t that really what life is all about? Pursuing God’s heart. If we are walking one step behind Jesus then that is indeed the journey we are taking, a journey toward God’s heart.

I like the graphic that we will be using to promote the series, and a whole host of other similar graphics that capture the heart of one pursuing God’s heart. You can see the primary image at the beginning and end of this video. I tend to be demonstrative in my worship so that probably comes as no surprise. I am sure that is part of why…

I like David. He is a fascinating character to put it mildly. He can teach us a thing or two about how to approach God. Looking into his life over these next few months is going to be an enriching experience for us all. Especially because it is going to encourage us to go after God’s heart.

How do I know that? Because he is the one the Lord describes as “a man after his own heart”. WOW! I would like for others to describe me like that. But I would really like it if the Lord could describe me like that. You see, I might be able to fool some people, but I can not fool God.

I want to encourage you to be praying for Pastor Myron and me as we prepare for this Sunday and the Sundays to follow. We desire for our Sunday morning gatherings to be a place where people can meet with God and be transformed. We pray that for ourselves. We pray it for you. We pray it for those who have not yet come, but will.

Join us, won’t you? For a series designed to help us all in…Pursuing God’s Heart!

Jesus, we want to pursue the Father’s heart. We want to be ever going after it. Strengthen our resolve to follow You into the grandest pursuit on earth. Help us walk on step behind You.

In Christ,

Pastor Timothy

Prayer Walk

Dear Worshipers,

Last week I talked about running. I would like to slow things down this week and talk about walking. Not your regular “keep your heart rate where it is and simply move around a little bit” kind of walking but “get that heart racing as you plead with heaven for God to move things around a lot” kind of walking.

Tomorrow night we are going to be having a Prayer Walk at church. You have heard us speaking about it these last few weeks and may have felt unmoved by our presentations. I am willing to admit this because after several appeals regarding the Night(s) of Worship, only a small number of people were moved to join us for those events.

I wanted to take a few moments and implore you to come tomorrow night, or at least find some time in the next week to come to the church and pray. Why? Because I am confident you will be blessed if you do.

What do I base this confidence on? Experience AND the Word of God. Whenever I have taken time out to seek God, asking Him to show Himself in a particular situation or circumstance, He has never failed to respond to that seeking. I have found myself understanding Him better as I have searched and watched. I am confident you will have a similar experience if you decide to come and seek Him with all your heart with the others who will be present.

But my experience is only one and truly the lesser source for my confidence. The greater is the Word of God. One of the key verses that comes to mind is Jeremiah 29:13. “You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.” As we are faithful to seek Him, He is faithful to allow Himself to be found. The marvel of this entire transaction is that he is initiator, the one who give s us the desire to seek in the first place. If you are feeling an urge to seek Him with us tomorrow, please come. You will be blessed. Take my word for it. But not my word only...

Pastor Scott Praxl about Prayer Walk

So there you have it. Come out and seek the Lord with us! Hope to see you tomorrow evening.

Jesus, we want to walk one step behind you. That will certainly involve praying. Tomorrow night is a chance to do that on the move with You and Your people. Capture our hearts and turn them to You.

In Christ,


Pastor Timothy

Running Toward the Goal

Dear Worshipers,

I am not much of a runner. The comment of my Senior Pastor in Florida resonated with me when he said that since finishing his service as a Marine he doesn’t run unless someone is chasing him. I like being active, but running as a singular pursuit never interested me. I struggled to see the point until recently.

I have been inspired by my wife to be a better steward of my body. She started faithfully working out last fall, and after seeing her resolve and results I started in June. I still do not enjoy running, but I have begun to experience the benefit of a good cardio workout. My favorite is the elliptical machine.

This morning I was not able to get to the gym and really wanted to get in my cardio so I went running in my neighborhood. I did that a few weeks ago when getting to the gym was not possible and pushed myself a little too hard. Did I mention I am not much of a runner? I was a little more careful today, all the way through the last push, so it was a little easier.

That last section was the toughest. I was finishing up my time and was pushing through, but was struggling to overcome the temptation of my flesh to stop. I set my eyes on a street sign about 250 yards ahead and resolved to run to it. Immediately the Holy Spirit brought a verse to mind. “Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead”. [Phil. 3:13b] I was straining indeed. I was trying to forget what was behind.

That scripture just came alive to me in that moment. Later when I had some time to reflect on this I realized how important it is to keep our eyes on this singular pursuit. Paul says just before these words, “One thing I do:” I know many of you well enough to know you do more than one thing. But we all understand what Paul is saying. This pursuit overshadows and envelopes all others.

And what pursuit is that? Pressing on toward to the goal to win the prize. What prize? The prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus. Now that’s a prize! But it is also a goal.

Do you live with that prize ever before you? Does the acquiring of that prize overshadow and envelope all other pursuits? Do you have lesser goals that are motivating you toward that greater one? What are you “pressing on toward”? Carefully consider your answers to these questions. They guide your daily living.

Jesus, we want press on toward becoming like You. One step at a time, one step behind You. Show the way and we will follow. We come to You. We run to You. Jesus, You are our life.

In Christ,

Pastor Timothy

Night(s) of Worship

Dear Worshipers,

Last year we had one because we were offering one format in our services. This year we are offering two. They will reflect the different nature of those two formats. I am excited to see how God will use this as we continue to prepare our hearts for the journey the Holy Spirit is taking us on this fall as we follow one step behind Jesus. Pursuing God’s Heart is the title of the series which will offer us a look into the life of David. I am excited about that and these Nights of Worship which will provide some of the repertoire for our singing through it.

As we look forward to these two evenings, I want to ask you to do a few things as I did last year about this time:

1. Pray - This should always be our first work. Pray for me as I finalize plans. Pray for the teams as we prepare to lead. Pray that folks will come out. Pray that God will show Himself to us. Pray that we will respond. Pray the recording would bless those who come AND those who can not over the course of the next few months as we “pursue God’s heart”.

2. Come - I sincerely believe you will be blessed by the things God is placing before us. This hour will give us the chance to meditate on the season that is just before us as a church. It will give you a front row seat on the action as we sing and pray. It will also give us a chance to hear from Pastor Myron as he prepares to lead us through the next few months along the path Jesus has for His church which gathers at North-Mar.

3. Bring - Contact someone you know in church and invite them to join you. Maybe you want to have dinner together beforehand, or plan on coffee or ice cream afterwards. Make it a night of worship, not singing and praying, but connecting with God and others, responding corporately to the revelation of our Lord.

This night will give me a more extended opportunity to encourage our people in their worship. Though I am not planning on an extended teaching time, the sheer focus of the night will give me the opportunity to share a little more of my heart and mind with regard to worship. I am pumped about that because I am pumped about the glory of God in our midst.

My invitation to you…please pray and come and bring for/on/with one or both of these nights…for these special events. I believe you will be blessed. Believe with me.

Jesus, we want to worship You with our entire lives. We also want to gather on thess special night to be encouraged in this pursuit even as You reveal Your glory and enable our response. Holy Spirit help us pursue God’s heart as we walk one step behind Jesus and so honor the Father.

In Christ,
Pastor Timothy

This Is Heaven

Dear Worshipers,

My family had the opportunity during our recent vacation to spend with our families in West Virginia, where both Sarah and I were born and raised. What a great time we had relaxing, reflecting and reconnecting. I must say there is some truth to the line from the song, “Almost Heaven, West Virginia”. But there was an even more precious mention of Heaven during our time there that I offered me an opportunity to reflect.

Me and the older three boys were visiting Audra State Park one afternoon, enjoying swimming in the waters of the Middle Fork River and the views from the Alum Cave Trail. As often happens with little ones, the five-year old was getting REALLY tired and simply could not walk anymore. [You should know that Josiah was born with club feet and still suffers some of the remnants of that condition, though to the untrained eye there is no noticeable evidence of it. Walking long distances is even more difficult because of this, not to mention he has to take two steps for every one of mine.] He just could not go on any longer, and I finally gave in to his pleading.

Keep in mind, he is five so not a little tike anymore. The prospect of carrying him very far would not be an easy task. It was only a few hundred yards to the car by the time his surrender came so I figured I could probably make it. It was when I conceded to the pain that I heard those dear words.

“This is Heaven.” I had scooped him up in my arms and had only been carrying him about 15 feet when he said them. They melted my heart, even as I agreed with him that this was heaven. With our two-year old Aiden often around, I now rarely carry Josiah, so this was unusually pleasant. He beamed up at me a smile I will not soon forget, along with giving me a moment to cherish for the rest of my life.

What startled me as I reflected on this later was how often we fail to admit our weakness and plead with our Father for some help. I wish I could convey to you how quickly his countenance changed as soon as his little feet sensed the relief. Sure, it was not actually Heaven, but it had to be a little taste of it, not only for him but for me as well. I thought of this verse, which was so dear to me last year during my illness.

Isaiah 46:4
Even to your old age and gray hairs I am he, I am he who will sustain you. I have made you and I will carry you; I will sustain you and I will rescue you.

Sure we want to walk one step behind Jesus, but sometimes it would be better if we just let him carry us. We will be blessed in the laying down of the burden. And He will be blessed in the carrying.

Jesus, forgive us for too often trying to carry the load. Give us a taste of Heaven as we turn it over to You.

In Christ,

Pastor Timothy

How’s Your Hearing?

Dear Worshipers,

Early this morning I had our youngest son Aiden at the doctor to have tubes put in both ears. Everything was surprisingly quick and I marveled at the care that was literally only a few yards away for months. It seemed like only moments before they called me back to the consultation room to speak with the doctor who informed they were finished and everything went very well.

A few weeks before this same good physician had used an analogy that really stuck with me. He said Aiden was hearing as though he was underwater and we were speaking to him from above it. For those of you that have spent any time in a pool lately you can understand the impairment he has been suffering with unknowingly for some time. You might also be able to see where I am going this Tuesday.

At church we have been singing a song that offers this prayer, “Open the blind eyes, unlock the deaf ears, come to Your people as we draw near.” It struck me at some point today that Aiden’s experience is much like some followers of Jesus. They are under the water, and Jesus is above the water speaking to them. As far as they know, they are hearing clearly. Unknowingly, they are living life with a disability that could be easily removed with the right care. Obviously, the right diagnosis is a crucial part of that, but where better to turn than to the Great Physician.

We were ignorant of Aiden’s problem until a physician recommended we have his hearing examined. One thing led to another and finally today the problem was resolved. Many believers are ignorant of their problem. But there is a Physician that wants to examine them and point out his concerns. He is one in the same Physician that can not only diagnose, and treat, but is the only physician responsible for the actual healing that takes place.

So, have you asked Your Physician lately how’s your hearing? This is prompted by an encounter I had with Him Sunday during the Encourage service. After a particularly sweet time of corporate worship I stepped in back and knelt down and asked Him what he thought of all the praising and He spoke something very encouraging to me. I might share that at some point, but my point today is that He wants to speak to all of us, and mostly what he wants to say is what He said to another sweet time of worship in the Engage service, that is how much He loves us.

Ask Jesus today to examine your hearing, and don’t be surprised if He has an accurate diagnosis for you to apply.

Jesus, how’s my hearing? Is there anything I need to do to be able to more clearly understand Your voice? Speak to me and show me any treatments I should embrace.

In Christ,

Pastor Timothy

On Vacation…from God?!?

Dear Worshipers,

Summer is such a wonderful time. Put aside your strong feelings about the heat for a moment, and let’s acknowledge that the pace of living, and the different activities of the summer which we engage in are enjoyable. All our schedules are a little different in the summer than the rest of the year. That is a wonderful thing.

Oh, and what about vacations? Let’s not forget them. They alter our lives and of course our spending as well. For those of us with kids, there is a lot more time to interact with them in the summer because they are off of school, which influences vacations. There are also more hours of daylight to wear ourselves out, I mean enjoy.

Yes, I hope you agree that summer is a wonderful time. The question I want to ask is “How is the change in your summer schedule impacting your relationship to God?” As I have illustrated, there are any number of factors that influence the time you spend with Him during these long days. For me, with my kids up earlier due to the sun rising earlier, my quiet time is not as quiet as it is during the school year.

So what will you do to ensure that you find yourself one step behind Jesus at the close of this season and the beginning of the next. First, I think you simply need to be intentional and purpose that you will not take a vacation from God while on vacation and enjoying the summer. Second, maybe it is a time to make of the most of being outdoors. Take your quiet time for a walk, I mean simply take it outside. Change something about your normal routine during these next 6-7 weeks. Give outside the box [your house] and prepare to experience God is some different ways.

I am not just thinking about quiet times either. Maybe it is a good time to go on a prayer walk through your neighborhood. Keep your spiritual eyes open, you may be surprised at what you see. This kind of exercise will heighten your spiritual sensitivity. Maybe there is an act of service that you have been putting off, or some opportunity to grow with fellow believers that you need to commit to: whatever it is, take advantage of the summer schedule to do it.

Above all, enjoy your vacation summer. Just be careful not to forget to take God with you wherever and whenever you go…

Jesus, give us a refreshing summer. A time of relaxation and rest, of growing and working. All in all, help us keep You in the middle of it.

In Christ,

Pastor Timothy

What is God Up to…in our Worship Pastor?

Dear Worshipers,

So last week I shared a story of what God is up to in one of our fellow worship leaders, and encouraged you to consider what He is up to in Your life. I told you we need to be diligent to give Him glory for the way He changes us. It occurred to me as I was thinking and praying about this weeks tuning that I should practice what I was preaching…so here are a few examples of how God is at work in me. Please note that these may not seem at all like major spiritual shifts, but the whole of them indicates to me that God is birthing a newness in me, for which I am incredibly grateful.

Guitar – Several months back I asked if anyone had a guitar I could borrow so that I could begin to learn how to play. I have wanted to learn for some time, but sensed that the time was right. I borrowed one guitar for a while and slowly started picking at it, while I waited for an instructional DVD to come. Then someone gave me a guitar, the week my curriculum arrived. I have really sunk my teeth into this and am excited to see my skill increasing each day.

Creativity – About the time that I really got serious with daily practice time on my guitar, I started taking an online course on the Essentials of Worship Leading, aware that I still have much to learn about this mysterious enterprise. As I got into the course, many things were affirmed and a number things were learned. This, coupled with the intent to create a forum to showcase the talent God has given us for His glory, has unleashed a new wave of creativity in me. This is timely because I have a creative project for the course which for me involves writing a song. I am working on a song the Lord is giving me and would appreciate your prayers that I would receive it clearly. I pray it will be something we can use at NMC.

Gym – As He began stimulating my hands, heart, mind and soul, He was stirring me to do something about my strength as well. Sarah has been a great inspiration to me on this one as I have started working out regularly. I knew it would have a tremendous impact on my energy level and just generally how I feel, but it has impacted my thought processes helping me be more effective and efficient in using my time, as well as my countenance.

God is at work in me in a number of other ways as well, but I hope these three give you some insight into the fact that I am trying to follow one step behind Jesus as He leads me in new directions, just as you are. Put on your sandals and prepare to be transformed.

Jesus, we want to be more like You. Change us in every way, one day at a time, so we can reflect You more accurately to the world around us. We are following You Lord.

In Christ,
Pastor Timothy

What is God Up to…in our Worship Ministries?

Dear Worshipers,

How awesome was that Sunday morning to see God so clearly at work in three of our Elders lives!?! And God is on the move not only at NMC at large, but in our Worship Ministries. You saw that Sunday when our fellow musician, John Grundy, shared of Christ’s work in His life over the last couple years. As you can imagine there is much more to it than a few minutes can convey.

I asked John a few weeks ago if he would be willing to share the following evidence of the Spirit’s transforming power in his life. It just so happened that it was convenient to share that this week. It gives you an even more personal look into what God is doing in our brother. Marvel with me at the Father’s handiwork in John.

I am notorious in my house for losing my keys. A few weeks ago Deb and I were going somewhere and I looked in the “key” basket for the car keys—they were not there. Deb carries a set in her purse, so we used her keys. I was not concerned because I almost always put keys in other specific places if I do not put them in the key basket.

I am the kind of person that when something is lost, it drives me crazy until I find it. When we got home, I began to look in those places for the keys. My pants pocket from the prior day—no. The top of my dresser—no. My coat pocket—no. And I went through the house, checking each of the places where I put my keys if I do not put them in the basket. The next day I looked at work—no keys. Again when I got home I practically ripped the house apart looking for them. As I was frantically searching, Deb mentioned that if I had put the keys where they belonged—in the basket—in the first place they would not be lost and I would not be all frantic looking for them.

The next night, when I came home from work, I was met by a somewhat subdued Deb. She had found the keys. And where did she find them? In her coat pocket. She had taken them out of the basket when she ran an errand and not put the keys back in the basket when she got home.

Two years ago, I would have been furious with her. I would have been so angry with her that I would not have talked to her for four or maybe five days. But I was not angry this time. Instead, I burst out laughing. I was laughing so hard my hands were on my knees to hold me on my feet. The Holy Spirit had created a new me so that I could laugh at this. I was certainly not the old John who would have been furious.

What a beautiful illustration of the Lord changing a life! Do you have a story of God at work in your life? I already know the answer to that question, but not the next. Would you be willing to share it? Guest columnists are invited to contribute. There are more stories than a weekly “tuning” can hold, but let’s try to tell them. Acknowledging Christ’s life changing power in our midst is so encouraging. Let’s make a habit of it.

Jesus, when we ask You to help us walk a step behind You, we are implying You are moving…and You are! Please keep it up. Change our lives so we may accurately reflect Your love to a watching, waiting world.

In Christ,

Pastor Timothy

Celebration of Creativity

Dear Worshipers,

Warning: I want to hear from you on this one. I need your prayerful feedback.

Julia’s song Sunday was wonderful, wasn’t it? And she is going to be a graphic designer. Meet another one who just graduated from college recently and may be joining choir in the fall. Did I hear one of those graduating seniors say they were majoring in dance? We have a small cast of actors from our youth who are serving excellently this week at VBS.

You have already enjoyed some to the labors of Joseph McBride our resident set designer/fabricator, and I learned a few weeks ago that he sings too. I recently met another person who has a background in drama and music who has toured in that capacity. God has blessed us with an amazing amount of creativity in our congregation and continues to do so. I have been prompted lately in several ways to celebrate that creativity, and I want some feedback from you.

For years I have wanted to find ways to encourage the artisans in our midst to use their talent for their Maker’s glory. I have heard of churches doing art exhibits, and poetry readings for example, and am praying about the right venue for our body’s artists. An idea is emerging to do an event where some might sing, others might read, while still others would display their handiwork, even including other items like jewelry or otherwise.

So what do you think? An evening in the fellowship Hall and otherwise where God is glorified as art is displayed, drama is portrayed, music is made, words are say-ed [pardon me, but you get the idea. We could possibly have the Holy Grounds Café open and maybe even offer some other treats. This is just taking shape for me and I want you feedback. Let me know what you think, and let’s see how God will encourage us to encourage our artisans.

Jesus, you created us. Show us how to use all our creativity for Your praise.

In Christ,

Pastor Timothy

The Sacrifice of One

Dear Worshipers,

What a stirring service on Sunday. The testimony from Ken was God-honoring. When a few people came to the altar during the second service as many were kneeling in their pews I was overwhelmed. Pastor Myron brought the Word to us and provided a powerful reminder: God is in control and He loves us. I am so thankful for those two things.

Then, just when everyone thought we were finished, we experienced one more powerful moment. We spent a few moments considering the sacrifice of a serviceman through the eyes of his daughter. The Sacrifice of One. This proved to be a stirring reminder of the sacrifice of many. We left with grateful hearts.

I hope you each enjoyed your celebrations of Memorial Day. Now we have moved back into another week of worshipping, working and walking. Do you still find yourself stirred by the sacrifice of the One who died for you? Are you overwhelmed by the reality that he loves you? Is it humbling to think that He is on control of everything and is working it all out for your good, that is if you love Him?

I hope you are. He is so good to us. And He is at work in our midst. If you were here Sunday I trust you are confident of that. If you were not, be here this weekend as we gather around the table and consider the last of the Core Values of the Alliance: “Achieving God’s purposes involves taking faith-filled risks; this always involves change. Hebrews 11:6” What changes does God have in store for us, for you? Let’s embrace them with a heart of wonder.

Jesus, have Your way in me. I offer up my life to You. I love You.

In Christ,
Pastor Timothy

Telling His Story

Dear Worshipers,

As Pastor Nathan played and we sang, “I love to tell the story…” my heart soared to hear God’s people declare that simple truth. Then, over the next 30 minutes or so to have our hearts so encouraged at the telling of His story through our guest speakers was quite a blessing. Then, after we prayed for them, we were encouraged to go and continue the telling, as the Psalmist said in 66:16 “let me tell you what he has done for me.”

So how has your telling going? Has it slipped your mind, or been crowded out like mine a time or two? Oh, I did pretty well Sunday afternoon at the Worship Ministries picnic, but I do not think it was long before I was on to other pursuits. The really challenge is letting that pursuit “telling His story” shape all my other ones.

I was thinking of this during staff prayer this morning when one of the Pastors Paul prayed something about being “prone to wander”. Immediately, thought of the text of the old hymn “Come, Thou Fount” which was part of the original inspiration for the naming of this blog. [See early entries] If you do not know it here is a link with the text. "Come, Thou Fount of Every Blessing" David Crowder Band

The line that my mind went to was this. “Prone to wander, Lord I feel it, prone to leave the God I love.” I love Him. I love His story. I love to tell the story. I love discovering everyday my part in it. And yet…I know that my mind-at the rest of me-is prone to wander and engage in other things.

I know you understand what I am talking about, but I did not write to commiserate with you but to encourage you. Think of the first line of the song. “Tune my heart to sing Thy grace.” Tune my heart. I get out of tune. I need you to tune my heart. I line me up with you again and set me back on track. That is exactly what we need. It’s what our Savior wants to do. Why no ask Him again right now to tune your heart? It really not that hard.

Then, when you start to fell a little out of tune, do it again. It’s a musical way of praying “Fill me Holy Spirit”. It is the same thought. I want to sing Your grace, live for You but I need Your help to do even that.

Jesus, tune my heart to sing Your grace. Your never-ceasing streams of mercy call for this response-loudest praise. But not only loud. In tune. Help me.

In Christ,
Pastor Timothy

Saddle Up Your Horses

Dear Worshipers,

What a powerful illustration Pastor Myron brought to us Sunday morning! Giving over the reins to God. Such a simple picture. Such profound implications. As we were praying as a staff this morning, the Lord developed this image a little more while several of my brothers prayed.

I could see vast open plain, like the ones at the foothills of the Rockies. Behind them in the distance rose the majestic snow capped mountains. Immediately before me was a corral with a bunch of horses and off in the distance was a pack of wild ones.

In my mind the ones in the corral were the ones who had been broken. They had yielded themselves to a rider, would were a saddle, and follow commands. Though they did not always comply quickly to the will of their rider, they knew the benefit of such and actually welcomed that direction.

The horses in the open plain were wild. They escaped the influence of any rider, seemingly going wherever they wished, although they generally followed the herd. They were free to pursue their own will, and at the mercy of the wild.

The corral and the plain, the church and the unchurched. Clean, neat. But not really. As with any analogy there are some shortcomings.

Even in the corral, the churched, are those who though they have been broken, still fight at every turn. This portrays the Christian who has not yet given control over to the Holy Spirit. We have all seen this, and if we will be honest, we have all experienced it personally. I want to encourage each of you reading to keep giving those reins.

It made me think of that theme from last fall, Live the Adventure. The most exciting life available to each of us is living in Christ. That is what we have to share with those out in the plains. Not a life of living in a corral, penned in. But learning to yield, to be disciplined so that we can enjoy all God has for us. If you are thinking that giving the reins over to God is boring, not so. It is the most exciting thing you can ever do!

For those of you thinking I am not up for that kind of excitement, let me assure you there is also no greater peace than that which comes from knowing God has the reins of your life. Do not waste another minute plodding down your worn out trail! Give God the reins and see where He will lead you. It will be wonderful. I guarantee it!

Jesus, I give You the reins of my life. I want You to control me, lead me, guide me. I want to know the thrill of life experiencing Your promises to me. Amen.

In Christ,

Pastor Timothy

Seeing God at Work

Dear Worshipers,

How is your eyesight? Can you see things clearly? Do you have to hold the newspaper at arms length to read it without your glasses? Fortunately, we do not need to have great eyesight to see God at work. All we need is the faith to acknowledge His activity as such.

I was speaking with a friend this morning. Her little boy has been sick for a while. Really sick. In the hospital sick, a number of different times. He was released last week and headed back to school on Thursday only to have to leave school to go back to the doctor. They said migraines and set mom to get some prescriptions.

While there waiting on them, a man dressed like a hobo came up to them. He placed his hands on her son, which normally would have really freaked her out, but didn’t just then. He said something to the effect of, “Jesus is with you little man. You are going to be fine.” Turning to his mom, the man said “Don’t worry. God is in control.” He looked back at her son and walked away.

By that evening all signs of sickness were gone. When she commented that the medicine had really worked, her son corrected my friend and reminded her of what the man had said. They talked about Hebrews 13:2 and how the man seemed to have been an angel to them. She said it was her best Mother’s Day ever. Her son is still well.

Tears welled up in my eyes as she told me this story. By God’s grace, I see God at work in that situation, as she did. How often is God at around us and we do not recognize it? So I ask the question again…

How’s your eyesight? I am not talking about the Hebrews 11:1, “Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.” I am talking about the spiritual eyesight that allows us to see God at work around us and acknowledge it as such. Let me ask a different question.

How do see God at work around you? God is at work around you. That is not the question. The question is can you see it. Pray for the faith to see God at work in your circumstances. He wants to rescue you for sin. He wants you to experience the abundant life. He wants you to now He loves you. Can you see it?

Pray. And then get ready to have your eyes opened.

Jesus, open my eyes that I may see glimpses of your work around me. I was blind, but now I see. I was lost but now I’m found. I was dead, but now I live. And now my lifesong sings. Amen.

In Christ,
Pastor Timothy

Positive Eternal Difference
Dear Worshipers,

Without the empowerment of the Holy Spirit, we can accomplish nothing. Have you let those words sink in since Sunday. They are pretty heavy, and I want to encourage you to spend some time allowing them to settle slowly to the bottom of your soul because this is a core value that must be a part of the foundation of your thinking if you are to be used by God.

Does this mean we can not brush our teeth with the Holy Spirit? No. Go to work, school, the grocery store? Of course not. Teach, preach and baptize? No, we can even attempt these “spiritual” things in our own strength. That is not what NOTHING means.

It is not implying that we can actually do nothing without the Holy Spirit. But we all knew that already because each of us has done far too many things without His leading. Instead, it is stating that we can not make a positive eternal difference without Him.

And that is what God wants to make through us.

It’s also wants God wants to do in us.

He wants to change us until we realize that we must be totally dependent on Him. Far too often we operate in our own strength, follow our own ideas, dream up our own creations, attack challenges with our own determination instead of waiting on God, praying, and then allowing all of our resources to be empowered by Him. I know you know what I’m talking about.

So how do we do that? Focus on the little things. Start small. Ask the Holy Spirit to fill you each morning before your feet hit the floor, and then keep asking Him to fill you as you go through the day. He will reveal Himself to you and give you what you need at every turn in the road. Keep it real. Keep it practical.

Remember Pastor Myron’s challenge about looking for unexpected, financial blessings as a way to meet the need for Val Downs? As of this morning he had already received three emails from people who are stoked about sharing since they have seen God provide in an unexpected way already. God is at work in our midst! He wants to work in and through YOU! Ready? Let’s go.

Jesus, I want You to make a positive eternal difference in me today, so that You make one through me as well. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit. As I see you at work I will join you. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.

In Christ,

Pastor Timothy

Identified with Christ

Dear Worshipers,

I reminded you last week that we just marked a significant marker this weekend in the life of North-Mar Church. And though we did so with no real pomp and circumstance, Pastor Myron brought another message that could have similar impact on the life of our church should we choose to respond to it. Lord, have Your way in us.

From Romans 6 he challenged us to be identified with Christ. Dead BUT Live! Know it, claim it, live it. Many of you walked toward the front of the sanctuary to affirm your desire to claim your identity in Christ. What a powerful moment! Now what.

How is it going as you are trying to live out that identity? It will not be easy, but you already knew that. For someone, the temptation to gossip has already presented itself and you have had to consider yourself dead to gossip and alive in Christ. For someone else, the allure of pornography may have already crossed your mind and you have been able to claim victory over that in Christ. Still someone else is facing a situation and you are inclined to think that the Lord really does not see you and your pain, but you have reminded yourself that you are alive in Him and He loves you.

You see being identified with Christ comes at every moment of the day, not only the great spiritual moments while you are singing a song of praise with a Bible in one hand and your other lifted to heaven. Yielding to your Master in all things is the way that we demonstrate our identity with Christ. We associate with Him at every level.

That’s what it means to be identified with someone. To associate in name, feeling, interest, action, etc. In every way to connect with Christ. That takes some adjusting on our part. Even radical adjusting. It’s not easy, but it is worth it.

So do you know it? Sure. Did you claim it? I hope so. Are you living it? I am praying you are discovering what that means every day. And that today is not exception. Let’s live out our identity with Christ

Jesus, I want to identify with You. Help me live that out by dying to myself so that I can live in You. I want to be dead but alive. Holy Spirit, help me.

In Christ,

Pastor Timothy

Set ME on Fire

Dear Worshipers,

I like marking time, that is celebrating the passing of time especially from a significant event. At North-Mar, we are coming up on such an occasion this weekend. Can you remember what happened in our morning services a year ago this weekend, or maybe more accurately what began to happen. Think about it a minute before you read on.

It was a year ago this weekend that Pastor Myron spoke about baptism and encouraged people to respond and be baptized the next week. What happened next was a remarkable move of God. Over the next seven weeks God chose to Soak The Church as over 180 people were baptized.

It was breath-taking as week after week, for a total of 7 weeks, in each service there were people baptized with many telling glorious LifeChange stories. If you were here during that period of time, you know there are not adequate words to express the joy and excitement of those Sundays. But as with every season, those weeks drew to a close and we moved on, ever wondering what God would do next.

I remember thinking during that time and even asking the question publicly, “Do you think God is finished working here at NMC?” The response was always an emphatic “NO!” since the strong sense that each of us had was that He had really just begun. I still believe that to be true.

Though we have not seen an outpouring in a wave like that, we continue to see ripples. Lives being changed one at a time. There is a sense of excitement in our services. People fill the building for events through the week. Still, I would not be honest if I did not admit that I continue long to see God changing lives in bunches like that season a year ago.

That desire was fueled by a request I invited you to join me in back in February. Here is what I said back then.

When you think about North-Mar, when you are driving here, or away from here, anytime the Lord brings this place to mind I am asking you to join me in this simple prayer: Set Us On Fire. That God would give us an all-consuming passion for the renown of His matchless name here in our community and to the ends of the earth. Will you join me?

I wonder how many of you took my challenge and have been praying. It is easy to shrug off a broad prayer like that and assume that someone else will pray it, and then God will respond to their faithful prayer, so I feel compelled to bring it a little closer to home. Will you begin to pray, Set ME on fire? WARNING! God likes to answer this kind of prayer!

I have begun to ask God why we have not seen Him move like last spring and am searching His heart to discover if there is anything we are missing that is keeping Him from freely flowing in our midst. I believe if we begin to seek Him together to set each of us on fire, we will find ourselves positioned to burn as a community of faith. Holy Spirit come!

Jesus, let revival fire fall. Then on the heals of it, let us see a great awakening in our neighborhoods and cities. Begin that work in me.

In Christ,

Pastor Timothy

Resurrection Hangover

Dear Worshipers,

I was visiting a church pastored by a dear friend of mine this past Sunday during my vacation. In his opening remarks and welcomed to the folks gathered to worship he mentioned that he was delighted to see so many of them again the week following Easter. As you know, many people find their way to church on Easter Sunday morning who have a hard time finding their way back the next week, or for a long time.

He said, “I’m glad to see you are not experiencing a resurrection hangover.” Those words really caught my attention. While the first and most common definition of a hangover is the ill effects experienced after a night of drinking, the term hangover was originally a 19th century expression describing unfinished business—something left over from a meeting—or "survival." [Wikipedia] Another definition and the one that I eventually wrestled with can be defined as a letdown, as after a period of excitement. [dictionary.com]

Easter is certainly exciting. I was using words leading up to and even Easter Sunday morning like pinnacle to describe the importance of the celebration of the resurrection in the yearly cycle of the gathered church. While we celebrate Jesus’ resurrection every time we gather in one way or another, Easter is IT! The DAY!

It is hard not to come down from that. If it is the pinnacle, how can one not come down. You can not live at the mountaintop. There is not much there, other than the feeling of a nearness to the Lord. But life, and ministry, happen in the valley. So how do you keep from letting the hangover come?

You can’t. I really don’t think you can avoid it. But I do think you can avoid allowing your feeling to negatively affect your countenance. As you stand on the side of the mountain or near the valley at the bottom, look up. Fix your eyes again on Jesus, the Author and FINISHER of our faith. [Hebrews 12:2] It may be finished, but you are not!

Put your faith to work for you today for there are still things Jesus wants to do in and through you. Shake off the letdown from previous period of excitement and get back at it, whatever it is for you in God’s gracious plan. There is unfinished business, but that is something to be excited about, not hungover.

Jesus, help me shake off the let down of a previous period of excitement in You. I want to get there again, to that place of exhilaration and exuberance in You. Take me there as I walk one step behind you.

In Christ,

Pastor Timothy

Only a King…

Dear Worshipers,

What an amazing encounter with our Lord Sunday was for us. From the first notes of Palm Sunday services through the dismissal at the musical there was a palpable sense of God’s presence in our midst. I want each of you who were involved in any capacity to know that I am thanking God for you and your contribution to those experiences.

As we went through the musical in the 6:00 hour, I was enjoying myself immensely, which by the way I believe God wants us to do when we are in serving Him in the center of His will. We got to the song “What Kind of King?” which asks a question rhetorically focusing on the realities of what Jesus did and what kind of King that made Him. As we got to the chorus the question is answered like this.

Only a King who gives up His crown.
Only a King his glory laid down.
Only a King who’s willing to give so that others might live.
Jesus the King.

I have sung those words many times. Can really sing them, even direct the orchestra, without really thinking about it? But in that moment the Holy Spirit revealed another layer of the reality of who Jesus is to me. That has often happened to me as I offer my worship to my King, singing something I know, and learning something by revelation I had yet to appreciate.

What a King is our Jesus! What a joy to serve Him! What a delight to be alive forever because of what He accomplished on the cross! AMEN!

As we approach our celebrations this weekend, Good Friday and Easter Sunday, ask God to reveal something of Himself to you. To overwhelm you with the reality of Himself. To touch and heal and restore and forgive and bless. And while you are at it, pray for the many who will attend those services, particularly Easter morning, that God will show His Son to them in a life-changing way.

Jesus, You are alive forever, and because of that so are we. Help us to remember Your sacrifice and revel in Your resurrection this weekend, and always. Alleluia!

In Christ,
Pastor Timothy

Save Us, Please!

Dear Worshipers,

That’s what the choir will be shouting as they enter the sanctuary Sunday morning carrying palm branches. For anyone with a little church background that will not seem that strange since they will recall the biblical accounts of Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem at the beginning of what we now call Holy Week. But before we dismiss this as something we know all about let’s think for a minute why this event, and particularly this exclamation was so significant.

This is true of the word transliterated “Hosanna” because of what it represented.

Our English word is a transliteration (using English letters) of a Hebrew one-word sentence meaning, "Save us, please!" John's Greek text also transliterated hosanna from Hebrew to Greek. The word is part of Psalm 118:25a where it is part of a prayer addressed to the Lord. It is not likely that John failed to appreciate the meaning of the crowd meeting Jesus with the words of a prayer the Old Testament addressed to God. In the course of time the Hebrew meaning of hosanna was forgotten and the word simply became a Christian exclamation of praise. This is the way most of us have heard hosanna; it may be that its use in the very celebrative Triumphal Entry led to this later praise use. [An excerpt from a longer article with an informative section on “John 12:12-19 - The Triumphal Entry” see that subheading about halfway down the page “The Voice” Roger Hahn]

This is very helpful for us who know this word Hosanna from our Palm Sunday chants. For those who were shouting it and hearing it on the road into Jerusalem, there was no mistaking they were heralding the arrival of their Messiah. His riding on a donkey was another fulfilled prophecy that pointed to His Kingship. [Zechariah 9:9]

It has always struck me how quickly the crowds turn on Jesus. It is only days later when the crowd says “Crucify him!” These seems like such a strange turn of events, but for the mind of the Israelite crying out to be saved from the Roman oppression Jesus simply must not have delivered quickly enough. We can be fickle like that as well, can’t we?

So what will your response be as the crowds shout Hosanna this weekend? Will you place your expectations on the Savior as to how and when and from what He should save you? Or rather, will you humbly cry out to Him to have his way and save you on His terms? May there be many who choose the latter response! Will you join me in it?

Jesus, as we have sung recently and will sing again this weekend, “Come have Your way among us. We welcome you here Lord Jesus!” Hosanna! You are the God who saves us. You’re worthy of all our praises.

In Christ,

Pastor Timothy

I Am Not Ashamed

Dear Worshipers,

What a challenge from the Scripture on Sunday! Paul was under obligation, eager and not ashamed. We need to envision ourselves the same way. I think the first two are a little easier for us than the last.

Under obligation. When we realize the significance of what the Lord has done for us this is not so hard to feel. I like the way one song we have sung recently puts it. “Oh, my words could not tell, not even in part, of the debt of love that is owed by this thankful heart.” But we are not only obligation to the Lord, but also to those who have yet to hear this Good News.

Eager. Again, when we consider the implications the Gospel in our lives, we are naturally enthusiastic about it. But the issue is not enthusiasm as much as faithfulness and the power by which we share must be supernatural and not just natural.

These things are obvious. But no so much so that they go without saying. Because for some reason we often do not live as though we are under obligation or eager, let alone both, and I believe the underlying reason may be that we are ashamed of the Gospel. Before you get upset with me, let me explain.

I do not think that any us of is asked would say we are ashamed of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, as it is clearly described in the Scriptures. If we are ashamed, and I am only asserting that we may be, I think it derives from the fact that we have exchanged the Gospel of Jesus Christ for one that is a little less demanding, one that does not place us under obligation to share it, and one that we are not necessarily eager to share. Why might I believe this?

Because the Gospel of Jesus Christ “is the power of God at work, saving everyone who believes”. (Romans 1:16b NLT) Too often, we do not see the power of God at work, saving people, and we gradually become comfortable with that, until finally we refashion the Gospel and make a gospel that closely resembles it, just without the power. Lord, have mercy on us to the extent that we have done this.

Sunday we saw the power of God demonstrated in the testimonies from those who were being baptized. We are seeing the power of God at work saving people, so we are less inclined to create our own gospel. May God bless us with a greater awareness of His power so that we will find ourselves under obligation, eager and NOT ASHAMED.

Jesus, give us eyes to see you at work around us. As we do, make us eager to proclaim Your Gospel that has the power to save everyone who believes. When as put our faith to work, may we see people trusting in You.

In Christ,

Pastor Timothy

Faith Works

Dear Worshipers,

Pastor Myron will be starting a new series taking us through an overview of sorts of the book of Romans. As he spoke with me last Thursday he shared his working title, Faith Works, and that really got my juices flowing. What a perfect way to continue an emphasis on the filling of the Spirit and even more specifically Pastor Worley’s message this week about the mobilization of fully devoted disciple of Christ. As we begin this new series be praying as God continues to show Himself to us that we would be willing to adjust our living around His plans and purposes, moving on to God’s agenda.

Someone sent the following to me last week. It is a wonderful illustration of our faith working and keeping us one step behind Jesus. Oh, that we would be oft mistaken for our King?

EXCUSE ME, ARE YOU JESUS? [Author unknown]

A few years ago a group of salesmen went to a regional sales convention in Chicago. They had assured their wives that they would be home in plenty of time for Friday night’s dinner. In their rush, with tickets and briefcases, one of these salesmen inadvertently kicked over
a table which held a display of apples. Apples flew everywhere Without stopping or looking back, they all managed to reach the plane in time for their nearly missed boarding.

ALL BUT ONE! He paused, took a deep breath, got in touch with his feelings, and experienced a twinge of compassion for the girl whose apple stand had been overturned.
He told his buddies to go on without him, waved good-bye, told one of them to call his wife when they arrived at their home destination and explain his taking a later flight. Then he returned to the terminal where the apples were all over the terminal floor. He was glad he did.

The 16 year old girl was totally blind! She was softly crying, tears running down her cheeks in frustration, and at the same time helplessly groping for her spilled produce as the crowd swirled about her, no one stopping and no one to care for her plight.

The salesman knelt on the floor with her, gathered up the apples, put them back on the table and helped organize her display. As he did this, he noticed that many of them had become battered and bruised; these he set aside in another basket.

When he had finished, he pulled out his wallet and said to the girl, “Here, please take this $40 for the damage we did. Are you okay?” She nodded through her tears. He continued on with, “I hope we didn’t spoil your day too badly.”

As the salesman started to walk away, the bewildered blind girl called out to him, “Mister….” He paused and turned to look back into those blind eyes. She continued, “Are you Jesus?” He stopped in mid-stride, and he wondered. Then slowly he made his way
to catch the later flight with that question burning and bouncing about in his soul: “Are you Jesus?” Do people mistake you for Jesus? That’s our destiny, is it not? To be so much like Jesus that people cannot tell the difference as we live and interact with a world that is blind to His love, life and grace.

If we claim to know Him, we should live, walk and act as He would. Knowing Him is more than simply quoting Scripture and going to church. It’s actually living the Word as life unfolds day to day. You are the apple of His eye even though we, too, have been bruised by a fall. He stopped what He was doing and picked you and me up on a hill called Calvary and paid in full for our damaged fruit.

Jesus, help us to live so in step with You that we are often mistaken for You. If that happens, it will be a demonstration of the Spirit’s power in our lives, and an opportunity for us to praise You for what only You could do! Do it Lord, for Your glory!

In Christ,

Pastor Timothy

Filled with the Holy Spirit

Dear Worshipers,

I trust that as we came to close in the service Sunday there were some who for the first time were asking God to fill them with His Holy Spirit, as Pastor Myron has taught and was directing and leading us. I am equally as certain that some of them were surprised when no actual fire fell from heaven, or when there were not manifestations of the Holy Spirit like tongues. I am sure some were thinking, “So how do I know that I am filled with God’s Holy Spirit?”

I thought of my two older boys who were in the service Sunday. I do not think they were wondering about the kinds of things I outlined above for they have no context to have formed such thoughts on the Spirit. We talk about the Spirit filling us and leading us, even with our 4 year old who surrendered to Christ last year. It is not always something that is demonstrated by signs and wonders, though I believe it absolutely can be.

Rather, the filling of the Holy Spirit is not always so conspicuous. Though I believe over a period of time His presence in our lives should be obvious, it is not always readily apparent. Part of the reason for that is us, and the other part is Him.

Sometimes we simply do not allow Him to move freely through us. I think of the image of heavenly Dove and imagine how easily a dove is shooed away when not welcome. We do not have to do much to cause Him to retreat from the forefront of our lives.

This can be frustrating, but it also has an encouraging parallel. We do not have to do much to welcome Him back to the forefront either. Remember that simple prayer? “Lord, fill me with Your Holy Spirit; I want to live for You.” Seems to simple, right? Well, it is. But God knows it must be simple if we are going to be able to do it. Remember, He knows us better than we know ourselves.

If you have not prayed it again yet, why not do it right now? “Lord, fill me with Your Holy Spirit; I want to live for You.” There may not be signs and wonders, but there will be a quiet confidence that you are at the disposable of the Mighty One, and are empowered to do all He calls you to do as you live for Him.

For more on the activity of the Holy Spirit and our prayers inviting it read my blog entry Never Be the Same Again, Chorus from Tuesday, May 26, 2009.

In Christ,

Pastor Timothy

One Step Behind Jesus

Dear Worshipers,

Pastor Myron has said this phrase many times lately. I know that I am privileged to spend a good amount of time with him each week so I hear them more than some of you but I know he has been saying them on Sunday mornings as well. They are a significant part of the picture he has in his mind of what God wants North-Mar to look like, and every time he speaks them that picture becomes clearer to me and you.

So what about that picture that is emerging in your mind? Do you see the back side of the Good Shepherd? Do you see the sun beating down on His head, glistening in the sweat on His brow as He turns back to you? Do you see Him gently motioning to you to continue to follow? Do you feel the wind in your face as you press on?

We have been given an assignment this week and I want to encourage you to do it. It was on the back of the sermon notes in the bulletin. In case you failed to pick one up before you left the church here it is, “Take some time this week to root out any legalistic thinking that may be a part of your past.” There were a couple of other encouragements to believe the truth about Jesus, and that God can work in you by His Spirit so you can really follow Jesus, but I want to encourage you to do the first one.

Will you spend some time talking with the Lord about how you view the role of the Holy Spirit in your life? Will you ask Him to reveal and wrong thinking that has clouded your experience of Him? Will you ask Him to show you if there is anything in your mind in particular or your life in general that would impair your yielding entirely to Him?

Though I would want you to come every Sunday with this expectation, I want to encourage you to come expecting to meet God in a life-changing way Sunday as we conclude this two-part series on the Holy Spirit. God has been meeting us in an unusual way recently. I trust you have been sensing that. My call for you to join me in praying for His fire to fall on us is a part of seeing that unfold.

Our desire is to be like Jesus, and a dependency on the Holy Spirit is critical to being like Him. We want to follow one step behind Him, looking to Him for direction and guidance at every turn in the road. Let’s prepare to press into that shared purpose as we gather Sunday. I look forward to seeing you there.

Jesus, set us on fire. Fill us with Your Holy Spirit that we may follow one step behind you. Let Your flame burn to glorify Your name.

In Christ,
Pastor Timothy

Set Us On Fire

Dear Worshipers,

A week ago Sunday we celebrated what God did at North-Mar church in 2009. For me, as I reflected on my inaugural year of ministry here it is overshadowed by these three words “Soak Your Church”. This is exactly what God did as we saw 180 people baptized in May and June. It was a remarkable moving of God.

We sang a song during that season tilted “I Will Never Be the Same Again”. In it were these words. “Fall like fire…burn away the chaff…let a flame burn to glorify Your name”. I think those words were still on my mind as I headed into our weekly time of praying as a pastoral staff.

Pastor Myron was challenging us to pray courageously, being willing to ask God for things that will bring glory to only His name as he does them. We were praying for people to be set free from addictions, for lives to be healed, and marriages transformed. As we prayed, I felt God impressing upon me to ask Him to set us on fire, that we would be filled with the Holy Spirit. I prayed and have continued praying and know what to ask you to join me.

When you think about North-Mar, when you are driving here, or away from here, anytime the Lord brings this place to mind I am asking you to join me in this simple prayer: Set Us On Fire. That God would give us an all-consuming passion for the renown of His matchless name here in our community and to the ends of the earth. Will you join me?

As certainly as 2009 was the year God chose to Soak His Church, may 2010 be the year he chose to Set Us On Fire. Nothing fancy here, just desperation for God to do what only He can do so that when He does it He receives all that glory. That’s the kind of place he wants North-Mar to be. That’s the kind of people He wants us to be. How gracious!

Jesus, set us on fire. Fill us with Your Holy Spirit burn away the chaff of uselessness in our lives and our church. Let Your flame burn to glorify Your name.

In Christ,

Pastor Timothy

Knowing and Obeying God’s Word

Dear Worshipers,

Has this ever happened to you? You hear a message about ________ [you supply words]. A few days later you read a book that talks about ________ as a key element for spiritual growth. Someone sends you an email about ________. You find yourself thinking, “OK Lord, I get the picture.”

That has been my experience these last few days with this core value, knowing and obeying God’s word. I want to share the text from the email I received.

Strange Instructions

"And this is love: that we walk in obedience to his commands" (2 John 6).

A distinguished Indian evangelist named Sadhu Chellappa was on a mission trip to a village north of Madras, when in the middle of the night he suddenly sensed God speaking to him: "Leave this house quickly and run away!"

Not exactly a convenient thing to do. But Chellappa was accustomed to accepting even strange instructions from the Lord without debate, so he dressed quickly and ran into the darkness.

After a while, he was in open country. As he passed beneath a large tree, he felt God tell him, "Stay here and start to preach!" Now, even for an experienced evangelist, this was puzzling--because there was no one to be seen. Why did God want him to preach to an empty field in the middle of the night? But he stopped under the tree and began to preach the gospel.

Finally, he reached the point at which he called on his unseen listeners to give their lives to Jesus. He was surprised to hear a voice from the top of the tree and see a man climb down, crying. The man tearfully gave his life to Jesus. When Chellappa asked why he was in a tree out in the middle of nowhere, the man admitted, "I came out here to hang myself.."

How is your obedience quotient? God calls us to be obedient to that small voice inside that can direct us to sometimes do strange things. Jesus was obedient in ALL things. "For just as through the disobedience of the one man the many were made sinners, so also through the obedience of the one man the many will be made righteous" (Rom 5:19). God can do exceedingly great things through one man or woman who is willing to be obedient to God's voice.

We all want to be obedient to God’s word, written and spoken. Ask Him with me for the grace and courage to be obedient to His voice.

Jesus, I want to be obedient to Your voice. Fill me with Your Spirit that I may have the grace and courage to listen and obey, radically and immediately.

In Christ,
Pastor Timothy

Highest Purposes

Dear Worshipers,

Last week I wrote encouraging you to set some goals. I gave you a biblical example of the overarching goal that encompasses each of our lives, Christ-likeness. I want to give you another Scripture to consider today as you prayerfully place some goals before you to guide your living.

In a book we are reading as a staff, there is a section titled “Radical, Immediate Obedience”. I know, when I read that I was a little hesitant to flip the page, but wanting to be conscientious I did. The author wrote about the need to guard against comfortable disobedience, rationalizing our unwillingness to fully obey by doing a little less than God has called us to do. He spoke of the need for repentance when we fail to obey, citing Saul and David as bad and good examples respectively. Then came the section that really hit me, and here is where it ties in to our lives and worship.

If you stay away from sin, you will be like one of those dishes made of purest gold-the very best in the house-so that Christ Himself can use you for His highest purposes. [2 Timothy 2:21, The Living Bible]

His highest purposes! Wow. That jumped off the page at me. I consulted several other translations and no others read like this. Most had wording like, “every good work” or something to that effect. [Keep in mind TLB is a paraphrase.] Still, I think there is something profitable to be mined from this.

Certainly, all of the work that God has called us to is noble and honorable. But there are many things that we could set our hearts and minds on that are less than God has called us to do that might be regarded by many as worthy of causes to spend our lives pursuing. These lesser purposes can consume us and become a good reason for not doing the higher things God has actually called us to do.

Though these lesser/higher purposes may be different for you and me let me give you an example. I am confident that part of God’s higher purposes for me is the ministry I exercise on Sunday morning, leading God’s people in worship. I could be involved in a lesser role in the same activity, but that would not be my pursuing God’s highest purposes in my life.

The question I want to pose to you is this. Are you fully invested in God’s highest purposes, or have a myriad of lesser purposes diluted your focus and rendered you ineffective? Consider this question before our Lord and commit to become a dish of pure gold.

Jesus, I want to be engaged in Your highest purposes. Reveal to me if I have rationalized by behavior and soothed my conviction with good works. I am fully dependent on Your leading me and using me.

In Christ,

Pastor Timothy

Goals

Dear Worshipers,

I read an article a couple of weeks ago, right after the turn of the year that talked about coming up with some goals, both personally and pastorally…

I saw a note that Sarah had written with regard to a goal she has set for herself that challenged and motivated me…

I am feeling led to prayerfully consider writing down some things I hope to accomplish with God’s help in 2010…

And I want you to join me.

Setting and striving for goals is a very biblical concept. Sure, management and self-help books will speak of the necessity of writing down realistic and measurable goals, but they did not invent this idea. God did. This is how Paul put his goal setting.

12Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already been made perfect, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. 13Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, 14I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus. [Philippians 3:12-14, NIV]

What powerful word! Forgetting what is behind…straining toward what is ahead…pressing on toward the goal to win the prize. That’s the best goal anyone could have, but there are also lesser goals that are very important, some of them being steps in reaching that ultimate one.

I want to encourage you to pray and write down at least one goal. Maybe it is something short-term, in the next month, or by summer, or by the end of the year. Be realistic. “I will loose 98 pounds this in 2010”, would not be a good example. Make it measureable. “I will grow closer to Jesus”, another bad example.

Take some time this week to ask the Holy Spirit to guide you to set at least one goal. Write it down and put it where you will see it regularly. Tell somebody about and ask them pray for you that you will be able to press on toward reaching it. Make a plan to take steps to see it fulfilled. Give glory to God when it is.

Jesus, help me set a goal that will help me press on. I want to be more like You, and that means taking steps toward to the goal that you have called me heavenward to attain. Fill me with Your Spirit as I do.

In Christ,

Pastor Timothy

Worship and Suffering

Dear Worshipers,

To follow up on my thoughts about a generous life from last week I want to borrow the words of a new friend to help you think about worship in a broader sense.

True Worship Steps Into Pain
From Dan On Haiti

Tonight, my heart is half a world away, with friends who are aggressively working to respond to the crisis in Haiti. I don't know all those friends by name; I do know that I am
thankful for their feet going in my stead, ambling through airports and stepping into rubble.

It is ours to remember, that in a time like this in the world, when poverty stricken nations find trouble upon trouble mounting toward them, that we who bear the Hope of the
world enter into their pain - like the God Who we follow.

If Jesus' life evidences anything to us about true worship, it is that the God unseen enters into, walks into, even runs into, the pain of those who are "other." He spends Him-
self on behalf of those He loves. This is His way.

We who live far from Haiti in these moments must allow ourselves to bear pain with them, as part of our human family, and as another reason for the great wealth and gifts we possess in our parts of the world. Strength finds its reason and purpose in covering another's weakness. This is His Design.

They are our family, no matter each one's faith perspective.

We do not all need to be in Haiti. We must trust that those who must go, will go. But is not enough to shake our heads and share moments of awe and sorrow. We must make the
request of God that He reveal to us our part to play, no matter how simple it may be.

I encourage you, as an act of living worship as your read this, to ask what your part is to play. Then, simply respond.

We each have a portion in one another's story. We are connected with Haiti's turmoil in ways we may only sense when the lights are out and we are considering the world in which we find ourselves.

In this case of pain that reaches our eyes and ears, we are invited by God to weep and mourn with them over what is all of our great loss. If it were directly my own, I would wan them to ask what their part was to play in coming to my loved one's support.

True worship, in the face of great suffering, asks for an invitation into the pain that God and the sufferers carry. Simply ask, then simply respond. It is enough.

In this journey of willingness, we find real prayers rising, authentic acts of physical and spiritual generosity, and the ability to partner with God in the ways in which He is inviting us.

It is a privilege to worship with you, in our generation, and to lead others into the kind of worship encounters that compel us into the very Heart of Love, and into the very Heart of Suffering.

We, as followers of Jesus, choose both.

In prayer with you for Haiti,

Dan

Dan Wilt, M.Min.
Learning Community Director
WorshipTraining.com

Jesus, help me understand how stepping into pain can be a powerful act of worship. Lead me with regard to Haiti, and the arenas in my life where I must experience pain first-hand. Give me Your heart of love, the most generous.

In Christ,
Pastor Timothy