Addition to the Sunday sermon:
Little Bo Peep has lost her sheep
And doesn't know where to find them
But leave them alone, and they'll come home
Wagging their tails behind them
In this familiar children's poem, we realize that Bo Peep has a problem. She has lost her sheep and has no idea of their whereabouts. But evidently, the optimist in her thinks that if they are left alone, then eventually, they'll find their way home.
Unfortunately, there are many Christians who feel the same way when it comes to those who are unsaved (non-Christian). We live in a country where there are 70-80% of the population who would be classified as unchurched - meaning that they do not regularly attend any Christian church. To put it another way, roughly 7-8 out of 10 of your neighbours do not regularly go to a church.
Too many of of our community churches look at this group and take a Bo Peep position. They fail to see the hurts and needs of the spiritually lost and fail to effectively reach out to them. These churches take the attitude, 'If they want to change - they know where the church is.' In reality, these churches are so focused on themselves, that they fail to focus on what God is calling it to do.
By contrast, there are also churches who take a Good Shepherd approach. A church of the Good Shepherd, models the story told by Jesus, when, even with 99 sheep safely in the pasture - He goes out into the rough, rocky places to seek out that one sheep who is lost.
Our modern day predicament is that there are 20-30 sheep in the pasture, and 70-80 who are lost in the rough and rocky places of life. The church of the Good Shepherd is one that intentionally endeavours to share hope and help with those within its reach.
Our challenge, then, is to become a people who are willing to stretch ourselves, sacrifice and focus on the needs of those around us.
Are you more interested in helping than being helped?
Are you more interested in loving than in being loved?
Are you more interested in giving than in getting?
These are characteristics of a Good Shepherd church.
How would you rate yourself? Are you a Bo Peep Christian or a Good Shepherd Christian? Or are you one of the lost sheep? I would love to hear from you...
"Send Revival, Start with Me."
Pastor Ken
Tuesday, July 31, 2007
Monday, July 30, 2007
Yes, I am alive...
Hi. For anyone checking in, I'll have a regular blog thought later today. It's been awhile since I last posted, but Colby has been in the hospital; I've been to Beulah Camp; and had family down for a visit - so my Mondays have been pretty pre-occupied.
Thanks for checking in. - Ken
Thanks for checking in. - Ken
Tuesday, June 26, 2007
Loyalty
Man's Best Friend. That would definitely be the tag that I'd have used to describe my relationship with my dog, Sheba - a purebred Siberian husky, with icy blue eyes.
Unfortunately, I had to put her to sleep on Saturday, after nearly 13 years of friendship. She was just about 15 years old, when arthritis in her hips got the best of her. Putting her to sleep was one of the hardest things I've ever had to do - even though it was in her best interest. She was a good dog; a faithful dog and a wonderful companion.
If you've never gotten close to a dog (or any animal), then I can imagine that one would find it difficult to relate to how close a bond can be formed. But believe me, a pet can become like a member of the family.
Over the last couple of days, I've been reflecting on my time with her and the word that comes to my mind is that of loyalty. I'm sure that many people can say that about their dog - but to me, she was the poster-dog for that word.
Never once did she bite anyone, let alone me. She remained when others left. She was excited when I was around; and sad when I wasn't (so I'm told). She loved others, especially children. She had a wonderful disposition - never getting nasty or angry, even when Colby would haul on her or pull her fur. Oh sure, she had a few faults, but they hardly seem relevant now.
Perhaps, we can all learn a lesson from her life - a dog's life:
-Never bite anyone: Christians are to by-pass the urge to attack others, aren't we? -> whether it be verbally, thru gossip or any other form.
-Stay true to others, especially other Christians: Don't abandon people (no matter their faults), but look for those that need to be encouraged.
-Be interested in others: If our thoughts are only on ourselves, we miss out on fellowship, unity and the strength found in those who are interested in you.
-Love others: Don't reason it out, but like Sheba, just do it.
-Be kind: People will pull your fur - how we react shows how willing we are to allow Christ to transform us.
Thanks for the memories, Sheba.
"Send Revival, Start with Me".
Pastor Ken
Unfortunately, I had to put her to sleep on Saturday, after nearly 13 years of friendship. She was just about 15 years old, when arthritis in her hips got the best of her. Putting her to sleep was one of the hardest things I've ever had to do - even though it was in her best interest. She was a good dog; a faithful dog and a wonderful companion.
If you've never gotten close to a dog (or any animal), then I can imagine that one would find it difficult to relate to how close a bond can be formed. But believe me, a pet can become like a member of the family.
Over the last couple of days, I've been reflecting on my time with her and the word that comes to my mind is that of loyalty. I'm sure that many people can say that about their dog - but to me, she was the poster-dog for that word.
Never once did she bite anyone, let alone me. She remained when others left. She was excited when I was around; and sad when I wasn't (so I'm told). She loved others, especially children. She had a wonderful disposition - never getting nasty or angry, even when Colby would haul on her or pull her fur. Oh sure, she had a few faults, but they hardly seem relevant now.
Perhaps, we can all learn a lesson from her life - a dog's life:
-Never bite anyone: Christians are to by-pass the urge to attack others, aren't we? -> whether it be verbally, thru gossip or any other form.
-Stay true to others, especially other Christians: Don't abandon people (no matter their faults), but look for those that need to be encouraged.
-Be interested in others: If our thoughts are only on ourselves, we miss out on fellowship, unity and the strength found in those who are interested in you.
-Love others: Don't reason it out, but like Sheba, just do it.
-Be kind: People will pull your fur - how we react shows how willing we are to allow Christ to transform us.
Thanks for the memories, Sheba.
"Send Revival, Start with Me".
Pastor Ken
Monday, June 18, 2007
Glad for Dad
Even though yesterday was an active day for me (2 services plus a nursing home service), it was an enjoyable Father's Day. The weather was nice and I had a chance to spend time with my son. Ever since Thursday, Colby has been telling me that he bought me a present. He never spilled the beans to tell me what it was, but he certainly was excited about it. April told me that at first, he tried getting me a bag of chips, then a kids swimming pool - but finally settled on some golf items. I'm certainly glad to be a father. Colby brings so much joy to my world.
I was also thinking of my own father yesterday...and had the chance to call him last night. I don't tell him very often, but I'm also very glad that he's my dad. I have tremendous memories of doing things with him as a boy; and still enjoy spending time with him today. In more ways than one, he's my role model. I can only hope to be such a father to my son.
I came across this article the other day, and thought that it might be appropriate to post it here. Among so many great things about my dad, I'm glad that he is a Matt. 7 kind of man.
"A minister concluded his sermon one Sunday by saying, "If there's someone here who wants help in getting to know God, and you would like me to pray for you, please raise your hand." A young man stood up and said, "Please pray for me, sir. The burden of my sin is too heavy to bear."
After the service, the minister talked with the man and led him to faith in Jesus. The young man had been wandering around the country for 8 years without contacting his parents, so he decided to write to them and tell them about the change in his life.
Several days later, a reply came from his mother: "My dear son, you must have accepted Jesus Christ at the same hour your father went home to heaven. He had been sick for a long time, and that day he was very restless. He tossed from side to side on his bed, crying out, 'Lord, please save my poor, wandering boy.' I'm sure that one of the reasons you became a Christian was Dad's unceasing intercession."
A praying father will "ask," "seek," and "knock" in behalf of his children, persistently trusting his wise heavenly Father to do what is best (Matthew 7:7-11)."
(From the 'Our Daily Bread' daily devotional; June 15, 2003)
Happy Father's Day!
"Send Revival, Start with Me."
Pastor Ken
I was also thinking of my own father yesterday...and had the chance to call him last night. I don't tell him very often, but I'm also very glad that he's my dad. I have tremendous memories of doing things with him as a boy; and still enjoy spending time with him today. In more ways than one, he's my role model. I can only hope to be such a father to my son.
I came across this article the other day, and thought that it might be appropriate to post it here. Among so many great things about my dad, I'm glad that he is a Matt. 7 kind of man.
"A minister concluded his sermon one Sunday by saying, "If there's someone here who wants help in getting to know God, and you would like me to pray for you, please raise your hand." A young man stood up and said, "Please pray for me, sir. The burden of my sin is too heavy to bear."
After the service, the minister talked with the man and led him to faith in Jesus. The young man had been wandering around the country for 8 years without contacting his parents, so he decided to write to them and tell them about the change in his life.
Several days later, a reply came from his mother: "My dear son, you must have accepted Jesus Christ at the same hour your father went home to heaven. He had been sick for a long time, and that day he was very restless. He tossed from side to side on his bed, crying out, 'Lord, please save my poor, wandering boy.' I'm sure that one of the reasons you became a Christian was Dad's unceasing intercession."
A praying father will "ask," "seek," and "knock" in behalf of his children, persistently trusting his wise heavenly Father to do what is best (Matthew 7:7-11)."
(From the 'Our Daily Bread' daily devotional; June 15, 2003)
Happy Father's Day!
"Send Revival, Start with Me."
Pastor Ken
Monday, June 11, 2007
Service in the Park
Hi again. Last Monday, we were away on a vacation break. It was enjoyable but its always nice to be back.
I wanted to begin this week's blog with some thank you's for those that played a big role in this past weekend's "Service in the Park". If you're not familiar with what that is...we had the LaPointes, of Fredericton, hold a concert at Truro's Victoria Park - which was free to the community - where we passed out bottles of water to anyone and everyone who came into the park, and then we (Central Nova Wesleyan) closed the day by hosting a BBQ, also in the Park. It was a great day!
Over 250 people attended the service; 270 bottles of chilled water were handed out to people passing by; and over 150 people were served at the BBQ.
It was a great opportunity for our church to offer something 'free' to the community, and to connect with many people that we did not know - a special thanks to the board for supporting such an endeavour and to the church, in general, for rallying behind it by inviting friends and family who aren't a part of church life.
Those that I'm about to thank would not expect me to do this, but that's what makes it all the more important to recognize their help.
Darren/Naomi S. - Thanks for donating the 504 bottles of water
Barry/Nikki H. - Thanks for donating the specialized labels for the bottles
Marilyn/Claude R. - Thanks for setting up the BBQ
Dave H. - Thanks for getting the ice (free) and for your willingness to do 'whatever'
Gordon S. - Thanks for helping pass out the water
Shannon A. - Thanks for heading up the kids ministry
Thanks to the many other numerous volunteers who helped out, either by serving, cooking or in any other way that contributed to this outreach's success.
If somehow I've missed someone that should have been mentioned by name, I do apologize. I know that many of you gave of your time to help us connect with others. THANKS!
Next week, I'll be sharing a few thoughts on Father's Day. Stop by the church this weekend if you're looking for a place to attend church. We've got an inmate from Westmoreland Institute in Dorchester speaking at 10:30 am on Sunday.
"Send Revival, Start with me."
Pastor Ken
I wanted to begin this week's blog with some thank you's for those that played a big role in this past weekend's "Service in the Park". If you're not familiar with what that is...we had the LaPointes, of Fredericton, hold a concert at Truro's Victoria Park - which was free to the community - where we passed out bottles of water to anyone and everyone who came into the park, and then we (Central Nova Wesleyan) closed the day by hosting a BBQ, also in the Park. It was a great day!
Over 250 people attended the service; 270 bottles of chilled water were handed out to people passing by; and over 150 people were served at the BBQ.
It was a great opportunity for our church to offer something 'free' to the community, and to connect with many people that we did not know - a special thanks to the board for supporting such an endeavour and to the church, in general, for rallying behind it by inviting friends and family who aren't a part of church life.
Those that I'm about to thank would not expect me to do this, but that's what makes it all the more important to recognize their help.
Darren/Naomi S. - Thanks for donating the 504 bottles of water
Barry/Nikki H. - Thanks for donating the specialized labels for the bottles
Marilyn/Claude R. - Thanks for setting up the BBQ
Dave H. - Thanks for getting the ice (free) and for your willingness to do 'whatever'
Gordon S. - Thanks for helping pass out the water
Shannon A. - Thanks for heading up the kids ministry
Thanks to the many other numerous volunteers who helped out, either by serving, cooking or in any other way that contributed to this outreach's success.
If somehow I've missed someone that should have been mentioned by name, I do apologize. I know that many of you gave of your time to help us connect with others. THANKS!
Next week, I'll be sharing a few thoughts on Father's Day. Stop by the church this weekend if you're looking for a place to attend church. We've got an inmate from Westmoreland Institute in Dorchester speaking at 10:30 am on Sunday.
"Send Revival, Start with me."
Pastor Ken
Tuesday, May 22, 2007
Say 'Awwwww...'
Today, I was at the dentist. I had the privilege of receiving the 2nd of 3 fillings I need due to cavities. I've never been particularly fond of the dentist - but neither have I particularly minded it. It's one of those things in life that I endure, knowing that it's for my overall benefit.
However, I need to evaluate why I had 3 cavities that needed attention in the first place. Of course, I could blame the snack food industry and the pop conglomerates - for, after all, their treats are filled with sugar and teeth rotting ingredients. It should be obvious that its their fault for forcing all their tasty morsals my way. In reality, I could be seen as the victim for years of being force fed those vile snacks. I mean, it really is true, 'you can't eat just one'.
And yet, somehow, I don't think that that argument will work. I guess that no one really forced me to indulge.
Perhaps, it had more to do with the fact that I hadn't been to a dentist in 6 years, prior to moving to Truro. Since July, I've been to see him 4 times. That's 4 times in the last 10 months or 4 times more than I'd been to a dentist in the last 72 months. Ouch! I guess the dentist did say that it could've been worse. Perhaps that explains why I have 2 more visits scheduled in the next 3 months.
Oh, it's fun catching up...all the needles, drills and rinses.
As I think about our spiritual life (walk, journey), I wonder how often we might let things slide, like I did with the dentist. You know, the walk with God stuff. Reading the Bible - not just to do it, but to discover the riches that God wants to say to you on that particular day or moment; spending some thoughtful and soulful time in prayer - for the lost, as Jesus called them, and for the presence of God to be evident - really evident - like the 'old-timers' used to talk about; or about making a difference to those in difficulty or need - thinking beyond ourselves (which I find quite easy to let slide).
As I discovered with my cavities, if we allow the 'routine' things (ie: dentist visits) to pass by, there is a price. Could it be that same way in our spiritual life, if we skip over or take lightly the things that God uses to make us like Him?
Wonder what the church would look like if we all skipped our God visits. Would it look differently than today?
What do you think? Let me know...I appreciate your feedback.
"Send Revival, Start with Me"
Pastor Ken
However, I need to evaluate why I had 3 cavities that needed attention in the first place. Of course, I could blame the snack food industry and the pop conglomerates - for, after all, their treats are filled with sugar and teeth rotting ingredients. It should be obvious that its their fault for forcing all their tasty morsals my way. In reality, I could be seen as the victim for years of being force fed those vile snacks. I mean, it really is true, 'you can't eat just one'.
And yet, somehow, I don't think that that argument will work. I guess that no one really forced me to indulge.
Perhaps, it had more to do with the fact that I hadn't been to a dentist in 6 years, prior to moving to Truro. Since July, I've been to see him 4 times. That's 4 times in the last 10 months or 4 times more than I'd been to a dentist in the last 72 months. Ouch! I guess the dentist did say that it could've been worse. Perhaps that explains why I have 2 more visits scheduled in the next 3 months.
Oh, it's fun catching up...all the needles, drills and rinses.
As I think about our spiritual life (walk, journey), I wonder how often we might let things slide, like I did with the dentist. You know, the walk with God stuff. Reading the Bible - not just to do it, but to discover the riches that God wants to say to you on that particular day or moment; spending some thoughtful and soulful time in prayer - for the lost, as Jesus called them, and for the presence of God to be evident - really evident - like the 'old-timers' used to talk about; or about making a difference to those in difficulty or need - thinking beyond ourselves (which I find quite easy to let slide).
As I discovered with my cavities, if we allow the 'routine' things (ie: dentist visits) to pass by, there is a price. Could it be that same way in our spiritual life, if we skip over or take lightly the things that God uses to make us like Him?
Wonder what the church would look like if we all skipped our God visits. Would it look differently than today?
What do you think? Let me know...I appreciate your feedback.
"Send Revival, Start with Me"
Pastor Ken
Monday, May 14, 2007
I'm Back...
House shopping. It's not all that it's cracked up to be. For the last 6 weeks or so, April and I have been looking for a potential new home. We, of course, currently live in a church owned parsonage. It is up for sale and we're waiting to see if it will be bought. It needs to be sold in order for us to be able to pick out our next family abode. Because we're in limbo, and unsure as to what the future will hold, we're trying not to get too anxious about it all. However, we can't help but think of packing and preparing in the event of a move. We're certainly ready to do just that. In fact, we've already chosen a home and placed a conditional offer on it. The condition being that the parsonage sells.
Because it's out of our hands and the possibility exists that someone else could swoop in and buy up 'our' future home - we are on 'proverbial' pins and needles waiting. This is where house shopping is not all that it's cracked up to be.
It has been fun, mind you, looking at possibilities of where we may end up living. Comparing amenities of one property over those of another. Thinking of neighbourhoods in which we would like to raise our family - all within our price range, of course. Trying to haggle a 'good' bargain and sensing that we're pleased with the transaction is all a part of the excitement.
But then there's the waiting...the uncertainty...what if the parsonage doesn't sell? Will we be satisfied with going back to live there, even though we never left (it's a mind thing now)? What if someone else buys the house that we want? Oh, the inhumanity...
Whether it's buying a house, or living life in general, we can find truth and sanity in the words of Paul in Philippians 4:11-12, "I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want."
Being content truly is a secret that far too few of us have learned. We're often looking for what's next...the latest and greatest...something that will give us a thrill in life. I have fallen victim to that (or am I the guilty one).
Being content doesn't mean that we don't look for opportunities or ways in which to be better - it means that we're not stressed out, in competition with others, or comparing what we have with what we do not. I guess it's being ok with where we find ourselves at any particular moment.
House shopping...it's not that big of a deal. I just need to learn to be content.
What do you think?
"Send Revival, Start with Me."
Pastor Ken
Because it's out of our hands and the possibility exists that someone else could swoop in and buy up 'our' future home - we are on 'proverbial' pins and needles waiting. This is where house shopping is not all that it's cracked up to be.
It has been fun, mind you, looking at possibilities of where we may end up living. Comparing amenities of one property over those of another. Thinking of neighbourhoods in which we would like to raise our family - all within our price range, of course. Trying to haggle a 'good' bargain and sensing that we're pleased with the transaction is all a part of the excitement.
But then there's the waiting...the uncertainty...what if the parsonage doesn't sell? Will we be satisfied with going back to live there, even though we never left (it's a mind thing now)? What if someone else buys the house that we want? Oh, the inhumanity...
Whether it's buying a house, or living life in general, we can find truth and sanity in the words of Paul in Philippians 4:11-12, "I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want."
Being content truly is a secret that far too few of us have learned. We're often looking for what's next...the latest and greatest...something that will give us a thrill in life. I have fallen victim to that (or am I the guilty one).
Being content doesn't mean that we don't look for opportunities or ways in which to be better - it means that we're not stressed out, in competition with others, or comparing what we have with what we do not. I guess it's being ok with where we find ourselves at any particular moment.
House shopping...it's not that big of a deal. I just need to learn to be content.
What do you think?
"Send Revival, Start with Me."
Pastor Ken
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