Our son Christopher prays during Vacation Bible School last summer."Therefore, whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven" (Matthew 18:4).
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
A Beautiful Prayer
Our son Christopher prays during Vacation Bible School last summer."Therefore, whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven" (Matthew 18:4).
Saturday, August 09, 2008
An Introduction to the Contact Church
"Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen" (Ephesians 3:20-21).
I have the privilege of being a member of a special congregation, the Contact Church of Christ. We began nearly 10 years ago as the Park Plaza Church of Christ launched an effort to reach the inner city of Tulsa with the good news of Jesus Christ. Soon, other congregations joined the effort. (Janet and I started as volunteers from Jenks Church in January 2001.) On Easter Sunday of 2002, the Tulsa urban ministry launched the Contact Church of Christ.
The Contact Church has Bible classes each Sunday morning. We have several solid Bible teachers with years of experience at all levels of our Sunday school program.
Our worship services include singing praise to God (with a variety of traditional hymns, spirituals, and contemporary praise choruses), observing the Lord's Supper, a sermon, and an offering. We have a period for prayer requests and praise in which anyone in the congregation can share. This usually takes 10 to 15 minutes, and is a vital part of building a sense of community within the congregation. After worship services, we usually enjoy lunch together, with an area church usually providing the meal.
Our ministries include a food bank which serves thousands of Tulsans each year and a clothing room which serves hundreds. Our youth group (led by Bob and Sarah Logsdon--see their blog at http://urbanlogfamily.blogspot.com/) keeps our teens connected and into God's word. The church sponsors a Christian club at Clinton Middle School. Our members provide donuts, juice, Bible lessons, and listening ears to the students before classes start on Wednesday mornings. (It has become the most popular club on campus. The principal credits the Contact Church with changing the school's atmosphere and enabling it to be removed from the state's at-risk schools list.) Our Contact Recovery House provides housing, recovery groups, and Bible studies for men struggling with drug and alcohol addictions. Our ministry to new mothers provides prenatal and postnatal care, Bible lessons, lessons in parenting, and necessities like baby formula, baby clothing, maternity clothing, and cribs for young mothers and their children. We conduct Bible studies at several low-income housing projects. In addition, our members volunteer and reach out to people in need throughout the week in a variety of ways (from providing transportation to children and homeless people to visiting the local jail), without fanfare or organization.
If you would like to help our ministers or ministries, become involved in urban ministry, visit a worship service or prayer meeting, or receive help, you may find more information at http://www.contactchurch.net/. Thanks for reading!
I have the privilege of being a member of a special congregation, the Contact Church of Christ. We began nearly 10 years ago as the Park Plaza Church of Christ launched an effort to reach the inner city of Tulsa with the good news of Jesus Christ. Soon, other congregations joined the effort. (Janet and I started as volunteers from Jenks Church in January 2001.) On Easter Sunday of 2002, the Tulsa urban ministry launched the Contact Church of Christ.
The Contact Church has Bible classes each Sunday morning. We have several solid Bible teachers with years of experience at all levels of our Sunday school program.
Our worship services include singing praise to God (with a variety of traditional hymns, spirituals, and contemporary praise choruses), observing the Lord's Supper, a sermon, and an offering. We have a period for prayer requests and praise in which anyone in the congregation can share. This usually takes 10 to 15 minutes, and is a vital part of building a sense of community within the congregation. After worship services, we usually enjoy lunch together, with an area church usually providing the meal.
Our ministries include a food bank which serves thousands of Tulsans each year and a clothing room which serves hundreds. Our youth group (led by Bob and Sarah Logsdon--see their blog at http://urbanlogfamily.blogspot.com/) keeps our teens connected and into God's word. The church sponsors a Christian club at Clinton Middle School. Our members provide donuts, juice, Bible lessons, and listening ears to the students before classes start on Wednesday mornings. (It has become the most popular club on campus. The principal credits the Contact Church with changing the school's atmosphere and enabling it to be removed from the state's at-risk schools list.) Our Contact Recovery House provides housing, recovery groups, and Bible studies for men struggling with drug and alcohol addictions. Our ministry to new mothers provides prenatal and postnatal care, Bible lessons, lessons in parenting, and necessities like baby formula, baby clothing, maternity clothing, and cribs for young mothers and their children. We conduct Bible studies at several low-income housing projects. In addition, our members volunteer and reach out to people in need throughout the week in a variety of ways (from providing transportation to children and homeless people to visiting the local jail), without fanfare or organization.
If you would like to help our ministers or ministries, become involved in urban ministry, visit a worship service or prayer meeting, or receive help, you may find more information at http://www.contactchurch.net/. Thanks for reading!
Thursday, August 07, 2008
You Shall Not Murder
"You shall not murder" (Exodus 20:13).
A few years ago, I learned a method of developing a richer understanding of negative biblical commandments. For example, what is at the heart of God's negative commandment against murder? By approaching the prohibition from a positive perspective, we can discern more of the intentions of God when he gave the commandment. You shall not murder becomes You shall protect the lives of innocent people.
As God built upon the prohibition against murder, he legislated against hitting a pregnant woman in order to protect her life and her child's life (Exodus 21:22-25). He prohibited anyone from allowing his violent animal to roam unrestrained so that it would not kill an innocent person (Exodus 21:28-32). He even ordered his people to build guardrails around the roofs of their houses so that people would not fall to their deaths (Deuteronomy 22:8). In many ways, the Lord designed legislation to protect the lives of innocent people.
So how can we apply the commandment against murder today? How can we protect the lives of innocent people? If we own violent dogs, we must keep them away from people at all costs, even if it means euthanizing the animals. If we own swimming pools, we need to build fences around them so that small children cannot wander into them and drown.
I heard about a creative and effective way of protecting the lives of innocent people a few months ago. A husband and wife wanted to adopt a baby. Every weekend, they stood outside an abortion clinic, handing out business cards with their phone numbers printed on them. Each card stated that they wanted to adopt a baby. Finally, after approaching dozens of girls and young women over a period of several weeks, they were able to arrange for the adoption of their child. This couple protected the life of at least one innocent person: their child.
When we dig deeply into the 10 commandments, we can see the heart of God. When we approach the commandments with a positive attitude and a little creativity, we can change our world.
A few years ago, I learned a method of developing a richer understanding of negative biblical commandments. For example, what is at the heart of God's negative commandment against murder? By approaching the prohibition from a positive perspective, we can discern more of the intentions of God when he gave the commandment. You shall not murder becomes You shall protect the lives of innocent people.
As God built upon the prohibition against murder, he legislated against hitting a pregnant woman in order to protect her life and her child's life (Exodus 21:22-25). He prohibited anyone from allowing his violent animal to roam unrestrained so that it would not kill an innocent person (Exodus 21:28-32). He even ordered his people to build guardrails around the roofs of their houses so that people would not fall to their deaths (Deuteronomy 22:8). In many ways, the Lord designed legislation to protect the lives of innocent people.
So how can we apply the commandment against murder today? How can we protect the lives of innocent people? If we own violent dogs, we must keep them away from people at all costs, even if it means euthanizing the animals. If we own swimming pools, we need to build fences around them so that small children cannot wander into them and drown.
I heard about a creative and effective way of protecting the lives of innocent people a few months ago. A husband and wife wanted to adopt a baby. Every weekend, they stood outside an abortion clinic, handing out business cards with their phone numbers printed on them. Each card stated that they wanted to adopt a baby. Finally, after approaching dozens of girls and young women over a period of several weeks, they were able to arrange for the adoption of their child. This couple protected the life of at least one innocent person: their child.
When we dig deeply into the 10 commandments, we can see the heart of God. When we approach the commandments with a positive attitude and a little creativity, we can change our world.
Tuesday, August 05, 2008
The Power Behind the "Get To" Lifestyle
"Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God--this is your spiritual act of worship. Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is--his good, pleasing, and perfect will" (Romans 12:1-2).
Our preacher Ron Babbit does not say "I have to." Instead, he says "I get to." For example, Ron says,
"I get to teach the darlins and clowns in Sunday school..."
"I get to go into the hood and sling the word..."
"I get to help Odie Mae move into her new apartment..."
"I get to forgive that cat who took advantage of me..."
By his example, Ron Babbit teaches us that mercy turns obligations into opportunities. He does not approach life as being full of obligations he has to fulfill; rather, he sees life as being full of opportunities he gets to enjoy. How can he see life in such a manner? Because each of his sentences above ends with these words:
"...because of the One who died on the cross for me."
The mercy of God gives us the power to approach even difficult tasks with a sense of gratitude and joy.
Our preacher Ron Babbit does not say "I have to." Instead, he says "I get to." For example, Ron says,
"I get to teach the darlins and clowns in Sunday school..."
"I get to go into the hood and sling the word..."
"I get to help Odie Mae move into her new apartment..."
"I get to forgive that cat who took advantage of me..."
By his example, Ron Babbit teaches us that mercy turns obligations into opportunities. He does not approach life as being full of obligations he has to fulfill; rather, he sees life as being full of opportunities he gets to enjoy. How can he see life in such a manner? Because each of his sentences above ends with these words:
"...because of the One who died on the cross for me."
The mercy of God gives us the power to approach even difficult tasks with a sense of gratitude and joy.
Saturday, August 02, 2008
Parental Teaching Tips
"Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is one. Love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. These commandments that I give you today are to be upon your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. Tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. Write them on the door frames of your houses and on your gates" (Deuteronomy 6:4-9).
Janet and I teach Christopher about God and his word in many different ways. Most of our teaching is informal. Biblical topics arise while we are playing, traveling, and watching cartoons.
However, ever since we were able to hold him in the hospital after his birth, we have tried to help our son know Christ intentionally.
After meals, we read the daily devotional from Our Daily Bread. Then we read a memory verse. (Lately we have been concentrating on Proverbs 29:25.) We try to make sure Christopher understands unfamiliar words and concepts. After he is able to repeat the verse from memory (which usually takes about 10 days), we move on to another verse. Then we pray. Most of the time, Christopher prays for the firefighters, police officers, and paramedics.
At bed time, Christoper will sit on my lap in my recliner. I will read a story from either The Beginners Bible or the Little Boys Bible Storybook for Fathers and Sons. Then I will sing I Stand in Awe and How Great Thou Art. (Sometimes Christopher sings along with me.) After I'm done, Janet takes my place and sings Jesus Loves Me, Lord Give Me Peace, and Sweet Little Baby Boy (an original song by Janet for Christopher). Then he goes to bed.
Of course, as Christopher grows up, our methods will change. Eventually, he will be reading, too.
Do you have intentional methods of teaching your children about Christ? Please share them in the comments section. I would love to read about some other ideas.
Transracial Parenting Tips
Janet and I have been parents for a little over five and a half years. So far, we have learned a few lessons that could be beneficial to new transracial families:1. When someone asks, "Are you going to tell him that he's adopted?", just respond, "How did you know? We've been trying to keep it a secret."
2. The ethnic hair products aisle at Wal-Mart exists for a good reason. No amount of conditioner will keep African American hair moist. Look for hair lotion in the ethnic hair products aisle.
3. White women cannot cut the hair of black boys. They do a fine job with mine, but not with his. Trust me. Find a black barber shop. You may look out of place, but he will look great.
4. If possible, join an interracial church. Your child needs to be able to relate to peers of his or her race.
5. Teach your child to respect authority early in life. Give him an opportunity to succeed.
Thanks for reading.
Friday, August 01, 2008
Life-Changing Books
"Of making many books there is no end" (Ecclesiastes 12:12).
Several good books have influenced me over the years. Here are a few:
Life Application Study Bible (NIV)
A couple of years ago, I was on sick leave from my job, recovering from surgery, when a co-worker called. Paula explained to me that she wanted to buy a Bible for her mother who had never read more than a few verses from a Bible in her life. She needed a recommendation. I recommended the Life Application Study Bible, because of its excellent introductions to the books of the Bible as well as its study notes. A newcomer to the Bible needs a little direction, because it can be difficult to figure out how a book or passage relates to the overall message. This Bible helps tremendously. Although it's available in many good translations, I recommended the New International Version because it is both very accurate and very readable. It was the first version I read that I could understand.
Don't Waste Your Life by John Piper
This book challenged me to focus on honoring Jesus Christ in every area of my life because of what he has done for me. Its intent is on pulling us away from selfish, petty, and trivial pursuits to pursuing the glory of God.
Wisdom Hunter by Randall Arthur
This is a novel about an arrogant, dictatorial, and self-righteous pastor who is shaken to his core when his estranged daughter dies suddenly in an accident and his neglected wife dies soon afterward of a broken heart. As the man searches for the granddaughter he has never seen, he starts a journey from legalism to skepticism to real Christianity. Even though it's a novel, Wisdom Hunter is filled with truth and reality.
Rekindling the Romance by Dennis and Barbara Rainey
This book contains great insight into men and women. We bought it at FamilyLife's A Weekend to Remember marriage conference last year. I highly recommend the radio program FamilyLife Today, the marriage conferences, and any book (including this one) by Dennis and Barbara Rainey. You will learn much about your spouse from this book.
Up Close and Personal: Embracing the Poor by Harold Shank, Anthony Wood, and Ron Bergeron
This book inspired me to become involved in urban ministry. It will help any reader in understanding the culture of poverty, the effects of racism, the need for friendship in the midst of poverty, and how to help people come to faith in Jesus Christ. It contains good practical advice about how to help people in need.
Children Mean the World to God by Harold Shank
This book is surprising because of the depth of the theology. I did not expect a book about children to be a book about God and his character. I read Children Mean the World to God in the middle of the adoption process for our son. It gave me the encouragement I needed when the days were dark and I could not see the dawn coming. It will inspire any Christian parent, Bible class teacher, or lover of children to keep making the effort to show love to the children of the world for God's sake.
The Measure of a Man by Gene Getz
This book encourages all Christian men to aspire to the qualities of an elder as described in 1 Timothy and Titus. Whether a man ever becomes an elder is irrelevant; a Christian man needs to make it a goal to grow in the virtues described within this book.
No More Jellyfish, Chickens, or Wimps by Paul Coughlin
This is a parenting book like no other. It deals with instilling children with courage, security, and assertiveness. In addition, it helps parents and children deal with predators and bullies. Its goal is not to produce nice and compliant kids, but rather good and brave children.
Do you have any books that have made a positive impact on your life? Please share information about them in the comments section. Thanks for reading!
Several good books have influenced me over the years. Here are a few:
Life Application Study Bible (NIV)
A couple of years ago, I was on sick leave from my job, recovering from surgery, when a co-worker called. Paula explained to me that she wanted to buy a Bible for her mother who had never read more than a few verses from a Bible in her life. She needed a recommendation. I recommended the Life Application Study Bible, because of its excellent introductions to the books of the Bible as well as its study notes. A newcomer to the Bible needs a little direction, because it can be difficult to figure out how a book or passage relates to the overall message. This Bible helps tremendously. Although it's available in many good translations, I recommended the New International Version because it is both very accurate and very readable. It was the first version I read that I could understand.
Don't Waste Your Life by John Piper
This book challenged me to focus on honoring Jesus Christ in every area of my life because of what he has done for me. Its intent is on pulling us away from selfish, petty, and trivial pursuits to pursuing the glory of God.
Wisdom Hunter by Randall Arthur
This is a novel about an arrogant, dictatorial, and self-righteous pastor who is shaken to his core when his estranged daughter dies suddenly in an accident and his neglected wife dies soon afterward of a broken heart. As the man searches for the granddaughter he has never seen, he starts a journey from legalism to skepticism to real Christianity. Even though it's a novel, Wisdom Hunter is filled with truth and reality.
Rekindling the Romance by Dennis and Barbara Rainey
This book contains great insight into men and women. We bought it at FamilyLife's A Weekend to Remember marriage conference last year. I highly recommend the radio program FamilyLife Today, the marriage conferences, and any book (including this one) by Dennis and Barbara Rainey. You will learn much about your spouse from this book.
Up Close and Personal: Embracing the Poor by Harold Shank, Anthony Wood, and Ron Bergeron
This book inspired me to become involved in urban ministry. It will help any reader in understanding the culture of poverty, the effects of racism, the need for friendship in the midst of poverty, and how to help people come to faith in Jesus Christ. It contains good practical advice about how to help people in need.
Children Mean the World to God by Harold Shank
This book is surprising because of the depth of the theology. I did not expect a book about children to be a book about God and his character. I read Children Mean the World to God in the middle of the adoption process for our son. It gave me the encouragement I needed when the days were dark and I could not see the dawn coming. It will inspire any Christian parent, Bible class teacher, or lover of children to keep making the effort to show love to the children of the world for God's sake.
The Measure of a Man by Gene Getz
This book encourages all Christian men to aspire to the qualities of an elder as described in 1 Timothy and Titus. Whether a man ever becomes an elder is irrelevant; a Christian man needs to make it a goal to grow in the virtues described within this book.
No More Jellyfish, Chickens, or Wimps by Paul Coughlin
This is a parenting book like no other. It deals with instilling children with courage, security, and assertiveness. In addition, it helps parents and children deal with predators and bullies. Its goal is not to produce nice and compliant kids, but rather good and brave children.
Do you have any books that have made a positive impact on your life? Please share information about them in the comments section. Thanks for reading!
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