Does Easter Excite You? Does Christ Excite You?

We Americans sure love our holidays. We spent more than 13 BILLION dollars on Halloween costumes, candy, and decorations last year. Thanksgiving has become synonymous with family, food, and football. And things have gotten totally out of control when it comes to gift-giving and outdoor lights during Christmastime. What about Easter? Do you know when it is? Does it excite you that Easter is around the corner? Despite what the world says, there is no greater holiday than Easter. Let me repeat - There is no greater holiday than Easter!

Celebrating Easter is about celebrating the Risen Christ. Jesus lived a perfect life, laid down His life on Good Friday, and came back to life on Resurrection Sunday, proving once again, HE IS GOD! Do others see us excited about this? Is it clear to others that we are alive in Christ? Let's be sure to share the good news of Jesus Christ with everyone we can. As followers of Christ, we want Heaven crowded. We want others to know God and have peace and joy in a life that can be full of challenges. Let's not be quiet about Easter and what Christ did. Let's be sure to give God the glory. 

1. The Resurrection proves that Jesus is the all-powerful God victorious over sin and death. We can trust Him.

2. The Resurrection confirms that God's wrath was satisfied and our debt was paid in full. Those trusting in Christ are forgiven of their sins.

3. The Resurrection assures followers of Christ that we serve a living Savior who mediates and intercedes for us. We are to be envied.

4. The Resurrection guarantees the future resurrection of born-again believers. We are alive, and a new and perfect home is being prepared for us.

I hope you believe this. If you are struggling in your faith, unsure of who Christ is, or just have some questions, please don't hesitate to reach out to me. I'll do what I can to listen well and point you to our Savior and living hope, Jesus Christ. 

Jesus said to her, "I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live, and everyone who lives and believes in me shall never die. Do you believe this?" John 11:25-26

Let's Not Forget About Thanksgiving!

Thanksgiving is next week, but many Americans have been in Christmas mode since November hit. While I'm a fan of Christ-centered Christmas celebrations, let's not forget about Thanksgiving. Thankfulness is a major Bible theme, and we have much to be thankful for! James 1:17 tells us EVERY good and perfect gift is from above; therefore, we should thank God for all the good He gives us. And 1 Thessalonians 5:18 says, it's God's will for us in Christ Jesus to give thanks in ALL circumstances. 

It's easy to complain and question God when hard things happen, but giving thanks should be a lifestyle for Christians. Those close to me know that my family has been experiencing some bumps lately, but through the Holy Spirit, we can still give thanks to our Heavenly Father. Thank You, Lord, for the finances. Thank You, Lord, for the insurance. Thank You, Lord, we don't have to get on a plane to visit our family. You are good. All the time.  

So how can we cultivate a heart of thankfulness, especially when life is challenging? Three years ago, I wrote a blog post about this, and I want to remind us of five simple spiritual practices that can help not just during Thanksgiving, but all the time.

1. READING God's Word - I can't emphasize how much being in my Bible has helped me to better understand how to be like Christ and give Him thanks for my family, church, job, and life. Read your Bible, and you'll realize it has much to say about how God's people should be a thankful bunch.

2. REMEMBERING God's Goodness - God has been so good to me. I've been able to adopt three children from China, watch our two daughters get married to godly men, celebrate over two decades of marriage with Megan, encourage all kinds of people in their Christian walk, and more. Take time to thank God for all the good He has done for you!

3. REFLECTING on God's Splendor - We need to stop dwelling on our ever-changing circumstances and look to the awe-inspiring, glorious God who is the Beautiful One. When we think deeply about who Jesus is, the radiance of the glory of God and the exact imprint of His nature (Hebrews 1:3), we can be thankful people who reflect Christ to others.

4. REQUESTING God's Help - We aren't made to be independent, doing life on our own. Our Triune God created us and wants us to trust Him with our lives. When believers are humble and cry out to God as the Psalms instruct, God hears us and can provide comfort and peace during difficult times. This helps our hearts to be thankful regardless of the storms of life.   

5. RESTING in God - Are you a doer and fixer like me? Are you trying to control things and make sure everything is nice and neat? Well, life gets messy at times, and we must always trust Christ to be the source of our strength. If we don't, we will fall apart. Let's slow down, be still, and surrender ourselves to our Sovereign Lord who has everything in control.

There you have it. Read. Remember. Reflect. Request. And Rest. Nothing earth-shattering, but five ways that can cultivate a thankful heart. Who doesn't want that? May your heart be full of thanks this Thanksgiving and every day. To God be the glory.

Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good. His love endures forever. Psalm 136:1

Give Complaints In All Circumstances

This blog post title might seem a little odd, but check out the comments section of any social media post, and you’re likely to find lots of complaining. People frequently head to the comments of social media to be entertained because we know the comments might consist of ruthless complaining. We not only fail to remember that complaining is a sin (Philippians 2:14), but we often don’t care. How are the words of your mouth and the meditation of your heart (Psalm 19:14)? Are you good at complaining or are you known as someone giving thanks in all circumstances (1 Thessalonians 5:18)? Thanksgiving is around the corner, and there is so much to be thankful for, yes/no? Consider some of these things we should be thanking God for all the time:

1. We live in a nation that allows us to vote for our leaders. We may not always like the candidates, but we could live in a country where everything is picked for us.

2. We live in a nation with a strong military. While I look forward to the day when armed forces won’t be needed, I’m thankful for our troops.

3. We live in a nation with thousands of academic programs and world-class institutions. Our schools are far from perfect, but hundreds of millions of primary and secondary school-age children in developing countries don’t even attend school.

4. We live in a nation with clinics and hospitals around every corner. We may not always like the medical bills we receive, but thank God, many amazing resources are available in our communities. 

5. We live in a nation where we can gather with others and worship the risen Christ. Being a Christian certainly looks different in 2024, but it still isn’t dangerous to be a Christian in America.

Instead of constantly complaining like the culture around us, how can we be different and cultivate an attitude of thankfulness? Consider some practices I mention here.

Let’s be thankful not just when it’s Thanksgiving or when life is smooth. Let’s be different and give thanks in ALL circumstances.

Enter His gates with thanksgiving, and His courts with praise! Give thanks to Him; bless His name! Psalm 100:4

Cultivating a Thankful Heart

Thanksgiving is around the corner, and there is much to be thankful for...

• My oldest of three is getting married to a godly young man in just two weeks!
• We're members at a great church where I get to serve in a variety of capacities. 
• I have a beautiful wife who draws me to Christ and children walking with the Lord.
• I have a fantastic job that allows me to teach high schoolers what God's Word says. 

My Facebook and Instagram accounts clearly show that God has blessed me big time. What my social media accounts don't show is that life isn't always hunky-dory. Life can definitely be difficult, demanding, and depressing at times. Despite this, we are told to give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you (1 Thessalonians 5:18). How does one do this when family members are clashing, your finances have taken a hit, or the minds and bodies of loved ones are being destroyed by disease? It may not be easy all the time, but here are some simple and essential spiritual practices we can put into place so we complain less and thank God more. To God be the glory!

1. READING God's Word - The Bible is God's word to us and provides us with the answers to life. The Bible reminds us that every good and perfect gift is from above (James 1:17) and equips us to be ATMs (automated thanking machines). Reading and studying your Bible will help you be more joyful and grateful for life. 

2. REMEMBERING God's Goodness - My first date with Megan, holding my children for the first time, being offered a job at ECS, God opening my eyes and giving me a new heart, and the list goes on and on. Take time to look back on all that God has done for you! The LORD has done great things for us; we are glad. Psalm 145:17

3. REFLECTING on God's Splendor - Often I'm navel-gazing when I should be setting my mind on things above (Colossians 3:2). As I meditate on my Heavenly Father and Christ who sits at His right hand, my mind is filled with only beauty. I see a holy God who shines the light of His glory - a light that I can actually shine on others.

4. REQUESTING God's Help - We can't do it alone. Life can be overwhelming, and we need to cry out to God. God is there for us, but we need to get on our knees and admit our dependence on Him. Be humble and communicate continuously with the Creator of the universe. When we cry out to God, He sees our hearts and responds with love (Romans 5:8).

5. RESTING in God - I'm a doer who likes to check off boxes. That isn't always bad, but we must learn to quiet ourselves, be still, and acknowledge that God is sovereign and reigns supreme (Job 42:2). I need to slow down and trust that God has complete control of everything. Take a walk with Megan, go fishing with Josiah Lee, have a meal with my daughters - simply enJOY the life God has given us.

What are some ways you cultivate a thankful heart? I would love to hear from you!

Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving. Colossians 4:2

Ten Reasons Why I'm Thankful to Live in Evansville

We've been back in Indiana for nearly 1.5 years now, and I'm extremely thankful our transition has been good. We certainly miss various aspects of our lives in China, but we know this is where we're supposed to be. I often think how great it is to live in Evansville. Below are ten reasons why I'm thankful to live here.

1. Church - We worship at a solid Bible-based and Christ-centered fellowship on Sundays.

2. House - We were able to purchase a nice home in a peaceful neighborhood that is close to parks, hospitals, restaurants, stores, and our jobs.

3. Location - A big reason we moved back is to be closer to our parents. A three-hour drive north sure beats an overseas flight.

4. Megan's Jobs - Megan gets to teach ESL to people from around the world.

5. My Job - I work with a great team of teachers, partner with super supportive parents, and help guide a diverse group of students.

6. Nature - Although Evansville is the third largest city in Indiana with a population of 120,000, we're surrounded by lots of places to fish, hike, and view wildlife.

7. People - The people are friendly, and you see folks from all walks of life. We fit right in.

8. Restaurants - There are all kinds of eateries here, including multiple BBQ & sushi joints. Both sides of me get their fill!

9. School - All three of our kiddos receive a top-notch education at a school they enjoy.

10. Stores - We don't have IKEA, but Evansville has every other store imaginable. Walmart is just a five-minute drive, so I'm good.

So there you have it. God is too good to us. Live here? What do you like about Evansville? Live elsewhere? What makes your community special?

Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

Ten Things I'm Thankful for in 2016

Although the Thanksgiving holiday is over, being thankful shouldn't be. Below are ten things I'm thankful for this year. What are you thankful for?

1. I have extremely fulfilling jobs at Evansville Christian School and the Metro Sports Center. Nearly 8 million Americans are unemployed.

2. I have a beautiful rental home in the small town of Newburgh. Over 500,000 Americans are homeless.

3. I have new friends in our Southern Indiana community. Loneliness can be a serious health issue.

4. I have a wonderful family that supports and loves me despite my countless flaws. There are approximately 150 million orphans in the world.

5. I have good insurance to help pay for crowns, physicals, and shots. Nearly 30 million nonelderly Americans lack insurance.

6. I have a healthy body, which enables me to lift weights and play indoor soccer. Every year, diarrhea kills 760,000 children under the age of five.

7. I have unrestricted Internet access that allows me to stay connected with family and friends around the world. 1/3 of Internet users worldwide face heavy Internet censorship.

8. I have a fantastic education that provides me with unique speaking, writing, training, and employment opportunities. 32 million American adults are considered functionally illiterate (1 in 7).

9. I have serious sin issues that show me my many weaknesses and how much I need Jesus. Less than half of all American adults think the Bible contains everything a person needs to live a meaningful life.

10. I have the love of the Father Almighty, who graciously gives me purpose and everlasting life. Do you know His love?
         

Reviewing Eric Liddell's The Disciplines of the Christian Life

Nearly seven years ago, I read an outstanding biography of Eric Liddell, the Olympic gold medalist whose life story inspired the 1981 "Best Picture," Chariots of Fire. I found Liddell's story to be of great interest since he served in my former home of Tianjin, China, during the first half of the 20th century. When Christianaudio made The Disciplines of the Christian Life available for free four years ago, I quickly downloaded it. I started listening to the book this year as part of my morning devotions, and it took no time to complete it.

Eric Liddell wrote The Disciplines of the Christian Life to help Christians grow in Christ through daily Bible study and prayer. Below you'll find the foundational topics showing that Liddell starts with discipleship. He gives a Bible reading plan with a recommended reading for each day of the year, with the readings organized into 12 chapters for each month of the year. Knowledge is not just given, but practical ways to live for God's glory. The Disciplines of the Christian Life is simple and straightforward, but should stir up some emotion. Prior to hearing Liddell's thoughts, Herbert S. Long provides us with information concerning how the book came about.

A Word by Herbert S. Long 15:30
Preface 30:56

Part Two: A Year of Discipleship:

1. January: God the Nature of God 8:40
2. February: The Life of Jesus 5:55
3. March: The Life of Jesus Continued: The Cross 10:40
4. April: God's Moral Law - The Law and Sin 9:56 
5. May: The Character of Jesus - Jesus Our Example 7:56
6. June: The Kingdom of God - The Kingdom of Heaven 9:15
7. July: God is Love 9:40
8. August: The Life of Paul - The Act of the Apostles 5:54
9. September: The Epistle to the Romans - Paul's Gospel - The Face of Christ, A Face for the World 11:25
10. October: The Holy Spirit 10:12
11. November: Victory, Victory Over Temptation 9:07
12. December: The Fellowship, The Church 8:17

Part Three: The Disciple and the Church 2:21

• Baptism - The Symbol 4:00 
• The Communion of the Lord's Supper 11:58
• The Three Great Festivals of the Church - Christmas, Easter, Thanksgiving 6:29

If you want to hear from a servant of strong convictions who ran for Jesus, I recommend The Disciplines of the Christian Life. The paperback is only 160 pages, should you choose to read it.

For I am already being poured out as a drink offering, and the time of my departure has come. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Henceforth there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will award to me on that Day, and not only to me but also to all who have loved his appearing. 2 Timothy 4:6-8

Ten Things I'm Thankful For

1. I have a job (that I enjoy). Nearly 8 million Americans are unemployed.

2. I have a home (with heat and hot water). Over 500,000 Americans are homeless.

3. I have friends (who pray and laugh with me). Loneliness affects 60 million Americans.

4. I have a family (that supports and loves me). There are 20 million orphans in the world.

5. I have insurance (to help pay for great medical care). 33 million Americans lack insurance.

6. I have a healthy body (which enables me to run and jump). Diarrheal diseases will kill over 2,000 kids today.

7. I have Internet access (to show me what is happening in the world). Billions are excluded from the online domain.

8. I have an education (that gives me access to countless opportunities). 775 million adults are functionally illiterate.

9. I have issues (that show me my weaknesses and how much I need Him). 1/3 of the world's seven billion people claim to follow the Son of Man.

10. I have the love of the Father (giving me purpose and everlasting life). Do you know His love?

Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
           

    

Thanksgiving Messages 2014

In 2010 and 2011, I posted some Thanksgiving links that attracted some attention during the American Thanksgiving holiday season. Below are some new links that explain why we should be thankful. Happy Thanksgiving.

Thanksgiving: The Noblest and Most Joy-Giving Sacrifice by Randy Alcorn (Eternal Perspective Ministries)

Feasting on Thanksgiving by John Bloom (desiring God)

When Jesus Hates Thanksgiving ... by Denny Burk (Boyce College)

Rekindling the Gratitude by John MacArthur (Grace to You)

Take Time to Give Thanks by Nate Shurden (The Christward Collective)

Free Downloads from R.C. Sproul (Ligonier Ministries)

Why Aren't We This Thankful Every Day?

Earlier this month, World Magazine wrote an article about Gary Varvel, an Indianapolis Star cartoonist who happens to reside where I am from - Hendricks County, Indiana. Through cartooning, Gary is able to reach a wide U.S. audience with a Biblical worldview. Here is a powerful question from a Thanksgiving cartoon he drew last year.

Thanksgiving Messages 2011

This is a post from last year that I noticed was getting hits recently. A reposting is in order, but four new links have been added. Happy Thanksgiving.

Abraham Lincoln Offers Thanksgiving to God by Randy Alcorn (Eternal Perspective Ministries)

What are Your Thoughts on Celebrating God during the Thanksgiving Holiday? by John MacArthur (Grace to You)

Thanksgiving: Echoing the Grace of God by David Mathis (desiringGod)

Why Thanksgiving Matters by Albert Mohler (Southern Seminary)

Happy Thanksgiving! by Ray Ortlund (Christ is Deeper Still)

Thanksgiving to the Glory of God by Jonathan Parnell (desiringGod)

A Prayer for Giving Thanks - HUGE Thanks by Scotty Smith (Heavenward)

Thanksgiving by R.C. Sproul (Ligonier Ministries)

My daughter Grace was very proud of the invitation she designed. Megan and I were able to attend a 
performance at the ECC where Grace was a pilgrim and sang a song with her classmates. We then got our grub on eatin' a mix of American, Korean, and Chinese food. 

Thanksgiving Messages 2010

Abraham Lincoln Offers Thanksgiving to God by Randy Alcorn

What are your thoughts on celebrating God during the Thanksgiving holiday? by John MacArthur

Why Thanksgiving Matters by Albert Mohler

Thanksgiving  by R.C. Sproul