Snow Dog?

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

A Very Tasty Christmas

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

Thanks Toni Marie for the awesome tortillas.

-John

Name These ESBC Faces

Can you name these faces of our church Family?





Good Luck and Merry Christmas!

-John M

Worship Follows

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!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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!

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

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

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?

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?

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

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

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

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!

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

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

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!

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

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......

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

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"

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

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

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"

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!!!!!

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

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

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

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.

1. 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
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. 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]
6. 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?

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

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