Mind's Attention ~ Heart's Affection

Agnus Dei - Michael W. Smith

2010-09-14T10:38:00.000-06:00

Hosanna -Praise Is Rising Brenton Brown

2010-09-14T10:37:00.000-06:00

Revelation Song -Kari Jobe

2010-09-14T10:31:00.002-06:00

Confidence in Christ through Surrender

2010-02-13T07:36:00.004-07:00

What an explosive passage in Philippians 1 following with verse 6 and through 11. Paul assures the Philipian church that he is convinced that God will continue to bring the church into maturity in Him.

It is God who began the work in them and respectively, us, at the day of repentance and it is God through Christ who will prove Himself faithful.

This is God's end of the deal. We are not the ones to mold ourselves into Christ's likeness but it is Him who does this miraculous work. Our end of the deal is simply this: Surrender.

When we obediently surrender our lives to Him, He is loosed in our lives to mature us and to mold us and even at times, to break us as He sees fit. To a non-believer who has not experienced the presence of the indwelling Holy Spirit of God, this will sound insane and perhaps make no logical sense whatsoever, but to the child of the Father who is submitted to the will of God and has experienced His hand upon their lives, the mystery has become reality.

In the victories, storms and tragedies of our lives our faithful Savior, Jesus Christ stands firm, filling us with the fruit of righteousness to the glory and praise of God. (Phil. 1: 11)

-John

Part-One of a Series called “First-Choice Worship: Preferences”

2009-09-24T10:26:00.002-06:00

Good Questions

What is revival? What is this idea of renewal? Are these concepts that are more rightly founded in the attempts of man to appease God or are they indeed the moving of the Holy Spirit of God to regenerate or rejuvenate our hearts to a place of freshness in our relationship to Him? My pastor has frequently mentioned from the pulpit that we should always ask good questions in order to get good answers. These are Good questions; where do we get good answers?

Do you want to know how to get God to pay attention to you? Peruse the shelves of the religious section of any typical bookstore or for that matter any Christian bookstore and you will see a surplus of “how-to” and “how-come” books enlightening us to the means and techniques of bringing the Holy Spirit down on our lives, ministries or plans. If reading a book is not your style, then click and listen to a podcast and you’re off and running again tackling the giants and keeping at bay, monsters that lurk ready to pounce. Well, isn’t that true? Is this not where many of us begin? I have to confess my first point of contact is all too often GOOGLE®.

Okay, I am convinced God uses media of all kinds to reveal to us some of the insights and mysteries of His Word; He does this through men and women authors and teachers, whom as servants, have poured through His Word and have shared with you and me what the Holy Spirit has revealed to them much the way a pastor does from the pulpit. I am equally assured that God has inspired a great deal of these works to His Glory and our benefit. But where do these books and podcasts, and sermons lie in our arsenal of defense? Is this a backdoor approach to the throne of God? What does God’s desire?

Likewise, we can maintain that whatever method we choose to serve and worship God should be satisfactory as long as it is from the heart: Classic, modern, time-tested, cutting-edge, old, new, traditional, high-tech- what really makes God smile? Another good question.

Respectfully, allow me to jog your memory back to a sermon-series our pastor preached well over a year ago: Hebrews 4:16 “Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.” I am redolent of verse 12 earlier in that same chapter: And finally in the eleventh chapter, “For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.” “…And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him." Hebrews 11:6

Bill Gaither asserts in his gospel song: “Where could I go but to the Lord? " Clearly our first line of defense is God Himself. We can access God in our time of need through the doorway by which He Himself has provided to us: His Word – The Bible! We approach His throne boldly because our confidence is in what Christ has done to allow that access. The more we discover who He is the more we realize it’s not what we’ve done.

So begs this question, as long as we get to God, who cares when and how we get there in the first place? Indeed we serve a God of second and many times multiple chances. He is patient and long suffering in a way we just do not grasp. Yet we also serve a God who has so much more He can and will do in and through us once we surrender to Him. So here is a really good question: “When will we surrender?” “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand”. Isaiah 41:10.

-John Martinez

Take My Life (And Let It Be)

2009-06-05T14:11:00.001-06:00

Enjoy these video entries.

-John

What's your Opinion?

2009-06-03T14:27:00.003-06:00

I recently read this article by a man named Clint Brown; Are you willing to share your opinion?

Thanks.

-John

One thing that dominates the thinking of most of our brethren today is the drive for church growth. Many books have been written over the past few years in an effort to "enlighten" us on how to increase the numbers in our congregations. The books give insight into the social circumstances and felt-needs of the people around us and set forth methods of evangelism that promise to "bring in the big numbers." They tell us that in order for our churches to grow we must have such things as: (1) a preacher who has a dynamic personality and who is a "motivator," (2) a dynamic, inspirational song leader, (3) a warm, tolerant, accepting, "no questions asked" environment, and so on.

I'm sure these "church growth experts" have spent many hours researching the attitudes and aims of the people around us, but I have a question: Where do these "experts" get the idea that we should seek the increase of the church anyway? "The Bible," you say. That's right! So you mean that God gives us the obligation to seek the growth of His kingdom, but fails to instruct us in how that is to be accomplished? The truth is, the only way to fulfill this duty is by the ways God has set out in His word. So how do the findings of the "church growth experts" compare with God's view of church growth?

We are to be gospel centered, not entertainment centered. When we seek to accommodate the "felt needs" of people, the first thing to go out the window is the pure gospel. We are to meet the real needs of the people, not their felt needs and the true gospel is the only cure (Rom. 1:16; Jn. 8:32). People today seek entertainment centered religion in order to satisfy their carnal appetites. They look for churches that offer sporting and recreational activities with a "fun" environment for the kids. They go "church hunting" rather than "truth hunting" and wind up hearing a weak message from the pulpit that doesn't meet their greatest need – the salvation of the soul. Meeting the "felt needs" of the people may increase our attendance role but it certainly won't fill the Lamb's Book of Life.

We are to be Christ centered, not self-centered. At the heart of the "church growth" fallacy is a deeper problem. When we bypass the instructions of God in order to increase our number, we are seeking our own glory, not God's. If we truly love Him we will keep His commandments (Jn. 14:21). This involves preaching the Word and not accommodating the "itching ears" of the society around us (II Tim. 4:2-5). A so-called "no questions asked" environment is not in the best interest of the lost soul, nor the glory of Christ.

We are to be quality centered, not quantity centered. There's certainly nothing wrong with a concern for the numerical growth of the church. However, the Bible teaches that our emphasis should center on quality, while God takes care of the quantity (I Cor. 3:5-6). Paul and Apollos were merely ministers of the truth while God gave the numerical increase. They certainly didn't stress the need to be "dynamic or inspirational motivators" in their ministries as our present "experts" stress. Rather, Paul taught the exact opposite. His preaching was not with excellence of speech or persuasive words of human wisdom (I Cor. 2:1-4). That kind of method was a mark of the false teachers (Col. 2:4, 8, 23). The only way to truly increase quantitatively is to preach qualitatively.

We would do well to consider what God's word says concerning "church growth." Instead of placing such emphasis in the wisdom of men, we should let God "give the increase" (I Cor. 3:6).

Into the World

2009-05-25T07:32:00.003-06:00

Yes, it is hard to believe but both Shari and I are old enough to have a high school graduate in our household but it is true.

Jessica Leigh Martinez is now an official holder of a High School Diploma from the prestigious Martinez Family Homeschool. Jessica and her friend Brandi are ready to show their independence by driving to Boise today to see a movie and have lunch.

Naturally as her father, I queried if indeed we had movie theaters and dining establishments here in Twin Falls, but I suppose that is just not the point. Our daughter wants to express her independence and "Go To The Big City".

Shari reminded me that she did the same thing when she was her age, and I recall my first independent trip to the big city of Albuquerque was only days after I had acquired my drivers license; mine was a date with one Karen Iorio two years my senior to do what else, see a movie and eat lunch. Strangely enough that day is still etched in my mind: We watched the movie Terms of Endearment and ate lunch at Garcia's Mexican Restaurant where I ordered a Chimichanga and a coke.

Freedom is just a bit sweeter when you know that mom and dad are out of reach and you are on your own for a little while: at least for a lunch and movie in the "Big City".

-John

Special Day

2009-05-18T13:21:00.002-06:00

Yesterday was a very special day for me and my family. My ordination does not come lightly and I am humbled at a Mighty God who has chosen to set apart a simple man for His great work.

I am convinced that it is His intention to accomplish any work of significance through me rather than assume I can pull anything off apart from His power and Divine intervention.

I am so grateful for the effort that Pastor Paul has gone through to assure that the service was special and done well. He is a good and trusted friend. I appreciate the Charge that Pastor Paul shared to the Church from Timothy as to those who minister.

Pastor and Chaplain (BG US Army Ret.) Dan Robinson provided a sermon that I will be thinking about for a long time. There is great responsibility in Shepherding that is not to be handled in a pious manner; yet with humbleness and realization that God is to do the work through us we are to be thoroughly obedient to Him.

-John

2009 GRADS

2009-05-11T11:26:00.003-06:00

(Top left to Right) Jessica Martinez, Carissa Mathews
(Bottom Left to Right) Jordan Crider, Silas Thompson, Andy Yung
(Jake Hanchey not pictured)

Congrats to our 2009 High School Graduates!

Eastside Baptist Church stands proud to celebrate our 2009 High School Graduates. We had a wonderful time this past Saturday hearing stories that left us laughing and proud of their accomplishments.

I choked up several times as I listened to moms and dads tell their stories, and I could hardly look at Jessica in the face as I spoke of her, because I didn't want to blubber all over myself.

Sunday May 24th will be yet another time we honor these 'grads' in our 10:30 morning service.

-John

My Hope Is Built On Nothing Less...

2009-05-06T13:56:00.004-06:00

Where do you stand? Do you take a position on the issue style and preference in your church design?

Let me be more clear:

Do you prefer what types of sermons your pastor preaches or are you happy that he preaches from the Word of God?

Do you like it that your church has child care and children ministries or is that a critical element for your family in deciding where you worship?

If your church didn't have a youth group would you attend?

Should your church always be looking to add new members and constantly grow or are you satisfied to be a part of a small congregation?

If people around you started to lift their hands and weep during worship would this make you uncomfortable enough to seek another church home?

Do you have a set of preferences that keep you tied to your church with the possibility that if these standards were compromised you would leave? Perhaps we all do. I would venture to say that we should all have standards for the Bride of Christ.

However, where do those standards find their foundation? Our congregation is literally in the process of pouring concrete 'footings' (foundation) for a new building/ sanctuary. Over the past week workers have been diligently and precisely preparing the ground for this concrete foundation.

The backhoe and tamper and electronic grade have all been wisely and heavily used in order to prepare what will serve as a stable and solid foundation for a permanent building. It is interesting to think that the building we see on the surface is only as strong as what is anchors itself to.

Christians, we can not say any different of ourselves. We are only as strong as what we anchor to. In other words, if our foundation is speculative and based on opinion at best, then when the winds come, (and they will) we will fall flat.

Think about it, when tornadoes sweep through towns where there are both permanent homes built on solid foundations and mobile home parks with trailers on minimal temporary foundations, the difference in the after-math of the two is remarkable; the lightly tethered homes are whisked away in a heart beat leaving nearly no trace behind other than concrete pads, whereas despite the destruction of the permanent homes, there remains a remnant and evidence of what once stood.

The point is, that there will be storms of such magnitude in our lives that despite our best efforts we will suffer loss. Yet the foundation that remains will tell the story to those look on of one whose life was different. Some of us will likely encounter the prophet Job did; some of life's most treacherous and debilitating tragedies such as Cancer, or an unexpected loss of a family member, or perhaps even worse we may become incapacitated to a degree that we can no longer care for ourselves. Whatever the challenge, James reminds us that trials will come our way. How we deal with these challenges we be directly reflected in what we have anchored our life.

A lot to think about, but I am reminded that Jesus offers to take upon Himself our burdens in trade for His which He says is light.

Moose Tracks Have Great Influence

2009-05-04T15:05:00.002-06:00

Here I was attending the Sunday evening worship service at Eastside listening to my pastor teach through Psalm 1. And then he goes and drops the bomb.

You realize that a pastor's well placed sermon illustration can have a far reaching and perhaps unintended impact on young ears in the audience. It did just that with both my daughters.

Pastor Paul chose to use Moose Tracks Ice Cream to illustrate the point in Psalm 1:2 to bring dimension to the word "delight". I am sure the crowd made the connection as did I, but my daughters could not focus their adolescent minds and hearts on much else other than getting that ice cream.

First of all, I have to admit that Moose Tracks Ice Cream is a regular in our household. We know it well...too well perhaps. Long story short, we did not fall prey to the call of the moose, conveniently because our neighborhood Swenson's Grocery store is closed on Sundays, but I will not bee too surprised when the Moose comes a calling sometime this week.

I wonder if the Psalms hold a potential Dairy Queen Peanut Buster Parfait illustration?

Thanks Pastor... (and thanks)

-John

Is it Worship or is it Worship?

2009-02-03T08:30:00.002-07:00

WORSHIP... What do we mean when we say that word anyway?

Do we use it to describe what takes place on Sundays at church or when someone breaks out their guitar or sits behind the keys of the piano?

Perhaps the place to start on a spiritual question is the Bible.

I have a confession to make: My background as a worship leader has had a greater influence on my interpretation of what the Apostle Paul wrote in his letter the Christians at Rome. "Therefore I urge you my brothers, in view of God's mercy to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing which is your spiritual act of worship..."

I assumed that the act of worship had more to do with what takes place on a typical Sunday Morning Corporate gathering than the way we live the rest of the week. Now hear what i am saying, I know that it still influences what takes place on Sunday mornings as it were, but I am convinced that Paul is talking about the everyday part of life and not just the special occasions.

You see I sort of half way breezed past the living sacrifice part and moved right to the act of worship phrase.

Have you ever noticed how our eyes tend to see whatever is more prevalent in our own lives at the time? Let me give you an example: when Shari was first pregnant with Jessica, we saw pregnant people (ladies) everywhere. When we bought the Chevy Venture van we suddenly noticed hundreds of those same types of vans everywhere on the road. Were they not there before we got the van?

I am guilty of the same thing with scripture: the word worship is more important to me than the word sacrifice. We don't spend a lot of time preaching about sacrificing on altars in our New Testament Churches.

The Apostle Paul realized that he had to find a way to communicate this important issue with the Roman believers. So he described the concept of sacrifice (which they knew well) in terms of an act of worship.

Paul, in his speaking about living this worship, uses a couple of other words to make his point more clear; He talks about being transformed by renewing our minds. Hmmmm? Sounds 'churchy' to me.

Thats where most of us get turned off and say alright preacher, this is the 21st century and you have to be more relavant.

That's just it, Paul is so relevant to the Church today when he speaks like this. You see it all comes down to one thing: who we give permission to run our lives. That's right, who gets to be the boss of us.

The only way anyone can have any influence in our lives, is if we give them permission to do so. God gets that permission from us when we transform by renewing our minds. We give him permission by intentionally living our lives as a sacrifice.

Still sound 'churchy'? Let me put it another way. In the Old Testament, sacrifices were generally animals that the believers MADE to God on their behalf in worship. In the New Testament we have Jesus as the ultimate sacrifice, but when we worship God still expects a sacrifice, so we are to BE that sacrifice by the way we live our lives.

RECAP:

Old Testament Believers were to "Make" a Sacrifice.

New Testament Believers are to "Be" that sacrifice.

So if sacrificing our lives to Him is the Act of Worship, then that act takes the form of obedient service to Him at the office, in the classroom, at the bus barn, in the shop, behind the steering wheel, in front our computer screens, in front of the TV, in our own homes and in front of everyone we meet everyday. How more relavent can he get?

So next time we gather on a Sunday morning to "worship" lets lift our praise to Him in songs and through prayer and corporate thanksgiving, and lets do it with all our hearts because we had a week full of worship as living sacrifices, but lets also be sure not to confuse "Worship" with Worship". Sunday is just part of the picture, and God desires everyday not just Sunday.

Blessings,

-John

The 44th President of The United States

2009-01-21T09:46:00.003-07:00

History has once again been made in our great land and liberty has prevailed. I watched the Inauguration of the Barack Hussein Obama this morning at a few minutes after 10:00am Idaho time, and I have to admit that I was filled with pride at much of what I watched. It was something like watching the Space Shuttle take flight for the first time, I knew that what I was watching was big and truly historic.

Some forty-four years ago in a press interview, Martin Luther King Jr. predicted that our nation would see, as he put it, a "Negro" president within forty years and possibly within twenty-five years. We are a little later than he thought, but we have lived to see that day come to pass.

Does this mean that our country is bigot free? Do we live in a land that is no longer plagued by discrimination? Unfortunately no, however we do live at a time in history that God has chosen to allow you and I to witness such an historic event. Nonetheless the job of our president remains the same as for all those who have led before him: To honorably represent the best interest of an entire nation.

There are not many nations in either our modern history or the past that one can observe both current and former and potential leaders leaders co-mingle and honor each other in a peaceable manner as we saw our former presidents today. It was refreshing to see Bush' H. & W. as well as Carter and their wives embrace each other.

We have clearly taken a crossroads in our American history. Indeed there is much that needs be done and said about the economic conditions and financial challenges with which we are faced, however, as with anyone who takes the mantle of leadership at any time in history is thrust the great burden of guidance.

It is my prayer that our new president will take advantage of the great value of coming on his knees in earnest prayer before a mighty God; as to our duty: to Christians who claim the freedoms and responsibilities of this great nation also fall the task of sincere prayer for those who lead.

I recall in the days that followed the inauguration of President George W. Bush, there was a ground swell of believers who pledged to pray for our president. I believe there should be a commitment among believers once again to pray for our president as he leads and has influence on the lawmakers and impact on the short and long-term history of our nation.

Take time to lift him and his administrative staff in earnest prayer; bring him before the God who has Soverignly allowed him to take the office of the greatest nation on earth.

-John

God Bless America?

2009-01-13T10:38:00.000-07:00

I was sent this interesting poem from my Friend Dennis Bortz today:

Thanks Dennis, I will pass it on in the form of my BLOG-posting for the week:

Some of you may be wondering what Judge Roy Moore has been doing since he was removed from the bench for refusing to remove the Ten Commandments from his courtroom wall. Please read the poem he wrote.

The following is a poem written by Judge Roy Moore from Alabama . Judge Moore was sued by the ACLU for displaying the Ten Commandments in his courtroom foyer. He has been stripped of his judgeship and now they are trying to strip his right to practice law in Alabama ! The judge's poem sums it up quite well.

America the beautiful, or so you used to be. Land of the Pilgrims' pride; I'm glad they'll never see. Babies piled in dumpster's, Abortion on demand, Oh, sweet land of liberty; your house is on the sand. Our children wander aimlessly poisoned by cocaine choosing to indulge their lusts, when God has said abstain From sea to shining sea, our Nation turns away From the teaching of God's love and a need to always pray We've kept God in our temples, how callous we have grown. When earth is but His footstool, and Heaven is His throne. We've voted in a government that's rotting at the core, Appointing Godless Judges; who throw reason out the door, Too soft to place a killer in a well deserved tomb, But brave enough to kill a baby before he leaves the womb. You think that God's not angry, that our land's a moral slum? How much longer will He wait before His judgment comes? How are we to face our God, from Whom we cannot hide? What then is left for us to do, but stem this evil tide? If we who are His children, will humbly turn and pray; Seek His holy face and mend our evil way: Then God will hear from Heaven; and forgive us of our sins, He'll heal our sickly land and those who live within. But, America the Beautiful, If you don't - then you will see, A sad but Holy God withdraw His hand from Thee.

~~Judge Roy Moore~~

Let's lift Judge Moore up in Prayer. He has stood firm and needs our support.

IN GOD WE TRUST!

This Word Will Change You

2009-01-05T11:03:00.003-07:00

In the ministry God has allowed me to share, (about 25 years) I have not preached as many sermons as some pastors with only a fraction of the time; mostly because I have served in a support staff role all those years. However, after I teach a lesson, sing a song, or during one of those few sermons (probably less than 25 ever) I have had a few people come back to me and tell me that something I said or sang really spoke to them.

I am reminded of a story I read in a guideposts publication one time about a man who heard a pastor preach a sermon one Sunday that changed his life. He admitted remembering nothing about the sermon except for one verse, that he continued to repeat over and over to himself. Philippians 4:13 "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."

The Word of God however little it may be has the power to transform lives. I have to admit to you that My mother constantly repeated that very same verse to me as I was growing up. I remember her verbally telling me that verse, I remember finding the verse written on cards, letters, and sometimes scratched out on a piece of paper in a lunch sack.

My mom understood something of the power of the Word of God as well. The Word of God is different from anything else. Simply because it is Truth. Truth transforms.

We are urged to memorize God's Word because it will get us out of tight spots and keep us from sinning as well. Psalm 119:11 says "I have hidden Thy Word in my heart that I might not sin against Thee."

Repeating verses is so much different than "Positive Thinking", because of the nature of God's Word. Positive thinking attempts to put you in a frame of mind to reap benefits of being positive. A verse like Phil. 4:13 focuses you mind and heart on Christ as the souce of our transformation, not our ability to think something into being.

So, with that in mind (pardon the pun) "Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord." Colossians 3:16

Snow Dog?

2008-12-27T19:43:00.002-07:00

My little buddy is out and about checking out the snow. Every Day a little more snow

A Very Tasty Christmas

2008-12-27T17:31:00.003-07:00

There are some things that just cannot be adequately described - only enjoyed.....

Thanks Toni Marie for the awesome tortillas.

-John

Name These ESBC Faces

2008-12-26T09:39:00.008-07:00

Can you name these faces of our church Family?

Good Luck and Merry Christmas!

-John M

Worship Follows

2008-12-23T10:46:00.002-07:00

True Statement:

One of the most pressing issues for a person in the ministry of leading worship is that of skillful presentation of the music. In other words, we musicians work to make sure every note, every song, every transition moves with flow.

Why do we focus on this so much? Because at the heart of it, we desire to see the people in our congregations worship and connect with the God of Creation in an unhindered setting. It is as simple as that. Except its not that simple...

True Confession:

We also get so caught up in the perfection of our craft that we sometimes easily lose sight of the reason for our effort in the first place. We become skillful musicians with no depth of heart.

David was described by the Psalmist as one who led with skill AND heart. Psalm 78:72 "...David Shepherded them with integrity of heart; with skillful hands he led them."

One of our (musicians) pitfalls is to overemphasize excellence at the expense of ministering to hearts. In this case, we can at best just be referred to as "church musicians" - because what we do takes place inside of a Church building.

When we allow this skill that God has provided to us to be a multifaceted door of ministry to both God and people then we become musician-ministers.

On the surface it may sound like I am speaking of those "Up-Front" folks, but not true. We all minister.

Just this morning in our church office, I was speaking to my friend John Requa, a senior member of our congregation who loves to share the Gospel with anyone and everyone. He mentioned to me that he was on his way to the laundromat to do the obvious, but he said to us just as he walked out the door, "Maybe I can find someone to witness to..."

That is taking his skill and showing integrity of heart just like David.

Church musicians are constantly touting that they are worship leaders... in other words, they are these self described "up-front" folks taking us to the throne room in adoration, praise, and celebration; they facilitate corporate WORSHIP with music.

But when the heart is transformed and stays fixed on the object of our skill, that is when I believe true worship follows.... and sometimes, but not always, music is involved.

-John

Merry Christmas!

2008-12-22T20:51:00.004-07:00

Merry Christmas! What ever happened to all those groups and businesses that were trying to make some kind of statement about Christmas just being another holiday?

I suppose they are still out there making their statements by telling their employees they can only greet using the phrase "Happy Holidays". Whatever!!

I guess I am OK with people saying Happy Holidays, because there are several holidays back to back: Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's Day. So I suppose if you look at it from that point of view it's OK to call them the holidays.

As a matter of fact, I have even asked people what they're doing for the "Holidays". I know what I am talking about and so do they. For that matter, I also know what I am NOT talking about.

I am NOT trading the proper title Christmas for the lessor title of 'holiday'. I am NOT denying the reason for the season. Jesus is what it is all about. Duh! That is why it's called CHRIST-mas!!

But the funny thing about the word holiday, it can also mean HOLY - DAY! Even in their attempt to deny, they are proclaiming the essence of the day after all

But what it all comes down to is a couple of things. First of all, Christmas is the biggest holiday of all period. The influence of this day that is set aside to celebrate the birth of Christ drives and even defines our nations economical tendencies, In other words, believer and Atheist alike spend boku bucks giving gifts at Chirstmas, which leads me to my second point: Giving is what Jesus is all about. Jesus came to earth because God was willing to give us His Son. Jesus lived and died to give us the greatest gift of all time- our salvation .

Our biggest complaint as Christians is that Christmas has become a retail holiday. Malls, department stores, retailers and Secret-Santas haul in billions upon billions this time of year.

But our God is a God of redemption. He is a God that works all things together for good for those who love Him and are called according to His purpose. While elves, and salesmen were coming up with better ideas of how to make us part with out cash in the name of "giving", God was redeeming this holiday by showing us that "Giving" is the core of Christmas.

I am not saying that we have to rush out and spend all our money to show God how "giving" we are, but when we do get and give those gifts in just a couple of days like we have every year for the last umpteen years, Let God's ingenuity and ability to redeem what was lost, remind us of the greatest gift ever given. Jesus' life for ours.

-John

The Servant

2008-12-18T14:51:00.003-07:00

I have been reading a book called The Servant, by James C. Hunter.
The Servant is a book on leadership (not like there aren't a million out there already) that is written in an allegorical style.

Yeah, I thought it was a strange approach too. But it really it a good way to stand back and evaluate from a third party frame of reference a topic that is constantly being touted.

The fictitious setting is rather interesting; A 'former' fortune 500 CEO turned monk hosts a leadership seminar at his monastery in Michigan for a widely varying group of leaders. A public school principal, a drill sergent, a pastor, a nurse, and a woman's college basketball coach.

The essence of leadership, as taught by 'brother' Simeon is that of leading from the Biblical perspective of Love. Yup, Jesus' style of leadership was the central focus of the seminar, but the characters didn't know this right at first.

As you can imagine the Pastor and the Drill Sergent were naturally at odds with each other in their personal styles of leadership, but it was the unique personalities of each of these characters that I believe will capture the attention of a wide base of readers.

Hunter puts his thumb on one of the most critical aspects of the nature of leaders. They lead either from their endued POWER or from the aspect of influence and authority given to them by those they lead. In other words, a leader can make you do your job as in the case of employer to employee, because he is the one who signs your paycheck, or they can lead by authority or 'influence' which is given to them by those whom the serve.

Hunter also clarifies that a servant-leader meets valid needs and not necessarily wants; it is their task as servant leader to see the difference.

If you're looking for a quick read (1 or 2 days) and a fun but intruiging look at leading the way Jesus led, you may enjoy reading The Servant by James hunter.

-John M

Pomp and Ceremony

2008-12-10T20:00:00.004-07:00

Shari and I enjoyed a wonderful evening at the Chaplain School Class Banquet tonight. This is not my first time in Army Dress Blues but today was the first time for me as an officer and a Chaplain.

Tomorrow Shari will hear the Chief of Chaplain's Major General Carver speak tomorrow and then on Friday I graduate and pin on the Chaplains' Regimental Crest:

Then finally we will be home to Idaho!!!

-John M

Ladybug Picnic

2008-12-06T06:34:00.004-07:00

Shari and I are at the Lifeway Conference Center also known as Ridgecrest. Everything is beautiful in this mountain setting near Ashville, North Carolina. It is a little chilly outside and as we woke this morning it was a measly 24 degrees, I think that the ladybugs knew this too, because as we lay in our bed in our room we looked up at the ceiling and noticed this huddle of ladybugs all snuggled in a corner.

We don't mind sharing our room as long as they stay put, especially through the night...

Update: Shari arrived OK on Thursday evening just fine, but her luggage only arrive this morning (Saturday).

(Shari and I on the bus with a couple of prankster Chaplains hamming for the picture)

-John

Final Stretch

2008-12-03T21:00:00.006-07:00

Starting the last half of Chaplain School in October, I assumed that it would be over faster than I thought... BUT... It has felt like I have been here for a year. It seems like forever and I am very anxious to get home.

Nevertheless, I am in my final stretch. I know its true since Shari will be here tomorrow.

Woo! Hoo!

Shari is in for a very busy time of training while she is here as well.

She gets here Thursday night and we leave for North Carolina on Friday morning for a three day Conference. Then on Monday morning she will be in a Spouses' Seminar for another three days while I finish up my final week of classes.

I am so glad she will be here, but she may have second thoughts after next week.

Here are a couple more pics:

-John
Here we are going through a Sand Briefing. Basically, the command lays out a 2-D map on the ground and they walk us through the battlefield.

Room full of PRAYING Chaplains.

More Praying Chaplains.. I am wearing my black Field Jacket.

-John

Final Two Weeks

2008-12-01T19:17:00.007-07:00

Recently we spent our final time in the field doing some practical training. Above is our "Ramp Ceremony" to honor a fallen Soldier. This is typically held on a Airfield or chopper-pad where we offer a short ceremony as the Soldier is loaded on to an aircraft to travel home for his final Funeral Service/Ceremony.

In this picture our platoon is huddled in a concrete bunker after our area was hit with mortar fire. (not real) Our procedure was that once we heard mortar fire we moved to the bunker to get accountability. (Take Roll) in some cases we would have to gear up in our Pro Mask (Gas Mask) if we heard the command "Gas". We were smiling, mostly because it was a false alarm. We ran after we heard mortar from another FOB. (Forward Operating Base). What can you expect from a bunch of Chaplains...

We have less than two weeks remaining before we finish this phase of our training. Shari is coming up for part of that training. Yup, you heard me right. Shari will be here in two days to join me for a time of training in Marriage Strong Bonds Training, as well as spouse briefing and of course my graduation.

She arrives here in Columbia on Thursday evening, and I will have to pick up my dirty clothes and spruce up the place before she gets here.

-John

End of Phase Two

2008-11-21T18:18:00.002-07:00

This week marks the end of Phase 2 for Chaplain's Officer Leadership Course. This was a very happy day for me. What this means is that I am in the final phase of school!!! Woo! Hoo!

The fantastic part of the last phase is NO HOMEWORK!! All those papers, assignments, philosophical briefs, and research, is done.

We'll kick off this phase with about three days in the field. Will be in a FOB (Forward Operating Base) environment. December is not the warmest months for this, but we
we'll just have to bundle up with what they call "snivel gear". (Warm clothing)

I will be preaching while we're out in the field. Monday afternoon about 4:30pm. My sermon is titled "Is God Fair?"

I am sure they will be throwing a few surprises at us like mortar shells in the middle of the night to keep us sleep deprived, and a few other mind games as well. I am sure when I get back on Wednesday, I will just want to take a shower and go to sleep.

I getting more excited about seeing Shari when she arrives here the first of December. We will be participating in a Marriage Conference called "Strong Bonds" at Ridgecrest Conference Center in North Carolina. The marriage conference will serve as training for us to facilitate "Strong Bonds" conferences for soldiers in Idaho.

By the way, every good Southern Baptist should make their trek to both Glorieta and Ridgecrest. I have been to Glorieta several times, so now I'll be a "Real" Southern Baptist.

-John

A Couple of Pictures

2008-11-18T16:15:00.006-07:00

Here are a couple of pictures of some of the neat stuff we have been able to enjoy while here in South Carolina. There is lots of early American History here.

Here I am preparing to give a brief about Civil War icon Major Anderson who was noted for his Maverick style of command. His actions contributed to the start of of the Civil War, and the decimation of Fort Sumpter.

Inside Fort Sumpter near Charleston, SC.

On board a Carrier outside Charleston near Fort. Sumpter.

Leading worship during the retreat day at Victory Ranch.

All is well, and I am looking forward to being home.

-John

Dress Blues

2008-11-12T16:10:00.002-07:00

Today I spent a little time with the nice folks at the Uniform and Clothing store on post. I was fitted for a set of "Dress Blues". The Dress Blues is the formal dress uniform for the army.

I have already purchased a set of Dress Greens (aka Class A's), and the Blues should be ready for pick-up by next Tuesday.

I am sure that many soldiers who go in for fitting must believe that they are the only ones who have done this before. (Thousands of us shuffle through each year.)

As I was in the fitting area, the nice lady had me go into the fitting room to try on a set of trousers, when I returned, I felt as though they fit just fine. She took one look and said they were too tight and handed me a larger pair, I very respectfully told her that I had been losing weight and that I was planning to lose more.

Without missing a beat she look at me and, "Do you know how many times I have heard that before?"

I smiled and said I'll be right back.

On a lighter note: Tomorrow, (Thursday) our platoon is going to a place called "Victory Ranch" Victory Ranch is a retreat area for senior NCO's and Officers. From what I understand, we are being taken there for the sole purpose of spending time with God.

We have been told not to bring work, or even pleasure reading, but that if we brought anything to read it should be the Bible or a devotional or discipleship book. We will be given essentially the entire day to connect spiritually.

It should be a reminder to me to spend intentional significant time with God away from the routine to recharge and refresh.

It will be my intention to pray for my family, my church and my ministry. If you read this by Thursday, would you take a minute or two just to offer up a short intercession on my behalf? Thanks.

By the way, I'll let you know how the uniform turns out.

-John

Time To Breathe

2008-11-08T11:33:00.002-07:00

Ah.hhhh! I'm only two weeks into the last half of Chaplain Basic Officer Leadership Course (CHBOLC) and we have a three day weekend. Monday is Veterans Day and one would expect that a Military Post would honor this holiday. (ha, ha, ha)

Today is spent mostly doing homework. Yes we do have homework beyond the classroom. I am currently in the process of writing two papers. One on the psychology of killing and the second on the theology of evil.

As you know the Chaplain is a non-combatant, and as such we do not bear arms, but we do spend a lot of time talking with and working through major issues in the lives of the ones who do; our soldiers.

I suppose one of the most important aspects of the chaplaincy is knowing in your own heart and mind where you stand on these critical topics before you can help a soldier journey through his own concerns.

I am reading an assigned book that I would not recomend to the general public called "On Killing" by Dave Grossman. Grossman is a former Army Ranger LT. Colonel. his perspective has more to do with how the military teaches its soldiers to kill and more specifically "When" to kill.

Yeah, its deep. The second paper on Evil, I have not started yet, but it is due on Tuesday. I actually wrote a similar paper on this topic for my Systematic Theology Class last year. I should be able to glean a little bit from the research to help with this paper.

On to happier subjects:

Yesterday was 80 degrees and today is in mid to upper 70's. It is beautiful and it feels great outside. I am sitting in a coffee house called Cool Beans just off the Campus of USC (University of South Carolina) as I write this BLOG entry, the view from my window is awesome.

Prayer requests:
- Papers and Homework
- For me to keep getting Skinny
- I may have a stress fracture in my second toe on my left foot. (too much running)
- My family Shari, Jessica, Julia

-John Martinez

Arrived in South Carolina

2008-10-29T19:32:00.002-06:00

I suppose there are no real good times to be gone, but at the same time, I am convinced that god has a plan and a timing in everything.

I am thrilled to hear that all is going so well back home in Twin Falls. I hear that Brad did fantastic, and that we even had a larger than normal attendance for Sunday morning. Woo Hoo!!

As expected, my schedule here in SC is rapid and full. I have been surviving on minimal sleep about 3 to 5 hours a night. Working on homework assignments. (turned in 4 just today) and constantly thinking about my family at both 1119 golden Pheasant AND 204 Eastland Drive North.

I am not too sure how often I will be able to keep an update, but I will do my best.

THINGS TO PRAY ABOUT:
- My computer is having difficulty accessing internet; This is not good since all my homework assignments are posted online. (I am currently on a lobby computer as I write.) Limited access to e-mail as well.
-Pray for my Physical Training Test on Friday October 31st. Push-ups, Sit-up, 2 Mile Run
-Pray for me to continue to lose weight. I don't have to be skinny but I do have to meet Army Standards for my age and height. (26% body fat)
-Pray for our student ministry at Eastside. Sunday School Teacher for the Youth Boys.

Blessings,

-John Martinez

Fireproof

2008-10-14T11:11:00.002-06:00

I recall a time not too long ago when our family had just moved from New Mexico to Twin Falls, Idaho. In the excitement of transitioning into a new and fresh ministry, there were lots of details that we dealt with as they arose.

In certain cases I suppose this philosophy works OK. The problem is that with vehicle insurance this is not the best plan of attack. It is here that one must be proactive.

We came here with insurance on our vehicles from New Mexico but by the first December we lived here we allowed it lapse. Not a good thing to do.

Number 1, Idaho requires insurance. Number 2, if something happens, the cost for repairs and injuries come out of your own pocket. OUCH!

Guess what, something happened....

A few months after the insurance lapsed, we had been looking at starting a new policy and only one week after telling Shari that I wanted to get another quote because I knew we could get a better deal somewhere else, Jessica had an accident.

Alright, let me just state for the record, we were wrong. Never hunt for insurance while you don't have a current policy. This is flat out dumb. And never let a teenager with a drivers permit drive a vehicle without insurance.; Very, Very Dumb!

Long story short: we learned a multitude of lessons the hard way.

There are some types of lessons that can be learned at different points along the journey, that we can look back on and say thank you Lord for protecting us, and others we have to say: thank you Lord, for teaching us the hard lessons of life.

Had we owned an insurance policy we would be looking back at all of this in a different way. We would have been "Fireproofed" in a manner of speaking from the financial predicament we allowed ourselves to fall under. Well you get the point.

Interestingly enough, there is a movie that hits the big screen this weekend here in Twin Falls. It's called "Fireproof". It is about a fireman and his marriage that is on the rocks. One of the truths of the story is that for everyone there will come fire. Some will be prepared for the inevitable struggles, and so many others will find themselves looking back at the broken pieces, wondering what happened.

I would encourage you to take your sweetheart, or if you don't have a sweetheart, take yourself and join Pastor Paul at the Twin Cinema on Eastland and Kimberly Road this Friday night for the 7:00pm showing of Fireproof the movie.

We are all at different points along the journey; Some of us have fantastic marriage relationships, others at are at a point of calling it quits and walking away. Some perhaps are not even in a relationship at all, but this is what insurance is all about. Its called fireproofing before the fire shows up.

All in all, we payed about$2,500 out of pocket dealing with our lack of insurance, a lot more than if we would have paid through a policy. How we wish we could turn back time.

-John Martinez

Forgiveness

2008-10-07T13:47:00.002-06:00

It is nice and neat when we can follow a formula and know beyond a shadow of a doubt that we got the right answer.

I remember in elementary school when I was learning how to multiply and divide multiple numbers, it was new territory for my brain. I had to apply all those memorized times tables and I had to know how many zeros to add each time I started a new line.

Once I was done, or at least once I thought I was done I had to submit my work to the teacher and hope that my answers matched hers. But the most liberating feeling was when she taught me how to check my own work and know for sure if my answer was right before I turned it in.

No she didn't have me look at the back of the book, she told me about how to apply the opposite of what I was doing in order to check my work. If I was multiplying, all I had to do was divide my answer with one of the multipliers and see if I get the other number. as long as I did my division right, I knew I had the right answer.

When we have blown it before the Lord, one of the most natural places to start for a Christian is to seek forgiveness. But we're funny aren't we? We somehow think that God wouldn't forgive THAT sin. Or perhaps we didn't ask sincerely enough and God wasn't convinced that we really wanted to be forgiven and so He just didn't do it.

It is so liberating when we discover how to "check our work" . 1 John 1:9 says that we receive His full forgiveness if we confess. You see God is the faithful one. We forget that it was His idea in the first place to create forgiveness and offer it to us to begin with.

"If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness." 1 John 1:9

So here is where I think we get nervous and start wondering if we really are forgiven. According to this verse, we are to "confess". Confession is very simply uncovering our sin before God, and calling it what God is calling it.

Felling sorry and guilty for getting caught is not confession. Confession is also not just tallying up all your wrong doings and handing God the list and saying: "Here You go God, I would like to be absolved of all these shortcomings with an emphasis on #'s 12 and 34.

Confession is not only an admitting of the offense it is also promise to God that you will not do that again.

Lets not get too technical... if you sin again after God has forgiven you, it doesn't mean that God will undo all His previous forgiving. He removes our sin as far as the East is from the West. I love how Casting Crowns puts it: "What Sin?"

But the point of the matter is simply that when we confess, He forgives.

The bonus part of the whole deal is that God makes a promise to US as well; He promises to not only forgive but to cleanse. Now that is liberating! In the words of the song, "Not because of What I've done, but because of who You are, not because of Who I am, but because of what You've done!"

-John Martinez

2008-10-06T14:01:00.002-06:00

I VOTED TODAY!

Yup! Since I will be in Military Training at Fort Jackson during the general election, I got to vote today.

The County Courthouse Building is actually quite a bussel with early voters.

And now, along with them, I get to wear this dandy sticker.

-John

Good To Go!

2008-10-05T16:00:00.003-06:00

I suppose I knew I would be heading back to finish up the final phases of training at Chaplain School in South Carolina, soon enough, but today I got the final piece in the puzzle and I am as they say in the Army "Good To Go".

I wll be departing on the 25th of October to Fort Jackson, SC, Chaplain School. I will graduate on December 12th and hopefully Shari will be in he audience.

My Church has been more supportive in this endeavor than I deserve. Their flexiblity as well as those individuals who are enthusiastically willing to cover my responsibilities while I am away is representative of the "family" we have come to know as Eastside Baptist Church.

You can't hide love, and you have shown it to Shari and the girls and I through your actions and support.

As always, I will maintain an active BLOG, however, I will warn you that the last half of Chaplain School is not quite as exciting as the first half where I was going through Smoke Chambers, Challenge Courses, Jumping off towers, and climbing over walls. So please don't be too disappointed if my Blogging has more to do with less.

Thank you in advance for watching out for Shari and the girls. I am sure they will appreciate your occassional dropping by and call to see how they are doing. I cannot express how much this truly means to me while I am away.

-John Martinez

2008-10-03T10:20:00.002-06:00

Here is a video produced by ABC News about some of the things Chaplains are doing around the world. It may not be one you would let you kids watch, but it is factual.

Meanwhile, I am looking at finishing up the rest of my Chaplain School Training starting this next month and hopefully by Summer of 2009 I should, by the grace of God, be finished with the classes I am taking online. At that point I should move from being a Chaplain Candidate to serving as a Chaplain.

Through the overwhelming support of my Church, Eastside Baptist Church in Twin Falls, Idaho, I have already been able to serve the soldiers of the 116th BSTB (Brigade Special Troops Battalion) in Twin Falls.

We all hear that deployment is likely but not guaranteed. I am Ok either way. I have learned to love the ministry that God has given me to the members of Eastide and the 116th BSTB. Both have taught me so much and both are places I love to be.

I have also discovered that I don't have to go get my boots in the Arabian sands to actually minister to soldiers. The ministry to the soldiers will exist wherever the soldiers are located.

Mostly, I just bless God for the way He has revealed to me and invited me to join Him where He is at work in people lives. I love that it is God who is doing the work and changing lives and that he chooses to do it through weak vessels like me.

Mike Franklin In Concert -2

2008-09-30T11:06:00.003-06:00

I mentioned to you recently that our church will be hosting a concert on October 12th. This exciting evening of music will be kicked of by two of our very own: Audrey Kinch and Shari Martinez.

These ladies are both excited about sharing their hearts with you and it must be equally as exciting for them to share the stage with a gifted national artist such as Mike Franklin.

Lets all make plans now to save this date in our calendars and be here to enjoy a night of music by Shari, Audrey and Mike Franklin.

I might also encourage you to send a note or share a word of encouragement with Audrey and Shari that you are planning to attend.

-John

What Is The Essence of Worship?

2008-09-25T16:05:00.005-06:00

Pastor Paul and I recently made a road trip across the state to watch a soccer game played by two of our students. While we were on the trip Paul brought a sermon for us to listen to along the way.

Does it surprise you that two pastors riding in a car would listen to someone preach?

Well, we both like reading and listening to John Piper, and we both love talking about worship, so it was a natural. We listened to John Piper rant on about Biblical worship. It was great!

After about the first hour, though, my brain was getting full, but I do remember one central issue Piper addressed. He asked the question, "What Was the Essence of Worship".

His answer surprised me, and then again it didn't. He said: "The essential, vital, indispensable, defining heart of worship is the experience of being satisfied with God."

He went on to say that the Apostle Paul made little distinction between worship in the congregation and of the variety that takes place as a pattern of daily living. In other words, the thirst for God is the fuel for driving us to both "live out" and "sing out" our worship of God.

It has been about a week since I heard Piper speak those words, and I still have the thought haunting me today. Does "Thirst for God" drive me to worship?

I realize that it would be easy to criticize what I see in worship settings based on that premise. It would a breeze to say that Christians are driven to seek out a church that meets their needs or demands. I could even go as far as to say that Christians don't come to Worship hungering for God because that are already full on what the world has to offer.

But I would have to include myself right along with everyone else. So here is what I am asking myself:

Do I Thirst for God?

Am I Satisfied with God?

Funny thing how timing works with God. I have recently been trying to lose some weight. Big Surprise. One of the things I have decided is that I refuse to use any supplements to enhance that weight loss. I am just using good old exercise and eating less.

But in the process, I have found myself hungry like I haven't been in a long time. I am so hungry that I find myself thinking about food all the time. When I finally sit down to eat, I find every bite extremely satisfying. Every swallow means something to me.

Who knew you could enjoy the deep flavor of cottage cheese on a Saltine Cracker as if it were a New York Strip? This is where God wants me to be. Satisfied! Filled! Energized! Equipped! In Him!!!!

Now that is deep!

What does that kind of worship look like? Jesus calls it Spirit and Truth Worship, He also said that God was seeking out those kind of worshipers.

I am sure it has more to do with what is taking place on the inside of the worshiper than how it may appear on the outside. I am also sure that it has more to do with attitude than geography.

Colossians 3:15 -17 brings some light to what I think the modern Church has turned into such a mystery. Psalms, Hymns and Spiritual Songs are obvious musical references, but The Word of Christ dwelling in gratitude in our hearts has got to be one of the keys to living in the essence of worship. We're clearly satisfied in Him because of His Word. Naturally, our humble response to this satisfying God is worship that is not only sung out but lived out.

-John Martinez

What Do You Think About The Church?

2008-09-24T10:28:00.004-06:00

This is a video done recently at the Simon Fraser University in Burnaby, BC, Canada where a group of our students and adults went last year on a ministry trip.

Very Interesting comments by the students there as well at the people from The Point Church.

http://www.new.facebook.com/video/video.php?v=36677735916&oid=2309593427

Sorry that the link is archaic, but it was the only way I could get it to copy: So just copy the link and paste it to your address field for your browser and it should take you to Victor Thomas' facebook. Victor is now the new pastor for the Point Church on campus.

-John Martinez

Mike Franklin In Concert

2008-09-23T11:10:00.002-06:00

October 12th on a Sunday evening at 6:30pm we will have a special evening of music. This will actually be MORE Special than normal. Several of our very own "Eastsiders" will be opening up the concert for Mike Franklin.

Audrey Kinch, Shari Martinez and one other person who I'm waiting to get a "yes" from, will all open up the concert. What a wonderful way of celebrating the musical talent we have here at Eastside and not to mention an opportunity to invite some of our friends and family to visit our church.

Put the October 12th on your calendars and let's plan on a fun night of music and celebration!

-John

2008-09-22T16:57:00.002-06:00

Our youth just began the journey of "Experiencing God". Last night nine students and two adults embarked on a nine week study of Knowing and Doing the Will of God.

I hope that you will pray for us along the way. We will be studying what it takes to understand and do the Will of God in our lives.

The exciting part of this process is that the classic study of Experiencing God has been re-designed and now includes a movie in nine episodes. It is about five students lost in the woods. The life and death experiences they go through deal directly with the Seven Realities of Knowing and Doing the Will of God.

Check out the following trailer and let me know what you think.

Twinkle Toes Soup

2008-09-16T10:50:00.002-06:00

This past Sunday night we had another mission report from a family who spent some time on mission in Mexico this past summer.

The Burton family is new to Eastside after moving here from Utah early this past summer. When they arrived they were already committed to a mission trip with their previous church in Utah, however we looked at it as if we were sending them as well.

This past Sunday night Christy and Jacob shared their stories and wowed everyone with their project to build an extension on a building that their group had started 2 years earlier. They can really huck that stucco with the best of them.

I have found myself laughing out loud about one story in particular that Christy shared. Normally one would expect that when you go to a third-world country that "weird-things" are observed of the the the locals. Not so in this case.

When They arrived in Tijuana, Mexico, Christy was suffering from "Plantar Faciatis" this is a condition of the foot that usually involves pain and swelling normally associated with the heel.

One of the other members of the team suggested to her that she soak her feet in hot water every day so as to reduce the pain and swelling. Evidently it worked, but there is a twist.

Since they were roughing it as it were, they improvised; the cook of all people, decided to allow Christy to soak her feet in the biggest and only pot that was available. The same pot that was used to cook soup.

UGGGHHHH! Yup that was my first reaction too.

The cook and Chrsity evidently thought they could sanitize the pot in time for dinner. The only problem was that they also mentioned it to the rest of the team - conveniently after they were done eating, I am sure.

Their reaction was similar and perhaps worse since they were the victims. To date everyone is still alive and kicking (no pun intended). No reports of hoof and mouth disease (ha, ha) or "athlete's mouth".

Thanks Chrsity and Jacob for your labor of love (AMOR) to the people of Tijuana, Mexico, you are true servants.

By the way, Our family did have dinner at the Burton's home last night and I would hardily recommend Christy's wonderful cooking. We had Chicken Tetrazini, salad and the best Garlic Bread I have had in a long time. (no soup) She is however, a fantastic cook.

'Bon Apetit'

-John

Finally Got It!

2008-08-21T14:01:00.002-06:00

Ok Here is a story you never wanted to hear but I am going to tell you anyway.

I am now blogging to you from my "NEW" computer.
It is an HP Pavilion 9225, blah, blah, blah..... you get the point.

It does have some really cool stuff though, like a 17" monitor, and lots of really neat media stuff etc. I could even watch TV from this computer, it is really, really cool.

But of all of those neat gadgets, I am just thrilled to finally have a computer back on a regular basis. This has been "The summer of the computer".

At last, I don't have to sneak around from computer to computer just to write a PowerPoint for worship service each week or even just to check my e-mail. And I am really glad not to have to walk around with this thumb drive strapped around my neck like a geek. All in all I got a waaaaay better computer so it worked out to my advantage.

I am sad about one big thing. With the theft of my previous laptop, I have lost all of my files including all the schoolwork for the masters degree I am working on. And all the National Guard files and records I had accumulated. I hat even thinking about it.

Back-up disk you say??? I did run a back-up disk but I have had some difficulty actually opening the disk. So my friend Dan Steineke is working on that for me right now.

If you find yourself in a praying mood, perhaps you would consider praying that my laptop is recovered if at least for the data. It would be just about impossible to re-create everything I have lost. God is a mighty God, and I know that He knows right where it is. I would love it if He would, in His great wisdom and Sovereignty, reveal it's location for that benefit.

Blessings,

-John

New Computer

2008-08-19T09:51:00.002-06:00

Hello All!

Have you been wondering if I have fallen off the Blogging face of the earth?

No worries, you can't get rid of me that easy. I have been fretting over my laptop being stolen a couple of weeks ago. I have been on the wagon so to speak when it comes to the online world.

It has been a good thing. I believe that all of us could use a hiatus from the keyboard, try it you might like what it does for you... it is good for the mind and the relationships all around us, not mention that carpul tunnel thing.

So, for those of you who were not aware, our church was broken into two Sundays ago and my laptop was one of the items stolen. I was sad when I discovered it gone, but since God is good all the time, the insurance company is paying for a "NEW" computer for the church (and me).

I have been shopping around and getting advice from everyone who is willing to give it. And I have narrowed it down to two machines. both are the same price and will cost less than my original computer. I thought seriously about a MAC, but the cost was twice as much the insurance would pay, so I am staying with a PC. My apologies to all you MAC -ites.

Hopefully by the end of the week I will be telling you the story of my new computer from the actual computer itself. Fortunately for me since Dawn (our secretary) is out of the office today, I get to use her computer.

I still wonder if I will see the old one show up in a pawn shop or if the police will recover it. I would love to get all the old data and files that literally took me over two years to accumulate.

One of the software companies we use called "Covenant Eyes" tells me that if someone logs on to my computer and uses the Internet, they can tell me their "IPA" (Internet Provider Address). In other words, we will know where they logged on at and the cops can make a visit to that location. Fat chance, but you never know what "Big Brother" has to offer.

-John M

Called By A Geek

2008-07-15T21:56:00.002-06:00

Well, today was a bit of mixed emotions for me. I got my computer back for the shop and it seems to be running just fine. I was so thrilled when I received the phone call and the voice on the other end said:

"Hello My Name is "Joe" and I am calling from the Geek Squad to tell you your computer is ready to be picked up."

In my disbelief, my response was: "I will be there in 10 minutes". I walked out the door with a smile on my face that curled passed my ears.

But I have to admit that the passed couple of weeks have been very awkward for me. I have really wrestled with knowing whether I am dependent on my computer for work or personal reasons.

I discovered myself, many times reaching for my laptop just to check my e-mail for the 'umpteenth' time and having a withdrawal feeling. But there have also been a number of real needs for my computer. I have not been connected to my military e-mail, which is a requirement, and I have found myself looking for ways to complete youth and music related work for the church as well.

I am sending out a big Thank you to all those whose computers I borrowed: Pastor Paul, Gen Ennis, Dawn Edgar, and the gal down at the "Wired and Wireless" coffee shop downtown who allowed me to use one of their computers to finish my PowerPoint for Sunday morning worship.

I couldn't have done it without you all.

There was once a day back in the 80's when I laughed under my breath at those people who just had to have their vintage car phones -You remember the ones: those five pound phones that plugged into their cigarette lighters in the car and were toted around in those bulky moto-bag just in case you wanted to walk around and talk.

I recall those technology geeks in my high school who bragged about knowing how to read FORTRAN and talked about gigabytes and nano-technology as if it was the future.

My biggest technological achievement in those days was to watch and episode of Star Trek. Those Di lithium Crystals amazed me as they caused the Enterprise to shoot across the Universe at warp speed.

I suppose we have worked ourselves into a technological corner. We have created a need for ourselves. When we arrive at church on Sunday mornings we have come very accustomed to the PowerPoint words on the screen and the sound and mics and videos shown on the 72 inch screen at the front of the sanctuary.

By the way, my computer had the DVD Drive and the entire keyboard replaced as well. It is working smooth and the best part of everything is that the computer is under a three year full replacement warranty. So the work was free.

Way Cool!

2008-07-03T14:55:00.005-06:00

Several of our students made it into the Mountain Home News newspaper today: Check out the following article:

I gave you a direct link below, however, I have copied the text and the picture for your convenience: :)~ It is tough to see much detail of the boys, but they are there.

Pictured are Levi Metcalf, Cade Summers, Braydon Metcalf, Jameson Brown, and Jacob Ibarra. They're all scattered throughout the picture.

http://www.mountainhomenews.com/story/1442279/photo/1158219.html

Christian kids help clean up city
Thursday, July 3, 2008

Members of Commission, a church camp, helped clean up some out-of-code property
In the middle of a hot summer day about a dozen teenagers, wearing matching T-shirts, spent the day doing yard work for someone they've never met before.
"We're not in trouble, we're doing this on our own," one of them called out.
The group was one of five teams from Commission, a week-long, nondenominational church camp for junior high and high school students that focuses on community service.
"Students come together and realize they don't have to be adults to serve," camp director Crystal Gunderson said. "So often teenagers are focused on themselves, this is a week for them to focus on others."
The camp's 50 students from Idaho, Oregon and Colorado, along with 11 counselors and 20 staff members from Idaho, Nevada, Oregon and Texas, are broken into five teams.
One team put together backyard Bible study groups, another spent the week painting and making repairs to a house, another put on puppet shows, skits and plays at the Senior Citizen Center and local parks. Another group took pictures and videotaped the other groups in action for slide shows, presentations and memories.
The fifth group, the element team, spent Wednesday helping a Mountain Home resident with yard work. Her yard was in violation of several city codes and Kelly Janis, the city of Mountain Home code enforcement officer, paired the team up with the house owner as part of her program to help citizens who are physically and financially unable to comply with city codes. They spent the rest of the week doing work of the same nature at various locations throughout town.
Students camped at the Bruneau Sand Dunes and spent time in worship sessions and Bible studies based out of the First Baptist Church.
Gunderson started the camp in 2000 because she had attended a similar camp in California for two years while in high school and said she wanted kids in this area to be a part of something they might not have otherwise been able to afford.
She said the camp's focus on community service sets it apart from most church camps that focus solely on having fun.
"Some kids at the beginning of the week complain their parents sent them to a forced labor camp but most realize there's something unique about giving back to the community," Gunderson said.
Kevin Osborne, 15, has attended the camp for the last four years.
"This is the best week of the year," he said. "We're working and helping people out. Last year, this lady at the Senior Citizen Center cried because she was so excited to see what we were doing. That's always good to see."
Osborne is from Ontario, Ore., and the camp is a family affair at his house. His parents and four siblings took part in the camp this year.
Student Jackson Ried said he really enjoys the camp and said it was one of his favorite times of the year and things to do. The 18-year-old from Boise has attended the camp for the last seven years.
Jackson said the camp costs between $180-200 to attend, money students raise themselves throughout the year by mowing yards, selling pizza cards and holding yard sales.

Billy Graham

2008-07-01T18:13:00.003-06:00

I have been headlong into a research paper on the life of Billy Graham for my Baptist History course and I recently ran into these vintage videos I thought I would share with you.

Last Entry For A While......

2008-06-18T08:26:00.002-06:00

Ok, I know most of you who are regular readers, maybe I should say regular "checkers" of my blog will experience something that is NOT so irregular. I will be off my BLOG for a few weeks. Ha, Ha, Ha, I know what you're saying right now, so what's the difference? Ok you're right, I am not always the best at keeping my BLOG up to date. "Touche!"

So here is the deal:

I have been experiencing problems with my computer as of late and it will be going in for repairs. (The DVD drive is not working)

Over two years ago Pastor Paul and I purchased these computers for use here at the church and fortunately to the credit and foresight of our wise pastor, we purchased the three-year full replacement warranty.

The only problem is that they do not do major repairs at the store, so they will be sending it out for at least two weeks. I also hope this will not translate into what I experienced with my van reapairs all last year. YIKES!

The Good thing is that my very gracious pastor who will be going on vacation soon has offered the use of HIS laptop while he is gone... What a guy.

All in all, I will be away from my normal technological comforts for at least a couple of weeks and this will translate into no BLOG. So give me until at least the 1st week in July before you check back.

Another good thing about this is that this will allow me to experience a "fast" from my computer, so pray for my withdrawal symptoms while I am offline........

See You Soon!

-John Martinez

Silent Respect

2008-06-07T00:12:00.004-06:00

1 Year ago on June 6th 2007, I was commissioned into the Idaho Army National Guard as a 2LT to serve as a Chaplain.

25 years ago today on June 6th 1983, I entered into the Army National Guard as a PFC Private First Class and started Basic Training at Fort Jackson, South Carolina to serve as a band member in the 44th Army Band Stationed in Santa Fe New Mexico.

64 years ago today on June 6th 1944:

(According to Wikipedia) The Invasion of Normandy was the invasion and establishment of Allied forces in Normandy, France during Operation Overlord in World War II. It covers from the initial landings on June 6, 1944 until the Allied breakout in mid-July.It was the largest seaborne invasion at the time, involving over 850,000 troops crossing the English Channel from the United Kingdom to Normandy by the end of June 1944.Allied land forces that saw combat in Normandy on June 6 came from Canada, Free French Forces, the United Kingdom, and the United States. In the weeks following the invasion, Polish forces also participated and there were also contingents from Belgium, Czechoslovakia, Greece, and the Netherlands. Most of the above countries also provided air and naval support, as did the Royal Australian Air Force, Royal New Zealand Air Force and the Royal Norwegian Navy.

My dad, uncles, and grandfather and several cousins are veterans of foreign wars. My dad fought in World War II and Korea.

I know that people are courteous and call me a veteran, but there is a huge difference between these ones that have actually done the fighting and someone like me who puts on the uniform.

Please understand, no disrespect for all those in uniform who stand READY to defend; I do the same, but there is a silent respect we have for those who have already been there.I feel awkward at times when someone comes up to me and says thank you with a tear in their eye. But I was told by another soldier once that they are saying thank you through me. So I feel honored to accept their appreciation.

"Full Battle Rattle"

2008-06-03T08:37:00.002-06:00

The past few days have been a great start the Annual Training event I have been a part of with the National Guard.

Our training site has been set up and we are here on what is called the "OTA" (Orchard Training Area) just south of Boise. Everywhere we go we are required to wear full body armor and Kevlar as well as our weapon. No exceptions! Even to the Latrine! This is what is affectionately referred to as "Full Battle Rattle".

I have to admit that it is fun to "Play Soldier" when there is no real threat, but I also do realize that the training is for a real purpose. We will be deployed and this training will have a real purpose.

I am reminded of Ephesians chapter 6 following after verse 10 where the Apostle Paul urges the believers to be ready for battle. There was not a question of whether the believers would engage in battle, this was already a given. The real issue was who the enemy truly was. In this case which is true for us today, the enemy is not in a Bradley Tank or an IED (Improvised Explosive Device), but it is a spiritual power, principalities. We are fighting against the evil and dark forces that can cause us to sin destructively and fall from the faith and destroy our witness in the community and those we influence.

So in order to be a successful Soldier of the Cross we have to be prepared to do battle. This means that we have to be in "Full Battle Rattle". It is called the The Full Armor of God and it includes an array:

We have to ...Gird your waist with TRUTH,

The breastplate of RIGHTEOUSNESS,

Feet shod with the preparation of the GOSPEL of PEACE,

The sheild of FAITH,

The helmet of SALVATION,

The sword of the SPIRIT,

And pray always in the SPIRIT.

-John
(Soldier of The Lord)

Fellow Chaplain

2008-05-29T14:56:00.004-06:00

Chaplain (Col) Art Moore.
Idaho Air National Guard

Col. Joseph (Art) Moore was recently on deployment in Djibouti, on the Horn of Africa where he passed away. He has been a part of the 124th Wing of the Idaho Air National Guard out of Gowen Field where he began as a Chaplin and was eventually promoted to State Commanding Chaplain for the JFHQ Army and Air National Guard.

His family shared this statement with the public... "Art loved the military, loved working with the people and loved traveling as part of his military duties. Being a minister to service members was dear to his heart, and he was available to help anybody at any time."

Pastor Paul and I travelled to Boise on Wednesday for Art's funeral. It was extremely well attended by many members of the Army and Air Guard from Gowen as well as throughout the state.

Art sat down with my on at least two occasions to talk about what I should expect while serving as a military Chaplain. One of his biggest concerns he had for me was that my church would be supportive and he even offered to come down and take an evening service to explain in detail what I would be doing in addition to encouraging our church to support me in this effort.

I assured Art that although he was invited to come down at any time, I was confident and continue to be that our church is in great support of the ministry I do through the Idaho Army National Guard.

Art loved to talk about fishing, just about anytime, but one of his other favorites was to take you to lunch. I recall having lunch with Art at Rocky's Diner in Boise while in uniform and in the company of several other ranking brass; I was nervous, but he really made an effort to make me feel included.

Art, you will be sorely missed, but we'll see you when we get to the other side.

-John

Made In Idaho

2008-05-24T21:13:00.006-06:00

Have you seen these labels on products that say "Made In Idaho"? I run into them from time to time and I suppose it's a good idea to support our fellow Idahoans in their ventures, but I have to tell you that I didn't actually know any of these "Idahoans" personally until a few years ago.

Shari and I have some dear friends that live in Boise who actually have one of these "Made In Idaho" products that is one of their cherished family recipes. It's called "Harry's Teri". We have tried this yummy Teriyaki Sauce and it is just that-- YUMMY!

Ken and Pam Dillman have been our friends ever since I worked with Pam as a Family Assistance Counselor at Cloverdale Funeral Home in Boise. It was not long after knowing Pam that I discovered that her and Ken are fellow believers.

We were over to their home for dinner one night the first time we tasted it and our whole family was blown away. Although I know that it can be found on specialty shops as well as online, I don't understand why this stuff isn't on every store shelf across the country.

We've since ordered and eaten our way through several bottles as well as given some away as gifts. So the next time you have a hankerin' to put something mildly sweet and spicy on your chicken, burgers, or shrimp, check out their website: http://www.harrysteri.com/ .

Sorry to sound like an advertisement, but we really do like this stuff and Ken and Pam are about the sweetest family you'll meet on the planet, plus, I have recently been thinking about placing another order, so maybe at the next church potluck we'll have some on hand.

-John M

Thomas: "Before and After"

2008-05-21T07:58:00.002-06:00

Have you seen one of those “Before and After” ads for some type of dieting product in a magazine or on TV? They’re everywhere. The ads really work their magic on our emotions and desire to be different and better. I admit I have found myself wondering about taking those ‘magic diet pills’ if I could just become one of those Before and After miracle-models. Wake-up John, snap out of it!

In the 20th chapter of the Gospel of John after the crucifixion of Jesus, the Disciples were together in a room presumably, hiding because they were afraid of the Jews. After Jesus’ resurrection He appeared to them and came in with them in spite of the doors being locked. When Jesus came in, He said ‘Peace be unto you’.

The Disciples were so glad to see Him and as they looked at his hands and side, obviously they were gazing at the evidence of the cross and his death and the proof that He was again alive. He assured them and said another time, “Peace to you! As the Father has sent me, I also send you.”

In verse 24 thru 26 the passage says that Thomas was not with them when Jesus showed up on that occasion. Later, the other Disciples evidently told Thomas and his reaction was true to his nature- he said I don’t believe it. Unless I can see Him for myself, and see where the nails were in his body, I won’t believe it was Jesus.

Over a week later (8 days) Thomas was in the same room with the other Disciples with the doors once again locked. Jesus again came into the room, except this time Thomas was there. Jesus came up to Thomas and said: “Reach your finger here, and look and my hands; and reach your hands here, and put it into my side. Do not be unbelieving but believing. And Thomas answered and said to him, ‘My Lord and my God.”

A couple of things happened here. First, Thomas was invited to examine Jesus, and second, Thomas was led to worship Jesus. Thomas’ response of proclaiming that Jesus was His God was because he had examined him up close and personal and finding the evidence he was looking for, he did what was natural, he proclaimed that Jesus was God, and even more than that, Thomas accepted Jesus as his God.

We are invited to do the same; to examine the Christ. We can study Him by reading His Word and let Him prove to us who He is. As we make this incredible discovery, we will do what only comes natural -we worship Him. There is only one difference between us and Thomas; our conclusions must be based on faith.

Have you noticed lately that our church “order of service’ includes essentially three main sections: First, we come in rejoicing in a ‘Call to Worship’ of one or two songs, scripture reading, offering and prayer which leads secondly to Pastor Paul sharing from the Word, an examination of "The Word" (Jesus) -‘The Sermon’. Finally, we then move into a time of response to that discovery -'Worship'. This makes so much sense Biblically. Our corporate worship is a response to Jesus’ revealing to us. It’s natural!

No doubt when we are face to face with Him, in His presence in Heaven, we will fall before Him in ultimate unrestricted unabashed worship. Oh, that will be Glory.

Hmmm?

One reaction may be to say that ‘when I see him I will worship Him, until then I will be like Thomas and bide my time’. The Word’s response to us is “Blessed is he who believes and yet has not seen.”

Unfortunately, never again on this side of Glory will there be an opportunity to examine Jesus like Thomas did. We just will not have that afforded to us. Yet we are still faced with the same choice as Thomas -making Him our God. The act of worship for us, as it was for Thomas, is exactly the same. It’s our response to what has been revealed to us.

What’s been revealed to you? How has He proved Himself to you? How about naming off a few ways right now…. God is my Jehovah Jireh -my provider, He is my Jehovah Rapha -my healer, and I can create a list a mile long under just those two names. He is worthy of my worship and so I will be unashamed to call Him, as Thomas did, ‘my Lord and my God’. Examine Him for yourself……

-John

SURPRISE!!!!!

2008-05-20T07:50:00.002-06:00

This past weekend was some kind of weekend for Shari.

She attended the Beth Moore conference in Boise with the Acteen girls and after arriving home to what she no doubt hoped would be a relaxing rest of her weekend, we had something else in mind.

After several "near-miss" run-in's with Shari in the parking lot of the church, when she arrived to drop of girls from the conference; a crew inside, busily worked to prepare a surprise- she finally drove off. Whew!

What she did not know was that for the past couple of months we had been preparing the surprise party of her life. She was about to turn 40 and we just couldn't pass up on the opportunity to remind her.

After a few well designed "stories" we got Shari to the church. As she walked in to yells of surprise I have no doubt once again that she truly appreciated this humiliation from the bottom of her heart.

Today is actually Shari's birthday; May 20th. I called her just a moment ago and asked to go to the bathroom mirror and take a deep look at that 40 year old looking back. Ha ha!

I Love You Shari and Happy Birthday!

-John

Back To School

2008-05-13T17:11:00.003-06:00

Yesterday was my first day back to class. I am taking two classes once again; I think I would be crazy to take any more than that at this point in my life.

For those of you who are new to my BLOG, I have been taking online classes through the Distance Learning Program of Liberty Baptist Seminary. I am doing this to finish my educational requirement for the Chaplaincy in the National Guard.

I am taking History of Baptists and Systematic Theology II. As always, the professors have introduced themselves and basically tried to put the fire under our tails from the start of classes.

In no time at all I will be walking around with dark rings under my eyes and dragging my feet, but that's ok, I should be back to normal in another 8 weeks.

I have no doubt that my BLOG entries will reflect what I am studying, and you may even catch a debate or two from me regarding Calvinism and Arminianism. This is a huge part of Baptist history so if I step on a toe or two along the way, please accept my humblest apologies in advance. However, you have my permission to challenge my thinking along the way via the "comment" button - and you can even do it as "anonymous" if you would like.

Have You ever wondered what T.U.L.I.P stands for? We may may just find out together.

Blessings,

-John

Truly Blonde Moment

2008-05-12T21:14:00.006-06:00

This past weekend several of our youth participated in what looks like it may become an annual event for our students. The fasted for 30 hours.

The students were a part of the "National 30-Hour Famine". I am very proud of these students as you can imagine since they allowed themselves to literally go without food from Noon on Friday thru 6:00pm on Saturday evening.

In addition to this the students participated in a work project at a church in our association raking leaves, pulling weeds, and hauling branches. They did great!

This is where my blonde moment kicks in:

When we arrived at the church in Gooding, the doors were locked so I reached for my key chain and told the students that the key I use for Eastside was a Universal Baptist Church Key, and that it would work on any Baptist church.

I put the key in the lock and presto it worked perfectly! The thing I didn't tell them was that Larry Kelley, the pastor of the Gooding church had loaned me his key the day before.

My agreement with Larry was I would leave his key on his desk in his Church office in Gooding when we were done.

Later that afternoon when we arrived back in Twin Falls, I reached into my pocket for my keys and reminded the students once again that I was about to use the Universal Baptist Church Key to open the church........

Oops! It didn't work.... I had accidentally left my Eastside Baptist Key in Gooding and kept Larry's key as my own.

Then came the obvious call from the students: "What happened to your Baptist key?"

I felt about 2 inches tall. Amidst plenty of laughing, I confessed to my ruse. We stood around wondering how we would get into the church... we tried several doors, but no luck.. So we did what anyone else would do in a similar situation: We went to Pastor Paul's house to borrow his key.

-John

To Cuss or Not To Cuss

2008-05-05T12:34:00.003-06:00

During one of recent youth Bible studies, one of our students brought up a good question regarding profanity.

I know that most of us have made some kind of decision as to whether we let the occasional curse word fly from our lips, and what qualifies as a cuss word, so what I would like to do is share some what I shared this past Wednesday evening in Youth and Adult Bible study.

First of all, I think it's important to lay out the law so to speak:

What is profanity?

Without going to George Carlin and his attempt to define what words are off limits, I believe that if all of us were honest with ourselves, we would all agree what qualifies as a "Bad-Word".

Most kids don't have a problem knowing the difference. When I was a kid on the playground and we heard one of "those" words, someone would usually say "I'm gonna tell, you said a baaad word."

The Bible does not have a list of taboo words. You can't go to the book of whatever and see "...thou shalt not say the following words..." it's just not there.

In the first place the list would be changing all the time. Not necessarily words coming off the list, but new ones coming on all the time.

Secondly we would also have to admit that cussing has much less to do with letters than linguistics. In other words, the meaning and intent of the words we use is the the crux. But don't let that take us off the hook, because we are indeed judged by the use of our words, whether they have ill intent or not. Try using a foul word in a casual manner the next time you are in for a job interview and see if how far that flies.

I would agree that there is really no need for graphic language at anytime and by anyone whether you are a believer or not, but for the sake of our discussion today, lets narrow our field to believers only.

I found a very useful list of six reasons why not to cuss by Daryl Wingerd. See what you think.

Many curse words are descriptions of immoral acts.... Whatever the original meanings of these words...vulgar meanings are undoubtedly connected with them now. Remember that Paul tells Christians to dwell on things that are honorable, pure, lovely, and excellent. Philippians 4:8
Christians who use foul language...[fail to] set themselves apart from unbelievers who say the same things. Your speech leaves them no reason to believe that you are any different from anyone else.
The Apostle Paul wrote to the Corinthians, saying, "Give no offense either to Jews or to Greeks or to the Church of God." (1 Cor. 10:32) He was not referring to the offense of the Gospel or an offense taken by....certain Christian beliefs or practices.
Many movies receive an "R" rating because of foul language, meaning that even unbelievers recognize that cussing is inappropriate , at least for children. [It is] shameful when Christians claim as a personal liberty that which even our pagan society recognizes as offensive.
We should always err on the side of caution rather than appealing to our personal liberty. James 3: 6,8 says that the tongue is a "restless evil and full of deadly poison," that which cannot be tamed and which "defiles the body". Proverbs 10:19 says "Where there are many words, sin is not lacking." [Christians should have a] default setting [when it comes to their mouths]
One would hope that Christians who claim the liberty to cuss in public, among their families, or even in the presence of other believers, would at least find such language unthinkable in the presence of Jesus Christ. The fact is, however, if you would not cuss in His presence, then you cannot with a clean conscience at all because Jesus said, "I am with you always, even to the end of the age." Matthew 28:20 (taken form the list of "Six Reasons Why NOT!" by Daryl Wingerd.)

So what are your thoughts? Do you think it's ok under certain circumstances for believers to cuss?

I have to say I was so impressed by all the comments I received this past Wednesday during our Bible Study. Many of our students and adults have a solid understanding of why and why not, and their comments were based on the Word of God.

-John M

What Did James Mean?

2008-04-28T15:35:00.002-06:00

I have been reading and studying through the Epistle of James for the past couple of weeks. My pastor assigned this to me. Well, it's not like that. I am actually taking a class here at the church that our pastor is teaching and he assigned a project to everyone in the class.

The assignment was to read through James and this past week we were to look back at the original language of Greek to decide the EXACT meanings or at least the original intention of the text of the first 8 verses.

Wow, Pastor Paul, that was a big assignment. I did have fun, but I also will admit that since I was preaching in Pine this weekend, I took out two birds with one stone so to speak.

I discovered that when James was talking about trials in chapter one he was more than likely making reference to the persecution of the early church.

I can't help but know in my heart of hearts that while James' original audience were the believers who were scattered, that God also intended quite beautifully you and I in that equation as well.

So since I have not been persecuted lately, I have to wonder that 'trials' would have to include the testing of my faith through temptations that constantly flood path.

The fact remains that trials or testing, whatever they are, ultimately lead to the same valued purpose for believers today that they did a couple of thousand years ago: our maturity and completeness in Christ which is mentioned in James 1:4.

I am glad that God has not appointed me to have to face death for my faith, however, I am thrilled that He cares enough about maturing me and bringing me to completion in His Son Jesus, that He has allowed me to be tested, to prove my faith.

I have also discovered that although we do call these trials "testing", the results are not for the benefit of God, but for myself.

-John M.

Tough Question – 2

2008-04-23T11:58:00.002-06:00

The last time I made an entry into my BLOG (about two weeks ago) I made an attempt to answer what I called a tough question. Since then I have not been able to stop thinking about the possibility of addressing other tough questions.

Today I am going to look at another issue or question that I have been wrestling with this past week: “Is It Possible to Sin While Dreaming?”

I have to admit that my first snap answer was no. Then I began to think it through and thought that Dreams are thoughts and therefore the person thinking those thoughts while awake and asleep is the same person.

Then, I started researching on the internet other opinions, and I got really confused, because even though there are only two possible answers, yes or no, there were lots of different explanations for each of the answers.

So I finally decided to do what I should have done in the first place: go to the Word of God.

In Genesis Joseph was given the ability to understand dreams in their truest sense. As a boy he dreamed of his eventual dominance over his older brothers and he came into a place of power and privilege. He interpreted dreams for people from prison to the palace.

His ability afforded him safety and turmoil. When he honestly and correctly answered the cup bearers dream in prison, the cupbearer saw that his dream of a vine and grapes and a cup meant that he would be restored to his position. This eventually led to the Pharaoh catching wind of and employing his ability.

Regarding the Pharaoh dreaming of skinny cows and fat cows, this proved to be a critical God-send and foreshadowing of both famine and plenty in the land. The correct interpretation and eventual submission by the Pharaoh, protected Joseph and the Pharaoh as well as Joseph's family.

Joseph was right to admit that interpretation of dreams belongs to God, but there is no doubt that God gifted Joseph to see these true meanings. In addition to that, people are the ones doing the dreaming.

Ok, by now you’re asking what this has to do with sinning in dreams. The fact remains that dreams occur in our minds while we are asleep and the dreams relate to what is going on in our minds during our waking hours. I realize at this point you may be tempted to say that my scripture reference is a stretch, but hear me through.

Answer this question honestly; do you remember that last time you had a vivid or memorable dream? Do you recall that there were some very significant events taking place in your life whether that day or in recent days? For example: what happened in your dream life the last time you watched a scary movie? What happened in your dream life when you had a traumatic event take place in your life, (death of a loved one, loss of job, revelation of a major illness, etc.)? The answer is simple, the sleeping mind is still the same mind you use while you are awake.

You see, it is clear that what we are doing during the day effects what we dream about at night. This is where it gets really interesting; I would venture to say that you have participated in some serious activities in your dreams that you would never have done while awake. No need to state the obvious.

This is evidence that we believe we’re free to get away with things in our dreams that we may never risk while awake.

Stay with a bit longer: This is why I believe Jesus addresses the issue that if you look upon a woman to lust, you have committed adultery with her in your heart. Matthew 5: 27-28. The point that Jesus is making is that Sin has taken place and it took place in the heart (mind).

Some would argue ‘no harm no foul’ but we have to realize that Jesus’ death on the cross was not just for sins that brought harm physically, but because of sin, period.

With all that said, I have to recognize that there is an aspect of involuntarism involved in dreaming. I am also admitting that I do not understand the psyche of the human mind in a way that would give me authoritative carte blanche.

The Old Testament law addresses both unintentional and intentional sin and how the practice of sacrifice deals with each. God designed the law as a stand in until His ultimate Grace through Jesus could be applied by the cross, but the fact remains that God has made provision for both because both exist (intentional and intentional).

All in all there is so much more to this that cannot be dealt with in a daily BLOG entry by a guy who never created the mind in the first place. In other words, since I did not invent the human mind, I would have to refer to the manufacturer. In this case that detailed manual from the creator is called the Bible. (Tongue in Cheek)

Jeremiah 17:9 says that “The heart of man is deceitful above all things and desperately wicked, who can know it?” So I have no choice but to ask God, the designer, this one simple thing on my behalf that David asked for himself in Psalm 51:10 “Create in me a clean heart O God and renew a right spirit within me.”

Do I believe that a person can sin while they are dreaming? Yes. Do I believe they go to sleep with that intention each time? No. What we ponder or allow our minds to rest upon during the day will surely influence what it thinks and acts upon at night.

Sweet Dreams..... ZZZZZzzzzzzzzz

-John M

Tough Question (revised due to typo's)

2008-04-16T13:00:00.006-06:00

Have you had opportunity for someone to ask you a question you think you should already know the answer and in reality you freeze up for a moment with that deer in the headlights look?

This happens to me a lot, mostly because I am easily confused by slick questions.

There are a lot of "spiritual" issues with which we may have an opinion and yet there seems to be no Biblical reference to back up these beliefs.

It's easy to start believing that that rich people won't go to Heaven and the poor are a 'shoe-in', but the Bible does not say that the rich will go to Hell, only those who do not believe.

You may also believe that living in a house with a street number of 666 or stepping of the elevator on the 13th floor of a building is bad. The black cat that ran in front of you this morning as you walked under a ladder after breaking a mirror, won't have as profound an effect we may think. So stop looking for pennies facing up and don't worry when you break shoe lace, it's all going to be ok.

On the other hand, we do face some seemingly unanswerable questions such as:

"Does the Bible teach about believing in ghosts or demons roaming about?"

"Can a person actually sin in their dreams?"

-and here is one that sounds simple but can still catch you off guard

"Why not baptize infants?"

On the surface an evangelical New Testament believing Christian would say babies should not be baptized. We would argue that baptism is not "salvific" in other words getting dunked won't get you through the pearly gates.

Christians can argue that there is really no difference between sprinkling a baby and calling it baptism and "dedicating" that same child before a congregation to the Lord. I would argue that if this is the case then why use an ordinance such as baptism to promise that you will pray for a child and bring them up in the way of the Lord? Baptism clouds the issue.

So what is the point of baptism in babies? Good question. Before you think I have stepped off the deep end and become a flaming liberal, allow me to clarify from the beginning that I do not see baptism in anyone as legitimate without faith and since babies have no way of expressing it, let alone understanding it, infant baptism is ludicrous and unbiblical at best.

But in all fairness, lets take a look at the Word of God:

The New Testament talks about several occasions where the act of Baptism was a result of faith. In other words, baptism did not precede believing.

With regard to Lydia and the Philippian Jailer in Acts 16, these are two examples where faith (belief) precedes getting baptized.

In vs. 14 the Lord opened Lydia’s heart to the message Paul was preaching. In other words, Paul was preaching, Lydia heard the words and responded and then she was baptized; regarding “her household” there is NO indication that she had infants or even small children. Scripture does not even indicate she was married; “her household” could have been her servants. the fact that he was a business woman and a ‘dealer in purple cloth’ is all the information we are given to work with.

Later in the same chapter Paul and Silas were in jail and had been singing and praying and they were obviously vocal about it because the scripture said that the other prisoners were listening to them. At midnight there was an earthquake and their chains were broken and the doors were opened. When the dust cleared the jailer thought for sure that everyone had escaped so he was ready to take his own life, but Paul spoke up and said they were all still there.

The jailer asked ‘what must I do to be saved'. It is important to know that since the jailer had been there all along, he was an audience to the singing and prayer and obvious conversation regarding the Gospel, so it was only natural that he ask such a question. Paul's answer was simple yet concise: ‘believe in the Lord Jesus and you will be saved', then the statement followed 'you and your household'. The same applies to the Jailer's household, if they believe they too can be saved. In scholarly circles this is called a "PRESUPPOSITION". The obvious fact that his household was saved and baptized meant that they must have also had faith. They had to, because scripture indicates in other passages that faith is a requirement for salvation and baptism follows as an act of obedience and identification.

Later after the Jailer helped Paul and Silas to get cleaned up he and his family were baptized. Obviously they must have believed in the Lord Jesus as well. The scripture once again does not indicate that there were infants in the household, this is where many make an mistaken assumption; household does not instantly imply infants.

The ultimate point is that the two requirements of salvation are faith and repentance: Romans 10:10 clearly states: “For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you confess and are saved.” As is the case with infants they are not capable of either one; however many young children can and do come to salvation in Christ because they have heard the Gospel, realize their sin, repent and believe. Its as easy as ABC Admit ~Believe ~Confess(Commit)

-John

City Slickers

2008-04-07T14:59:00.007-06:00

Our youth Boys had a great finish to their "Call Of The Wild" - Start2Finish class.

Our boys enjoyed several events that helped them to bond and refocus their attention on the Creator as the Giver of all good things.

The first weekend was Called "R.O.C. The Canyon" and was a play of the Rock the Canyon event and the "R.O.C." (Relying On Christ) theme for our student ministry. We dropped the boys off at the bottom of the Snake River Canyon at the Centennial Park and told them to hike out. They met at the top of the canyon quite conveniently at the IHOP for milkshakes and Bible Study led by Larry Kelley.

Week two was the "Tour De Twin" where we biked across Twin Falls from "Old Town" through Rock Creek Canyon to the Rock Creek Park where we enjoyed an open pit fire Hot Dogs and a Bible Study led by myself.

Week three was called "Wild West" and we met at the Jerome Shooting Range where we shot everything from paper targets to skeet. We fired shotguns, .22 rifles, and several high powered rifles afforded to us by John Christlieb. Our Bible study was led by Mike Mathews who also served as our range boss keeping everyone safe.

Our final week we travelled to Declo for what we called "City Slickers". Here we were given an opportunity to be "cowboys" for a day. We branded over 30 head of cattle (calves), gave them their 'Shots' as well as depriving a few of their manhood as it were. Dennis Bortz led the Bible study as well as providing the cows. The above pictures are some of the evidence.

I can't wait to see what gets planned for next year. Maybe we'll head to the mountains for a few days and rough it in the wilds.

-John M

Planes Trains and Automobiles (minus the trains)

2008-03-31T02:29:00.005-06:00

I am writing to you from the lonely and very quiet Gate #38 in the Las Vegas Airport. The reason for it's current state is because it's 2:30 am.

I am waiting for my flight which is scheduled to leave at 6:20am (four more hours) to Salt Lake City. I should arrive in Salt Lake in time to take the "Salt Lake Express" ( a bus shuttle service to Twin Falls).

Why the strange schedule? Well, its all mostly in the name of saving money.

As most of you know I drove to Colorado with Shari and the girls to celebrate Shari's mother's 60th birthday. We drove up Thursday and my plan was to fly back Sunday after Church in order to get back to the office by Monday morning. (Wishful Thinking)

Mostly my attempt to save a few bucks has really created a two-day flight and a shuttle tag-on and very droopy-bloodshot eyes.

So, after starting from Buena Vista, (where Shari's parents live) on Sunday afternoon, we drove to Colorado Springs for my flight which left at 10:06 pm to arrive in Las Vegas, NV at about 12:13am to wait for a flight to depart at 6:20am and arrive in Salt Lake around 8:00am to wait for the shuttle which leaves at 10:00am from SLC travelling to Pocatello and then finally arriving in Twin Falls at 3:45pm.

Flight = $150

Shuttle = $32.50

Getting a direct flight to Twin Falls next time = PRICELESS

See you when I get home. :)

-John M

Irreducible Minmum

2008-03-25T13:54:00.003-06:00

What would you consider the absolute bottom line gotta know 'irreducible-minimum' for a student who graduates from high school?

Well I suppose that the Three-R's - Reading wRiting and aRithmetic would be the most obvious place to start.

What about the same student graduating from church youth group?

Is there such a thing as the Christian Three R's? Hmmmm? Maybe....

I have been reading a book that has really caused me to think about this very issue. The absolute most bottom line issues that our students need to know before they are sent out among the wolves so-to-speak, no pun intended on Idahoans.

The Book, called The Seven Checkpoints by Andy Stanley and Stuart Hall is a work that is intended to address that very point. Stanley and Hall claim that they have spent years asking this question to themselves as well as church youth workers and have whittled down from roughly 25 main ideas to seven simple "Checkpoints" they claim every student should know before they leave youth group and go on to college and or career.

Are you willing to take a stab at their findings? What do you think tops the list?

Here it is:
1. Authentic Faith
2. Spiritual Disciplines
3. Moral Boundaries
4. Healthy Friendships
5. Wise Choices
6. Ultimate Authority
7. Others First
(Stanley, Andy and Hall, Stuart, The Seven Checkpoints. Howard Publishing, 2001)

I looked at the list before I started reading the book and wondered if I would come up with a different list if I were asked the same question. I imagine that all of us would formulate a different list and maybe in a different order, but as I have read the overview and am now well into the book, I can see that this list is Biblically solid.

The list seems to be self explanatory, but for sake of argument here is my re-word:
1. Knowing Jesus.
2. Having a Daily Walk with Jesus.
3. Knowing how far is too far.
4. Picking your friends wisely.
5. Knowing Right from Wrong.
6. Knowing who really calls the shots (God).
7. Learning to play well with others.

What do think? If you had all these things figured out when you graduated, what would your life look like now? Be honest..... That's what I thought.

Me too.

-John M

"The Rest" of The Rest of the Story.

2008-03-20T10:04:00.004-06:00

There is almost always more to every story that never gets told. It is no different in this case.

You read the story of the on-going saga of the missing van earlier this week, well, here is the rest of that story.

The very next day after posting that story Shari and I dropped by TDK to talk with the mechanic and see about the progress of the van.

He mentioned to us that there was one small piece missing: A piece of plastic trim that connects the door frame and holds down the edge of the carpet on the floor board. -Not a big deal, but still a fairly important part.

They suggested that I go back to the previous shops and see if was just laying around.

I have to admit to you that I was not interested in the prospect of confronting these gentlemen, but I did it anyway.

I arrived at the home of the first shop owner and no one was at home. So I carefully walked around the yard where he kept my van parked to see if I could find the part just laying around. You guessed it: While I was snooping, the owner came driving up. He had this look on his face of "What do yo think you're doing?" You get the picture.

When he got out of his truck I explained to him why I was there, and the first words out of his mouth were: "Your van still isn't fixed?" I think it was both surprising and amusing to him at the same time.

My answer was simple, 'Yup'.

I told him about the part I was looking for and he assured me that everything was placed back in the van when he was done. But an interesting thing happened.

He told me that if I couldn't find the part he would be more than willing to go to the local junk yard and get one for me. We chatted for a while longer and walked around his yard like two old farmers mulling over the south-forty, browsing around and looking at a couple of old cars he was working on: a 68 Mustang and and a Cougar. All in all I felt as though he was trying to apologize in his own way for his contribution to the debacle.

As I drove off and on my way to the "other guy", I was even more leary of showing my face there. Unlike the previous week when we pick up Shari's assembled van he was at the shop.

I told him, once again, why I was there, and so he took me out to the yard to look for the missing part. When we couldn't find it and he was convinced that it must be at the first guys place, he said something that totally blew away.

He told me, and I quote: "I feel I owe you an apology for the way I treated you." Wow. can you believe that? Although he did sort of come up with a couple more "excuses" why he did what he did, I could see that he was really trying to be sincere.

So I shook his hand and said, "I accept your apology." I wish I could tell you that he said something like let me refund you some money, or let me make it up to you in some way, but he didn't, and I guess that's ok too.

Did I mention to you? I got a call about an hour ago, and Shari's van in finally finished.

So $3,500 and 9 1/2 months later, Shari can have her van back. Wave at her next time you see her driving, you'll know it's her, she'll be the one grinning and waving like she is in a parade.

-John

Shari's Van

2008-03-17T16:59:00.004-06:00

Well, I guess it's time for that long story to be shared:

Last year about this time, a small mission group from Mississippi took their Spring Break to come to Twin Falls and do Adventure Bible Clubs in the park around town. They did a great job and we hope they will consider coming back again.

It was near the end of that week, after a long tenure of Jessica driving with a permit, that I allowed her to drive through an area near South Park Twin Falls in order to allow her practice time driving in "neighborhoods".

The experience was more intense than we expected. She pulled out after coming to a stop sign and a vehicle T-Boned us. She had her first accident and she didn't even have a real driver's license.

Unfortunately, we were without insurance at the time, since we had let it lapse. (Very Dumb) So we were left with the task of finding someone to fix our van at our own expense.

Our first instinct was to find someone cheap and fast. The van was drivable so we continued to drive it around town for about a month getting bids and looking for that All-Illusive-Cheap-Deal.

I was in a restaurant on a Saturday morning having coffee and studying, (a normal for me) when I ran into a neighbor in the restaurant who asked if we had Shari's van fixed yet. I said no and she told me that she had a "friend" who did body work and she called him on the spot.

Within a couple of days he came out to our house, looked at the van and told us he would do it, and then he asked those magical words: "How Much Do You Want To Pay".

This was too good to be true. By the way, it was. I asked him if he would do it for $1,000. and he said no problem. I felt great and I was sure he was a God-Send. (yes, I still believe he was - more on this later)

So off our van went to the back yard of a our neighbor's "friend". The van stayed there for the next 6 months, yes I said 6 (Six) and I also said months. Only half of the job was finished, and after constant visits, and conversations with this "friend", he finally relented and said he would not be able to complete the job.

We had payed him $250. and he said he would call it "even" and we should come pick up our van.

OK, here is the problem: Our van was in many pieces at this point and with the doors off, his cats had made their home in Shari's van not to mention the fact that it had rained several times throughout the 6 month period. The van was filthy and the battery had to be charged in order to even get it started.

Enter new body-man: One of the original body shops that made a bid agreed to come tow the van to their shop and take over the job. When we spoke to them and told them our "sob-story" about the first guy, they assured us they could and would finish it up and it should only take 2 to 3 weeks. Wow, we could handle that especially after waiting months.

Sounded great! We said "Go For It" and beleived we were in good hands.

A few weeks later, the van wasn't finished, but they assured us once again that they would have it done soon but they were just starting to get busy with other vehicles. We trusted them and said we would check back.

This same scenario repeated a few more times and a few weeks turned into a few months. Long story short, they had the van for almost 4 months and never finished it. Finally along with the accompaniment or my friend Paul Thompson, to visit the Shop owner "one more time", He agreed to sign a document stating that he would finish the van by March 15th 2008.

Shari and I went back on the 15th and the van was "finished", sort of... but he refused to put the parts back together stating that he had lost money on the job by under bidding it. Correction, he did put the driver's seat back, with only a couple of bolts and no seat belt.

So off we go to to yet another shop.

Note: There are details I am omitting for the sake of time and boring you to tears. Mostly dealing with they disrespectful way we were treated and names we were called by the shop owner. I have also not mentioned names of owners and business names as well and a few other details concerning the unprofessional manner in which we were treated. I am sure this is mostly our own opinion, so I'll leave it out.

Now as of 5:00 Friday evening March 15th Shari's van has been at "TDK". They started work on the van this morning and they are done reassembling it with the exception of a couple of missing parts, (easy stuff) and the tune-up and detail which we asked them to do.

What a difference integrity makes.

In retrospect: If I had it to do all over again knowing what I know right now, I would never go to either one of those guys again. But, that is precisely why God didn't consult with me. I would have walked right past an opportunity to be tested without batting an eye.

What Satan intended for evil, God intended for good. I have been severely tested in many ways over the past nine and half months on all sides. He has tested my character in front of the shop owners, their workers and other employees.

He has tested me in front of many of the members of our church who have out of great concern for us continued to check in and ask us about the van. He has tested me in front of my family in the attitude I have shown at home and while driving back and forth to the shops.

He has tested our family's ability and desire to share one vehicle with three drivers

Finally, He has tested me in front of myself. I know the thoughts I have had, the things I have wanted to say and do, the attitudes I have borne in my spirit, and the way I have allowed my concern for a personal possessions to have more bearing over my concern for the salvation of these shop owners.

How did I do? Maybe you don't want to know everything. In spite of the time I did spend praying for the shop owners and their employees, I know I need to continue to pray for them. Maybe you would join me in praying at least one time for these souls for which Christ died.

By the way, God knows where we need to be tested and He allows it for our benefit, so thanks Lord, I needed that.

Oh, about Shari's van.... we got a call earlier today from the shop at TDK (the guys with integrity) to let us know they were almost done.

So in the words of of Paul Harvey, "Now You Know The Rest of The Story".

-John

Good Boy Coda - Good Boy.

2008-03-11T21:17:00.006-06:00

Sometimes bad things happen with good results.

Last week, I was home briefly to pick something up for lunch as well as Shari because she needed the van. As many of you know, we have been sharing one vehicle since last year because Shari's van has been in the shop. (Long story for another blog entry)

Shari had made this delicious soup the night before, that we love here in the Martinez household. It's call "Turkey Wildrice Soup" and it is really yummy. I decided to take some of it as a lunch.

We love our dog so much that we let him ride in the van quite often so Coda got to go too. On our way into town to have Shari drop me off at the Church, Shari and I decided stop at the Oasis to get a soda. We were only in the store for about three or four minutes.

When we got back to the van, we discovered Coda was also a fan of the "Turkey Wildrice Soup".

Naturally we were very angry to say the least with our dog. But there was nothing we could do at this point, so Shari finished taking me to the Church.

Later, Pastor Paul asked me if I had plans for lunch and I had to admit what Coda had done and so he felt real bad and invited me to lunch, and on top of that, Paul picked up the tab. What a nice guy.

So lets review:

Soup leftovers for lunch, $2

Sodas from Oasis $3

Family pet from Pound $50

Lunch tab for Pastor Paul $14

Getting taken to lunch by a thoughtful pastor: Priceless

Good Boy Coda, Gooood Booooy!

-John

2008-03-10T16:40:00.002-06:00

DONE!

Took my last test this morning and finished one up last night about 3:00am. What a relief and what a joy.

The girls were very happy as well. I went home for lunch and when I walked through the door, I was dumped on by a storm of confetti and cheers. I think they were cheering as much for themselves as they were for me.

The next two weeks are fairly busy, but its a good-busy. As you know, we have Palm Sunday and Easter and Pastor Paul will be away on his missionary journey with Silas, and these weeks are typically a bit more involved.

Gene Lawley preaches this week, Greg Blair on Easter and I can't wait to see all the extra folks in church.

Its good to be back to the land of the living, but it won't be long and I'll be back in to a new set of classes.

-John M

Almost Done ~ For Now

2008-03-04T08:14:00.008-07:00

The last 8 weeks have been a whirlwind of intellectual intensity making my brain tired and worn out from overuse and trying to stuff too much in without warning. I'm talking about? School.

I am only a few days from finishing up my semester of Systematic Theology and Church History. I can assuredly tell you that I have packed away an incredible amount of information, but don't ask me to tell you what, because most of it is still swirling around in my brain and if I opened any little part of it to peek in I am afraid the rest would come flying out.

I am sorry, I know that sounds too graphic, but if I didn't know any better, I would say I was working on a PhD and not a Masters degree. Maybe I don't want to know what a PhD is like.... My hat goes off to all those PhD's out there.

Everyone has been so supportive. Paul and Dawn have been so forgiving to allow me to be buried in the books when I needed it. And somehow God has been so forgiving of my limited time and has almost "multiplied" it when I needed it.

But Shari and the girls have taken the biggest hit. Jessica and Julia will respectfully turn the volume down on the TV when they see me glued behind my computer and will sweetly ask me if I need to study so they give me room at the kitchen table.

Shari has encouraged me so many times when I have had this obvious look of exhaustion in my eyes. She asks me how everything is coming with the books.

She has "shared" me with the other "Shari" when I come dragging in at 3:00 or 4:00 in the morning from studying at "Shari's" Restaurant - Twin Falls only 24 hour "House of Coffee". And in the words of John Lennon, "...I'm not the only one..."

She gives me a compassionate sigh when I come to bed and tell her I just took another test and I didn't score as high as I thought I should have.

Even Coda has been supportive enough not to bark when the garage door opens in the middle of the night. "...Good Boy, little buddy..." He knows its just me coming and going at all hours.

But, in just a few days all this will be over. Over, at least until next time. I am in the process of registering for my next round of classes. Next time is already here. I am must be crazy.

-John

Lost Ark of The Covenant? Found?

2008-02-29T10:19:00.004-07:00

I heard a story this morning on NBC Today Show with Matt Lauer. He was speaking with a professor Tudor Parfitt that is claiming to have located the lost Ark of the Covenant. The interesting twist about his story is that he says that the Ark is located in a museum and that curators are unaware of what they have and its significance.

Most of us are familiar with the Biblical account of the Ark as mentioned in Exodus 25. We know that it was representative of the 'Presence' of God to the Nation of Israel as they wandered in the desert , kept in the Tent of Testimony and eventually was carried into battles and into Temples.

"And it shall come to pass, when ye be multiplied and increased in the land, in those days, saith the LORD, they shall say no more, The ark of the covenant of the LORD: neither shall it come to mind: neither shall they remember it; neither shall they visit it; neither shall that be done any more" (Jeremiah 3:16)

The point was that Jesus was a better Covenant that the Ark and there would no need for the Ark any longer.

The last mention of the Ark was in 2 Chronicles 35:3 where the priests were advised not to carry the ark on their shoulders any longer. Now from this point most of what we hear and read about the Ark is extra biblical, and I want you to know that the following information is based solely on that information: It is surmised that the Ark was then taken from placed to place spirited away by priests, kings, and raiders in attempts to hide and or preserve the Ark.

Jewish tradition holds that the priests hid the Ark before King Nebuchadnezzar plundered the temple and the Only Jesus would reveal its location upon His return thus proving Himself to be the true Messiah.

Another twist:

The professor Tudor Partiff on the Today Show, said that the Ark he is referring to is actually a temporary Ark that Moses had fashioned as a stand in until the Ark we read about in Exodus was designed and place in the Most Holy Place in the Tent of Meeting.

His version of the Ark he claims was a tub shaped case that was built over the remnants of the previous Ark by a lost Tribe of Israel the a Southern African tribe called the Lemba who he has used DNA to prove their ties to their Egyptian origins.

Hmmmm? I don't want to attempt to answer for you whether or what this artifact is that he has located, but I would ask you to consider this:

If you were in the possession of an ancient relic such as the Ark of the Covenant or a the Shroud of Turin or a hunk of wood from the cross of Christ or the spear that was thrust into the side of Christ on the Cross; well you get the point. What would it do for you?

Would you be compelled to bow in its presence and thus treat it as an idol? Would you cast it aside and say I have the real thing in Christ? Would you rush to e-bay?

I guess the real question what have you done with Christ? Jesus in His fullness is revealed to us. We have direct access to the throne of God because of what Jesus accomplished on the cross. What do we do with that?

-Blessings,

John M

D-NOW 2008

2008-02-17T17:36:00.000-07:00

What a Weekend to remember! The students of Eastside have a lot to think about after a marathon Study of the Life of David.

This past Thursday evening on Valentines Day the Youth Group began this year's installment of D-Now. (Disciple Now) which is a retreat/camp/bible study/fun-packed weekend.

I want to say thank you to our church members who helped by participating and those who contributed to the scholarship fund. Blessings!!!!

Several months ago the Lead planning team for

D-Now made up of Renee Tompson, Brian and Alexis Daley, Toni Marie Rigsby began their journey. Originally the event was to take place in the early fall of 2007, but after some discussion and the fact that I would be gone for Chaplain training, we decided to move it to February.

As planning progressed, several more adults were added to the team: Ryan and Amie Franklin, Paul Thompson, Gen Ennis, Marianne Christlieb, Steve McMullin, and Brad Kinch.

Tom Velasco, one of the youth pastors at Calvary Chapel Boise, was our speaker and little did we realize how intensively knowledgable Tom would be. We later found that Tom is also the Director and lead teacher of the School of Ministry for his church - After hearing him teach, this makes total sense.

We were taught well and the students fed upon the Word of God in a rich manner.

Fourteen of our students attended and I am convinced that they came away with Biblical training that was timely.

I can't express to our church the depth of thanks I have and that our students have for how you support what we did, other than to say "THANK YOU!"

-John M

A Night to Remember

2008-02-10T19:29:00.000-07:00

I had a wonder night with my eldest daughter Jessica on Saturday evening. We attended the "Father - Daughter Ball" and it was a blast.

Recently we began to hear about this event over the radio and posters around town as a findraiser for a local Women's Shelter "Jubilee House".

We decided it was something we wanted to do together and so Jessica went out with her mother and bought a semi formal dress and I bought the tickets and we went on a father-Daughter date.

I will remember this night and cherish it as a golden memory.

-John

Believable or Not?

2008-02-01T18:57:00.000-07:00

When it come to the Bible , does it really matter whether some of its parts are true or not? Honestly, in matters of names, locations, and miniscule issues throughout that Bible that don't truly seem to rival the core of what Christians believe, are these really "live-or-die" concerns?

Let me give you an example. "Inspiration". Is it that critical that we believe God's Word was actually transmitted into the hands of the writers of the books of the Bible ultimately becoming canonized scripture? Let me put it another way: Couldn't the Bible be acceptable as a guideline as long as it tells us to be good and not do bad?

What about whether Jesus was actually God and man at the same time at His birth or even at the conception: "Fully God and Fully Man". Could it be alright if at some point after Jesus the man-child was born that He became God when the time was right?

What about other issues like if Mary was actualy a Virgin the entire time until Jesus was born. Or if tiny little errors relating to a word tense or or grammatical issue.

Lots of tough questions and lots of deep issues to deal with in just a short BLOG.

So let me brief, well sort of brief.... I believe that it all comes down to one main issue:

"Authority".

Simply put: Something that contains errors or mistakes cannot be authoritative and have any right to say or claim anything if parts of the whole are wrong.

Lets Explore:

First of all, the Bible touts it's own inspiration: The written sriptures we hold today are 'God - Breathed'. 2 Tim 3:16 tells us they are "...without error..".
True and false prophets are dealt with harshly and without mercy in Deuteronomy 13:1-5 and 18:20-22 when what they say does not 100% of the time come true; The same applies to the Bible.
The Bible proclaims it's own "Authority". It would be impossible to do this if there were errors. Matthew 5:17-20 and John 10:34-35 ; in short: Jesus did not come to abolish the law and prophets but to fullful... not one jot or tiddle will disappear.. until everything is accomplished. In other words, the Bible essentially uses itself as its own judge, jury, and witness.
Scripture uses scripture to interpret scripture . If the Bible does not extend to every minute detail, the scripture loses it's force and reliablity.
God cannot lie, and therefore if the Bible is the very breath of God and it does not support itself, then it is not a true representation of the character of God or in the other case God can lie.

I love what I have heard our Pastor say from time to time in a sermon. And Paul, please forgive the in accuracy of my quote: "If the scripture seems to contridict itself, the problem is not with the scripture, it is with my interpretation of the scripture."

So ultimately, what we are faced with is NOT let me repeat, NOT reading the Bible so as to make it fit our understanding, we have to conform our understanding to the Bible. This will take time and it will take effort and it will be worth it.

-John Martinez

D-NOW '08

2008-01-24T10:10:00.000-07:00

Here is my shameless plug for our Youth Disciple Now event that is coming up in just a few weeks:

Our students will be involved in what has become somewhat of a tradition here at Eastside over the past few years. Disciple Now!

Our students take a 4 day weekend and either in the Fall or Spring and study the Word of God.

This year we are focusing on the life of David. Our speaker will be one of the youth pastors from Calvary Chapel in Boise Mr. Tom Velasco.

Tom was the youth pastor while Alexis and Brian were members of Calvary in past years and he comes highly recommended.

Our students will be staying at the KOA Kabins in Jerome. Not too far away, but far enough to make feel like a retreat.

Your D-NOW '08 Lead Team is: Renee Thompson, Brian and Alexis Daley, Scott and Toni Marie Rigsby Steve McMullin and Brad Kinch. These adults have worked so hard since this past summer to put an event together that will have an impact on our students. I believe their efforts will be well worth the results.

We can still use some help from members of our church, so if you are willing and have the time during the February 14th -17th Weekend, here is how you can help:

Pray For Our Students!
Volunteer as a Kabin Kounselor we still need one adult Female and Male
Help with set-up (morning) and break-down (evening) of the sanctuary on the 14th and on the 17th (after church) for our Youth / Parent Banquet
Pray For Our Students!
Hang out with the students for the weekend as a chaperon/adult participant - we may also need someone to be a photographer for the weekend.
Donate a scholarship of up to $50. (any amount will help) Several small amounts have already been contributed!
Pray For Our Students!
Oh, did I mention "Pray For Our Students"?

You can respond to this BLOG post for any of the above.

Blessings,

John M.

BRAVO KOYE!

2008-01-21T16:50:00.000-07:00

Penelope (aka Koye Brown) put on a fantastic performance in "You Can't Take It With You". I am impressed with the talent of our students at Eastside Baptist, and very much so with Koye.

Koye is an incredibly gifted young woman who is about to graduate from Twin Falls High School with a degree in "Talent"!

I have to say that I had a great time this Saturday evening at the play and I had plenty of laughs too. I still don't understand how those cats and snakes just stayed put. Not to mention the fact that you used live props. Yikes!

Bravo Koye! Bravo!

-John M

I'm Back

2008-01-19T09:23:00.000-07:00

Hello to my faithful readers.... I guess I should say: to those disappointed faithful who regularly check if I have posted anything on my BLOG - readers. Thanks!

I apologize for my lack of BLOGGING in recent weeks. I have found myself consumed with an intense busyness and literally moving from event to event with very little breathing room.

Staying faithful to my family time, Ministry in the Church, Chaplaincy in the Guard, and Online Classes toward my M-Div, not to mention going to the Gym everyday (except Sundays) and an occasional afternoon of Fly fishing (hee, hee) have really caused me to evaluate my time-management skills.

Please hear me though: "I am thrilled that God has me involved in so many Peoples lives. The Chaplaincy has definitely made it's presence known, and this is an awesome thing.

I was asked recently - I know as a courtesy- "How everything was going with the National Guard". My answer was simply this: "Great, I have never had more ministry opportunities in any previous church ministry than as I do with the Guard."

Does this sound strange to you? It does to me too. But the best I can figure is that somehow the authority in the Rank affords a Chaplain great approachability with real life issues and the fact that when an issue arises, the commander's first line of resolution in his arsenal is his Chaplain. So lets keep praying that the Commander will continue to say: "Send him to the Chaplain".

I have also noticed that it takes a few years, short of a major-life-crisis, before church members are comfortable enough to begin going to one of their pastors with issues in their own lives.

I wonder George Barna would say about this? Hmmmmm?

I love it!
I love what it is doing in me.
I love what it is doing in my ministry,
and I love what God is allowing it to do for our church.

Bring it on!

Could I ask you to do one thing for me? Well, ok how about two things?

1. Would you Pray for me? Pray that God will continue to build good time-management skills in me as well as increasing the "tenderness" and compassionate heart that He wants me to have.

2. Would you pray for my family? Pray that we would be able to intensify our relationships and be a God-Honoring family that is an example of God's grace.

Thanks,

John M

Waves Of Storms

2008-01-08T10:57:00.000-07:00

This seems to be a common sight in Twin Falls these days. 2007 and 2008 have brought a wave of Winter Storms that have continued to roll in off the coast. Every couple of days another one is on it's way in.

For those of us who love to play in the snow this is downright awesome. Skiing, Tubing, Snowshoeing, or whatever; this is perfect.

Waking up to snow on the ground is ideal when it's Christmas Day, but when you have to get out and shovel it every 20 minutes because you own a business, or if you have to drive any distance, then it is an entirely different story.

What about storms in our lives?

Clearly, everyone expects a squall from time to time. But when we get storm after storm after storm roll in without enough time to resolve the issues from the previous or ongoing storm, it makes you want to sit down and give up shovelling the walk as it were.

I love what our pastor was preaching on this past week. We all have been through this sermon series in Hebrews convinced that the theme of Hebrews is Faith or the Supremacy of Christ, or the assurance of our salvation. And although these themes are huge throughout the book of Hebrews, the ongoing overall, underlying, recurring motif is without a doubt is "ENDURANCE".

These Idaho Winter storms will pass. The storms in our lives will pass as well. But let's endure and see how what we're going through can bring about an amazing work in our lives by allowing the Author and Finisher of our faith to do His work through these storms.

-John

The Effect of Our Words

2008-01-05T10:47:00.000-07:00

Have you ever done something that surprised you with a bigger effect on many more people than you could have imagined??

Let me tell you about a story I heard that took place in Colorado a number of years ago....

A young man was driving in a car with his mother as the passenger. They began to argue about something and the mother either pushed or grabbed her son which caused him to lose control of his vehicle.

They were only travelling about 35 MPH but the car popped over a curb and ran into a chain link fence.

The accident was really only minor, except that the horizontal support pole on top of the fence came right through the windshield and impaled the mother in her chest. She died on the scene.

What kind of argument could have been worth a life?

What words did this young man have for his mother that he wishes he could take back?

What were the "last words" they shared with each other?

What would have been a better choice of words on this fateful day?

Some of the best words ever shared in an argument were: "I'm Sorry, You Were Right."

In 2008, how can we better choose our words? Not only those directly spoken to another person, but even those words we speak about a person in confidence to another.

There is a far reaching effect that our words have whether we want them to or not.

Lets choose to say things like:

"I am so glad to have you as a friend."

"What is your opinion?"

"I could do this better with Your help?"

"Will you pray with me about this?"

"I sure like that person, don't you?"

Happy New Year!

-John M

Insult To Injury

2007-12-28T20:11:00.000-07:00

I guess you can go ahead and say "Ahhhhhh..."

I just received an e-mail from the person who bid on "Larry Boy Potato" on eBay and below is the actual note:

"...i recently bid on your potato by accident i'm sorry for the inconvience but i will not be purchasing it. I am sorry about the mistake..."

Ok, go ahead say it again. "Ahhhhhhhhh..."

I have a few of choices: I could be mean and complain to eBay and they could force this bidder to follow through with the purchase. I could also place a negative feed-back on this bidders history. But, I will just settle for saying "Ahhhhhhhh..." I could also re-list the Potato and hope for the best, but I think not..

Is anyone up for a nice bowl of Mashed Potatoes?

-John M

SOLD!

2007-12-28T10:07:00.000-07:00

Yup! My Larry Boy Potato Sold on eBay! Well.... it sold, but for not that much.

There was one lone bidder from the great state of New Jersy that took it for the simple price of .99

I know, you may thinking "Ahhhhhh..." right about now, but I had a great time in the process.

There were 4 "watchers" in the auction, which made it all the more exciting with over 300 veiws as well.

I beleive that odd-shaped-potatos may have had their run in the auction limelight, that is of course, unless we find one of the Virgin Mary or Abe Lincoln, we may be out of luck. LOL!

Thank you to all who participated even if all you did was to check in from time to time.

Blessings,

-John M

By This Time

2007-12-26T20:07:00.000-07:00

"We have much to say about this, but it is hard to explain because you are slow to learn. In fact, though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you the elementary truths of God's Word all over again."

I have been thinking about this simple passage, well maybe I should say "meaty" passage for a while now, but especially the past couple of days.

This past fall, our pastor began a preaching-series through the book of Hebrews. I would never assume to speak so definitively on such a difficult and controversial passage in the scripture, but I do want to share what I believe the Holy Spirit revealed to me in my reading time.

We all have a "Comfort -Zone" that we love to live and work in. Ministry is no exception. When I spend time pre-planning for a worship service or prep for a Youth Message for Wednesday night, I have a "Routine" that I go through. I am sure that this is because of MY "Comfort-Zone".

When I was a baby I could only eat soft foods because of my obvious lack of teeth. When I grew teeth it was natural for me to begin to consume harder foods that required chewing.

I couldn't eat meat as a baby for two reasons: First of all, meat is impossible to chew without teeth; I would have choked. Second, when I finally got my teeth, I didn't start with the largest pieces of meat, because I was not skilled in the proper use of my new teeth.

The writer of Hebrews does talk about some very difficult issues here, but one thing that exploded off the page to me was something much more simpler than we tend to controvert in these verses.

Verse 12 uses the phrase "...by this time...". the original readers were obviously living in their "Comfort Zone"; unwilling to progress beyond it. They were being scolded in the highest manner.

Now, when I was growing up in the Martinez Household as a young man, from time to time (more often that I am willing to admit) I was scolded. Not because I was NOT a member of the family, nor because I was in danger of losing my membership in the family, but because I was not living up to what my parents set as the standard for a Martinez.

Now, I know that there are many differing opinions of whether these readers were actually saved and lost their salvation, or whether they were ones who were merely associated with the Church but never saved in the first place - kind of like Judas Iscariot or something, but all I am trying to say is that when we realize that we're living in the "Comfort-Zone", drinking milk and eating soft food instead of meat, then lets do "something" about it.

Verse 14 says: "But solid food is for the mature, who by constant use have trained themselves to distinguish good from evil."

That 'something', is "Constant Use".

One of the men I admire most is my friend Gene Lawley. He has, through the years, spent so much time memorizing the Word, that when you talk to him he is constantly reciting scripture relevant to your conversation. This is evidence, in Gene, of verse 14 and maturity by constant use..

Now, I also believe that all meat-eaters need a little milk to wash down their solid food, but let's build on these and not spend our time re-laying our foundation without going on the the solid exquisite feast of the Word.

-John M

Larry Boy Potato!

2007-12-20T22:22:00.000-07:00

What do think about this crazy looking Potato? I can tell you what I think, I think it looks amazingly like Larry Boy as the Bad Apple.

Look at the picture on the right: See What I Mean????

This potato is from here in Twin Falls and I couldn't resist. I had to list it on e-Bay. Yup. It's on eBay as we speak. Check it out at this link: Larry Boy Potato

Ok, I know, this sounds weird, but whatever I get from the sale of the Potato above fees, will go to Youth Missions here at the church. So have a laugh and lets see what happens.

Have A Great Day!

-John

Need More Faith?

2007-12-19T14:41:00.000-07:00

I thought recently that I needed more faith to to be a better Christian, so my natural reaction was to ask God to give me more faith. Sounds logical right?

I thought so too.

But Romans 10:17 reminded me that "So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God." Rom. 10:17 KJV

If I want more faith I have to spend more time in His Word. The thing I wanted to happen was for God to wave His magical wand over me and pronounce me as "FAITHFUL".

Hmmmmm?

It don't work that way.

This may sound strange, but we have increased faith about what God will do in the future because we see what He has already accomplished in the past. Let me put it another way:

The reason I have faith in the chair I sit in to hold me up is because I can see what it has already accomplished every other time I sat down. Every day I come into my office and flop right down without a second thought. I never worry that one of these times I may sit and fall through the floor, because that chair, and the floor for that matter are trustworthy.

God is just like that. He is trustworthy. He is faithful to provide all our needs and a lot of our desires on top of that.

A dear friend recently called me with a praise. In spite of losing a job in recent months and concerns about finances, they have continued to be faithful and diligent in God's Word daily.

Guess what. God blessed their socks off! Two cards came in the mail on the same day with a combination of $800.

When we worry about what God has already promised He would take care of, we show our faithlessness. Charles H Spurgeon says this: "When a man is anxious he cannot pray with faith; when he is troubled about the world, he cannot serve his Master, his thoughts are serving himself. If you would 'seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness,' all things would then be added unto you. You are meddling with Christ's business, and neglecting your own when you fret about your lot and circumstances." Spurgeon goes on to say that we should, "...attend to the obeying, and let Christ manage the providing."

Spurgeon was quoting a passage in Matthew 6:31-33 where Jesus talks to us in the Sermon on the Mount about worry: "31 Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed? 32 (For after all these things do the Gentiles seek:) for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things. 33 But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you."

I suppose we "Seek Ye First The Kingdom of God," by staying in His Word.

So do you need more Faith? My RX: Read His Word!

-John

Eve

2007-12-18T14:47:00.000-07:00

Whats the point of celebrating an "EVE" if the main focus should be the actual holiday itself?

"Eves" have become holiday celebrations in and of themselves in a way that not only supports the actual holiday, but creates for itself a "Stand-Alone" celebration with it's own set of rules and regulations as it were.

Lets dig a bit deeper: There is Christmas Eve, New Year's Eve, Midsummer's Eve,(the day that proceeds the longest day of the year on June 24th) in fact, Halloween is a major "eve" that has trumped the actual holiday it precedes. "All Hallow Even" October 31st is the eve of "All Hallows Day" -November 1st.

So what about Christmas Eve? What are you planing to do on that night that couldn't be done on Christmas Day?

Well, I guess I'll go first: We have several traditions that our family chooses to focus on during the holiday season, and one of the most significant is the food.

In a Word: (well, actually two words: Clam Chowder)

I have to admit, we borrowed this one from Shari's side of the family, and I love it. We eat Clam Chowder on Christmas Eve. and for that matter Shari makes enough, that we are eating Clam Chowder through New Years.

Several Years ago, however, we took a family trip to the Oregon Coast and I experienced that absolute best Clam Chowder I have ever eaten in my life. We ate at "Mo's" in Newport, Oregon, and I was sold for life.

Shari makes a pretty awesome Clam Chowder from a recipe that was handed down to her by her mother. But there is a slight difference that even Shari agrees on. Well, nonetheless, it's our tradition.

When I was a boy growing up in the Martinez' household, it was our tradition to stay awake till midnight on Christmas Eve and then open our Christmas presents.

Other friends of ours would go to "Midnight Mass" at the Catholic Church.

Whatever your tradition, I wish you the best, but I do want to give you an invitation to our Christmas Eve worship service at Eastside Baptist Church, and then, if you're game, stop by our home for a bowl of Shari's Clam Chowder right aftre the service. It's ok, Shari says I have permission to invite you.

Blessings,

John M

Mary Did You Know?

2007-12-13T22:02:00.000-07:00

“Some Tough Questions About Christmas”

2007-12-13T21:12:00.000-07:00

#1 How Does Santa Get Into Your House if There is No Chimney or If There is a Fire In The Fireplace?

Well, ok that is not the kind of tough question I’m talking about…. I am talking about the apologetics of Christmas Theology. Things like the Virgin Birth, Origins of Christmas, How Many Wise men, when Jesus was really born, etc...
Ok, here we go again:

Q: What are the Origins of Christmas?
A: The roots of Christmas as a celebration go way back even before Jesus was born in a manger. Huh? It had a lot more to do then with the seasons of the year than a specific person’s birthday. For example: in the Northern Hemisphere, the Winter Solstice, (the day that represents the shortest amount of daylight during the year), actually coincided with December 25th. The decline of sunlight leading up to the Winter Solstice and the then increasing sunlight each day after that was reason enough for the people to create a day to celebrate that Winter was at least half over.

In the Roman Empire, during the time of Christ, the holiday had come to be known as Saturnalia. The Romans tried to do away with the holiday without success and eventually in the 4th century the Roman church tried to convert it into a “Christian” holiday by re-naming it “The Feast of the Nativity”. Western Culture still celebrates this tradition. We just call it Christmas.

Q: Why do we use a Christmas Tree at Christmas?
A: One of the main centerpieces of the celebration of Saturnalia was the use of “evergreen” branches and trees. There was a common belief that the evergreens had a special power to overcome death and stay green all year long that other plants and trees lacked. People believed that they needed to surround themselves with this power at a time of year when darkness and cold were increasing. Other cultures associated the evergreen with fertility and new life.

It is falsely believed that the “Christmas Tree” was referred to in the Book of Ezekiel as an artifact of pagan Christmas idol worship. It is important to know that the Ezekiel passage proceeded the use of Christmas trees and the writer of the passage was making reference to a person who would go to the forest to cut down a tree in order to fashion it into an idol specifically for idol worship un related to a specific holiday or celebration. The ‘wood craftsman’ would actually tool the tree down in a way that it no longer even looked like a tree.
Tradition holds that the first person to actually decorate a tree at Christmastime was Martin Luther by placing candles on its branches in order to create a “glow” from within his home to the outside passersby.

Q: Were There Three Wise men?
A: Actually the place we get this idea of there being three Wise men at the birth of Christ, is from a song. “We Three Kings Of Orient Are”. Words & Music: John H. Hopkins Jr. 1857. Hopkins actually wrote this carol for a Christmas Pageant at the General Theological Seminary in New York City.

The assumption is made that since scripture talks about three gifts that there must be three wise men or kings. Actually, if these men were travelling as far as it is presumed, there would more than likely have had a large entourage - More than three people - Scripture tells us what we need to know, there were three gifts: Gold, Incense and Myrrh. The Gold would obviously have served as money to appease a potential King such as Jesus, the Myrrh and incense would also be proper gifts for a King based on common customs of the day.

Q: What about the virgin birth was that just a myth or is this even really possible?
A: Well, it is indeed an unbelievable event that took place. In fact there are miracles throughout the Bible that are without human explanation except to say that with God, all things are possible. The fact remains that in God’s perfect plan for the redemption of fallen man, there had to be a “perfect” sacrifice and it had to be once and for all. Not something that had to be done over and over again, like the priestly sacrifices of the Old Testament, and not something that could ever be replicated by anyone past, present, or future. It had to be a God thing.

You may ask that if God was able to do all things, then why didn’t he just let Joseph be the father. Well, you see that goes all the way back to Genesis chapter 3 with the “Fall of Man”. The “seed” of humanity is passed from the man. And it is in that seed that sin nature is also passed along. It is by one man that sin entered the world. –Adam. This is why Jesus was born without that sin nature. He was conceived of the Holy Spirit – God – Who is without sin. In other words, Mary had to be a virgin so that this sin nature could not be passed on to Jesus. If Jesus was born of Joseph’s seed, at best all He could have been was just a “Good” man; but, since He was born of God’s seed He was perfect, blameless, and capable of serving as the “once-and-for-all-sacrifice” for all who would believe.

I believe it would take more faith to believe that God would allow sin to serve as a perfect sacrifice for sin. This would be against the nature of God and would prove that God is not perfect. This would have to assume that God had to attain His Godhood, meaning that someone or something gave it to Him also meaning that someone or something was greater than God.

Q: Was Jesus really born on December 25th?
A: There is really no way of knowing the exact day that our Lord was born. It would make sense that it was less likely to be in the middle of Winter or a cold month, based on the Biblical account in Luke 2. Since the Shepherds were keeping watch over their flocks and the fact that it was at night would be contradictory to normal ranging practices in the Middle East. Shepherds may have been at the bottom of the food-chain worker-wise, but they weren’t that dumb to be sleeping outside in the middle of December. Some experts surmise maybe late September or even April by other accounts. Furthermore, the year of Christ’s birth was also unlikely to be year “0”. It was likely later than our modern day calendar implies.

The point is that whether is December 25th or February 29th, the point is that we celebrate His birth on a fixed day every year and we all look forward to it with incredible anticipation.

Q: Should Christians Celebrate a Holiday that is all about Commercialism and has Pagan roots?
A: I believe we can and in this modern day I believe we should. In light of the fact that Commercialism is at its zenith with sales, shopping mall door busting, and with Santa Claus on every street corner, and every television show, we now, more than ever, need to celebrate the Birth of Christ at Christmas all the more.
We could hand it over to the money-makers and greedy store owners, and literally the world, but I would encourage you to continue to see Jesus as the reason we celebrate Christmas.

So Finally, Yes! We can and do celebrate Jesus as Lord throughout the rest of the year, but since Christmas seems to be about “giving”, then lets talks about the greatest gift of all. The birth of God’s own Son who was born to die as a sacrifice; a gift that we could never earn. God gives us His Son as the Ultimate gift our gift back to God is our acceptance of that gift by giving Him “Our Heart”.

Titus' Plight ~ Paul's Tenacity

2007-12-06T08:32:00.000-07:00

Titus 1:5 "The reason I left you in Crete was that you might straighten out what was left unfinished and appoint elders in every town as I directed you."

I was speaking with a friend recently about how sometimes we have relationships with people that allow us to speak bluntly and exactly what is on our mind and know that the other person won't misinterpret or be hurt or offended by what we say.

Let me give you an example:

When I was in a ministry in another state several years ago, I had a good friend who was in a crisis of belief. It was discovered that he was the owner of a large quantity of pornographic magazines, videos and paraphernalia that no doubt had a monetary value of well in to the thousands of dollars. He had amassed the collection over the course of at a least a couple of decades.

Without going into the long story and incredible details of how he had destroyed his family and eventually landed in prison after shooting a man. That day, he came to me in tears and begged me for help. I told him quite bluntly: " (Name), You know what you have to do." We spent a couple of hours gathering and weeping and praying and talking.

We took every bit of what he had hidden throughout the house and his vehicle and created a massive bonfire.

There were many times before and after that day that I could say to him whatever he needed to hear and he would accept it.

This is the kind of relationship that Paul had with Titus. Titus was a man that was actually led to faith in Christ by Paul himself.. 1:4 "My true son in our common faith.."

Paul was telling Titus to do what he knew he had to do even in the face of opposition and insubordination from within the church, especially from the Jews, who were more concerned about issues like circumcision than true conversion. 1:10 "For there are many rebellious people, mere talkers, and decievers, especially those of the circumcision group...";

Titus was encouraged by Paul to take care of business the way he knew it ought to be done. We need friends like this in our lives, don't we? People who allow us to speak bluntly, but more important, we need to have friends in our lives who have permission to do the same to us. To tell us when we're off track, to tell us we are wrong, to tell us when our breath stinks, and know that we will love them for it.

Who is your Paul?

December to Remember

2007-12-04T11:08:00.000-07:00

Well, believe it or not, we are in the last month of the great year of 2007. 2008 is looming over us and if you haven't accomplished what you set out to do in January of this year, you have 3 1/2 weeks to Git 'R Done.

I am encouraged by the things God has allowed me to do this past year and especially for the relationships He let me start.

The banner of this year for me is no doubt the Chaplaincy. He inspired me to pursue becoming a Chaplain back in July of 2006 and here we are in December of 2007 well into this new aspect of ministry.

This past week at the Guard unit, I was allowed to lead our entire unit and many of their family members in a time of prayer before we enjoyed a Christmas Dinner. I consider it a huge blessing to even bring up the topic of our great God, and even more special that I could speak about this time of year as being a time to celebrate the Birth of His Son Jesus.

I have always enjoyed praying in an extemporaneous style, but I was given some advice by a Chaplain recently, that I should write down a prayer ahead of time in order to keep the focus. So I did this for the first time ever: This is that prayer...

Almighty God and Creator,

There are many things that bless our lives, but none as much as the blessing of Your Son. It is because of Him that we celebrate this season and because of Him that we gather for celebrations just like this. Thank you for the hands that have labored to provide the food. Thank you for the leaders who have committed to serve. Thank you for the soldiers and their families who will enjoy its nourishment and sustainment.

Allow us to enjoy each other and have a great time of laughter and fellowship.

Place Your blessings on the soldiers of this unit, and those of our comrades around the world who continue to hold guard force positions as well as fight for peace, joy and happiness.

In Your Name, I pray, Amen.

(Prayer for the IDANG Twin Falls Christmas Banquet 2 Dec 2007 b y 2LT John Martinez -my very first prayer as a Chaplain for our unit)

2007 will be a December to Remember.

Guard Weekend

2007-12-01T07:08:00.000-07:00

I believe I have finally settled into a routine regarding my Guard duty. The first weekend of the month now has it's designation in my life. The next time you are on you way into church on a Sunday morning you might see the soldiers out on a run near the CSI Campus. Our Unit Commander says we will do PT every month as a unit. Hooah!

I have been so excited and amazed at how God has caused everything to work out so beautifully. I would never have imagined ever being back in the military let alone in such a significant role in the lives of our soldiers.

I do know for certain that I will make every attempt to stay in until retirement as long as the Lord allows. That seems like forever from now, but no doubt I will be looking back and wondering where all the years have gone.

-John M

Go Get 'Em Bus Driver

2007-11-27T08:39:00.000-07:00

I know I am not alone when I say I am anxiously awaiting the finish of "A Bus Driver's Memoir -a look into the rearview mirror of the future", the book that our pastor Paul is writing, and I can't wait to read.

I don't know about you, but the "press" on this book has built some crazy anticipation.

Well, Paul? Friday is the deadline for our Novelist in residence. As far as I'm concerned, I'll take whatever you've got.

Pour the coffee and pass the snicker doodles.

-John

Hanging Of The Green

2007-11-26T10:30:00.000-07:00

This coming Sunday, our congregation will participate in a long standing tradition held by many churches through the years. It is called:

'HANGING OF THE GREEN".

So what is this great tradition, called "Hanging Of The Green"?

Many churches still celebrate a type Advent to a certain degree. Advent is a time when believers prepare ourselves for the coming Messiah.

Advent means "Coming." We celebrate these days of Advent in expectation, reflection and preparation for Christ's arrival. While the Jewish community may be awaiting the arrival of the Messiah for the first time, Christians celebrate Advent as an expectation for the their King's second coming.

Through the years, Advent has been enriched by Christian tradition to reveal it's distinctive Christian meaning. It proclaims to the world how God revealed His love through the humble birth of Jesus the Christ in a stable. Then on to His sacrificial death on the cross of Calvary.

You see, it really points to the HOPE we have in Christ's return as the King of Kings.

Advent and the Hanging of the Green can make an Innkeeper out of you. Asking you to make room within your heart for the King to come in and dwell.

The Hanging of the Green service is a way of taking us through elements that show our preparation for the Arrival of the King. We will actually literally decorate our church sanctuary with Christmas Greens. I invite you to come and be a part of our celebration this coming Sunday December 2nd at 10:30 am.

But remember: the outward "decorations" are only an indication of what has hopefully taken place on the inside. If you have allowed the Christ to take up residence through His holy Spirit in your heart (Your Soul), then you are already a successful Innkeeper. If your are interested in finding out what this could mean for you then click on this link and read my story:

http://www.blogger.com/profile/15544110577385447466

-Merry Christmas

John M

Thanksgiving, Triyptophan and The Cowboys

2007-11-22T20:11:00.000-07:00

Tryptophan is a chemical precursor to serotonin, and one of the chemicals somehow manifested during the cooking process of our glorious Thanksgiving Day Turkey. It is more commonly agreed to cause what is referred to as that "Post-Thanksgiving-Dinner-Coma". This is mistakenly referred to by some of our non-Dallas-Cowboy-Fans as boredom.

Whereas, Tryptophan is indeed a chemical that emerges during the Turkey cook-time, it is however negligible in it's dose. You would actually have to consume several whole turkeys to actually get enough of the effectiveness of the the chemical for it to make you slip into a semi-comatose state.

If you did indeed eat that many turkeys in one sitting, you would actually die from food overdose or explode long before the tryptophan kicked in.

Most likely the sleepiness we so often associate with our November meal is probably more the amount of food we ate. After a 2nd helping and an extra slice of whipped cream laden pumpkin pie, almost anyone would want to pass out on the couch as the Cowboys whoop up on whoever dares challenge them on this sacred holiday.

So, fear not, go ahead and take that second turkey leg and don't worry - Oh, and by the way, the Cowboys handled the Jets with ease! Go Cowboys!

-Happy Thanksgiving! or as they say in the old country-
"Feliz Dia Del Pavo Muerto"

-John M.

I Promise If You Promise

2007-11-21T09:07:00.000-07:00

One of the best quotes I have heard in a long time is the one made by a elementary school teacher to a new students parents:

"If you promise not to believe everything your child says happens here in class I promise not to believe everything he says happens at home."

I got a good laugh out that one, but there is so much reality in it that I almost felt like crying. I am not sure how this ever happened, but I have grown a bit cynical in my old age. (42)

This is actually a tough position to hold when you are in the ministry. You want to hear what people are saying to you; and console and comfort and assure them that God is in control, but at the same time there is an element in your mind that asks: what am I hearing?

I realize this is a risky confession to make on line, but I also realize too that if a person is dealing with an issue and has a need to share it, whether is is real or perceived, I still need to help them and as they work through it.

BUT, How much of what we hear (myself included) needs to make it through the filter?

One of the biggest temptations for a gossip is the insatiable need to "fill in the blanks". When they hear only but a sweet-nugget of information- without wasting- time they create the entire story complete with sordid details, "publisher-ready".

I think we are all guilty of this on some level. What do we assume when a person resigns from a job? We think, I wonder if they really fired? What goes through our mind when a person whispers in an other's ear across the room? We think they are talking about us, and we begin to worry about what they "might" know. We begin to fill in the blanks of the story.

Recently, I was sitting in a restaurant with my computer open working on worship service PowerPoint's, (a very typical practice for me). While I was siting there, I could see almost every other table in the place with the exception of the one behind me. Interestingly enough, of all the other "open" tables, one 60-ish lady came and sat right behind me.

She sat there quietly. I felt as though she was peering over my shoulder to see what I was up to on the computer. Then, after about 2 minutes her husband appeared from the restroom and sat down next to her on the same side of the table.

I know she was trying to be discreet, but it was easy for me to hear her telling her husband all her observations. And she was filling in the blanks. But one story caught my attention. She talked about the family across the way where the mom, dad, and daughter (in her 20's) were having dinner with the daughter's baby. She said to her husband: "I think the grandparents must be raising their grandchild".

She assumed that since there was no "father" present that this young girl must be a single mother and the grandparents were stepping in to do the right thing.

Hmmmm? Maybe she was right, maybe not. But what is the point? The point is that for the sake of casual conversation with her husband she was assuming the worst about the people around her. Is this the kind of entertainment we enjoy over dinner?

Lord, forgive me for the times I have assumed the worst for the joy of entertainment.

Edgar Allen Poe was quoted as saying: "BELIEVE ONLY HALF OF WHAT YOU SEE AND NOTHING YOU HEAR - Question everything, especially rumors."

Shakespeare said: "This precious stone set in the silver sea, this sceptered isle · Though this be madness, ... While you live, tell truth and shame the Devil!..."

The Word of God says in John 8:32 "Then you will know the Truth and the Truth will set you free." The Truth here is actually a person. It is Jesus. Knowing Jesus - the Truth - will set you free.

-John M

Question

2007-11-16T18:29:00.000-07:00

Ok, I wonder if I can ask you a question? I guess I just did. How about a different one?

What do you think should happen when a person intentionally enters the presence of a person of great importance?

I mean what if a person got it in their mind that they wanted to make an appointment to meet their most favorite actor. Or, maybe they wanted to visit the White House and meet the President of the United States.

How would YOU react if you were walking down the street and suddenly a Limo pulls up and out steps Elvis Presley. Yes I know, Elvis is dead, but you get the point.

What would you do? Would you just stand there and wait for Elvis to speak first? Would you start screeching like an eighth grader? Maybe you would just faint?

Ok, now what about Jesus? What if the clouds open up and in the midst of angels singing the Hallelujah Chorus and trumpets blaring the 1812 Overture, what would you do? Would you fall on your face and begin to worship? Would you start crying? Would you be glad to see Him or would you be scared?

Well, if it helps, I don't know what I would do either. But I would love to invite you to click on the following link and read a short story. http://64.13.216.130/the_roomtext.php

Blessings,

John M

FREE GIFT!

2007-11-06T14:09:00.000-07:00

Ok this is a RE-WRITE on this posting. You can comment and respond to either this one or the original. :)

I was reading another BLOG in recent days by a "Pastor John" from Alabama. He inspired me to do something I am hoping will work for me as well....

Here goes:If you are a regular reader of my BLOG, I would like to say thank you by giving you a gift. Just Respond to this POST by commenting with your name and address and let me know how often you stop by to read my BLOG.If you do, I will send you a FREE gift. It will not be a super expensive gift, but I will try to make it worth your response.

I will try to get the gift mailed out to you before Christmas so be sure to give me an accurate mailing address to your work or home or whatever works best for you.I really want to do this for you if you regularly read my BLOG, so please help me out:

Here is the run down one more time:

1. Comment to this posting.

2. Tell me how often you read my BLOG.

3. Give me your name and address.

4. Be ready to get a gift from me.

If you do not have a Blogger Account name, that's ok too. Just comment as "anonymous" and that should work too but keep in mind you still have to tell me who you are so I can send you the gift.

If that does not work then send me an e-mail to john@esbctwinfalls.com with the same info.By the way for all you "shy" types, I really do want to know who you are so help me out if at all possible. Thanks!-John M

I'm Back (To the BLOG) and FREE GIFT

2007-11-04T13:08:00.000-07:00

For the last two months I have felt a necessary obligation to BLOG and keep everyone up to date on my time at Chaplain School. But once I got back and saw everyone face to face, I took a break from the obligation. Thanks for the break - Ahhhhhhhh! I needed the rest.

But I'm Back!

I was recently reading Pastor Paul's BLOG and I see that he is writing his first Novel. Wow, I am impressed. http://bridgebloggin.blogspot.com/

I heard someone say one time that once you turn 40, its a good time to write a book. I am not sure how true that is and if Pastor Paul is reflecting the standard, (40 year old) but I have enjoyed reading what he has written so far.

I am not sure that I will ever write anything in the form of a book whether for fun or study, but I am proud of our Pastor and I think he is uniquely qualified to give us a peek into the world of the wheels going round and round... LOL Go get 'em Bus Driver!

I was reading another BLOG in recent days by a "Pastor John" from Alabama. He inspired me to do something I am hoping will work for me as well.... Here goes:

If you are a regular reader of my BLOG, I would like to say thank you by giving you a gift. Just Respond to this POST by commenting with your name and address and let me know how often you stop by to read my BLOG.

If you do, I will send you a FREE gift. It will not be a super expensive gift, but I will try to make it worth your response. I will try to get the gift mailed out to you before Christmas so be sure to give me an accurate mailing address to your work or home or whatever works best for you.

I really want to do this for you if you regularly read my BLOG, so please help me out:

Here is the run down one more time:
1. Comment to this posting.
2. Tell me how often you read my BLOG.
3. Give me your name and address.
4. Be ready to get a gift from me.

If you do not have a Blogger Account name, that's ok too. Just comment as "anonymous" and that should work too but keep in mind you still have to tell me who you are so I can send you the gift. If that does not work then send me an e-mail to john@esbctwinfalls.com with the same info.

By the way for all you "shy" types, I really do want to know who you are so help me out if at all possible. Thanks!

-John M

CHARACTER

2007-10-24T20:29:00.000-06:00

Want To Be A Person Of Character?

Say the Same Thing About A Person When You Close The Door

As You Did To Their Face.

Only You and God Will Know The Difference....

Retreat! 1700hrs

2007-10-24T20:04:00.000-06:00

The group of these civilian dressed soldiers are really me and several other Chaplains on our way to dinner. The reason we are standing around that car is because it is 1700hrs.

What that really means is that it's 5:00pm and the flag is being lowered. When we hear the bugle play "retreat" we are to stop whatever we are doing and stand at attention and face the direction of the music or the flag if it's in sight and render respect.

We happened to be on our way to dinner when we heard the bugle play, so we stopped the car and got out and since we are NOT in uniform we just stood at attention until the music stopped.

If we would have been in uniform we would have had to salute.

By the way, on another note, that is the rental car I was issued. A 2007 Chevy Malibu. Very nice and comfortable. It will be hard to go back to the Astro Van, but then again I would have a tough time letting Coda ride in a 2007 Chevy Malibu.

-John

Going Home - Coming Home

2007-10-24T19:45:00.000-06:00

Today is Wednesday and I can almost taste the fresh Idaho air. Everything is shaping up for my departure from Fort Jackson here in South Carolina and on Friday evening I will be in Twin Falls and I can't wait.

I have had the most tremendous time with these Godly Chaplains as the Cadre have worked to develop us as the next phase of the Army's finest.

We have no doubt developed relationships that will last the rest of our lives. I don't know if we will see each other again on this side of heaven but I do know that while I will be doing what God has called me to do in Idaho, they will be working to do a similar task in a whole other part of the world.

"Rick" has been one of these men. He is a published author of a great book for pastors/ministers. He has been a true friend and I think the world of him and what God has called him to do.

I did have a chance to meet his family and even spend some time walking the mall and having dinner with them a couple of times. They are really a blessed support system to him more than he knows. They are visibly proud of their Chaplain-Dad/Husband, and it is really cool to see them watch him.

His first posting will be abroad with his entire family, and I have not seen a more eager group to leave home and live on the other side of the globe. Thanks for being my friend "Rick".

There are equally many more with similar stories and goals of serving the King. I am humbled to be counted among these Godly Chaplains, and I also amazed once again that God has graciously called me to this great task. Pray for me.

-John

I Didn't Need That Anyway!

2007-10-22T18:33:00.001-06:00

Evidently there are few body parts that a person can get along without. The Gall Bladder is on that list, and it is no longer in my body.

Yup, The Dr. said he was in favor of removing mine since it was a little on the 'angry-side'.

It all began on Wednesday of this week: I attended a commander's briefing during my lunch break for a "Prayer Breakfast" coming up at the end of Phase One.

After the meeting, I realized I didn't have enough time to go back to my room and prepare a lunch, so I took the easy way out and zipped over to Burger King.

I don't know if I consider that providence or the straw that broke the camel's back, but it set into motion an event in my life that is of grand proportion.

The Double Whopper with Cheese and Extra Large Fries and 44oz Dr. Pepper sat at the top of my 'gut' for the rest of the afternoon.

It literally felt like it was stuck in my stomach and it began to hurt a whole lot. That evening our platoon went for a 'Run' for extra PT and it started to feel a little better.

But, later on that night the pain came back and by then it was getting worse and it wouldn't go away. I couldn't sleep and the pain in my belly made the rest of my body ache.

By 2230hrs (10:30pm) I was in the hospital telling the ER Doctor my story and the rest is history. After several tests and some X-Rays, she recommended that I receive an Ultra Sound the next morning and it was at that time they discovered my Gall Bladder was full of stones.

By then I had seen three doctors and they were all were saying the same thing. Surgery!

By Thursday afternoon I was in surgery and by dinner time that night I was waking up in a room with several Chaplains standing around my bed smiling and wanting to pray with me.

Today is Monday and I have to admit that I have no idea where the weekend went. But this is what I do know:

I only stayed in the hospital one night.
I was checked out the next morning by 9:00am.
I know that I went back to my room and did as much sleeping as possible.
I think I remember going to Church on Sunday morning.
I don't remember Sunday afternoon or evening (very well).
I spent all day on Monday (today) in class. (I'm pretty sure).
I took a test today (and I passed).
I did a Commander's Briefing this afternoon (and I passed)
I attended a Platoon Dinner in honor of those students leaving after Phase One.
I recall coming into my room about an hour ago and sat down to finally write in my BLOG.

Other than that, I don't remember much. LOL

God is good. It is amazing how His timing is perfect. Through His providence, I was able to extend my time at Chaplain School to include these past two weeks.

Had I eaten the Whopper in Twin Falls, I would be laying in a hospital in Idaho and I would be paying my share of the hospital bills and not allowing my dear Uncle Sam to pick up the bill 100%. Thank You Lord! Thank You! Thank You! Thank You!

Plus when it comes to my Gall Bladder, "I Didn't That Anyway!"

-John

Friends from All Over

2007-10-15T18:10:00.000-06:00

God has truly blessed me with a whole new set of friends. Some of these men are the Godliest men I have known. They show a deep desire to be in the thickest of situations meeting the spiritual needs of soldiers under the direst of conditions.

I don't think it's because they are Hero-Wanna-Be's; I believe most of our Chaplains are here because God has called them to be Chaplains. Think about it, these are a bunch of preachers.

I am told that according to a new standard and formula, Chaplains should be able to predict how frequently we will be "DOWN RANGE" -this is Army talk for being in combat.

The formula for National Guard works out to be once every 2 1/2 years. Yes, that's what I said.

For me this may be a little different since I am still a "Chaplain-Candidate". Candidates are non-deployable assets until they complete Chaplain School and their educational requirement. I am about 33 hours into my 92 hour M-Div (Master of Divinity). Additionally, I won't be back to finish CH-BOLC until sometime in 2008.

I am also a 2nd LT; Chaplains have to be at least a 1st LT. This takes at least 2 years - time and grade for the promotion as well as completion of the educational requisite. So for now know, you're stuck with me.

I do want to say thank you however, You as a church as well as family and friends have been completely supportive through my application process. I have felt nothing but your encouragement and the occasional question of concern sandwiched in support.

This would be so difficult knowing that I didn't have your backing and especially your time on your knees.

Blessings,

-John M