tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2084836399908818002024-03-14T14:48:52.979-04:00SoulfariSoulfari is the musings of Jay CookinghamAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07866639097998917122noreply@blogger.comBlogger540125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-208483639990881800.post-74187489680124388912018-06-13T14:12:00.001-04:002018-06-13T14:12:44.743-04:00My New Book<b>Introducing "Sonship: Restoring a Man's Identity"</b><br />
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Excited to offer my new devotional book! This devotional book is a 31-day leg of a lifetime journey.
Sonship is a lifelong pursuit, with everyday growth spurts of becoming like
Jesus. These devotions are a series of reflections from journals and
discussions with brothers over the years. I hope they inspire you on your
journey with Jesus, our Master, Messiah and King. I pray that as your learn
about sonship you discover the love your Father in Heaven has for you. How He
designed sonship to set you free to come out from behind the mask and live the life
you were born for. Sonship continues to be God’s best strategy to rescue our
identity.<br />
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Father God did not battle for our hearts to turn us into
slaves or worker drones. He didn’t leave us as orphans; He sent Jesus to redeem
us and made it possible to have a deep relationship with Him. Jesus shows us
how it’s done, what sonship looks like and how to stay unmasked for life.</div>
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For His glory! - Jay</div>
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<img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-t8nrZuYqzhU/WyFdZM1figI/AAAAAAAAXlQ/16UWXqr6i4Equ-oBP0ZP-PjQkUBhw7EZACLcBGAs/s400/sonship%2Bfrtcvr%2Bfinal%2B2018.jpg" width="266" /><br />
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<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Sonship-Restoring-Identity-Jay-Cookingham/dp/069212151X" target="_blank">Click Here to order!</a></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Endorsements for Sonship Devotional<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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"Jay’s strong heart for God
and others is clearly apparent in this devotional. His discerning insight
fortifies these reflections to be provocative and challenging. These devotions
pulled on my heart strings and convicted me to seek a deeper commitment to
God’s mission. I thoroughly enjoyed how I was stirred to look at life through a
Kingdom-focused lens. This is a must read for every man!"</div>
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- Damon Hawkins<br />
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Area Director for Man in the Mirror</i></div>
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“Jay Cookingham’s devotional book “Sonship,” is a transformational book forged
out of the fiery battles that Jay personally experienced, and the victorious
kingdom lifestyle he stepped into as a son because of encountering Father God’s
extravagant love. In my opinion, Jay’s book is not just a devotional book but a
prophetic book that calls on men to contend for their identity, discover the
secret of sonship and manifest their sonship.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I highly recommend this book to any man who wants to live unashamedly as
a true follower of Jesus Christ, especially in a world desperately in need of
authentic men who are godly examples of Christ-likeness.”</div>
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-Eric N. Supen<br />
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Author of several books including Kingdom
Lifestyle, Kingdom-Driven Prayers-Prayer Works! Trainer and Life Coach,
Germany, </i><a href="http://esupen.wix.com/kingdom-lifestlye"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">http://esupen.wix.com/kingdom-lifestlye</i></a></div>
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“There are any number of
devotionals in print and I’m sure many of them are great.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The reason I’m recommending this one is, not
only for its wonderful encouragement and great insight, but because of the
author.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have known Jay Cookingham for
more than 40 years. He is a friend and a brother who has walked with me through
ups and downs, tears and a lot of laughter.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The words and insights in this devotional come from a man who has been
an example and mentor to many.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s
because of his heart, experiences and humility that the words bring life.”</div>
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- Paul Grimsland<br />
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Program Director, Hope4Change-Philippines<o:p></o:p></i></div>
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“<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Sonship: Restoring a Man’s Identity</i> is a motivating daily devotional
for those seeking a deeper walk with Jesus. Cookingham challenges men to drop
the act and get honest with ourselves, family, friends, and community. This
devotional is a call to repentance, prayer, and commitment to our position as
sons of God. It's packed with servant leadership principles you can use in your
role at work, as husband, father, or ministry leader. If you are looking for a
devotional that will to refresh your relationship with Jesus, look no further.”</div>
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Duane K. Brown<br />
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">University Adjunct Professor </i><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /></span></div>
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“Every male needs a male! This
devotional book is impactful and intentional, to the end that we as males
continue to grow as mature Christian men! I highly recommend this book and
applaud this author, my friend Pastor Jay Cookingham!”</div>
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Pastor Edwrin Sutton<br />
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Husband, Pastor, Author of Purpose
Unleashed</i></div>
<b></b>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07866639097998917122noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-208483639990881800.post-87617031835052797502018-03-28T16:36:00.003-04:002018-03-28T16:36:44.550-04:00Freedom<span style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-family: Roboto, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-family: Roboto, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; white-space: pre-wrap;">Sharing my testimony at the Liberty Fellowship of Churches Northeast Conference. This is a brief message of how God helped me overcome the shame and heal from the physical, verbal and sexual abuse by the hands of my father. Although I have shared this before, I'm always amaze what God does after I finish speaking. Let me know if video this speaks to you. God Bless.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-family: Roboto, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07866639097998917122noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-208483639990881800.post-22855209901538190152017-12-05T18:18:00.001-05:002017-12-05T18:18:35.370-05:00Home for Christmas<div class="MsoNormal">
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<i><span style="color: #38761d;">I re-posted this story I wrote a few years ago (with a few revisions) because I felt the Father wanted me to share again. I hope you enjoy, Merry Christmas! - Jay</span></i></div>
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She peered from her dingy apartment window, wiping the frost
away with the sleeve of her sweater so she could see the city streets outside
her old brownstone. The light snow falling creating a clean carpet of white
over the gray busy sidewalks. Sally Hamilton awaited a delivery from the local
grocery store containing the simple items for her dinner tonight and her eagerness
grew as each shadow passed by her window.</div>
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Over 90 and in failing health, Sally needed this Christmas
to lift her spirits; she needed to come out of the shadow of grief. Just a few
years earlier, Samuel her husband of many years, passed away on the eve of his
favorite day—Christmas. Although this year’s Christmas Eve would be a
bittersweet celebration, Sally knew it was important to embrace the holiday
once more.</div>
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Sally loved her “Sammy”, so it was hard imagining
celebrating tonight alone. He was so alive around Christmas and always seemed
his happiest around the holidays. Every Christmas Eve he would sing,
laugh—sometimes scooping her up from her chair for a dance. He would put on a
Santa hat and say, “Come on sweetie, I saved a dance for my best gal!”
Afterwards they would cuddle-up on the couch, sip tea, and read the story of
the Savior’s birth. At midnight they would run to their small tree, and like
giggling children, rip open all the gifts.</div>
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The crunch of snow and the sight of a tall figure coming
down the sidewalk carrying bundles snapped her back to her vigil. Sally watched
the trudging shape come up the stairs and ring the bell to her apartment.
Drawing her sweater around her neck to guard against the cold, she opened the
door and let the familiar face inside. It was Manny, a young man in his
twenties, who had been delivering her groceries for a few months now.</div>
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“Mrs. Hamilton, how good to see you, Merry Christmas!” Manny
said with a booming voice.</div>
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“Merry Christmas Manny, come in, come in.” Sally said, almost
pushing him through the door with excitement and rushing to close the door
behind him.</div>
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Chuckling now after being pushed around by his diminutive
friend, Manny asked “Shall I carry these to the kitchen or call for security?” </div>
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“Oh, you big joker, please do, please do, Sorry… I’m so
wound up; come on, this food won’t cook itself!” Sally replied.</div>
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Manny carried the bags into the narrow kitchen where Sally unpacked
her goodies. She placed the small ham, a few potatoes, a can of green beans and
a box of Earl Grey tea, on her small kitchen table and took a step back to
look.</div>
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With a hint of tears in her eyes, Sally mused, “My Sammy
sure loved his spot of tea.”</div>
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Her sorrow threatened to swallow the moment, the grief filling
her mind with questions. How could she celebrate after all these years of
placing Christmas in the shadows? Can she celebrate without her Sammy? She
decided that she must, this Christmas seemed fresh and ready to hold close
again. Besides, her heart sensed the Messiah's presence more than ever and she
could always celebrate Him.</div>
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Dabbing at her eyes with her apron Sally soon looked up and asked,
“Manny, would you like to have dinner with me?”</div>
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“Why, I would love to Mrs. H, thank you!” Manny replied with
a huge smile.</div>
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The two of them set about fixing the meal, laughing,
singing, and even enjoying a silly dance to<i>
Jingle Bell Rock</i> playing on the radio. Soon the kitchen filled with wonderful
aromas and the sounds of memories. During dinner Sally told story after story
of her husband Sammy and the love he had for Jesus.</div>
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Sally sighed and Manny could see the pain of loneliness in
her eyes. They were sipping their tea when Sally asked, “I’m so tired Manny,
will you help me to the couch?” Manny helped the weary Mrs. Hamilton to the
couch, placing a quilted pillow underneath her head. Covering Sally with a
blanket, Manny then pulled a small box from his jacket and said, “It’s almost
midnight Mrs. H, this is for you, Merry Christmas.”</div>
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The package wrapped with golden paper and with a bow of the
purest white surprised Sally; she had never seen a more beautiful package.
Taking the gift from Manny, and with childlike excitement, opened the box. Inside was a golden key with a small note that
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inside of the note it read.</div>
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<b><i><br /></i></b></div>
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<b><i>To: Sally Hamilton, a key to your new home.<o:p></o:p></i></b></div>
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“Manny… what does this mean?” Sally asked.</div>
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“Mrs. H, my boss didn’t want you to spend Christmas Eve
alone, so he sent me to deliver something special to you.” Manny said.</div>
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“I don’t understand, your employer Mr. Reynolds, is giving
me a new house? Sally asked.</div>
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Smiling now, Manny said, “No Mrs. H, I work for someone higher
than Mr. Reynolds. Anyway, I’m just a messenger and I’ll be announcing your
arrival there soon.”</div>
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“Manny, I still don’t…” Sally wondered out loud.</div>
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“Mrs. H, it’s time for another celebration, you have been
faithful, and the Lord wants you home with Him.” Manny said.</div>
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Her eyes growing heavy, Sally whispered, “You mean, I’m going
to, oh, I can’t keep my eyes open, what is happening Manny?” Sally asked.</div>
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Manny whispered, “It’s time for a homecoming Mrs. H, Sammy
is saving a dance for you”</div>
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They were quiet for a few minutes when Sally softly asked, “Am
I going to see my Sammy when I open my eyes Manny?”</div>
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She was already home when he answered, “Yes Sally, and so
much more.”</div>
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The End</div>
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Jay Cookingham © 2015</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07866639097998917122noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-208483639990881800.post-79639221567411682292017-11-06T13:32:00.000-05:002017-11-06T13:32:27.955-05:00Not giving up on hope<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ca6w7TZR_AY/WgCppbywk_I/AAAAAAAAP-s/u1HZKWpte3MRR9tKYe0Lo8m1W_8RT9ZHQCLcBGAs/s1600/not%2Bgiving%2Bup%2Bon%2Bhope%2Bcopy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="800" height="225" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ca6w7TZR_AY/WgCppbywk_I/AAAAAAAAP-s/u1HZKWpte3MRR9tKYe0Lo8m1W_8RT9ZHQCLcBGAs/s400/not%2Bgiving%2Bup%2Bon%2Bhope%2Bcopy.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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I’m not giving up on hope.<br />
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The recent tragedy in Sutherland Springs, Texas has threatened to rip hope from my heart but I will not give in.<br />
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<i>“And so, Lord, where do I put my hope? My only hope is in you.” Psalm 39:7</i><br />
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I’m not giving up on hope…I can’t afford to. I do believe that hope is oxygen for our souls… it breathes life into the empty parts of our life on this planet. Hope helps you believe redemption is possible and that good triumphs over evil.<br />
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Dr. Martin Luther King said it this way…<br />
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<i>“If you lose hope, somehow you lose the vitality that keeps life moving, you lose that courage to be, that quality that helps you go on in spite of it all. And so today I still have a dream.”</i><br />
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My response to this tragedy (and others) must supply hope. My comments, my speech, my actions, my opinion must be saturated with the hope that sheds light on truth. Hope consumes the intent of evil and in its place brings peace and the courage to fight on. Solidifying my hold on my rights will not stop the flow of violence nor will the selfish desire for my voice to be heard above the voice of others. My opinion will not change this evil, nor will ranting and raving across party or denominational lines. Only His light, only His love and forgiveness can work that miracle.<br />
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<i>“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.” Romans 15:13</i><br />
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If I lose hope, if I refuse to shine the light of the Gospel, if I lack the will to do good… then I give away my heart to lesser things. I must do the good the Master sends me to do and love with such ferocious passion the evil of this world gives way to its light. Hope overcomes the evil with the goodness of God.<br />
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<i>“Don't let evil conquer you, but conquer evil by doing good.” Romans 12:21</i><br />
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But…I’m so angry!<br />
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Be angry yes, but don’t let anger distort your vision and your heart. Get angry at evil, at injustice and the cruelty of sin. Speak up but cover and filter every word with the love of Christ. This is the way to counter evil, bringing hope and love into the fight. His love works to change hearts… starting with ours first.<br />
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<i>“Dear Children, let us not love with word or talk but in deed and in truth.” 1 John 3:18</i><br />
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God bless, Jay<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07866639097998917122noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-208483639990881800.post-27165136529335863612017-10-24T14:04:00.002-04:002017-10-24T14:04:53.098-04:00God Hearted<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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October 14th marked the eight Iron Sharpens Iron Event I've had a privilege to speak at. Hosted by <a href="http://gatheringofmen.com/" target="_blank">Gathering of Men Ministries</a> in Virginia Beach, the event was attended by over 650 men...brothers who seemed ready for business.<br />
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In my session (56 guys, that's them above) there was a tremendous awareness of God's presence and His generous love for all of us. I had so much fun with these brothers and left blessed beyond words. There were a few of these men who asked for prayer from busted marriages to deeply wounded hearts...each moment became a God moment as He ministered His grace to their hearts.<br />
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This is why I love going to events like ISI, for the opportunity to fight for men's hearts and hopefully encourage them with the truth of who they are in Christ.<br />
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<b>1 John 3:1 says this about our identity.</b><br />
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<i>"See what kind of love the Father has given to us, that we should be called children of God; and so we are. The reason why the world does not know us is that it did not know him."</i><br />
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<b>A God Hearted man is a man like Jesus</b><br />
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Jesus was more than some nice guy going around looking to pick up some volunteer work to pad His resume. His humility should not be mistaken for a milk-toast expression of masculinity concerned about not trying to upset anything or anyone.<br />
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I see calculated fierceness in our Lord’s focus plan of redemption. His good works campaign was a battle strategy not content to stay on the front line but to embed itself deep behind enemy lines. It was a warrior’s strategy, purposely disruptive and perfectly executed to cause destruction in the enemy’s camp.<br />
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In our everyday battle we must remember who fights for us… our Messiah and He is a determined force of goodness. The will and schemes of the enemy fail when confronted by such an overwhelming force.<br />
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If you would like to listen to the session, you can <b><a href="https://soundcloud.com/jay-cookingham-1/a-god-hearted-man" target="_blank">here</a></b>:<br />
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God Bless,<br />Jay<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07866639097998917122noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-208483639990881800.post-61386841783503084572017-08-01T10:39:00.000-04:002017-08-01T14:00:31.404-04:00Steps<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MSOEDlqwpig/WYCSCu11MlI/AAAAAAAAO6s/HX872oFHO_40xx-wTjd0O6bQGwcSyE0awCLcBGAs/s1600/stepping-forward%2Bcopy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1181" data-original-width="1400" height="336" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MSOEDlqwpig/WYCSCu11MlI/AAAAAAAAO6s/HX872oFHO_40xx-wTjd0O6bQGwcSyE0awCLcBGAs/s400/stepping-forward%2Bcopy.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If you were to ask me about my core Scriptures, ones that
rocked my world at an early age and embedded themselves deep into my faith, I
would give you two.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
First Psalm 68:6</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span style="color: #0b5394;">“God sets the lonely
in families, he leads out the prisoners with singing; but the rebellious live
in a sun-scorched land.” </span><o:p></o:p></i></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In the Aramaic Bible in Plain English Translation it reads.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span style="color: #0b5394;">“God sets the only
child in a house and he sends out prisoners into prosperity and the rebels will
dwell in the tombs.”</span><o:p></o:p></i></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Number two is Psalm 27:10.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span style="color: #0b5394;">“For my father and my
mother have forsaken me, but the LORD will take me in.”</span><o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Aramaic Bible in Plain English Translation reads.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span style="color: #0b5394;">“Because my father and
mother abandoned me, and Lord Jehovah took me up.”</span><o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
These two passages provided needed strength to not just
endure the abusive home I was raised in but to triumph over the wounds that cruelty
caused in my life. Father God took me, raised me, set my lonely heart in a
family…His family. The prosperity that flowed was relational, the richness of
my healing was overwhelming and the songs we sang together totally freeing.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>I am a free man<o:p></o:p></i></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Since becoming (tri-vocational) pastor 4 years ago these
verses have fueled my shepherding vision, mostly without me knowing they were.
During the past weekend of a leadership summit, a questioned was asked twice by
our oversight team (individually and then when the whole team was together), a
question that showed me how deeply embedded these Scriptures were in my heart. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The question was:</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>“How do you see you
shepherding now in comparison to when you started 4 years ago…what has changed?”<o:p></o:p></i></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Trying to answer that question (both times) brought tears to
my eyes…all I could get out (at first) was… </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>“I just love
them…more.”<o:p></o:p></i></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
When I first answered the call, it was from a sense that
Father wanted me to serve Him in this way, for this season and there was no way
I was not going to answer that call! Now, 4 years later God has embedded my
heart deeply in the people I serve and I want obey Him more than ever.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I want to see the forsaken taken in; the lonely set in a
family and hear former spiritual POW’s sing for joy as they walk in freedom…I
hunger to be in the freedom business, just like my Abba Father.</div>
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<br /></div>
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So a tri-vocational pastor, after much prayer and counsel,
(at age 61) heads off to a different promised land and quits his job of 30
years to become a full-time shepherd of the hearts he’s called to serve.</div>
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<br /></div>
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<i>And I am crying again…<o:p></o:p></i></div>
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<br /></div>
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Steps are challenging but they take us places and when we
follow the Master, they take us places beyond what we can imagine.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span style="color: #0b5394;"> “Hear, O my son, and receive my sayings; and
the years of your life shall be many. (11) I have taught you in the way of
wisdom; I have led you in the right paths. (12) When you go, your steps shall
not be narrowed, and when you run, you shall not stumble.” Proverbs 4:10-12</span><o:p></o:p></i></div>
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<br /></div>
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Will you join me in this…will you take the steps the Father
is asking you to take and to follow His Son Jesus…wherever He leads? How can I
pray for you?</div>
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<br /></div>
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Serving Him together!</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Jay</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07866639097998917122noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-208483639990881800.post-60739806013516013622017-07-04T11:06:00.001-04:002017-07-04T11:08:18.763-04:00What Church Is<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7ojf1-bXNzQ/WVuulDFLVzI/AAAAAAAAOdc/pcfUsYrS4AsqdQnnGmT73gxx2ZFWbDS_QCLcBGAs/s1600/whatchurchis%2Bcopy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="800" height="225" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7ojf1-bXNzQ/WVuulDFLVzI/AAAAAAAAOdc/pcfUsYrS4AsqdQnnGmT73gxx2ZFWbDS_QCLcBGAs/s400/whatchurchis%2Bcopy.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<i>This is a post from a couple of years ago, I felt nudged by the Holy Spirit to revise and repost, I hope it blesses you. - Jay</i><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>What Church Is<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
My church meets in a building… yep; a beautiful chapel built
in 1856, but still a building with walls and everything. I know that may not be
cutting edge thinking (meeting inside a structure and calling it church) but it
seems to me that a lot of life (at least here in America) happens inside
buildings. Oh, I do realize that just because we are meeting <i>inside</i> a historically old chapel
(however beautiful) doesn’t define us as a church. Also, does 158 years of
people gathering together, <i>in a building</i>,
guarantee our present day “churchness? Many of you are shaking your head no…
and I would agree… it’s not about the building or the history.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>It’s about Jesus<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I serve (happily) as one of the under shepherds (under the
Chief Shepherd, Jesus), with the title of pastor, which doesn’t define me
completely either. In reality, I am a joint follower of Jesus Christ with about
50 other totally needy (and beautiful) folks. We’re a mixture of introverts and
extraverts, creative and linear thinkers, men, women, children, all shapes and
sizes…all extremely needy individuals.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>We all still need
Jesus<o:p></o:p></i></div>
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<br /></div>
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To me that’s church, not the place, not the format, not how
we do <i>church</i>…just people, needing
Jesus together. This modern day <i>ekklesia</i>
(assembly) is an organic expression of life with Jesus. To me, church is a
group of ordinary folks trying to express what God is doing in our lives and
expressing our gratefulness (corporately and individually) for that work.</div>
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<br /></div>
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<i>We need Jesus for that<o:p></o:p></i></div>
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<br /></div>
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We have some in our small community needing the simplicity
of sitting (even in a pew) and listening, quietly taking in truth and just as
quietly, expressing what it means to them. There are others craving the dynamic
give and take of interactive dialogue, with questions and thoughts expressing
how His truth challenges them. Navigating these needs (and others in between)
and allowing room for growth can be only accomplish by pursuing Him together…that’s
where I see church happen.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>We need Jesus for that<o:p></o:p></i></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
My hand is really comfortable holding a pen but my foot
(although capable) is not. And walking on my hands is extremely more difficult
than the normal way of walking using foot power. Yet, when a hand uses things
like a foot uses and a foot uses a thing like a hand uses, things can (besides
sounding like a Dr. Seuss book) get interesting. We have tried new ways to make
community and church more inviting and life changing…sometimes it’s a beautiful
expression and sometimes not so much. But it’s not about trying to reinvent
church…the Church doesn’t need reinventing…just our view of it sometimes.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Man, do we ever need
Jesus for that!<o:p></o:p></i></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
A family, an army, a bride…just a few ways Christ describes
His Church, each a powerful reminder of how diverse His expressions through a
body of believers can be. How do we then teach and reach each other through that
diversity? Can we “conspire” (breathe together) with one another and be the
Church? Is the church present in the 4 walls as well as outside them?</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Yes, we need Jesus for
all of that!<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<i><b>“He is also head of
the body, the church; and He is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, so
that He Himself will come to have first place in everything.”</b></i> <i><b>Colossians 1:18</b></i></blockquote>
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<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07866639097998917122noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-208483639990881800.post-69263239015633976872017-06-20T15:54:00.002-04:002017-06-20T15:54:04.527-04:00UNWOUNDED<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/--aYLOL_mRiI/WUl6vs1hIxI/AAAAAAAAOLg/eZZtY0uyJlMnSghU2HARNFuhiZcr0aLYACLcBGAs/s1600/unwounded.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="330" data-original-width="660" height="200" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/--aYLOL_mRiI/WUl6vs1hIxI/AAAAAAAAOLg/eZZtY0uyJlMnSghU2HARNFuhiZcr0aLYACLcBGAs/s400/unwounded.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>He heals the
brokenhearted and binds up their wounds. Psalm 147:3<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It’s hard to imagine… living a life that is free from the
pain of the past, to experience a thrill of joy that takes your breath away,
when you discover your chains are gone.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Uncaged, unchained,
unwounded.<o:p></o:p></i></div>
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<br /></div>
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Life on this planet makes this hard to believe. So many
wounds try to define us, mar us and block any hope of life being any different.</div>
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<br /></div>
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<i>The LORD is close to
the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. Psalm 34:18<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
There are words spoken over us, spoken to us, cursed at us…
their violence wounding us as we listen, tying in vain to deflect/ignore/forget
them.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Then…He speaks…our Messiah, our Good Shepherd calls to us.</div>
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<br /></div>
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<i>He sent out his word
and healed them; he rescued them from the grave. Psalm 107:20<o:p></o:p></i></div>
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<br /></div>
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<i>The Spirit of the Lord
GOD is upon me, because the LORD has anointed me to bring good news to the
poor; he has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the
captives, and the opening of the prison to those who are bound. Isaiah 61:1<o:p></o:p></i></div>
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<br /></div>
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There is a state of unwounded-ness that is only found in
Christ… a state of freedom that defies the logic and madness of this world.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>So if the Son sets you
free, you will be free indeed. John 8:3</i>6</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
When I say unwounded I am not saying we’ve never been hurt,
never been in pain, or never suffered. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
What I’m saying is that Messiah can un-wound us… He can make
all things new.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>This means that anyone
who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life
has begun! 2 Corinthians 5:17<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We need His words of life to be spoken over us; we need to
hear His voice over the voices of others. I would encourage you to watch this
video (<a href="http://adancewithmybeloved.blogspot.com/2017/06/voices-lies-or-truth_2.html" target="_blank">Voices: Lies or Truth</a>) my daughter made (be sure to read her post). In it is a powerful message
about the wounds words can cause…and the life His words can bring. It’s a
little tough at the beginning and there is a pause between when the screen goes
black…I urge you to press through to the end. You’ll be glad you did.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /><iframe width="320" height="266" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/Fzv2FWy7VME/0.jpg" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Fzv2FWy7VME?feature=player_embedded" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07866639097998917122noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-208483639990881800.post-30209615258673155772017-04-13T08:21:00.001-04:002017-04-13T08:21:58.352-04:00Unrecognizable?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tNkJ6CLU8p0/WO9tDsEsMpI/AAAAAAAAMgY/-WOP40E0u9kVZLPv0_XD1lNLGnHZisA_gCLcB/s1600/Unrecognizable%255B6%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tNkJ6CLU8p0/WO9tDsEsMpI/AAAAAAAAMgY/-WOP40E0u9kVZLPv0_XD1lNLGnHZisA_gCLcB/s400/Unrecognizable%255B6%255D.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>This is a repost (a
short story) from 2014 but it conveys my heart as I immerse myself in the
reason for every season of my life…His sacrifice for us. - Jay<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Unrecognizable?<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
My neighbors shouted for me to hurry, to drop what I was
doing and follow them. They ran ahead, their excited voices forcibly joining
the crowd we were running towards. The last thing I heard clearly was…</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>He was coming…<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The air was filled with dust and anger, making me uneasy and
fearful; wondering if I should turn back to the safety of my home. Instead I
jostled for position against the mob that lined the street. I flexed my broad
shoulders and forcibly squeezed my way to the front, not caring about the
bruises I gave or received. I wiped my eyes, trying to free them from the dust
assaulting them. I wanted to hush the people around me, gather my bearings and
find him in the crowd. I followed their pointed fingers and their jeers to the
person walking down the street… he was coming.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
My neighbors lied…this couldn’t be him…it was hardly a man!
This was a walking, bloody mass of sorrow. Who could do that to such a man like
him? It just couldn’t be him!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Could it?<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I followed, weaving through the families, the merchants and
soldiers, struggling to keep pace with a man weighed down by a cruel wooden
beam. The pointed fingers turned to clenched fists and the anger grew into
hatred, cold and brutal, such like I’ve never witnessed before. The
grotesqueness of the crowd mirrored this man’s wounds… raw and unforgiving. The
mob eagerly spewed insults and spit with vicious accuracy. I wondered what hurt
the man more, these vile words, or the punishment covering his body.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Why would they do this
to HIM?<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I lost count how many, but a number of times, he fell hard
on the street of stones. The blood, the pain and the weight of his burden all
conspiring to trip him. The forced march continued only after the soldiers made
a man, randomly plucked from the crowd, carry the heavy load for him.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
My Tears became a guttural sob, the tension ramming grief
down my throat. I turned my head, wanting to run away from the figure
struggling to walk, even without the beam to carry. The mocking crowd shouted
curses mixed with the name of Jesus…trying to blend them into one.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>It just couldn’t be
him…why would he let them do this to him?<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
On the mountain of skulls they nailed this battered pulp of
a man to a cross. He looked un-human, torn, battered…and finished. He was
unrecognizable…until I heard him speak.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>“Father forgive
them…they know not what they do!”<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I was wrong all along…he was recognizable…this is who I was
looking for.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>HE is the Messiah…He
is Jesus!<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
© Jay Cookingham</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07866639097998917122noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-208483639990881800.post-38077780867498549322017-03-02T08:45:00.001-05:002017-03-02T08:45:49.161-05:00Everyday Pilgrimage<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KLvMsuGd_0Q/WLghtI8v5GI/AAAAAAAALhc/L3ThmYyTP60lUGnVkPqiVZ6k-3r9x3CCQCLcB/s1600/everyday%2Bpilgrimage%2Bcopy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="222" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KLvMsuGd_0Q/WLghtI8v5GI/AAAAAAAALhc/L3ThmYyTP60lUGnVkPqiVZ6k-3r9x3CCQCLcB/s400/everyday%2Bpilgrimage%2Bcopy.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I wrote this poem a few years ago during Lent, considering the
pilgrimage I am on right now...I believe it fits. I hope it blesses you. - Jay</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Everyday Pilgrimage</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I bow my head in reverence, </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
not in shame.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I kneel humbly in homage, </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
not in fear.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
What I give up in surrender </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
is small.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
What I gain in surrender </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
is without measure.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Repentance sorrow is </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
met with mercy.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
A heavy heart is caressed </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
with hope.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
More than need or want, </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
is the desire for redemption</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
That makes an everyday pilgrimage </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
real in my heart.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<st1:personname w:st="on">Jay Cookingham</st1:personname>
2010 ©</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span style="color: #3d85c6;">Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. Psalm 51:10</span></i></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07866639097998917122noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-208483639990881800.post-88077594055982210642017-02-14T17:54:00.001-05:002017-02-14T17:54:38.694-05:00Send Me!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nrNJP-NFKP4/WKOJi4FYsoI/AAAAAAAALb4/BSgIQ-JoC7MkmyCRUPi1vmX8ztD0vZKpQCLcB/s1600/isi%2Bclearwater.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nrNJP-NFKP4/WKOJi4FYsoI/AAAAAAAALb4/BSgIQ-JoC7MkmyCRUPi1vmX8ztD0vZKpQCLcB/s320/isi%2Bclearwater.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Hello Everybody!<br />
<br />
I am scheduled to speak at <a href="http://nextstepsformen.com/event/iron-sharpens-iron-clearwater/" target="_blank">Iron Sharpens Iron in Clearwater Florida</a> (April 29) hosted by<a href="http://nextstepsformen.com/" target="_blank"> Next Steps for Men ministry</a>. I have been honored to speak at several events (this will be my seventh) and have found them to be huge in touching/encouraging/impacting the lives of men. I see myself as a missionary when I go on these events and feel blessed to represent <a href="http://bridgebuilderscc.com/" target="_blank">Bridge Builders Community Church</a> (my church) as well as <a href="http://www.strategicfathering.com/" target="_blank">Strategic Fathering Ministries</a> when I go.<br />
<br />
As one of the presenters (usually around 20) I have to pay my own costs to go (this keeps the cost of the event low so more men can attend), in the past this included flights, hotels and meals. Part of the cost is also the printed materials that I give away during my sessions, which I am thrilled to do.<br />
<br />
What I'm asking (and this is hard for me) is if you would consider partnering with me and help with some of the cost involved. I am trying to raise at least 1000.00 for the conference and would appreciate any help you may be able to give.<br />
<br />
Of course, prayer support is huge...many men come broken, hurting without hope, and to see God minister healing to them is amazing. Many prayers are needed for that work to be done and for me to be a vessel in that process.<br />
<br />
I cannot thank you enough for all the support and love I receive from all of you.<br />
<br />
If you write out a check, make out to BBCC (Bridge Builders Community Church) just put Jay/ISI conference as the note. Send check to:<br />
<br />
Bridge Builders Community Church<br />
P.O. Box 887<br />
Hyde Park, NY 12538<br />
<br />
Or you could use this <a href="https://www.paypal.me/JayCookingham" target="_blank">PayPal link</a>.<br />
<br />
God Bless,<br />
Jay<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07866639097998917122noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-208483639990881800.post-90339520972044480332016-12-22T08:24:00.000-05:002016-12-22T08:24:44.106-05:00Yule Better Watch Out<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-j0iEjFpL-ro/WFvTpD4MBTI/AAAAAAAALO0/kIbeL0Cp18cEtCKvAN5zT_3Y-Z9FX3aTgCLcB/s1600/Yule-Log2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-j0iEjFpL-ro/WFvTpD4MBTI/AAAAAAAALO0/kIbeL0Cp18cEtCKvAN5zT_3Y-Z9FX3aTgCLcB/s400/Yule-Log2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Traditions are grand; they encompass us with a rich blend of
history and relationships. However, some can be just downright …well, silly. I
did a little research about the Yule Log and found out some interesting facts,
which may just surprise you. Before I get into specifics of the Yule Log
itself, it seems that most of these legends started in lands where cold and ice
rule the landscape for months on end. I’m only suggesting that combined with
the long months in darkness, the cold can play a few games with your mind. This
for me explains many of the wacky Yule time folklore stories.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
From <st1:country-region w:st="on">Iceland</st1:country-region>
comes the disturbing tale of the giant…Yule Cat. This terrible feline is ready
to make meow mix out of any lazy townsfolk, especially those who might have
been less than ambitious in helping the town prepare for the long winter.
Perhaps they were put in charge of the litter box, (a rather large litter box
at that), and lost all motivation, who can blame them? However, slothful
citizens in <st1:country-region w:st="on">Iceland</st1:country-region>
were not alone in their peril; it seems that poor people were also at risk to
fall prey to this very picky Yule Cat. For if it found you outside with old
clothes on, you were a goner as well! Poorly dressed lazy folk were a high risk
target for sure.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This is the real reason all grandmothers give new socks and
underwear every Christmas, its anti-Yule Cat protection for their grandkids.
After all, no self-respecting Nana is going to risk losing one of her own to
some oversized <st1:city w:st="on">Garfield</st1:city>
because of old underwear. The Yule Cat legend may also explain why the dog
became man’s best friend. A family dog may eat all your food in your house but
at least not members of your household.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Yule Log originates from some ancient Scandinavian
festivals and the Vikings did their bit for history by spreading it around <st1:place w:st="on">Europe</st1:place> through their many raids. Can you imagine Eric the
Red saying, “Here you go, we just raided your town and took all your stuff but
we left you this Yule Log gig.” I think the modern day equivalent would be the
holiday fruitcake, which I believe is flammable and could be used as a Yule log
in a pinch, but I digress.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Tradition states that after choosing a large log in the
forest, it was decorated with ribbons and carried back to the village. It was
customary for anyone meeting the procession on its trip home, to raise his or
her hat in respect. Why the log would need such a greeting or honor is beyond
me. However, if you wanted an excuse from observing such a custom, you only
needed to be a barefoot woman or have flatfeet. A 4F rating that no doubt, kept
many a fine young person from serving in the Yule Log burning service corps.</div>
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<br /></div>
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Through the years the legend grew in popularity and changed
a bit. It was believed by many to be unlucky to buy a Yule log. The real lucky
ones were found on one's own land or from a neighbor's wood. This, for the
neighbor trying to find his own Yule log, was not so lucky. People even saved a
fragment from the previous year’s log to use to ignite the new one. The
homeowner would keep this under the bed to keep the house safe from fire and
lightning (and perhaps Yule dust bunnies). Not lighting the log on the first
try was a sign of misfortune (watch out for the Yule Cat) and touching it with
dirty hands was a sign of disrespect. This early version of the Duraflame log
would have to burn unattended for 12 straight hours, but at least you got to
eat during this time. Although people were distracted from eating their meal,
since you had to carefully study the shadows cast on the wall by the Yule log
fire. A “headless” shadow was not good news for the person casting the shadow.
A groundhog moment like this one supposedly foretold the death of said person
within the year. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Here in <st1:country-region w:st="on">America</st1:country-region>
we have dispelled the myths of this long ago legend by reducing the Yule log to
an appearance online. You don’t have to hunt for one (except maybe for web surfing), there are no wall shadows to worry about while you are chowing down.
More importantly, the internet could care less about your flatfeet.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Every Christmas I learn something new and surprising. The
memories, the stories and traditions, collectively add to the discovery process
I go through each year. It wasn’t always so, but God has faithfully showed me
the right attitude to dive into at Christmastime. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It happened this way…</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Over 2000 years ago, in a small Hebrew town, something more
powerful than tradition rocked the world. Celebrating His birth does more than
change the way I “do” Christmas, it transforms the way I am, the “who” I am. Because
of that God injection into humanity, all the stories, memories and traditions
become richer in our lives. Let’s enjoy the festivities with the focus on a
Savior that came to give us so much more.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Yule love it!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>“Praise be to the Lord, the God of <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:country-region w:st="on">Israel</st1:country-region></st1:place>, because he has come and has
redeemed his people.” Luke 1:68</i></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07866639097998917122noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-208483639990881800.post-32044644778303244262016-11-07T22:29:00.000-05:002016-11-07T22:29:14.896-05:00All is NOT Lost<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7rbU2MJJXaI/WCFGCCYebpI/AAAAAAAAK80/mrHHYYhV9VML7TFpSSysu8OPxIqc9qaogCLcB/s1600/hope%2Bcopy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7rbU2MJJXaI/WCFGCCYebpI/AAAAAAAAK80/mrHHYYhV9VML7TFpSSysu8OPxIqc9qaogCLcB/s400/hope%2Bcopy.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>The LORD is my
strength and shield. I trust him with all my heart. He helps me, and my heart
is filled with joy. I burst out in songs of thanksgiving. Psalm 28:7<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><i>He helps me…wow…our Father helps us!<o:p></o:p></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><i><br /></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Hebrew word for help in this verse means to surround and
protect. What better way to be surrounded than by the creator of the universe.
The Aramaic Bible in Plain English puts it this way.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Lord Jehovah is my
helper and my protector, for my heart is confident in him and my flesh
flourishes, and with glory I shall praise him.<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
There have been so many temptations to rant and rave about
this Presidential election, I wanted to tell you/sell you why each candidate is
unworthy to hold an office, much less than the highest one in our country. I
was going to complain about a nation asking for a king instead of bowing their
hearts to the King of Kings. I was…but I can’t…I feel there is something far
greater at stake than electing a President tomorrow.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><i>Who will hold your heart after the election?<o:p></o:p></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><i><br /></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The answer depends on what or who we have transferred our
hope to. I admit to losing hope because there was a dearth of leadership
presented to us. Some have placed their hope in one of the candidates. We give
our hearts so easily to other causes, to other leaders, to other hopes…and when
we do…we come up empty.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>And so, Lord, where do
I put my hope? My only hope is in you. Psalm 39:7<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
His sons and daughters have great reason to rejoice, for our
hearts can be confident despite what is happening in our country, for our hope
is found in Him. Hope grows in a grateful heart, hope thrives in a heart that
worships the Father and hope abounds in the heart where He lives.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><i>All is NOT loss, not on His watch.<o:p></o:p></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><i><br /></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>May the God of hope
fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy
Spirit you may abound in hope. Romans 15:13<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Our hearts are far more important to God than the election
tomorrow. If the heart of the Church is firmly in the hands of the Father, our
hope will be as well. May I encourage to earnestly be praying for tomorrow?
Whoever is elected, God is still sovereign, and He still holds the heart of the
“king” in His hands. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><i>And He still holds ours.<o:p></o:p></i></b></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07866639097998917122noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-208483639990881800.post-89739488660933396062016-10-25T15:31:00.000-04:002016-10-25T15:31:59.437-04:00Make America Great Again<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MrpkIMuYiVM/WA-yWjs8gDI/AAAAAAAAK50/seD_OMw3Dy49LEQ6LuMG58x1CMt_M7XkACLcB/s1600/america-1%2Bcopy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="227" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MrpkIMuYiVM/WA-yWjs8gDI/AAAAAAAAK50/seD_OMw3Dy49LEQ6LuMG58x1CMt_M7XkACLcB/s400/america-1%2Bcopy.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
But maybe not the way you're thinking....<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Lately I have avoided most political discussions like a man wearing
a paper suit avoids people with matches; such interactions get heated quickly
and tend to burn someone. The media, which is harder to avoid, feeds the
American public with ridiculous amounts of un-journalistic garbage, calling it
news. It is no wonder we suffer from the obesity of self-interest and pride
when <st1:country-region w:st="on">America</st1:country-region>
gladly gorges on this political junk food. Then we have the social media world,
filled with its own opinionated pyrotechnics, which has frustrated me with post
after post of some of the meanest rants I have ever read online. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><i>And those were from Christians… Have we lost our minds?<o:p></o:p></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
No man/woman can make <st1:country-region w:st="on">America</st1:country-region> great again. No
candidate/Democrat/<br />Republican/congress/judge/army/economic package/3rd party/grass roots movement or revolution can
bring greatness back to the shores of the <st1:country-region w:st="on">United States</st1:country-region>. Only God can make <st1:country-region w:st="on">America</st1:country-region> great.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>He controls the course
of world events; he removes kings and sets up other kings. He gives wisdom to
the wise and knowledge to the scholars. Daniel 2:21<o:p></o:p></i></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b><i>And, by the way…It’s His definition of great that counts.<o:p></o:p></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<i><b><span style="color: #0b5394;">Righteousness exalts a
nation, But sin is a disgrace to any people. Proverbs 14:34</span></b></i></blockquote>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If His sons and daughters want <st1:country-region w:st="on">America</st1:country-region> to be great again it
requires righteousness…in the way we live and in the way we love. It needs
repentance and the willingness to turn back from a life that is centered on me.
It’s not who I choose as my candidate that guarantees my well-being but who
chooses me.</div>
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<br /></div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<i><span style="color: #0b5394;">Blessed is the nation
whose God is the LORD, the people whom he has chosen as his heritage! Psalm
33:12</span></i></blockquote>
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<br /></div>
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Let’s turn the ballot booths into the greatest collection of
prayer closets the world has ever seen… praying that God make American His
again.</div>
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<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><i>That sounds great to me!<o:p></o:p></i></b></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07866639097998917122noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-208483639990881800.post-75016570494781717862016-09-15T12:31:00.002-04:002016-09-15T12:31:53.820-04:00Hard<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MRQJm56l0UI/V9rMPV4rLYI/AAAAAAAAKr0/o52wbqspcfcLPDDXoJWRmx7yuvLFyRBkQCLcB/s1600/hard1%2Bcopy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="211" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MRQJm56l0UI/V9rMPV4rLYI/AAAAAAAAKr0/o52wbqspcfcLPDDXoJWRmx7yuvLFyRBkQCLcB/s400/hard1%2Bcopy.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Following the Messiah is anything but easy, it’s hard. It’s a walk that fills the longing in our hearts but leaves it gasping for air at other times. Following Jesus is hard because we’re human. We walk through a lost and hurting world and we can’t help but wade through the ripples/wake of their pain… their sin….and yes, our sin.<br />
<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<i><b>Enter by the narrow gate. For the gate is wide and the way is easy that leads to destruction, and those who enter by it are many. (14) For the gate is narrow and the way is hard (pressed like grapes) that leads (carry) to life (real, vibrant), and those who find (get it, understand) it are few. Matthew 7: 13-14 </b></i></blockquote>
<br />
<b>The gate is narrow… the way is hard… how do we respond to that?</b><br />
<br />
We could get hard-headed, hard-nosed, hard as nails, hard to the core, The battle for our heart is real, the enemy wants to defeat our heart…make it hard, unresponsive to the Father. We could shrink back… lose heart, choose a different way or we can choose have the Father’s heart pressed into ours.<br />
<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<i><b>"I will give them a heart to know Me, for I am the LORD; and they will be My people, and I will be their God, for they will return to Me with their whole heart." </b></i><i><b>Jeremiah 24:7</b></i></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<i><b><br /></b></i><i><b>"And I will give you a new heart, and I will put a new spirit in you. I will take out your stony, stubborn heart and give you a tender, responsive heart." Ezekiel 36:26</b></i></blockquote>
<br />
<b>For whatever or whoever has your heart… has you.</b><br />
<br />
What we believe about our hearts matters. If it’s valuable (and it is) we’ll protect it, fight for it and worship the God who created it! The enemy wants us to believe our heart doesn’t matter to the Father, that it’s unredeemable, corrupt and beyond hope. Thankfully, the truth is miraculously more powerful, Father God restores our hearts with His.<br />
<br />
The process of receiving a new heart is more than a transplant of values; it is a radical new way to live. It's a heart that beats with a rhythm of surrender, responding in the only way that brings life. This is huge… in order to move through a hard life without growing hard and cold, we need His heart, His Spirit breathing new life into our hearts. We need to understand our hearts in a new way. If you’re still worried about your heart listen to this…<br />
<br />
<b>God is greater than our hearts</b><br />
<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<b><i>“Little children, let us not love with word or with tongue, but in deed and truth. (19) We will know by this that we are of the truth, and will assure our heart before Him 20in whatever our heart condemns us; for God is greater than our heart and knows all things. (21) Beloved, if our heart condemns us not, then we have confidence toward God.” 1 John 3:18-21</i></b></blockquote>
<br />
If God doesn’t condemn us and our own heart doesn’t either then our faith should be off the charts! Not in us but in our heavenly Father. Our confidence is not in our own heart, but the heart of the Father in us. We can’t be passive in our repentance or in our responsibility when we sin and disobey. Will we love like Him, live like Him… no matter how difficult?<br />
<br />
The choice is this…what heart will we accept?<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07866639097998917122noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-208483639990881800.post-55220792180467624402016-08-08T17:18:00.000-04:002016-08-08T17:18:46.649-04:00Why I’m Not (Still) Who I Am <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zLR6NpDeueQ/V6j2pGZLGyI/AAAAAAAAKKc/buhR_W0PURkJuitdvb_qwJPMVqCQhcHXACLcB/s1600/who1%2Bcopy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zLR6NpDeueQ/V6j2pGZLGyI/AAAAAAAAKKc/buhR_W0PURkJuitdvb_qwJPMVqCQhcHXACLcB/s400/who1%2Bcopy.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Sorry for the confusing title, hopefully I can explain why
it fits. In 2013 I wrote a blog post intended to debunk the mythos of my
reputation and to dispel the notion that I always have my act (what ever that
is) together. It seemed that I was gaining pedestal status in some circles and
I thought that was a dangerous place for a man to be. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><i>Now six years later I wonder if I’m still sending mixed messages.<o:p></o:p></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Don’t get me wrong, I work hard to maintain an honorable
character and I believe I should as a follower of Christ. I appreciate the
respect I’ve earned and the trust that follows a man of his word. The influence
I have I do not take lightly, I pray that my actions follow the words I speak
and that my life points (favorably) to the God I serve. I’m known as level headed, calm… a bit strange, but easygoing and likable.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Someone once said to me… “I can’t imagine someone ever
getting mad at you”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><i>I have people get mad at me all the time… some of those people live in
my house.<o:p></o:p></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I’ve been happily married for 34 years, a father for all but
seven of those years, but sometimes struggle with loving my wife (as wonderful
as she is) as she needs to be loved. I love being married to my bride and am
devoted to loving her as Christ loved the church but sometimes I fall so short
of that ideal. The selfishness of my own way gets in the way of caring for her
soul and our marriage suffers from my callous heart. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
My children think I’m a great Dad and generally, I agree
with them. Yet, I don’t always lead them correctly or model what a man should
be in a way that is inviting to them. My words appear as jabs instead of
encouragement and I let distance fill the gaps where my love should be. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><i>I’m (still) not who I am<o:p></o:p></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
My faith is strong and I love Jesus desperately, but I would
guess that there people who think I’m a hypocrite because I don’t always back
up my words with right action. One of my gifts is encouraging, I love finding
ways to build people up and help them see what Father God sees in them. Then,
there are times where my heart seems so distance and remote that it leaves me
wondering do I really care at all?</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><i>I’m (still) not who I am<o:p></o:p></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I have the honor to speak into men’s lives, many people see
me as friend and confidant. They put their trust in me and that friendship;
it’s a real humbling place to be. Unfortunately, there have been times I have
stretched the limits of my friendships with selfish motives and lack of
consideration. Sometimes my desires to be a “somebody” have muscled its way into
my idea of who I am in Christ… interfering with the bonds of brotherhood.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Now I pastor a church (3 years) and every Sunday I have the
opportunity to bless or disappoint and sometimes do both without even
recognizing it. I love this group of hearts entrusted to my care and long for
their lives to be full and free. Yet, there are seasons of ungraceful moments
where I’m lost for the words they need to hear and I fill them with platitudes,
hoping for a spiritual placebo instead.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><i>Have I knocked myself off that pedestal yet?<o:p></o:p></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
My point is this… I’m not finish yet! I’m not (still) who I
am (going to be) and Father God is not done with me yet. Can you see where my
heart is? I’m asking for forgiveness if I have ever portrayed something unreal
and false, something that may have put me on a pedestal. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I never want to show you all anything but Christ in me. Any
success I have as a man, a husband, a father and a brother is all because of
Him. The struggle to be real and transparent gets clouded when you begin to think
you are <i>“all that and a bag of chips”…</i>
that is not the way of the King. I don’t have wisdom, insight or compassion
(not any more than you anyway) but I do have the King (rather, He has me) and
He has all that in abundance. In my desire to be a hero to you, I may have
misrepresented the King, please forgive me.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><i>I’m (still) not who I am…but I’m getting there<o:p></o:p></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>And I am certain that
God, who began the good work within you, will continue his work until it is
finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus return. Philippians 1:6<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Why am I (still) not who I am (yet)? Because I need more of
Him and He will complete the work!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In Him for Him always…Jay</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><i>PS. I’m not beating myself up here…this is just a heart check and I
sincerely what to only represent Him in all I do.<o:p></o:p></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>“I the Lord search the
heart and test the mind, to give every man according to his ways, according to
the fruit of his deeds.” Jeremiah 17:10<o:p></o:p></i></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07866639097998917122noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-208483639990881800.post-9124286504678753922016-07-25T14:18:00.002-04:002016-07-25T14:18:49.266-04:00The Green Grass Ahead<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PATtSPnCeWQ/V5ZVwGFMrRI/AAAAAAAAKEQ/E8THx4GvbxYl7fGjZjmrQs0buuPHp3-aQCLcB/s1600/greengrass%2Bcopy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="151" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PATtSPnCeWQ/V5ZVwGFMrRI/AAAAAAAAKEQ/E8THx4GvbxYl7fGjZjmrQs0buuPHp3-aQCLcB/s400/greengrass%2Bcopy.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #38761d;"><i><b>“You're overwhelmed. Freeze was underwhelmed. Why isn't anyone just whelmed”? – Robin from the Young Justice TV show</b></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If my ramble is confusing, I apologize, the whelming of my heart is in full effect and it is searching desperately for the Head Shepherd’s way. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Life as pastor/shepherd/fellow follower of Christ is an emotional/relational mix of rejoicing with those who rejoice and weeping with those who weep (Romans 12:15). It stretches the contents of your heart daily and often “whelms” you to the tired tears of weariness as you move in as much compassion as that frail heart can muster. In your heart and spirit you wonder…</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><i>Did I say the right thing? Did I give what was needed? Did I listen to their heart? Did they hear God in my words?</i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Many times there are no simple answers to those questions and my sleep suffers because of it. I am so mindful of my words, careful of the weight my position carries and the effect that beautiful mystery has on the folks I journey with. My position as under shepherd encourages this intense collision of hearts and urges a seal of unity in place of otherwise separate lives. To move in such unity requires a surrender unlike any other, one that consistently “whelms” me with its passion.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Thankfully, there is green grass ahead… </b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #38761d;"><b><i>He makes me lie down in green pastures…Psalm 23:2</i></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Green pastures don't just happen—they're made by a heart of love, by a God who knows His sons and daughters. When our hearts are weary and whelmed out… ready to quit, bail, surrender and give in to something less… there is a green pasture ahead. The Good Shepherd is leading us to this place of nourishment and freedom. In this green, lush place, my whelmed self… my failing strength is replaced by His.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><i><span style="color: #38761d;">My health may fail, and my spirit may grow weak, but God remains the strength of my heart; he is mine forever. Psalm 73:26</span></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So, when I pray with my brothers and sisters, when our stories overlap and blend together, and when the shared humanness of laughter and tears swallows us up as one, my understanding of community breathes with new life. Together we can cry out to the shepherd who knows where to lead us.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><i><span style="color: #38761d;">From the ends of the earth, I cry to you for help when my heart is overwhelmed. Lead me to the towering rock of safety. Psalm 61:2</span></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Is your heart “whelmed” today? How can I help you see the green grass just ahead…How can I pray for you?</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07866639097998917122noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-208483639990881800.post-78454263429131360092016-07-18T16:51:00.000-04:002016-07-18T16:51:54.935-04:00My Prayer<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-03MzCADd1rk/V41BHV8rsaI/AAAAAAAAKB8/Z0-M2Rd2Zn4XYMTUJYZq2LWLHvrRCKxxgCLcB/s1600/mp-1%2Bcopy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="227" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-03MzCADd1rk/V41BHV8rsaI/AAAAAAAAKB8/Z0-M2Rd2Zn4XYMTUJYZq2LWLHvrRCKxxgCLcB/s400/mp-1%2Bcopy.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
My brothers and sisters, my heart is heavy with grief for yet another heartbreaking moment in our nation. I offer this simple prayer up as a cry from my own heart and urge you to offer up the same. We must cover this nation with prayer and offer up the only hope there is... the name of Jesus. I also encourage you to read Psalm 130, a passage that I believe will move you and strengthen you. God bless you all, Jay<br />
<br />
<br />
Our Father,<br />
<br />
We are a hurting nation, a people who have lost their way and chosen another. Evil, violence, injustice and corruption fill the wells from which our nation drinks and it is sickeningly drunk from it's dregs.<br />
<br />
Yet you are a God who loves redemption and have delivered it through your son Jesus Christ, help us today to surrender our hearts to His. Your sons and daughters cry out in repentance for this nation, and for the times we your children, have failed to follow your ways. We ask forgiveness for the sins we no longer want to ignore and for the ignorance we hide behind. We humble ourselves, we give ourselves over to your heart, please help us to act justly, and love mercy like you do. Fill our speech with your words, cast down the idols of our opinion, search our hearts and cleanse any wicked way hidden in us.<br />
<br />
Give us bold hearts, sound minds... let your love rule over us and help us proclaim the great hope of redemption inside of us to our nation. Make us ministers of your grace and carry the truth of who you are to all we meet. Grant the Church wisdom, direction and the courage to lean into the darkness and bring the light of the Gospel.<br />
<br />
I ask for peace and provision for the families struck by these tragedies. I pray that no root of bitterness take hold in their lives. Cover them with your grace and comfort them with your presence. Heal their wounds, heals their hearts and strengthen their spirits.<br />
<br />
You are our only hope Father... we proclaim our trust in you!<br />
<br />
In Jesus name...amen!<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07866639097998917122noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-208483639990881800.post-68300373632315488192016-06-29T11:31:00.001-04:002016-06-29T11:31:18.976-04:00Drowning Man<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qGBzRhkbRyA/V3PpRuirH5I/AAAAAAAAJ7E/Zu4s2Zw44Uss6EnytgYHHiH4J8kBtzEzgCLcB/s1600/drowning%2Bman.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qGBzRhkbRyA/V3PpRuirH5I/AAAAAAAAJ7E/Zu4s2Zw44Uss6EnytgYHHiH4J8kBtzEzgCLcB/s320/drowning%2Bman.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
No too long ago I read a blog post that compared sermon prep
to drowning; suggesting that only the breath of God can bring life to lungs
crushed by the weight of water (responsibility). When I read that post, I
identified with the image of a frantic man longing for rescue from his own
words, drowning in his own opinionated theology, desperate to breathe in the
Father’s heart in order to speak life into others.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Now I realize that this sensation is consuming my journey
with Christ and not just confined to the “safe” areas of sermon prep. I’m
gasping for air, I feel raw, exposed, washed up on the shore of service…
thankful for missing the rocks of doubt and envy that threaten every heart
devoted to the Master.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This raw emotion is separated from uncertainty; I don’t fear
the exposure and the peel back of my heart but I can’t say this is a pleasant
way to inhale my next breath. There is great pain involved in holding one’s
breath until you break the surface of liberty. The desire to live freely burns
and consumes the oxygen of my soul, igniting the cleansing process that lifts
me towards the surface.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span style="color: #0b5394;"><b>The Spirit of God has
made me; the breath of the Almighty gives me life. Job 33:4</b></span><o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
What I cough up on the shore of new life is the regrets and
sorrows of an old life, anchors that weighed me down, holding my head under
water and drowning me with shame. His life expands my lungs, filling them with
the pure oxygen of His love and leaves me gasping for more. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In this way, being a drowning man is good. I will gladly go
under His waves of mercy, His current of grace and swim with all my strength towards the shores of His heart. His breath… gives life.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span style="color: #0b5394;"><b>“For as long as life
is in me, And the breath of God is in my nostrils, My lips certainly will not
speak unjustly, Nor will my tongue mutter deceit.” Job 27:3-4</b></span><o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Words, thoughts, opinions, theology…me... all covered by the
crashing waves of who He is. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
What a way to go</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Blessings,<br />Jay</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07866639097998917122noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-208483639990881800.post-90877143078130715382016-06-14T11:27:00.000-04:002016-06-14T11:27:31.015-04:00A Light Response<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uh8zn7sl2zI/V2AhBwZmGQI/AAAAAAAAJ0g/497V6rTZBj0mkkLwPeDTL5mD46JgJPL-QCLcB/s1600/alight%2Bresponse.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="198" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uh8zn7sl2zI/V2AhBwZmGQI/AAAAAAAAJ0g/497V6rTZBj0mkkLwPeDTL5mD46JgJPL-QCLcB/s320/alight%2Bresponse.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
49 dead, over 50 seriously wounded… the lives of friends and
family permanently altered forever.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I believe we (the Christian community) needs a pause, a
moment to reflect before we post (or repost), rant or rave, change a profile
picture or otherwise comment in the Wild West of social media. Words escape our lips, our pens; our keyboards
with such force that we must remember that those words can bring life or add to
the pain people are already suffering from.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>The tongue can bring
death or life; those who love to talk will reap the consequences. Proverbs
18:21<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Can we quiet our opinions for a season and pray before
acting, speaking, posting, and commenting? Let’s dare to ask God to check our
heart and see if it lines up with His.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The hardship and suffering of others should move us to a
gentle response, one that beats in rhythm with the Father’s heart. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Rejoice with those who
rejoice, weep with those who weep. Romans 12:15<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The tragedy in <st1:place w:st="on">Orlando</st1:place>
is a brutal reminder of how easy it is for evil to inflict devastation and
suffering. Day after day, in one part of the world or another, it violently
takes a defiant pose, shakes its fist at us and dares us to counter its
cruelty. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Although I’m not connected by family or friends to this
awful heartbreak, I am connected because God cares for the people involved. My
connection to His heart compels me to act like Him. So, how do I, (a devoted Christ
follower) effectively respond to such dark, hate filled and evil times? </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
God’s response to darkness is to send light, a response so
radically different than the world’s response. He didn’t send a political
solution, new policy or legislation to dispel the darkness.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><i>He sent His son…the light of the world.<o:p></o:p></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>The people who walk in
darkness will see a great light. For those who live in a land of deep darkness,
a light will shine. Isaiah 9:2<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The world Jesus entered was brutally dark and deadly.
Humanity was under a death sentence of sin and it needed a Messiah…it needed
the light. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><i>It still does. <o:p></o:p></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I believe light brings hope, because it exposes life; it
brings life into clarity and focus.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><i>We could use some hope.<o:p></o:p></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>May the God of hope
fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy
Spirit you may abound in hope. Romans 15:13<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>“If you lose hope,
somehow you lose the vitality that keeps life moving, you lose that courage to
be, that quality that helps you go on in spite of it all. And so today I still
have a dream.” - Martin Luther King JR<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
My response to tragedy must contain hope. My comments, my
speech, my actions, my opinion must be saturated with the hope that sheds light
on truth. Hope consumes the intent of evil and in its place brings peace and
the courage to fight on. Solidifying my hold on my rights will not stop the
flow of violence nor will the desire for my voice to be heard above the voice
of others. My vote will not change this evil, nor will ranting and raving
across party lines. Only His light, only His love and forgiveness can work that
miracle.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>In the same way, let
your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your
Father in heaven. Matthew 5:16<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If I lose hope, if I refuse to shine the light of the
Gospel, if I lack the will to do good… then I give away my heart to lesser
things. I must find a way to do good in this world, the idol of my own opinion
must be brought down from the high places of ego and I must surrender it to my
King.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><i>How do I respond then?<o:p></o:p></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I love like the Messiah…bringing His light into a dark
world. I do the good the Master sends me to do. I love with such a ferocious
passion the evil of this world gives way to its light. I live the Good News and
overcome the evil with the goodness of God.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>“Don't let evil
conquer you, but conquer evil by doing good.” Romans 12:21<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Be angry yes, but don’t let anger distort your vision and
your heart. Get angry at evil, at injustice and the cruelty of sin. Speak up
but cover every word with the love of Christ. This is the way to counter evil,
bringing hope and love into the fight. His love doesn’t overlook or excuse behavior,
it works to change hearts… starting with ours first. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Dear Children, let us
not love with word or talk but in deed and in truth. 1 John 3:18</i></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07866639097998917122noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-208483639990881800.post-29797767398196189482016-06-01T09:15:00.000-04:002016-06-01T09:15:10.208-04:00Fear of Falling<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-b5aB5nZgsag/V07firUTb7I/AAAAAAAAJn8/GRho1vqm6_k7chn9u1mfW-WWs3pAB2xbACLcB/s1600/fear%2Bof%2Bfalling%2Bcopy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-b5aB5nZgsag/V07firUTb7I/AAAAAAAAJn8/GRho1vqm6_k7chn9u1mfW-WWs3pAB2xbACLcB/s400/fear%2Bof%2Bfalling%2Bcopy.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><i><br /></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><i><br /></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><i>I’m restless today…<o:p></o:p></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I tend to feel that way, the sensation of someone
relentlessly tugging at my sleeve, trying to get my attention, attempting to
pull me in different direction. Sometimes it wearies me with its persistent cry
for my focus, for my deep introspection to discover the cause behind such
unrest in my spirit. When I commit to explore the crevices of my fidgety
spirit, I’m often surprised by the mystery revealed.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><i>I’m restless because I’m not satisfied.<o:p></o:p></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I want more from life and from my relationship with God. I
want a stronger marriage and a greater connection with my children. The desire
to make a meaningful impact on this world drives me daily and to settle for
anything less seems pointless. This tug on my sleeve is a welcomed one… but
there is one that is not.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><i>I’m restless because I’m afraid.<o:p></o:p></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Afraid of loss, </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Afraid of failure, </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Afraid of rejection, </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Afraid of the unknown.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The fear of falling (<a href="http://www.fearof.net/fear-of-falling-phobia-basiphobia/" target="_blank">Basiphobia</a>) is a strong phobia and can
cripple, immobilize and rob freedom from the strongest person. For our heart,
in a spiritual sense, it’s just as dangerous. Loss, failure, rejection, the
unknown threaten our spirit daily, trying to get us to believe a lie.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
These restless tugs are connected; they meet at the
crossroad of faith and fear. Just when I’m disturbed enough to move out/step
out in faith, the fear of falling raises its ugly head and lying tongue. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><i>The lie of falling<o:p></o:p></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The fear of falling lies to me, tugs on my sleeve, fabricates
a story of doubt and guilt. A story meant to immobilize my heart and stop me in
my tracks… afraid to move out in faith. This enemy wants my heart to believe that
I’m doomed to fall and that my falls are always fatal and final.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><i>The truth of falling<o:p></o:p></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>“Though he fall, he
shall not be cast down; for Jehovah upholds his hand.” Psalm 37:24<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Now all glory to God,
who is able to keep you from falling away and will bring you with great joy
into his glorious presence without a single fault. Jude 1:24<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So, I’m checking out that tug I feel on the sleeve of my heart.
I don’t want to settle for less than all that God has for me, nor do I want the
fear of falling compromise my faithfulness to the call on my life. For that I
need more of Him.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>“All our falls are
useful if they strip us of a disastrous confidence in ourselves, while they do
not take away a humble and saving trust in God.” - <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fran%C3%A7ois_F%C3%A9nelon" target="_blank">Francois Fenelon </a><o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
How about you… are you afraid of “falling” in something
Father God has asked you to do? How can I pray for you?</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07866639097998917122noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-208483639990881800.post-58432374730779914482016-05-16T11:30:00.000-04:002016-05-16T11:30:57.786-04:00Letter to the Church at Market Street<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SgkeI-0fVJk/VznnURw1WbI/AAAAAAAAJD4/lEt1pnucEXAp44ABcGTX7FtC9VMffm1XgCLcB/s1600/lionofjudah%2Bcopy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SgkeI-0fVJk/VznnURw1WbI/AAAAAAAAJD4/lEt1pnucEXAp44ABcGTX7FtC9VMffm1XgCLcB/s320/lionofjudah%2Bcopy.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<i><br /></i>
<i><br /></i>
<i>This is a letter I wrote this morning for the church I serve as pastor/shepherd. As I prayed for them, my heart was moved with compassion for the hearts I follow Christ with. Fighting back tears I wrote in the "<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Epistle" target="_blank">style of an epistle</a>", a dispatch of deep emotion. I share with all of you so that you would pray for me as I serve these awesome people, I desperately covet them. Thank you!</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>My brothers and sisters,</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><i>Something special is happening to my heart and it concerns all of you.<o:p></o:p></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It seems that in pursuing/serving/ your hearts I have discovered
a love for you that is deeper and purer than I ever imagined it could be. I was
just praying and thinking of you all, and my heart is melting with tears.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><i>I hurt for you.<o:p></o:p></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I envision the battle you're in, the load you carry and the
multitude of struggles that seek to discourage you daily. You have carried deep
sorrow, managed the pain of loss and fight the fierce enemy of regret daily. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><i>All of this, and more, moves my heart for you.<o:p></o:p></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I also see a company of soldiers, an armed family of sons
and daughters who have chosen a sacred path and have no intention of turning
back. There is purposed determination in your heart; you know who your God is
and your love for Him is deep. I love it when you hear His words and you
believe them with the tenacity of <a href="http://www.honeybadger.com/" target="_blank">Honey Badger</a>. Your eyes light up with hope, shining with a reflection of the Father’s heart. That reflection is a
life of freedom, the promise of a Father who sent Jesus to battle for our
hearts.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><i>I am encouraged for you (and by you)<o:p></o:p></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
As we dive into the freedom that Christ has purchased for
us, may we remain focus on the battle that is raging around us. The enemy of
our soul is unashamed about wrecking havoc in our lives…he lies, he steals and
is pumped about destroying anything precious to the Father. Do not be surprised
by the pushback and the viciousness of that attack by this deceitful one. For it is
written:</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Be sober-minded; be
watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking
someone to devour. 1 Peter 5:8<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
And it is has been said by one of our past Church leaders:</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Many of us are hunting
mice - while lions devour the land. (Leonard Ravenhill)<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It is time to push back the darkness, to not concern
ourselves with the smallness of the world and give ourselves over to a life of
faith like we have never known before. For it is written:</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>“Who by faith
conquered kingdoms, performed acts of righteousness, obtained promises, shut
the mouths of lions, quenched the power of fire, escaped the edge of the sword,
from weakness were made strong, became valiant in battle, turned to flight the
armies of the aliens." Hebrews 11:33,34<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><i>The truth is that we hunt lions with a bigger Lion!<o:p></o:p></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
For it is written:</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>And one of the elders
said to me, “Weep no more; behold, the <b>Lion
of the tribe of Judah</b>, the Root of David, <b>has conquered</b>, so that he can open the scroll and its seven seals.”
Revelation 5:5<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><i>Weep no more…Jesus has won the victory<o:p></o:p></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I am honored to be in such a company, overwhelmed to be one
of your servant leaders and blessed to know each and everyone of you. You are
my brothers and sisters, your hearts are purified by the greatest heart there
is and set free by His great love for you. I urge you to never
surrender to any kingdom but His and stay valiant in the battle for that
Kingdom which offers freedom to all who come.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Yours in Christ, Jay</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07866639097998917122noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-208483639990881800.post-69669976831976313232016-05-10T15:27:00.000-04:002016-05-10T15:27:28.646-04:00Spirit Warrior<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-H2qBJtdT5q0/VzI1sOxSSTI/AAAAAAAAJC8/Mg7kPOcFeCITkTEhoGGWlJDQ8If64LzuACLcB/s1600/SW-1%2Bcopy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-H2qBJtdT5q0/VzI1sOxSSTI/AAAAAAAAJC8/Mg7kPOcFeCITkTEhoGGWlJDQ8If64LzuACLcB/s400/SW-1%2Bcopy.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>This is a repost from 2010 (of a vision I had in 2002), the
reason why I’m sharing again is simple… I want to see people free. The church I
get to shepherd (<a href="http://bridgebuilderscc.com/bbcc/" target="_blank">BBCC</a>) is spending a season on <b><a href="http://bridgebuilderscc.com/bbcc/?page_id=91" target="_blank">Living the Blessed Life</a></b>
and dealing with the curses we may have made false agreements with. We have
already seen great work by the Holy Spirit through our small body of believers
and we have seen and sensed some pushback by the enemy. So, I sense in my heart
that this vision may be of some encouragement for all of us, as we remember who
fights for us. God Bless you all, Jay</i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><i>This vision began this way….<o:p></o:p></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
He stood with arms limp at his sides, with every muscle
screaming with fatigue. The sting of sweat assaulted his eyes and beaded up
like raindrops on the back of his neck. The battle began in a wayward land of
deep darkness, devoid of all light. Now, at the battle’s end, the warrior stood
in a light that had pierced through the shadows, leaving no trace of its former
possessor.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
A fiercely fought conflict was rewarded with fallow land
recovered and restored to its rightful owner. Long held captives from
strongholds were set free and now were heading back towards the safety of the
Kingdom. The King personally had trained him and equipped him as well. The
piercing words of the King had exposed the deceit of the enemy, allowing for
precision strikes against them. Still, it was the King’s authority and Spirit
that made the victory possible. Turning his vision towards the horizon, he saw
the enemy licking its wounds. The veteran solider of light could sense that it
would soon mount another attack. It was one large mass of insult and threat,
with the full intent of destroying goodness.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The enemy started its hateful advance, with its fury bent on
instilling fear and confusion. Fully aware of the adversary’s strategy, the
warrior took a step towards the new battleground. Bone weary and mentally spent
he then dropped to his knees. The creatures of destruction at first measured
this motion as a sign of weakness and pressed forward. That is, until it was
too late.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
For the priestly warrior had not made a tactical error as
the enemy had supposed, but as he knelt and looked towards heaven, victory was
his. The enemy saw not one but a host of warriors on their knees, gleaming with
armor of intense light. The warriors moved as one, they spoke as one, and as
one under authority they let forth a shout empowered with the spirit of truth.
The shout overcame the enemy and scattered their ranks and uprooted their
entrenchments. The agents of darkness were called out, dug out and spat out
with the overwhelming authority of truth. By faith, a praying band of warriors
increased kingdom territory, pleasing the King. One warrior in particular… would
sleep well tonight.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Some points from this
vision that encourage me:<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><i>Those who belong to Father God have a huge promise of victory over the
enemy. <o:p></o:p></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>“"No weapon that
is formed against you will prosper; And every tongue that accuses you in
judgment you will condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the LORD,
And their vindication is from Me," declares the LORD. Isaiah 54:17<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Have I not commanded
you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed,
for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>“The Lord will cause
your enemies who rise against you to be defeated before you. They shall come
out against you one way and flee before you seven ways.” Deut. 28:7<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><i>Through the Spirit of God we can also recognize who our enemy is and
what his tactics are. <o:p></o:p></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>“For we are not
ignorant of his (Satan's) devices.” 2 Corinthians 2:11 <o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>“For we are not
fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and
authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and
against evil spirits in the heavenly places.” Ephesians 6:12<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><i>It is a battle with victory assured</i>. <o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>No, in all these
things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am sure that
neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to
come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will
be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans
8:37-39<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>You will not need to
fight in this battle. Stand firm, hold your position, and see the salvation of
the Lord on your behalf, O <st1:country-region w:st="on">Judah</st1:country-region>
and <st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Jerusalem</st1:place></st1:city>.’
Do not be afraid and do not be dismayed. Tomorrow go out against them, and the
Lord will be with you. 2 Chronicles 20:17<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><i>Prayer is key<o:p></o:p></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>"For though we
live in the world, we do not wage war as the world does. The weapons we fight
with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power
to demolish strongholds. We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets
itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to
make it obedient to Christ." 2 Corinthians 10:3-5<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>"Truly I tell
you, whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose
on earth will be loosed in heaven. Again, truly I tell you that if two of you
on earth agree about anything they ask for, it will be done for them by my
Father in heaven." Matthew 18:18-19<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>“With all prayer and
petition pray at all times in the Spirit, and with this in view, be on the
alert with all perseverance and petition for all the saints.” Ephesians 6:18<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Will you join me in
prayer?<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Father, <o:p></o:p></i></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Move me in such a way
that I become courageous to fight and to care in ways I didn’t think possible
of me. Awaken the spiritual warrior in me to do battle as you see fit, for your
glory and for the freedom of many. In Jesus name we pray…Amen<o:p></o:p></i></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07866639097998917122noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-208483639990881800.post-27835809763242067382016-05-03T16:23:00.001-04:002016-05-03T16:23:55.861-04:00Conrad Rocks!: My Testimony for Jesus<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-666zr0gYfHM/VykIXNTzJ1I/AAAAAAAAJB0/zdrAQ1HQA4Ym2l8lomt-_nS6pZ-NtkLVgCLcB/s1600/instagram%2Bspreaker%2Btemplate.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-666zr0gYfHM/VykIXNTzJ1I/AAAAAAAAJB0/zdrAQ1HQA4Ym2l8lomt-_nS6pZ-NtkLVgCLcB/s1600/instagram%2Bspreaker%2Btemplate.png" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Join me as my new friend Conrad interviews me about my life and my faith. Make sure you check out other testimonies on his web page, the stories are awesome. Conrad does rock because he is on fire for the Messiah and loves seeing Jesus setting people free.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.conradrocks.net/2016/04/jay-cookingham-testimony-for-jesus.html?spref=bl">Conrad Rocks!: Jay Cookingham Testimony for Jesus</a>: Testimony interview with Jay Cookingham from Strategic Fathering Ministries.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07866639097998917122noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-208483639990881800.post-21524714629344853572016-04-20T14:00:00.002-04:002016-04-20T14:00:59.074-04:00The Long Haul<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Uln-ovwzgO4/VxfDtcbt3YI/AAAAAAAAI94/Xea3MrkqY7U3VGDRnz5nBa4JMUm08ZfgACLcB/s1600/longroad%2Bcopy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Uln-ovwzgO4/VxfDtcbt3YI/AAAAAAAAI94/Xea3MrkqY7U3VGDRnz5nBa4JMUm08ZfgACLcB/s400/longroad%2Bcopy.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Soulfari has been quiet for months, as you may or not have
noticed. The work of pastoring/writing/speaking (not to mention being husband
and father…oh, I guess I just did mention it) has kept me entangled with many
words meant for venues other than blogging. It’s amazing when seasons change
and the transition period covers your tracks from one path to the next. It is
these in-between places that the settling dust, kicked up from multiple life
events, slowly re-covers the steps of the journey here.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Journey dust amazes me…<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Consider it a great
joy, my brothers, whenever you experience various trials, knowing that the
testing of your faith produces endurance. But endurance must do its complete
work, so that you may be mature and complete, lacking nothing. James 1:2-4<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The journey of 2016 is a few months old; an interesting
start that has included a serious (is there any other kind?) health scare (my wife), multiple speaking
engagements (for me) and the challenge of making life work with meaning for my
family. Throw in pastoring a small church, working full-time and part-time
(freelance), multiple writing projects and I wonder when dust actually has time
to settle.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>But maybe this dust is
different…<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The long haul of a committed life is covered by this powder,
full of events, memories, and emotions; it is the history of the journey.
Unlike the dust of inactivity, coating a life with its own myopic grime of the
ordinary, journey dust mixes with life and carries it as it travels. This dust
grinds away the grime, sandblasting our spirit and revealing our heart as we
discover the purity of its work in us.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The endurance that joy produces fuels for the long haul of
dust distribution, leaving marks of life throughout my voyage on this planet of
dust. There is purity in these specs because Father God directs my steps,
giving life through the crop dusting seeds I plant as I travel with Him. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>The journey is
successful because of who is watching…<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Then they said, “Ask
God whether or not our journey will be successful.” “Go in peace,” the priest
replied. “For the LORD is watching over your journey.” Judges 18:5-6<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The long haul approach is a commitment to the heart of
journey giver, fully trusting in the life long events of change and growth
because He is good. We can go in peace because the Prince of peace travels with
us.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Journey well my
friends… <o:p></o:p></i></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07866639097998917122noreply@blogger.com0