Daily Bread- A Word from Pastor Leaf

“For where two or three are gathered in My name, there am I with them.” Matthew 18:20

What a joy to launch into VISION MONTH this past Sunday, as we focused on the three church pillars that define our identity and reinforce our direction. A pillar is best when placed on a solid foundation and is meant to hold up a structure. Our faith as God’s people and our purpose at CROSSPOINT needs a life-giving source and unbreakable substance. In 1 Timothy 3:15 Paul says, “If I am delayed, you will know how people ought to conduct themselves in God’s household, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and foundation of truth.” The Church of Jesus is meant to stand strong and stand every test. Another way of saying it is, let’s not bring Scotch Tape or Elmer’s Glue to a job that needs something stronger to hold things together! We need pillars to build us up and bind us together.

Our first pillar is JOYFUL EXPECTATION. We believe that the Lord will meet us and move in our midst every time we gather together. Every time we attend a Sunday Service, Wednesday Discipleship Night, or Small Group we are giving space for the Holy Spirit to speak and work in our lives. The Spirit of the Lord is present to break chains, lift burdens, heal bodies, deposit words, and energize our faith. 2 Corinthians 3:17 says, “Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is there is freedom.”

Our GATHERINGS should be a place we encounter the GLORY of our God! Psalm 3:5 declares, “But You, Lord, are a shield around me, my glory, and the One who lifts my head high.” When we spend time in worship there is a transaction of releasing what is in our hands to receive what is in His! When we take communion each month, we believe there is an invitation that goes beyond a symbolic remembrance of Christ’s body and blood, where we can partake of His strength, peace, and wholeness for our lives. When we come to the teaching of God’s Word, we believe there is an revelation of promise that causes our sight to be faith, our path to be guided, our focus to be Jesus, and our hope to be the Kingdom! When we have times of fellowship, praying for others, and serving we believe there is a connection that strengthens us.

Truly, we expect and welcome the very words in our sanctuary to come alive each Sunday: “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.” Hebrews 13:8

"For we live by faith, not by sight.”- 2 Corinthians 5:7

I am loving my 50’s! I was recently sharing with Joanie how this has been one of the healthiest and most productive seasons in my life. As I keep walking with the Lord in this golden decade, I am seeing a maturing in many areas: Perspective and wisdom; Contentment and gratitude; Patience and Kindness; Peace and life purpose. Despite this, not everything about getting older is better.

One thing that has waned is my EYESIGHT. I am wearing my reading glasses more and more with each passing year. I am lost trying to order from a menu, signing documents, and doing certain tasks at work without them. My diminished sight has been a reminder of my enhanced need for spiritual vision. The Lord wants to open the eyes of our hearts in order that we might know Him better, know what’s right, know how to treat others, and know how to live in this world. In Ephesians 1:18 Paul prays for the believers, “I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which He has called you, the riches of His glorious inheritance in His holy people.”

For our church, September is specially set aside as VISION MONTH. Each weekend is an opportunity to focus on what the Holy Spirit is speaking and doing, so that we can move forward as a faith community on mission. Proverbs 29:18 (ESV) says, “Where there is no prophetic vision the people cast off restraint, but blessed is he who keeps the law.” Throughout the month there will be prophetic messages, testimonies, and a launching of our discipleship, small groups, and outreach ministries.

Vision Month is not just a community expression unique to CROSSPOINT Church. Each of us can personally exercise our faith, engage the Spirit, and enter into the new. Here are three places where each of us can experience an enhancing and restoring of spiritual sight:

1) A REVELATION of God’s nature, truth, and will.

Psalm 119:18- “Open my eyes that I may see wonderful things in Your law.”

2) A DEFINITION for our current season that brings clarity, confirmation, or change.

Proverbs 3:5-6- “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.”

3) A COMPASSION to see and be present for the needs of others.

Matthew 9:36- “When Jesus saw the crowds, He had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd.”

May the Lord open our eyes and help us to see!

“I will not die but live, and will proclaim what the Lord has done.”- Psalm 118:17

 Everyone has a story. And the story of what God has done in your life is too good to keep on the shelf or to yourself.  Our testimony is a powerful tool that declares the undeniable proof and unmatched power of God.  The way we live responsibly, treat others, overcome obstacles, and endure hardships is often the greatest evidence of Jesus that people will ever see.  May we have the same passion and courage that Paul displayed before King Agrippa in Acts 26:22 declaring, “But God has helped me to this very day; so I stand here and testify to small and great alike.”

 All our experiences (yes, even the drama and tragedies), can bring encouragement and endurance to those struggling in life, searching for God, or starving for someone to understand them. Romans 15:4 tells us, “For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through the endurance taught in the Scriptures and the encouragement they provide we might have hope.” I have used my life story countless times to tell others about the love of Jesus and the victory we can have in all areas of life. Here are some of my life chapters I allow to be read by others:

 -       Growing up in a broken family.

-       Dealing with bouts of fear and anxiety.

-       Being instantly delivered from using foul language.

-       Seeing God provide financially at just the right time.

-       Watching my daughter healed from a life-threating virus and five-week stint in the hospital.

-       The Holy Spirit touching and transforming me from being a loner to loving people and from stealing money as a teenager to being generous as an adult. 

 The best thing about sharing our stories is that it is a BIG DEAL to God and BIG PART of His plan.  He wants us to proclaim the precious and powerful things that He has done.  When Jesus delivered a man from being demon-possessed, that individual asked to follow Him.  Here is Jesus’ response in Mark 5:19, “Jesus did not let him, but said, ‘Go home to your own people and tell them how much the Lord has done for you, and how He has had mercy on you.”  Jesus is looking for people who do more than go to church and do their devotions each day. He wants each of us to GO with the GOOD NEWS. Even this weekend we will be having a special time in our services to share the GREAT THINGS God has done this summer. 

 Let’s keep broadcasting our story, bragging about our God, and inviting people to believe in Jesus. Psalm 145:4 says, “One generation commends Your works to another; they tell of Your mighty acts.”  It is time for your story to be dusted off the shelf and declared to people in every sector of life, who desperately need to hear the best news ever!

“The Lord is with me; I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to me? The Lord is with me; He is my helper. I look in triumph on my enemies.”- Psalm 118:6-7

Last week I found myself awake in the middle of the night with a lot on my mind.  I do not recommend putting on your “thinking cap” after midnight (you may turn into Grumpy the dwarf or a Gremlin).  This unwanted wake-up call was surprising because there are amazing answers and beautiful blessings happening in our church in several places. The trouble I faced was focusing on one issue that seems lacking and unresolved.  My processing quickly turned into panicking, and before I knew it, I was buying into the lies from the enemy of uncertainty.

 The human tendency is to look at our one trial over the many triumphs, our one deficit over the many deposits from God, our one bad day over the blessings.  How quickly can a “C-minus“ bring down an otherwise stellar report card; a critique from a supervisor have us forgetting the last ten compliments; the person who does not attend our special occasion leave us in a sour mood; a fantastic day is derailed by a family drama group text.  All of these, like my one small issue, can cause us to forget what God has done and fail to apply faith to what we feel or need.  The enemy looks to rob us of our joy and peace in God. In John 10:10 Jesus said, “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” 

 I am believing for God to bring breakthrough of life, provision, deliverance, and victory your way!  Acts 10:38 tells us, “How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and power and how He went about doing good and healing all who were under the power of the devil, because God was with Him.” Through Jesus we can receive a touch that heals, a promise that never fails, an answer to your biggest need, and fullness to any empty places in life.  Even today we can receive truth and triumph in the One who is able and who alone can do the impossible!

Allow the life of Jesus to fill you up and free you from all the lies.

Daily Bread- A Word from Pastor Leaf

“For I resolved to know nothing while I was with you except Jesus Christ and Him crucified.”

- 1 Corinthians 2:2

Challenge Accepted! In my estimation, folks are up for facing a good challenge. The desire of overcoming and accomplishment began somewhere in grade school when a “Double Dog Dare You” was thrown out by a fellow classmate. And with present day social media, we have libraries worth of Ice Bucket, Spicy Food, Trick Basketball Shot, and Kick the Cap off Water Bottle Challenges to name a few.

This year I felt compelled to accept two challenges to help me grow in Jesus and be the best version of myself. The RIGHT CHALLENGES can bring better order, balance, and results to our lives. One of the challenges was to get back to reading every night before bed. In just three months I can already see the benefit of putting down the phone and turning off the TV, to learn and receive through the books I am reading. By creating this time and space, it is cultivating me into a better follower of Jesus, pastor, husband, father, friend, and neighbor. In Psalm 37:5-6 David declares, “Commit your way to the Lord; trust in Him and He will do this: He will make your righteous reward shine like the dawn, your vindication like the noonday sun.”

One of my favorite people in the Bible is the Apostle Paul. I love how much he loved Jesus, the Word, the Church, and God’s people! Paul was all about accepting the challenge. He went preaching in places that did not know the Gospel; He engaged different people groups in a way they could understand and accept salvation; He communicated the important truth of Christ crucified and risen; and he prioritized relief, resources, and relevant instruction to the churches he planted. In Romans 15:20 we get a sense of this man’s striving, “It has always been my ambition to preach the gospel where Christ was not known, so that I would not be building on someone else’s foundation.”

Are you feeling challenged? I pray so, because as you act on the Holy Spirit’s leading you will discover greater levels of strength and blessing. Philippians 3:12, “Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me.” Here are some challenges that might be calling your name as we approach a new school year and the fall season…

- Stop negativity from being in your vocabulary.

- Read at least one chapter of the Bible each day.

- Do one kind deed and send one encouraging text each week.

- Invite at least three people to a Sunday service.

When we accept the challenge to DO our part, we will BE more like Christ!

“Zacchaeus wanted to see who Jesus was, but because he was short he could not see over the crowd. So he ran ahead and climbed a sycamore fig tree to see Him, since Jesus was coming that way.”- Luke 19:3-4

 One of the results of fatherhood is having stronger shoulder muscles.  Over the years (and sometimes even today) I have lifted my kids up and plopped them on my shoulders whenever they were too tired to walk or too short to see.  From long walks to Disneyland parades the higher view has always been a desirable place to be. 

 New heights can be refreshing and revealing for us!  Zacchaeus was a tax collector who had heard the news and fanfare about Christ.  There were amazing tales of never before seen or heard teachings, miracles, and changed lives.  When Jesus of Nazareth shows up in Jericho, everyone is wanting a front row seat to this once in a lifetime event (way better than any concert or sporting event).  This man, once limited by height and defined by a love for money, passionately makes his way higher to get a view of the Jesus Parade.  And what Zacchaeus sees and hears would change his life forever.  Jesus calls him by name, asks to hang out, and offers the gift of salvation.  In Luke 19:9 Jesus declares, “Today salvation has come to this house, because this man, too, is a son of Abraham.”

When our faith is wearied from the day and our sight is blurred by the crowds, God can provide us with strength as we seek Him!  The things we want to see, are praying about, and hoping to come to pass, may not look promising from our present position.  It is when we ask God to help us and lift us up, that we will be able to look ahead with focus and unwavering faith.  In Jeremiah 33:3 the Lord declares, “Call to Me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know.”

As we find ourselves BY THE LORD’S SIDE, we will rise above the challenges to BETTER SEE what is ahead, what is beautiful, and what He has promised to us! Psalm 119:18 declares, “Open my eyes that I may see wonderful things in Your law.” The Lord is the way maker and promise keeper. He has perfect answers and long-lasting life for our families, finances, health, daily needs, close relationships, and unseen tomorrows. 

 Vision Month is the perfect time and reminder for us to seek and ask Father God for help, so we do not lose heart or lose sight on what is ahead!

"Fear the Lord, you His holy people, for those who fear Him lack nothing. The lions may grow weak and hungry, but those who seek the Lord lack no good thing.”- Psalm 34:9-10

There is a condition we need a cure for and control over.  It’s called EE (Emptiness Envy). Years ago, I suffered and needed healing from what the Holy Spirit diagnosed as Homeowner Envy.  I would talk Joanie’s ear off on the drive home about the amazing amenities of a friend’s house we just visited, while bemoaning the bare elements of our “happy” home. 

In Exodus 20:17 we read God’s tenth commandment, “You shall not covet your neighbor’s house. You shall not covet your neighbor’s wife…or anything that belongs to your neighbor.” Coveting often comes from a place of being convinced that others have it way better than we do.  There are times we get caught in the vicious vortex of comparison and an overall feeling of lack:  They are blessed, we are burdened; they are favored, we are forgotten; they are happy, we are hopeless; they have it all, we have nothing.  That does not exactly sound like David’s praise in Psalm 23:1, “The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing.”

Two things can help us break the curse of lack in our lives:

1) GIVE THANKS for everything you have- The other day I found myself needing to be reminded of this. I took time to thank Jesus for my house, our church, the state we live in, the stuff I own, and things I get to enjoy. My focus shifted from wanting more and minimizing what I have, to thanking Him for ALL He has provided and for the daily blessings that keep coming my way. 1 Timothy 6:17 tells us, “Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment.”

2) REMEMBER NOTHING (material) lasts forever- Let’s say you discovered you were given one-million dollars (I hear all the “Amens” already).  You know what would eventually happen?  That money would run out eventually. From new cars to the size of a house to the latest gadget we quickly discover that “stuff” passes away and fails to bring true fulfillment. In Matthew 6:19-20 Jesus teaches us, “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal.”

Looking to Jesus will shifts the lack we may have or feel, because He is always showering us with love and satisfying us with good!

"The cords of death entangled me, the anguish of the grave came over me; I was overcome by distress and sorrow. Then I called on the name of the Lord: ‘Lord, save me!”- Psalm 116:3-4

The feeling of being stuck can be tremendously terrifying and downright defeating.  Unless you are an avid cave diver, being in tight crevices and dark quarters is a hopeless place. One time my sister and I got stuck on an elevator with a stranger (talk about a doubly whammy).  Our tower of terror experience felt unending, until the doors suddenly opened to my grandmother waiting for us with bagels and the offer to stay home from school. 

Wherever we find ourselves stuck in life, the Lord is waiting there with His faithful presence and loving care.  The Apostle Paul needed this type of unfailing encounter to get him unstuck from some tough times and tight squeezes.  In Acts 18:9-10, Jesus meets His servant with this special message (way better than a bagel and day off from school), “Do not be afraid; keep on speaking, do not be silent. For I am with you, and no one is going to harm you, because I have many people in this city.”

The Lord does not want us to be overwhelmed by our present surroundings.  Many feel stuck in a bad job, trapped in a dead marriage, incapacitated by a health crisis, paralyzed by fear, riddled with bad luck, and taunted by their past.  There is a story for those stuck in messes: A veteran still coming to grips with the trauma of warfare; A parent who cannot forgive themselves for not being more present and consistent in their children’s lives; A believer who seemingly is choosing the right path but finds themselves getting the wrong results. 

Moses provides us with a great example of what to do when trapped in the middle of trouble.  With the Red Sea in front of him and the Egyptian army in hot pursuit from behind, this man of God speaks faith and victory to his dilemma.  In Exodus 14:13-14 Moses declares, “Do not be afraid. Stand firm and you will see the deliverance the Lord will bring you today. The Egyptians you see today you will never see again. The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.” In the midst of the trap, call on the Lord, stand on His promise, and believe for the victory!

Jesus is present to open doors and set us free from that stuck feeling.   

"Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of heavenly lights, who does not change like the shifting shadows.”- James 1:17

There are two types of people in the world: Those who love SURPRISE PARTIES and those who would take a hard pass on all the histrionics.

We need to return to a place of being pleasantly surprised by the Lord’s presence and promises. It is time once again to believe for Jesus to work wonders in our present day lives. In the past He saved us and looking ahead He has secured heaven for us, but let’s ask Him to move in our today’s. In Matthew 7:7 He says, “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.”

I remember one time being startled at a gas station, as I was unaware and unprepared for the pump to have a video monitor blasting infomercials my way. The suddenness of someone talking when no one else was around freaked me out! We sometimes act amazed and utterly befuddled when the Lord speaks our name and answers our prayers. We are not always prepared for Him to meet us and move in our lives. Hebrews 10:35 encourages us, “So do not throw away your confidence; it will be richly rewarded.”

Let’s put our faith into practice and let’s prioritize ASKING JESUS for HIS ANSWERS. Take a moment right now (this would be good to do every day) to ASK Jesus for one thing: help with finances; health for your body; wisdom for a decision; peace in a relationship; courage for a conversation; protection for a trip; a deeper desire for God. In Jeremiah 33:3 the Lord says, “Call to Me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know.”

Let’s ask Jesus to answer us with His amazing power and abundant love!

"Better is one day in Your courts than a thousand elsewhere; I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God than dwell in the tents of the wicked.”- Psalm 84:10

One of the best things about summertime is how breathtaking and energizing it is being OUTSIDE.  Multiple times I find myself gazing out the window wishing I was enjoying more of nature.  I’d rather be fishing, hiking, swimming, on a trip, at the beach, or just lounging in the backyard. 

There is no better place to be than in God’s presence.  In Psalm 16:2 David declares, “You are my Lord; apart from You I have no good thing.” The more we remain in Jesus, the more we find the answers to life through His abundant life! When we go to Him and follow Him, we will find all that we need to survive and thrive, to stand and endure, to walk and overcome.  His presence is the place we find peace, receive love, experience care, and gain insight.  In John 15:5 Jesus proclaimed, “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in Me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from Me you can do nothing.”

Another life-giving, top-priority, no-compromise place to be is at CHURCH, with God’s people.  The combination of our busy (spread way too thin) culture and the beauty of where we live can cause sporadic church attendance.  There is nothing wrong with fulfilling our work schedules, taking summer trips, and having multiple activities for our kids, but let’s have weekly church gatherings written in ink on our calendars as a number one fixture, where everything else needs to be adjusted around it.  Church is that important!  It is a place we get filled up by the Spirit, encouraged in our hearts, built up as disciples, and connected with other brothers and sisters.  Hebrews 10:24-25 tells us, “And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up the meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.”

Yes, there is so much we can do this summer, but I’d rather be with you at CROSSPOINT Church!

“In that day the Branch of the Lord will be beautiful and glorious, and the fruit of the land will be the pride and glory of the survivors in Israel.”- Isaiah 4:2

 A summer sunset is a stunning spectacle.  The tone of the sun, the pink tint in the clouds, the light glimmering off the water, makes sunsets must see summer programming. From vacation spots to favorite hikes to beach days, the summer provides us with many opportunities to behold beauty.

 There is nothing more beautiful than the Lord’s glory on display. Through His presence and power at work we get glimpses and deposits of His wonder-working ways.  Not only is what the Lord does beautiful to behold, it is personally and powerfully at work in all who will take hold of it.  In 2 Corinthians 3:18 the Apostle Paul writes, “And we all, who with unveiled faces contemplate the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into His image with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.”

Let’s focus on two beautiful displays today for us to behold.  First, the Lord’s promises are beautiful.  The Lord covenant promise is at work in His creation.  His day of salvation, help, and victory meets us. In Psalm 118:23-24 the writer speaks of the day of the Lord’s answer coming to earth in the form of His chosen Messiah, “The Lord has done this, and it is marvelous in our eyes. The Lord has done it this very day; let us rejoice and be glad in it.”  This wonderful picture became a powerful reality for the people who witnessed Jesus riding on a donkey into Jerusalem as a king centuries later (Matthew 21:1-11). What the Lord promises will come to pass!

Second, there is beauty in a life devoted to the Lord.  When we open our hearts to be filled with God’s presence, we truly become a beautiful masterpiece.  1 Peter 3:4 speaks of the beautiful deposit we need resident and reigning inside us, “Rather, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God’s sight.” So many are filled with the toxicity of the world, but as God’s chosen people we are to be transformed in Christ.  Some operate from places of anger and bitterness, but we flow from a place of love and patience.  Some focus on gain and greed, but we find joy in giving and serving. Some are riddled with fear and anxiety, but we rest in a peace and in the shelter of God’s constant and loving care. 

The Lord’s marvelous ways are on display all around us and abounding in us!

“Listen, my sons, to a father’s instruction; pay attention and gain understanding. I give you sound learning, so do not forsake my teaching.”- Proverbs 4:1-2

 As we celebrate Father’s Day this weekend, we honor the men who demonstrated a life of integrity, humility, sacrifice, and strength. One thing I have learned is that good fathers love to teach.  From cooking to catching a fish, from doing homework to changing the oil; from riding a bike to raking the lawn; we have gained so much from the life lessons they delivered.  Job 8:8, 10 states, “Ask the former generation and find out what their ancestors learned. Will they not instruct you and tell you? Will they not bring forth words from their understanding?”

 One of the greatest gifts in my life is having godly men who bring sound counsel, faithful care, and healthy challenge.  A key intersection for my instruction came after Pastor Scott Bauer’s death. Not only did I feel the pain of loss but an immense void of wisdom. He was the dad I went to for instruction on matters ranging from marriage and family to schooling and ministry.  In 2 Timothy 3:14 Paul calls this young leader to keep drawing from the wisdom deposited from trustworthy elders, “But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have become convinced of, because you know those from whom you learned it.”  I am glad to say that I sought out another father figure who was integral in helping me navigate through new challenges and responsibilities as a younger pastor. 

There is strength and safety when we learn from others who love God and live out His wisdom.  Find godly people to share with and give them permission to speak into your life.  As you have heard me say before, WE ARE BETTER TOGETHER!  In Romans 15:14 Paul says, “I myself am convinced, my brothers and sisters, that you yourselves are full of goodness, filled with knowledge and competent to instruct one another.” Let’s allow instruction to help us in our hearts and thoughts, our homes and relationships, our faith and purity, our careers and finances, and in just about every other area that concerns us. 

 There are still things for us to learn and life is a classroom not meant to be done alone! 

"For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Jesus Christ our Lord.”

- Romans 6:23

A practice that I highly recommend is an annual review of bills, subscriptions, and expenses. Taking time to look over your monthly costs will not only be eye-opening, but highly profitable. In a recent scouring of my spending patterns, I found big time savings on the cable and internet.

This week we celebrate our nation’s independence. This holiday culminates with fireworks lighting up the night. As believers in Jesus, we have been given the awesome reality of liberty! It is a freedom that brilliantly displays God’s heart for us and emboldens us with strength and confidence to live in grace, newness, and victory. Romans 8:2 tells us, “Because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit who gives life has set you free from the law of sin and death.”

Freedom in Christ is available to us, but the challenge is choosing to apply it to our daily accounts. Like bills and subscriptions that we are overpaying for (and likely not benefiting from), we tend to carry unneeded and unhealthy spiritual debt in our lives. We continue in the guilt of the past and/or failure over grace that covers us; we are defined by the words and labels of others over the promises God has declared; we concede to certain obstacles, weights, and limitations being a normal part of our existence over the newness and breakthrough we can have in Jesus. Galatians 5:1 tells us, “It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.”

It is time to cut ties with those lies, cancel the poor service connection, and live debt free in Jesus.

“The Lord is not slow in keeping His promise, as some understand slowness. Instead He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.”- 2 Peter 3:9

 Most everyone knows that I am a huge sports fan. I would even joke with Joanie while we were engaged to plan our wedding around the month that had the least significant sporting events.  And for anyone keeping score today, I have found an “error” when it comes to the sports world CALENDAR.  College basketball’s March Madness does not end until April; Baseball’s World Series, which gave Reggie Jackson the nickname “Mr. October”, is now played in November; Even soccer’s latest World Cup which traditionally takes place in the summer, last happened in December and January due to the host country’s extreme climate. 

 When it comes to our faith, we need to be careful not to fumble away our confidence in God’s promises and power.  There are words that we find in the Scriptures that need to be studied like a playbook, which provide us with a winning game plan.  Allow words like, “renew”; “anything”; “power”; “miracles”; “healing”; and “strength” to become a bedrock we stand upon and a foundation we live from.  For instance, read Isaiah 40:31 and choose to apply it to your present need, “But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” How is this promise from long ago still at work for you today? 

 Church family, the great news is that God’s promises perfectly match His matchless love and authority.  In 2 Corinthians 1:20-21a Paul writes, “For no matter how many promises God has made, they are ‘Yes’ in Christ. And so through Him the ‘Amen’ is spoken by us to the glory of God. Now it is God who makes both us and you stand firm in Christ.” Jesus is the superstar we all need, whose performance is never outdated, late, or missing the mark. Because of His victory we are all champions!  

“After they prayed, the place where they were meeting was shaken. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God boldly.”- Acts 4:31

 One of the big tasks for our family during this season of transition is finding a new home.  I am not sure which is harder, finding the right place to call home or getting all your stuff ready for the big move.  Searching for a home can be challenging. In addition to seeing some places that were far from a right fit and having other places go to someone else, we have had scheduled visits cut short due to not having a key to access property and even a dog being loose upstairs. 

 This weekend marks Pentecost Sunday, the day the Holy Spirit was poured out on the believers and day the Church was born.  As we approach Pentecost in the present day, we need to see an unlocking of the Spirit’s presence and power in our lives and faith community.  It is through the Spirit that we experience greater levels of relationship with Jesus and lasting deposits of strength for our lives.  In Galatians 5:25 Paul invites us, “Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit.” 

 True Spirit living is not limited to a church gathering, to a time of fasting and prayer, to an encounter of sharing our faith with someone else.  Spirit life is a holy takeover of our lives where full access and authority is at work in and through us! By the Spirit we can walk in wisdom, we can operate from a place of strength, we can live a pleasing life to God, we can share our faith boldly, we can overcome our flesh and the enemy. 1 John 4:4 tells us, “You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the One who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world.”

 Today (and everyday for that matter) make an appointment to do life with and in the Holy Spirit. In one of the most heartfelt prayers of admission, David cries out in Psalm 51:11, “Do not cast me from Your presence or take Your Holy Spirit from me.”  He is the key that causes you to enter better places and He provides a freedom into the fullness of all that God has provided today and prepared eternally. 

 The Holy Spirit is looking for a home in our hearts and when He is welcomed in the wonder begins!

“I have not departed from the commands of His lips; I have treasured the words of His mouth more than my daily bread.”- Job 23:12

 A game families play to stay entertained during a long drive is keeping count of distinct vehicles along the way.  From a type of vehicle, a specific color, to out of state license plates, there is a tallying of the totals as people go from point “A” to point “B”.

 As our church embarks on this new season of transition, it will be fun and faith building to capture truths that the Lord shows us along the way!   In John 6:68 Peter made a remarkable declaration while others were abandoning Jesus, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life.”  It can be easy during times of change to become anxious, impatient, or fixated on negative possibilities but let me remind us that we serve the God of the impossible, who always does good.    

 Over this next season would you take the same posture Mary did when she received an unexpected announcement for which she was completely unprepared?  In Luke 1:38 she answers the angel Gabriel, “I am the Lord’s servant, may your word to me be fulfilled.” Take time to write down any words and pictures, messages and visions, Scripture Promises and Spirit Promptings you receive.  After writing them down, do these three things:

 1. Pray and ask God for greater clarity about the word.

2. Read the word(s) when you feel overwhelmed or afraid.

3. Share the word(s) with me or one of our other pastors if the word is for Crosspoint Church.

 God’s Word stands in every season and wins in every circumstance.  We are believing for this next chapter for our faith community to be filled with life in every way.  Romans 15:13 tells us, “May the God of all hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”

 Let’s focus our hearts on His truth and take hold of hope together!

“But Jesus answered them, ‘My Father is working until now, and I am working.”- John 5:17

 Did you have a family gathering for Easter?  If so, you may have been the recipient and benefactor of an amazing meal.  What often gets overlooked at a special holiday brunch or dinner are the people responsible for preparing the feast.  The food may be devoured in minutes, but the fine cuisine took hours to perfect. 

 The above words from Jesus have “come alive” in my heart in the past week. That should come as no surprise, as God’s Holy Word is a Living Word (Hebrews 4:12), being planted in our hearts and bringing power to our lives.  This truth was a timely reminder that my CONFIDENCE does not come based on my CIRCUMSTANCES.  My trust, expectation, belief in a great and victorious outcome is based on God being good and doing good.  Towards the end of Joshua’s life, he recapped how God was always keeping His promises and performing His wonders.  Joshua 21:45 says, “Not one of all the Lord’s good promises to Israel failed; every one was fulfilled.”

 In a recent interview, a renowned celebrity and icon in the music industry shared that he had “beef” (problems) with Jesus.  This person who has had moments of seeking God and falling away, shared that his main point of contention was that Jesus had not answered his prayers when he needed Him the most. 

 There are occasions as we wait on God to answer and help, that it feels like time is running out and the math is not adding up.  When the answer feels LATE, it does not mean that God is not WORKING on it. When the answer is not to our LIKING, it does not mean that God’s ways are less WONDERFUL.  The outcomes we experience will teach us that God is fully aware of it and properly handling it.  He truly does care enough to send you the very best!  Ephesians 3:20 tells us, “Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us.” 

 May your faith be ready to be filled and fired up by the work Jesus is doing today and that is on the way!

“The Lord has done it this very day; let us rejoice today and be glad.”- Psalm 118:24

 Everything about Easter translates joy and hope.  The bright assortment of outfits and hats; children giddily racing around on an egg hunt; families and friends gathering for a special meal; services filled with first-time guests, seekers, and people re-engaging church. 

 The above Psalm was a prophetic, praiseworthy promise of the coming Messiah who would deliver salvation, reign forever, and be the cause of great joy for God’s people.  Psalm 118 is what the crowds shouted in joyous triumph as King Jesus made His way down the Mount of Olives and into Jerusalem.  The people who witnessed His coming were able to connect this moment to what had been written centuries before.  In a way they were TRANSLATING the promises of God to what was happening before their eyes in present time. 

 Translation is important when using your phone to find a specific word when engaging someone who speaks a different language. Translation is important when using a recipe that has different measurements than you are used to. Translation is important when deciphering a teenager’s text with abbreviated words, unfamiliar terms, and silly emojis.  And for us in this Easter season, like those at the Triumphal Entry, we want to experience a heavenly translation and transformation today.  In Matthew 6:9-10 Jesus taught His disciples to pray with the following translation, “Our Father in heaven, hallowed be Your name, Your kingdom come, Your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.”

 Let’s translate the verse from Psalm 118 by looking at three words we can hold onto as a hope:

 1. “The LORD has done it…”- Our God brings life.  He is our source and sustainer.  Hes does all things well.  He will accomplish His purposes and deliver abundant life (John 10:10). 

2. “this very DAY…”- Today is a promise, a gift, and part of His salvation plan (2 Corinthians 6:2).  Let’s believe for God to show up in our lives, displaying His glory and releasing His grace.

3. “let us REJOICE today and be GLAD.”- Our response to the Lord should be marked by gratitude.  Take time to thank Jesus for all He has done and is doing (Hebrews 13:15). 

 Discovering and deciphering the miracle of all that Jesus has for us in a fresh way this Easter!

“For if you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.”- 2 Peter 1:8

 Out of Service.  Those words can be cringeworthy when we find something not working or available at a time of need:  A drive-thru ATM machine that is down; a beverage being out of stock; a favorite ride not running at Disneyland; a website unable to process an online payment; a hotel being booked the week we have vacation.  Even the cooler weather this year has kept me from enjoying the pool and getting my regular exercise regimen in.  When things are unable to be used, we feel it!

 A life of faith is meant to be fully engaged and fruitful.  We have been called out by Jesus to live a life infused by His Spirit, active in service, and producing results that make a difference.  In Matthew 12:33 Jesus says, “Make a tree good and its fruit good, or make a tree bad and its fruit bad, for a tree is recognized by its fruit.”

 When we live according to God’s design and Christ’s commands we are operating at maximum capacity and possibility.  Through the power of Jesus we are being built into dynamic kingdom contributors.  The more we access His life, the less breakdowns we will experience.  In Colossians 1:11 the Apostle Paul prays for us, “Being strengthened with all power according to His glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience.”

 May His power help you become a bright beacon of light and hope.  Let’s be ready to serve using our skills and resources, look for ways to help a person in need, be ready to speak a prayer, blessing, Scripture, or testimony to someone needing the Good News. Let’s be open to making daily deposits in our homes, neighborhoods, workplaces, campuses, and church. Galatians 5:13 reminds us, “You, brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love.”

 Be open for kingdom business and get ready for big-time blessing!

“And His incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is the same as the mighty strength He exerted when He raised Christ from dead and seated Him at His right hand in the heavenly realms.”- Ephesians 1:19-20

 May and June mean it is GRADUATION TIME!  On campuses all across the nation students of all ages, from elementary school through graduate programs, will be taking part in ceremonies, wearing caps and gowns, hearing inspiring commencement speeches, and receiving well-earned diplomas. Even in our church we have three amazing leaders who have completed their studies, advancing them forward in God’s calling and ministry.  This is a time of grand celebration and achievement. 

 All these graduations have me thinking about growing as believers and in the greatness God wants us to walk in.  We were never meant to live a life that stays at base camp, has a minimum approval rating, or remains in cruise control.  We’re designed by God to bear fruit and commissioned to increase in it.  In John 15:2 Jesus said, “God cuts off every branch in Me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit He prunes so that it will be even more fruitful.” 

 God is calling us to live beyond the elementary places of faith through the empowering authority and vitality of the Holy Spirit.  The Spirit is our Master Teacher who is constantly speaking, shaping, and strengthening us to do the will of God and excel in this life.  As we walk with and learn from Him, we are going to see greatness move from a seed in our heart to signs in our lives.  Greatness can transpire and transform our everyday activities, relationships, possessions, and careers.  In 2 Corinthians 4:7 we read Paul’s powerful proclamation, “But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that the all-surpassing power is from God and not from us.”

 Church family, I commission us to be the class of 2024 with a 24/7 GPA (God’s purpose and anointing)!