An Association of fifty-three American Baptist Churches in Southeastern Massachusetts bound together in ministry and mission. chec our website at www.oldcolonybaptist.org
Sunday, June 17, 2007
Welcome to the blog for the Old Colony Baptist Association. Just one more way for us to communication with each other and share our ministries. Feel free to add your comments to this blog at any time!
A number of years ago I went to visit a friend. After the usual hellos she asked me, "What is God teachng you?" The question gave me pause. It was so personal, and required a depth of honesty not only with her but with myself. What is God teaching me? It gets to the joys, and the struggles, the worries and the triumphs of my life - my real life. It combines all aspects of my life spiritual, emotional, and physical. It addresses the closeness and contact with God. It was thirty years ago that my friend asked me that question, and I am still reflecting on the answer.
"What is God teachng you?" I would have to say, God is teaching me how to love everyone the way he loves everyone(including me). Loving some people does not come easy you have to love on purpose or practice love. When I cannot do it of myself I pray and ask God to help me love like Him UNCONDITIONALLY. Sometimes I do not like what they do, but want to love them anyways.
I read a small pamphlet entitled, "Tyranny of the Urgent". The premises was that what is urgent in our lives can shout down what is important. The council of churches supports a group called "Take Back Your Time" and talks about how Americans are time impoverished, and the need for Sabbath. It does seem that we are often rushed, and perhaps even over scheduled. I would like to know how different people of faith determine their priorities, discern between what is urgent and what is important.
This Sunday evening I worshiped with the Renewed Baptist Church of Vineyard Haven. Eduardo Nunes is the pastor and the service is primarily in Brazilian Portuguese. The service was held at 7:00 PM in the parish hall of FBC Vineyard Haven. As one walked into the hall a large white canopy encompassed the front. Under it was a menorah, an alter for the placement of incense, and a table with the bread of the presence on it. There was also a veil across the back. A chapter from Paul's letter from the Hebrews was read explaining about how we as Christians have access to God through the life of Jesus Christ and the temple veil that once separated humankind from the most holy presence of God was torn in half at the crucifixion of Christ. Next two men entered the temple area; one older and one younger. both lay down to sleep at opposite ends of the area. God's call to Samuel was played out before us in a clear and poignant way. Following the play was a short message from the pastor giving his testimony of God's call on his life and inviting those present to respond to the call of God on their life. it was clear that those who worshiped that night knew and had responded to the call of Christ in their lives. This was evident through the music ministry of the praise team, individual speakers and the children's choir. There was a part of the service when the children were called forward and I was expecting a children's story but instead the congregation prayed fervently for the well being of the children present. My Mom and I were warmly greeted by most of the congregation and made to feel at home. Pastor Nunes explained to me that TABCOM and FBC Vineyard Haven have been instrumental in the beginning of this ministry in 1996 and they are grateful to our Executive Minister Tony Pappas and FBC Pastor Roger Spinney for all of the support in beginning this ministry.
October 26, 2007 The 2008 TABCOM Annual Gathering theme is “Transforming Communities”. While planning I asked the question, “What about transforming Communities speaks to your heart?” Some of the answers included the conviction that as Christians we are salt and light. Someone else said that transforming communities is not an option for people of faith but a result of faithful living and part of the prophet voice. Another person spoke about transforming communities in relation to concern for people who are hungry, those who are imprisoned, those who are tortured, and those who are enslaved by human traffickers. The distinction between service and transformation was debated.
I began thinking about the distress I feel when I think about our country torturing other people who are prisoners or enemy combatants. I was reminded that there was a peace rally in Boston on Saturday. I was already booked – but at last night I was asked to postpone Saturday’s commitment. Could this be God providing me a chance to practice what I preach? As my husband and I relaxed on the couch with the TV tuned to Bill Moyers. We listened to the topic of presidential power and congressional oversight. The show focused on domestic spying and the torture of prisoners thought linked to U.S.A. national security threats. I could not sit still. I kept thinking of the conversation earlier about a Christian’s responsibility to be involved in the transformation of communities.
October 27, 2007 The alarm buzzed and I thought about rolling over in my warm bed or getting dressed to march under clouds and possible rain. My feet slowly touched down on the floor. I called a friend who was going to the peace rally and said that my husband and I had decided to go and could we meet him at the train? Everyone was moving so slowly -the traffic, the people, and me. Fortunately so was the train – it was 10 minutes late. We actually had enough time to get a coffee, something to eat and two round trip tickets. On board it was hard to find three seats together. Although I did not see another peace buttons, or banners at the train station, the train was unusually full for a Saturday morning. I listened to the conversations near by and we were on the peace train. At South Station students from Brown were carrying signs for the rally. More signs and full subway cars at the Park Street Station, we could see that up the stairs, a crowd seemed to be gathering 100 feet away. In the crowd were black hair, brown hair, blond hair, gray hair, green hair and purple hair. The people were as varied as the organizations we represented.
The banners they carried and how they were dressed easily identified Quakers, Mennonites, and Catholics. Nothing in particular identified us three. Folk music, speakers, exhibits were all part of the atmosphere. Someone gave us a signs to carry, and my friend suggested we join the line for the march. My husband looked for the Baptist Peace Fellowship but if they were there he did not find them. The crowed thickened and we followed behind the Service Employees Union. Peace chants began “What do we want?” “Peace “– “When do we want it?” – “Now.” But we all knew even if peace came now all of the troops would not be home until almost a year. “They want warfare – We want healthcare.” Surely some of them must want healthcare too? “No justice –No peace.” (No argument there.) “What does democracy look like? - This is what democracy looks like.” -- Hmmmm
I couldn’t see the beginning of the march, nor could I see its end. We were somewhere in the middle and the line started moving. I am old enough to remember the anti Vietnam War protests. Tensions between protestors, police, and on lookers often resulted in arrests, and or injury. What would happen today? Police blocked the streets. Down Tremont, toward Copley, by the Hancock buildings, in-between the library and Trinity Church, on lookers for the most part took pictures and many smiled and nodded. Waiters and others looked on from the windows on either side of the street. Police on motorcycles stood like statues intermittently along the route. Up Boylston two more Baptist joined us. We shook hands and walk shoulder to shoulder. We stepped aside as we finished the square mile route to encourage those behind us. Ladies in hats, Vets in caps, puppies for peace along with students, and granddads, older and younger moms, and men, all of us daughters and sons.
After the New Orleans style jazz band brought up the rear my husband spoke with a smile on his face – “This is what democracy looks like – It’s not pretty”. Why did I march? It all goes back to the conversation and question- “What about transforming communities speaks to your heart?”
Advent 1 This is the first of four Advent messages written by Rev. Ken Scarborough, Pastor of Somerset Baptist Church. They are based on the Common Lectionary used by many denominations for scripture selections each Sunday and special days.
The first Sunday of Advent begins with a gospel selection reminding all of the need to be serious about being prepared for the coming of the Son of Man. Matthew 24:36-44 is sub-titled “The Necessity for Watchfulness.”
Even Jesus denied knowledge of the day and hour; stating that “Only the Father” knew the ultimate plan that would end life as we know it here on earth. We can interpret this to mean the end of time or the end of an individual life.
From the beginning of time, men and women have ignored the signs that directed their actions toward a relationship with God. God wants desperately for everyone to be part of His family.
Isaiah 2:2 “In days to come the mountain of the LORD’S house shall be established at the highest of the mountain and shall be raised above the hills, all nations will stream to it.
Psalm 122:1 “I was glad when they said to me; Let us go into the house of the Lord.
Jesus could not have been clearer when he instructed the people of his time that they were to be ever watchful, lest they be caught off guard when the Son of Man came. He gives examples how people standing side by side can be in very different relationships with the Lord and in different stages of readiness to receive Him.
The apostle Paul, when writing to the Romans, urged them to have a relationship worthy of the Salvation that was at hand. He was aware that many were still practicing the habits and way of life they had been leading before they became believers. He counseled them to put aside their deeds of darkness and to put on the armor of light
It is Advent 2007 and Jesus is urging us today to be ready at all times. One might ask how we become ready. Simply put, it is to accept Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior and put anything that would lead you astray out of your life. This may mean habits, disobedience of His teachings or even family or friends who are not in step with Jesus.
Churches in Somerset and every other town or city throughout this nation have caring congregations waiting to welcome you into the family of God. I urge you to attend church this Sunday and the next three Sundays of Advent that you may be prepared to greet the Christ Child on Christmas day.
Lectionary for Dec. 02 – Is. 2:1-5, Ps. 122, Rom. 13:11-14, Matt. 24:36-44
This is the second of four messages written by Rev. Ken Scarborough, pastor of Somerset Baptist Church for the season of Advent.
This Sunday’s Isaiah scripture tells us of the one who is coming from the root of Jesse. The preview of what is to come describes a time when the world will turn on it axis and even the animals who have been enemies will coexist in harmony. On this day the earth will be full of the knowledge and the nations will rally to Him. We find Jesse as the father of King David in the genealogy of Christ as recorded in the opening chapter of the Gospel of Matthew.
The prayers of David who is also identified as the son of Jesse in the 72nd Psalm give blessing to the Lord who “alone can do wondrous things.” This is a prayer for righteousness and prosperity with deliverance of the poor.
As we move through this advent season, we do not have to look far to find the poor and the homeless. They are easy to miss if we confine our search to the interior of our houses of worship and the affluent communities. A drive through the housing projects or lower income streets will reveal children who need attention. We will see adults searching through trash cans to eek out an existence. Many programs are in place to assist the homeless, but many either do not choose to avail themselves of services or are ashamed to take a handout. These are the people Jesus came to seek and to save.
In the 15th chapter of Romans, Paul wanted to make it clear that the gospel was for both Jews and Gentiles. The descendent from the root of Jesse would care for and include the Gentile people into the family of God. We need to frequently be reminded that just because someone is different from us in appearance, actions, culture or economic status does not make them more or less valuable in the eyes of God.
The Gospel writer of Matthew quotes the prophet Isaiah in proclaiming, “The voice of one crying out in the wilderness: ‘Prepare the way of the Lord, make His path straight.’”
John the Baptist came from the wilderness to the river Jordan baptizing and calling people to repentance. Great crowds came to be baptized including some who John the Baptist admonished for coming to flee the wrath without bearing fruits worthy of repentance.
Many will come today to the popular churches drawing the crowds or the prestigious churches and not go forth each day bearing fruits that lead to the kingdom of God. God calls us to the baptismal waters today in order that we may drown the sins of our lives and come from the waters with new life wanting to serve Him in every way we can.
John was hesitant to baptize the one who would baptize with water and with fire, but Jesus came to be baptized to “fulfill all righteousness.” As the dove descended and landed on Jesus, a voice of heaven said “This is my Son the Beloved, with whom I am well pleased.”
There are many churches in Somerset, Swansea and neighboring communities waiting to welcome you into their fellowship. Visit one this Sunday to begin to find your way or way back to God.
Lectionary for Dec. 09 – Is. 11:1-10, Ps. 72:1-7,18-19, Rom. 15:4-13, Matt. 3:1-12
This is the third of four messages written by Rev. Ken Scarborough, pastor of Somerset Baptist Church, for the season of Advent. On this third Sunday of Advent, the lectionary offers several options. Each of the options tells of the coming of Christ and the need for each of us to be prepared.
Imagine what Christmas morning would be like at your house if the children came into your room and asked why there was no tree or presents in the living room. You would suddenly realize you had forgotten to shop for any presents or make any preparation for Christmas. There would be great sadness and disappointment in your house that day. It would be too late to go and shop, because all the stores would be closed.
A hymn by Lelia N. Morris; “What If It Were Today” makes us realize that the return of Christ could be today. She wrote verses in a positive vein, such as “Faithful and true would He find us here.” If Jesus stopped by your house today, would He find your family ready to join Him for life eternal, or would there be some things you had forgotten to take care of?
Isaiah 35 foretells the return of the redeemed to Zion. Verse 8 speaks of the highway that will be there, that will be called the Holy Way. This highway was for God’s people and would be closed to the unclean. God cared about His people being in a state of readiness and sent prophets such as Isaiah to warn the people to repent and follow in the ways of God. Those that were living lives of sin would not be able to join the others in that great journey. God cares just as much for His children today and wants us to put aside anything that would block our admittance to the Holy Way. He would later send John the Baptist to call His people to repentance and make a highway for the Lord.
Luke 1:47-55 is the Song of Praise that Mary said acknowledging how God had favored her to be the mother of the Christ Child. She knew she was proof that He lifted the lowly and filled the hungry with good things. Those who hunger and thirst for Him will be filled, but those who ignore His teachings and eat and drink of what the world offers will be scattered and unable to find their way home.
In the letter that James wrote to the twelve tribes scattered among the nations, he told them of the need for patience in waiting for the Lord. He used the example of the farmer who “waits for the precious crop from the earth, being patient with it until it receives the early and the late rains.” What he fails to mention is the work the farmer puts into the crop. He must first till the land, plant the seed and eliminate weeds with proper cultivation.
An individual’s faith must likewise be carefully planted. The ground was tilled by our ancestors. The faithful commitment of sharing the truths of the scripture equates to the planting of the seed. Our personal decisions of who we associate with and who we avoid determine our willingness to eliminate the weeds from choking us. Like our ancestors we must till the land for those that follow and plant only good seeds for them to know the value of a life following Christ.
Like John the Baptist as described in Matthew 11:2-11, our sufferings may cause us to wonder if God really exists and if His Son is really returning for us. Jesus simply told John’s disciples to tell John what they had witnessed. Church congregations are waiting to witness to you each and every Sunday in worship and throughout the week in service. I encourage you to make Jesus Christ a priority in your life and attend church not only this Sunday, but every Sunday of the year. Imagine how terrible it would be if someone came to church and it was your witness that could lead them to Christ but you were not there. You are so important to God’s plan that He sent His only Son to find you. Come share in the Greatest Journey on Earth and in Heaven.
Lectionary for Dec. 16: Is. 35:1-10, Ps. 146-5:10, or Luke 1:47-55, James 5:7-10, Matt.12:2-11
This morning my husband Steve and I were privileged to worship with the Winthrop Street Baptist Church in Taunton. This Sunday the congregation was celebrating the ministry of their Pastor, The Rev. David K. Swensen, and his wife Connie. This particular congregation has a special place in my heart as it is the church I attended during my teen years. I was discipled there, and baptized by Pastor Swensen at the Easter Sunday Evening Service in 1978. Pastor Swensen preached the, Charge to the Congregation at my installation as Pastor at the Chelmsford Street Baptist Church in 1986.
At all retirements kind words are said, and memories are shared. This was no exception, however what stood out in my mind was the faithful witness of this servant pastor. This Sunday the Rev. Swensen stepped into the pulpit to preach, and preached about the transforming love of Jesus Christ and how each one of us is an answer to somebody’s prayer. Dave always preaches an inspiring and thoughtful sermon, however this one was not only the usually well thought out elucidation of a Biblical passage and its application to our life, it was what I think of as the core of Pastor Swenson's ministry. One of the phrases he repeated was “Love does not ask how little it can do but how much."
Winthrop Street Baptist Church is a thriving, congregation, I believe that this is so in large part because Pastor Swenson has put himself at God's service, and continued throughout his ministry to grow in his love and devotion to our Savior. Sure he has studied, read and prepared and prayed, as all pastors should, but he has led with and because of the love of Christ in his own life. In thirty years this love has grown and deepened. Thank you pastor for your ministry, and for your life of faith. As we sung at the benediction, "God Bless and Keep you forever".
This Sunday Steve and I went to worship at First Baptist Scituate. I was asked to fill the pulpit for the Rev. Stephen Trimble who was on vacation. Many congregations do not have a choir during the summer. FBC has an informal choir. On any given Sunday anyone at worship is welcomed to sing the anthem. One woman commented to me that they actually found more people singing than when they had a formal choir. That observation sparked a conversation regarding music, and the difference between worship and performance. Not that being a church exempts us from giving our best in our service to Christ, but the focus is different. In worship all that we do centers on coming into God's presence. Music in worship is a way of helping us to entering to God's presence using faculties that lean more toward the realm of experience rather than thought. I think that the folks at FBC Scituate are doing something right and are blessed by it.
Yesterday afternoon my husband Steve and I were privileged to celebrate the ordination of two women to the Diaconate of the Lincoln Congregational Church in Brockton. The Rev. Huston Crayton, Jr. Is the pastor. It was a true time of thanksgiving for “the equipping of the saints for the ministry of God. “ Deaconess Nettie Lewis and Deaconess Joyce Weston have not only recognized the claim of Christ on their lives, and desire to use their gifts in this special ministry at our sister church but have studied and prepared extensively. In many of our congregations adults may have the desire to serve but do not dedicate themselves to learning and reflection that is required of a mature faith. The diaconate training at Lincoln Congregational also emphasizes the need for continuous spiritual growth, and understanding. The ministry of these women will include prayer for the members, ministry, ministers and pastors of the church, the bringing communion to those who are sick and shut-in, and being present with women of the church for encouragement, consultation and prayer.
This afternoon’s service was a wonderful acknowledgement of the work of the Holy Spirit as teacher guide and counselor. We worshiped Christ through praise, prayer, preaching and participation. The choir and musicians led in that joyful worship. Friends, and family of the women who were being ordained gave thanks for the work of the holy spirit in their midst. Sister Patricia Whitlow, who has a new CD released, movingly sang “I am Grateful” as a testimony of the healing power of God in her life. I was both honored and humbled to bring the message this afternoon and very much appreciate the Love Gift given to me by Rev. Crayton and the congregation.
Lincoln Congregational is seeking to sell their present building and begin the physical construction of a new church building on Oak Street in Brockton. They have persevered in that vision however they have not focused on a new building as an end in itself. Rather they are regularly witnessing to the transforming power of Christ to heal broken people, and change lives. One of their newest ministries has been to provide a food pantry for those who are working during the day and cannot make ends meet. The food pantry at Lincoln is open during evening hours. Thank you Rev. and Mrs. Crayton, ministers, deacons, deaconesses, leaders, members and friends of Lincoln for making visible the strength, and compassion of Christ by “Loving the Lord your God with all of your heart, mind and strength and loving your neighbors as yourselves.”
It’s time for my yearly vacation to Martha’s Vineyard. Mom arrived on Sunday the 24th. Steve and I caught the last boat over from Wood’s Hole on Wednesday night. He arrived with 15 min. to spare on our 1970’s Honda. I left the car parked in Falmouth. As many of the members of the OCBA know, we have four congregations here on the island. First Baptist Vineyard Haven is home to both their own congregation and to the Renewed Baptist Church pastored by the Rev. Edwardo Nunes. The Rev. Roger Spinney pastors both FBC and the Native American congregation, the Gay Head Community Baptist Church in Aquinnah. The Rev. Gerald Fritz is the pastor at the Federated Church in Edgartown. The Rev. David Berube is a sergeant with the Oak Bluffs Police Force and also serves as their Chaplain. How do you raise a ½ million dollars? On Thursday I found out one answer to that question. If you’re First Baptist Vineyard Haven and your pastor can cook pulled pork barbeque like the Rev. Spinney its $12 at a time. FBC, not unlike many of our congregations, needed to make substantial repairs and renovations to their building. Some structural work has been completed as has a bathroom been added to the building that houses the sanctuary. I understand that the next phase will include a connecting of the sanctuary building with the parish house. The dinner was as advertised – “The best deal on the Island” and delicious too. Although I could write a great review of the food, and the servers at the dinner (I’ll post a few pictures soon.), what I really want to talk about is the ministry of FBC. Worship, Sunday School, and Bible Study are all part of the usual schedule. Unlike many of our sister churches in OCBA the churches on MV are in full gear during the summer. Attendance swells, and those gone for many months return. Ministering effectively on this Island is all about relationships, and many of the clergy have more than one ministry. Roger not only pastors two churches but he is also the Chaplain at the jail. The many walks of island life represented at FBC are evident not only on Sunday morning, but also at the Saturday night dinners. Those cooking, serving, and eating vary in age, and experience, yet form a dynamic community that not only supports FBC Vineyard Haven but is FBC Vineyard Haven. During dinner I had the chance to catch up with The Rev. David Berube and his wife Ellen. I can hardly believe that their son Joshua is a junior at Eastern Baptist College. Joshua has decided on majoring in communications. Ellen continues to teach school on MV, and Dave is now working four ten hour days during the week. (For those wondering he is available to preach.) As an Air Force Chaplain, Dave’s deployments are not as frequent as other branches of the military, however he is anticipating another deployment after spring of 2009. I often half jokingly say to my husband and my mom that church is once a day, and twice on Sundays. Tomorrow morning I plan to be worshiping at the Federated Church in Edgartown, and having lunch with two of the church members who are very involved in ministry in Ghana. Sunday evening will be spent with our Brazilian congregation the Renewed Baptist Church.
THE CENTER FOR EXCELLENCE IN CONGREGATIONAL LEADERSHIP Part 1 The Center for Excellence in Congregational Leadership (CECL) is funded through a generous grant from the Lilly Foundation as well as from private donors, and it happens at the Green Lake Conference Center in Wisconsin. I am part of Class Six, which means five classes have preceded mine, and Class Seven is just beginning. Each class starts with 50 or so pastors representing churches from a variety of denominational backgrounds. Did you know that 2,800 churches died last year in America? It is as though the Lord extinguished their candles because they loved themselves more that the communities they were called to serve. It is easy to become satisfied with our weekly offerings, to live on our endowments, or to think that the size of our church is “just right.” We would not want to become too big, we think. The Lord says to the church that the problem is not the possibility of our church becoming too large, but of thousands around us leaving this life without any hope for eternity. The problem is that, no matter what we say, we are not outward focused. A church has to choose to become outward focused. Any pastor will tell you that a church does not become focused on its community naturally. Many pastors recognize that their personal influence is simply not strong enough to turn their churches around and cause those churches to become intentionally focused on their communities and become congregations that are missionally empowered. Plus, when pastor goes off to a conference, he/she often returns excited about some new thing, but the church yawns, having seen all this before. CECL is different, in that lay teams accompany the pastor on two of the five CECL weeks, which offers the opportunity to help a number of church leaders get on the same page as their pastor, be refreshed in their spirits, and become enthused about what God wants to do in their church. Attention is paid to the personal devotional life of the pastor, the pastor’s marriage, and to relationships within the body of believers. As no pastor is imbued with super powers, we all need the encouragement and accountability that sharing in a peer group and having a coach provides. I have been in active pastoral ministry since 1974. For me, having a coach/mentor as well as a peer group that is working on the same problems as I is a priceless encouragement. Pastors know that it is easy to preach sermons designed to promote an outward focus in their churches, but it is another thing entirely to get church members to be willing to change their ways, be open to other people sitting in “their” pews, and be intentional about making disciples. But, healthy churches make disciples. Healthy churches make room in their hearts and in their schedules and in their buildings for whatever God calls them to do. The fact is that we have all chosen committees and charged them to create vision and mission statements. When their work was done, we congratulated them, and then we went on “doing church” as we have been without any significant changes happening in our hearts.
So, transitioning our churches is a key concept if we want to break the cycle of degradation and entropy that characterizes churches as they move through their history. The steps are not new; I remember studying them as part of National Ministries’ Church Planters Institute some years ago. The difference is that CECL pastors are not walking through this transition process alone. “It’s a vision thing.” Any committee can come up with a fine sounding vision or mission statement, but it will be worth no more than the printer ink that is used to reproduce it… unless that vision is sought and given by God. Your church can take the time to ask God for whatever it is that He wants for you, and then actively wait for Him to show it to you. If you or some of your church did the “Experiencing God” study by Henry Blackaby, you already know that watching to see where God is working is crucial to discovering where you should put your energies. During CECL Weeks three and four, lay leaders are invited to join their pastors for the weekend at Green Lake. This affords a tremendous opportunity for both pastors and leaders to pray together, share together, and listen to what the Lord is saying through each other. The teaching times during these weeks are immensely practical and helpful for both pastor and people to find themselves on the same page. Several of our church’s leaders flew to Green Lake last week. Needless to say, there is a certain excitement about what God has already said to us as we return to Cape Cod. For example, we know that God has opened our church to the recovery community, so this seems to be an area where God is already at work. We intend to do some prayer walking in our neighborhoods and around our church, and to step slowly into the area of fasting, as we ask God to give us His heart for our community. We began a pilot small group in the spring, and now plan to develop several Grow Groups to encourage personal discipleship and growth among our members. You’ll be encouraged to move slowly into this process. The potential for conflict is a reality. Some may be less than desirous of any attempt to change church as they have known it. That is why we are seeking to build and strengthen our own relationship with the Lord, so that we can partner with Him and not impatiently run ahead of Him.
Why Do We Do What We Do- I am attending the Continuing Ed on Interim Ministry. The required reading is a book called "Drive:The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us" It's not a bad book. I find it to be an easy read, just not all that surprising. That's ok. I really do not like surprises all that much. The author, Daniel H. Pink is describing a third motivation that is involved with creativity, and effectiveness. I am a little more than half way through the book, and Pink has spent quite a bit of time looking at positive reinforcement via tangible rewards and the limits to their effectiveness.
Those in ministry understand this. People do not readily get involved in ministry for the tangible rewards. There is another motivation. People will make considerable sacrifices for their priorities.
Some Pastors have been talking to me saying that in their efforts to live out the Great Commission personally and in conjunction with equipping the members of their Church to do the same fewer and fewer people are concerned about life after death, and eternal rewards. However more are interested in finding purpose, and meaning. I think this also is seen in the answer to the question why do you go to church here? More times then not it has to do with the love demonstrated by the people of a particular church. I suppose that is not so new. The New Testament repeatedly states how love is evidence of the presence of God and the gifts of the Holy Spirit. It is clear to me that people will do for love what they would not do for money.
The Old Colony Baptist Association is a group of 53 American Baptist Churches in Southeastern Massachusets who have come together in ministry and mission
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A number of years ago I went to visit a friend. After the usual hellos she asked me, "What is God teachng you?" The question gave me pause. It was so personal, and required a depth of honesty not only with her but with myself. What is God teaching me? It gets to the joys, and the struggles, the worries and the triumphs of my life - my real life. It combines all aspects of my life spiritual, emotional, and physical. It addresses the closeness and contact with God. It was thirty years ago that my friend asked me that question, and I am still reflecting on the answer.
"What is God teachng you?"
I would have to say, God is teaching me how to love everyone the way he loves everyone(including me). Loving some people does not come easy you have to love on purpose or practice love. When I cannot do it of myself I pray and ask God to help me love like Him UNCONDITIONALLY. Sometimes I do not like what they do, but want to love them anyways.
I read a small pamphlet entitled, "Tyranny of the Urgent". The premises was that what is urgent in our lives can shout down what is important. The council of churches supports a group called "Take Back Your Time" and talks about how Americans are time impoverished, and the need for Sabbath. It does seem that we are often rushed, and perhaps even over scheduled. I would like to know how different people of faith determine their priorities, discern between what is urgent and what is important.
ON THE ROAD IN OLD COLONY
This Sunday evening I worshiped with the Renewed Baptist Church of Vineyard Haven. Eduardo Nunes is the pastor and the service is primarily in Brazilian Portuguese. The service was held at 7:00 PM in the parish hall of FBC Vineyard Haven. As one walked into the hall a large white canopy encompassed the front. Under it was a menorah, an alter for the placement of incense, and a table with the bread of the presence on it. There was also a veil across the back. A chapter from Paul's letter from the Hebrews was read explaining about how we as Christians have access to God through the life of Jesus Christ and the temple veil that once separated humankind from the most holy presence of God was torn in half at the crucifixion of Christ. Next two men entered the temple area; one older and one younger. both lay down to sleep at opposite ends of the area. God's call to Samuel was played out before us in a clear and poignant way. Following the play was a short message from the pastor giving his testimony of God's call on his life and inviting those present to respond to the call of God on their life. it was clear that those who worshiped that night knew and had responded to the call of Christ in their lives. This was evident through the music ministry of the praise team, individual speakers and the children's choir. There was a part of the service when the children were called forward and I was expecting a children's story but instead the congregation prayed fervently for the well being of the children present. My Mom and I were warmly greeted by most of the congregation and made to feel at home. Pastor Nunes explained to me that TABCOM and FBC Vineyard Haven have been instrumental in the beginning of this ministry in 1996 and they are grateful to our Executive Minister Tony Pappas and FBC Pastor Roger Spinney for all of the support in beginning this ministry.
October 26, 2007 The 2008 TABCOM Annual Gathering theme is “Transforming Communities”. While planning I asked the question, “What about transforming Communities speaks to your heart?” Some of the answers included the conviction that as Christians we are salt and light. Someone else said that transforming communities is not an option for people of faith but a result of faithful living and part of the prophet voice. Another person spoke about transforming communities in relation to concern for people who are hungry, those who are imprisoned, those who are tortured, and those who are enslaved by human traffickers. The distinction between service and transformation was debated.
I began thinking about the distress I feel when I think about our country torturing other people who are prisoners or enemy combatants. I was reminded that there was a peace rally in Boston on Saturday. I was already booked – but at last night I was asked to postpone Saturday’s commitment. Could this be God providing me a chance to practice what I preach? As my husband and I relaxed on the couch with the TV tuned to Bill Moyers. We listened to the topic of presidential power and congressional oversight. The show focused on domestic spying and the torture of prisoners thought linked to U.S.A. national security threats. I could not sit still. I kept thinking of the conversation earlier about a Christian’s responsibility to be involved in the transformation of communities.
October 27, 2007 The alarm buzzed and I thought about rolling over in my warm bed or getting dressed to march under clouds and possible rain. My feet slowly touched down on the floor. I called a friend who was going to the peace rally and said that my husband and I had decided to go and could we meet him at the train? Everyone was moving so slowly -the traffic, the people, and me. Fortunately so was the train – it was 10 minutes late. We actually had enough time to get a coffee, something to eat and two round trip tickets. On board it was hard to find three seats together. Although I did not see another peace buttons, or banners at the train station, the train was unusually full for a Saturday morning. I listened to the conversations near by and we were on the peace train. At South Station students from Brown were carrying signs for the rally. More signs and full subway cars at the Park Street Station, we could see that up the stairs, a crowd seemed to be gathering 100 feet away. In the crowd were black hair, brown hair, blond hair, gray hair, green hair and purple hair. The people were as varied as the organizations we represented.
The banners they carried and how they were dressed easily identified Quakers, Mennonites, and Catholics. Nothing in particular identified us three. Folk music, speakers, exhibits were all part of the atmosphere. Someone gave us a signs to carry, and my friend suggested we join the line for the march. My husband looked for the Baptist Peace Fellowship but if they were there he did not find them. The crowed thickened and we followed behind the Service Employees Union. Peace chants began “What do we want?” “Peace “– “When do we want it?” – “Now.” But we all knew even if peace came now all of the troops would not be home until almost a year. “They want warfare – We want healthcare.” Surely some of them must want healthcare too? “No justice –No peace.” (No argument there.) “What does democracy look like? - This is what democracy looks like.” -- Hmmmm
I couldn’t see the beginning of the march, nor could I see its end. We were somewhere in the middle and the line started moving. I am old enough to remember the anti Vietnam War protests. Tensions between protestors, police, and on lookers often resulted in arrests, and or injury. What would happen today? Police blocked the streets. Down Tremont, toward Copley, by the Hancock buildings, in-between the library and Trinity Church, on lookers for the most part took pictures and many smiled and nodded. Waiters and others looked on from the windows on either side of the street. Police on motorcycles stood like statues intermittently along the route. Up Boylston two more Baptist joined us. We shook hands and walk shoulder to shoulder. We stepped aside as we finished the square mile route to encourage those behind us. Ladies in hats, Vets in caps, puppies for peace along with students, and granddads, older and younger moms, and men, all of us daughters and sons.
After the New Orleans style jazz band brought up the rear my husband spoke with a smile on his face – “This is what democracy looks like – It’s not pretty”. Why did I march? It all goes back to the conversation and question- “What about transforming communities speaks to your heart?”
Advent 1
This is the first of four Advent messages written by Rev. Ken Scarborough, Pastor of Somerset Baptist Church. They are based on the Common Lectionary used by many denominations for scripture selections each Sunday and special days.
The first Sunday of Advent begins with a gospel selection reminding all of the need to be serious about being prepared for the coming of the Son of Man. Matthew 24:36-44 is sub-titled “The Necessity for Watchfulness.”
Even Jesus denied knowledge of the day and hour; stating that “Only the Father” knew the ultimate plan that would end life as we know it here on earth. We can interpret this to mean the end of time or the end of an individual life.
From the beginning of time, men and women have ignored the signs that directed their actions toward a relationship with God. God wants desperately for everyone to be part of His family.
Isaiah 2:2 “In days to come the mountain of the LORD’S house shall be established at the highest of the mountain and shall be raised above the hills, all nations will stream to it.
Psalm 122:1 “I was glad when they said to me; Let us go into the house of the Lord.
Jesus could not have been clearer when he instructed the people of his time that they were to be ever watchful, lest they be caught off guard when the Son of Man came. He gives examples how people standing side by side can be in very different relationships with the Lord and in different stages of readiness to receive Him.
The apostle Paul, when writing to the Romans, urged them to have a relationship worthy of the Salvation that was at hand. He was aware that many were still practicing the habits and way of life they had been leading before they became believers. He counseled them to put aside their deeds of darkness and to put on the armor of light
It is Advent 2007 and Jesus is urging us today to be ready at all times. One might ask how we become ready. Simply put, it is to accept Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior and put anything that would lead you astray out of your life. This may mean habits, disobedience of His teachings or even family or friends who are not in step with Jesus.
Churches in Somerset and every other town or city throughout this nation have caring congregations waiting to welcome you into the family of God. I urge you to attend church this Sunday and the next three Sundays of Advent that you may be prepared to greet the Christ Child on Christmas day.
Lectionary for Dec. 02 – Is. 2:1-5, Ps. 122, Rom. 13:11-14, Matt. 24:36-44
This is the second of four messages written by Rev. Ken Scarborough, pastor of Somerset Baptist Church for the season of Advent.
This Sunday’s Isaiah scripture tells us of the one who is coming from the root of Jesse. The preview of what is to come describes a time when the world will turn on it axis and even the animals who have been enemies will coexist in harmony. On this day the earth will be full of the knowledge and the nations will rally to Him. We find Jesse as the father of King David in the genealogy of Christ as recorded in the opening chapter of the Gospel of Matthew.
The prayers of David who is also identified as the son of Jesse in the 72nd Psalm give blessing to the Lord who “alone can do wondrous things.” This is a prayer for righteousness and prosperity with deliverance of the poor.
As we move through this advent season, we do not have to look far to find the poor and the homeless. They are easy to miss if we confine our search to the interior of our houses of worship and the affluent communities. A drive through the housing projects or lower income streets will reveal children who need attention. We will see adults searching through trash cans to eek out an existence. Many programs are in place to assist the homeless, but many either do not choose to avail themselves of services or are ashamed to take a handout. These are the people Jesus came to seek and to save.
In the 15th chapter of Romans, Paul wanted to make it clear that the gospel was for both Jews and Gentiles. The descendent from the root of Jesse would care for and include the Gentile people into the family of God. We need to frequently be reminded that just because someone is different from us in appearance, actions, culture or economic status does not make them more or less valuable in the eyes of God.
The Gospel writer of Matthew quotes the prophet Isaiah in proclaiming, “The voice of one crying out in the wilderness: ‘Prepare the way of the Lord, make His path straight.’”
John the Baptist came from the wilderness to the river Jordan baptizing and calling people to repentance. Great crowds came to be baptized including some who John the Baptist admonished for coming to flee the wrath without bearing fruits worthy of repentance.
Many will come today to the popular churches drawing the crowds or the prestigious churches and not go forth each day bearing fruits that lead to the kingdom of God. God calls us to the baptismal waters today in order that we may drown the sins of our lives and come from the waters with new life wanting to serve Him in every way we can.
John was hesitant to baptize the one who would baptize with water and with fire, but Jesus came to be baptized to “fulfill all righteousness.” As the dove descended and landed on Jesus, a voice of heaven said “This is my Son the Beloved, with whom I am well pleased.”
There are many churches in Somerset, Swansea and neighboring communities waiting to welcome you into their fellowship. Visit one this Sunday to begin to find your way or way back to God.
Lectionary for Dec. 09 – Is. 11:1-10, Ps. 72:1-7,18-19, Rom. 15:4-13, Matt. 3:1-12
This is the third of four messages written by Rev. Ken Scarborough, pastor of Somerset Baptist Church, for the season of Advent. On this third Sunday of Advent, the lectionary offers several options. Each of the options tells of the coming of Christ and the need for each of us to be prepared.
Imagine what Christmas morning would be like at your house if the children came into your room and asked why there was no tree or presents in the living room. You would suddenly realize you had forgotten to shop for any presents or make any preparation for Christmas. There would be great sadness and disappointment in your house that day. It would be too late to go and shop, because all the stores would be closed.
A hymn by Lelia N. Morris; “What If It Were Today” makes us realize that the return of Christ could be today. She wrote verses in a positive vein, such as “Faithful and true would He find us here.” If Jesus stopped by your house today, would He find your family ready to join Him for life eternal, or would there be some things you had forgotten to take care of?
Isaiah 35 foretells the return of the redeemed to Zion. Verse 8 speaks of the highway that will be there, that will be called the Holy Way. This highway was for God’s people and would be closed to the unclean. God cared about His people being in a state of readiness and sent prophets such as Isaiah to warn the people to repent and follow in the ways of God. Those that were living lives of sin would not be able to join the others in that great journey. God cares just as much for His children today and wants us to put aside anything that would block our admittance to the Holy Way. He would later send John the Baptist to call His people to repentance and make a highway for the Lord.
Luke 1:47-55 is the Song of Praise that Mary said acknowledging how God had favored her to be the mother of the Christ Child. She knew she was proof that He lifted the lowly and filled the hungry with good things. Those who hunger and thirst for Him will be filled, but those who ignore His teachings and eat and drink of what the world offers will be scattered and unable to find their way home.
In the letter that James wrote to the twelve tribes scattered among the nations, he told them of the need for patience in waiting for the Lord. He used the example of the farmer who “waits for the precious crop from the earth, being patient with it until it receives the early and the late rains.” What he fails to mention is the work the farmer puts into the crop. He must first till the land, plant the seed and eliminate weeds with proper cultivation.
An individual’s faith must likewise be carefully planted. The ground was tilled by our ancestors. The faithful commitment of sharing the truths of the scripture equates to the planting of the seed. Our personal decisions of who we associate with and who we avoid determine our willingness to eliminate the weeds from choking us. Like our ancestors we must till the land for those that follow and plant only good seeds for them to know the value of a life following Christ.
Like John the Baptist as described in Matthew 11:2-11, our sufferings may cause us to wonder if God really exists and if His Son is really returning for us. Jesus simply told John’s disciples to tell John what they had witnessed.
Church congregations are waiting to witness to you each and every Sunday in worship and throughout the week in service. I encourage you to make Jesus Christ a priority in your life and attend church not only this Sunday, but every Sunday of the year. Imagine how terrible it would be if someone came to church and it was your witness that could lead them to Christ but you were not there. You are so important to God’s plan that He sent His only Son to find you. Come share in the Greatest Journey on Earth and in Heaven.
Lectionary for Dec. 16: Is. 35:1-10, Ps. 146-5:10, or Luke 1:47-55, James 5:7-10, Matt.12:2-11
This morning my husband Steve and I were privileged to worship with the Winthrop Street Baptist Church in Taunton. This Sunday the congregation was celebrating the ministry of their Pastor, The Rev. David K. Swensen, and his wife Connie. This particular congregation has a special place in my heart as it is the church I attended during my teen years. I was discipled there, and baptized by Pastor Swensen at the Easter Sunday Evening Service in 1978. Pastor Swensen preached the, Charge to the Congregation at my installation as Pastor at the Chelmsford Street Baptist Church in 1986.
At all retirements kind words are said, and memories are shared. This was no exception, however what stood out in my mind was the faithful witness of this servant pastor. This Sunday the Rev. Swensen stepped into the pulpit to preach, and preached about the transforming love of Jesus Christ and how each one of us is an answer to somebody’s prayer. Dave always preaches an inspiring and thoughtful sermon, however this one was not only the usually well thought out elucidation of a Biblical passage and its application to our life, it was what I think of as the core of Pastor Swenson's ministry. One of the phrases he repeated was “Love does not ask how little it can do but how much."
Winthrop Street Baptist Church is a thriving, congregation, I believe that this is so in large part because Pastor Swenson has put himself at God's service, and continued throughout his ministry to grow in his love and devotion to our Savior. Sure he has studied, read and prepared and prayed, as all pastors should, but he has led with and because of the love of Christ in his own life. In thirty years this love has grown and deepened. Thank you pastor for your ministry, and for your life of faith. As we sung at the benediction, "God Bless and Keep you forever".
This Sunday Steve and I went to worship at First Baptist Scituate. I was asked to fill the pulpit for the Rev. Stephen Trimble who was on vacation. Many congregations do not have a choir during the summer. FBC has an informal choir. On any given Sunday anyone at worship is welcomed to sing the anthem. One woman commented to me that they actually found more people singing than when they had a formal choir. That observation sparked a conversation regarding music, and the difference between worship and performance. Not that being a church exempts us from giving our best in our service to Christ, but the focus is different. In worship all that we do centers on coming into God's presence. Music in worship is a way of helping us to entering to God's presence using faculties that lean more toward the realm of experience rather than thought. I think that the folks at FBC Scituate are doing something right and are blessed by it.
Yesterday afternoon my husband Steve and I were privileged to celebrate the ordination of two women to the Diaconate of the Lincoln Congregational Church in Brockton. The Rev. Huston Crayton, Jr. Is the pastor. It was a true time of thanksgiving for “the equipping of the saints for the ministry of God. “ Deaconess Nettie Lewis and Deaconess Joyce Weston have not only recognized the claim of Christ on their lives, and desire to use their gifts in this special ministry at our sister church but have studied and prepared extensively. In many of our congregations adults may have the desire to serve but do not dedicate themselves to learning and reflection that is required of a mature faith. The diaconate training at Lincoln Congregational also emphasizes the need for continuous spiritual growth, and understanding. The ministry of these women will include prayer for the members, ministry, ministers and pastors of the church, the bringing communion to those who are sick and shut-in, and being present with women of the church for encouragement, consultation and prayer.
This afternoon’s service was a wonderful acknowledgement of the work of the Holy Spirit as teacher guide and counselor. We worshiped Christ through praise, prayer, preaching and participation. The choir and musicians led in that joyful worship. Friends, and family of the women who were being ordained gave thanks for the work of the holy spirit in their midst. Sister Patricia Whitlow, who has a new CD released, movingly sang “I am Grateful” as a testimony of the healing power of God in her life. I was both honored and humbled to bring the message this afternoon and very much appreciate the Love Gift given to me by Rev. Crayton and the congregation.
Lincoln Congregational is seeking to sell their present building and begin the physical construction of a new church building on Oak Street in Brockton. They have persevered in that vision however they have not focused on a new building as an end in itself. Rather they are regularly witnessing to the transforming power of Christ to heal broken people, and change lives. One of their newest ministries has been to provide a food pantry for those who are working during the day and cannot make ends meet. The food pantry at Lincoln is open during evening hours. Thank you Rev. and Mrs. Crayton, ministers, deacons, deaconesses, leaders, members and friends of Lincoln for making visible the strength, and compassion of Christ by “Loving the Lord your God with all of your heart, mind and strength and loving your neighbors as yourselves.”
It’s time for my yearly vacation to Martha’s Vineyard. Mom arrived on Sunday the 24th. Steve and I caught the last boat over from Wood’s Hole on Wednesday night. He arrived with 15 min. to spare on our 1970’s Honda. I left the car parked in Falmouth. As many of the members of the OCBA know, we have four congregations here on the island. First Baptist Vineyard Haven is home to both their own congregation and to the Renewed Baptist Church pastored by the Rev. Edwardo Nunes. The Rev. Roger Spinney pastors both FBC and the Native American congregation, the Gay Head Community Baptist Church in Aquinnah. The Rev. Gerald Fritz is the pastor at the Federated Church in Edgartown. The Rev. David Berube is a sergeant with the Oak Bluffs Police Force and also serves as their Chaplain.
How do you raise a ½ million dollars? On Thursday I found out one answer to that question. If you’re First Baptist Vineyard Haven and your pastor can cook pulled pork barbeque like the Rev. Spinney its $12 at a time. FBC, not unlike many of our congregations, needed to make substantial repairs and renovations to their building. Some structural work has been completed as has a bathroom been added to the building that houses the sanctuary. I understand that the next phase will include a connecting of the sanctuary building with the parish house.
The dinner was as advertised – “The best deal on the Island” and delicious too. Although I could write a great review of the food, and the servers at the dinner (I’ll post a few pictures soon.), what I really want to talk about is the ministry of FBC. Worship, Sunday School, and Bible Study are all part of the usual schedule. Unlike many of our sister churches in OCBA the churches on MV are in full gear during the summer. Attendance swells, and those gone for many months return. Ministering effectively on this Island is all about relationships, and many of the clergy have more than one ministry. Roger not only pastors two churches but he is also the Chaplain at the jail. The many walks of island life represented at FBC are evident not only on Sunday morning, but also at the Saturday night dinners. Those cooking, serving, and eating vary in age, and experience, yet form a dynamic community that not only supports FBC Vineyard Haven but is FBC Vineyard Haven.
During dinner I had the chance to catch up with The Rev. David Berube and his wife Ellen. I can hardly believe that their son Joshua is a junior at Eastern Baptist College. Joshua has decided on majoring in communications. Ellen continues to teach school on MV, and Dave is now working four ten hour days during the week. (For those wondering he is available to preach.) As an Air Force Chaplain, Dave’s deployments are not as frequent as other branches of the military, however he is anticipating another deployment after spring of 2009.
I often half jokingly say to my husband and my mom that church is once a day, and twice on Sundays. Tomorrow morning I plan to be worshiping at the Federated Church in Edgartown, and having lunch with two of the church members who are very involved in ministry in Ghana. Sunday evening will be spent with our Brazilian congregation the Renewed Baptist Church.
THE CENTER FOR EXCELLENCE IN CONGREGATIONAL LEADERSHIP
Part 1
The Center for Excellence in Congregational Leadership (CECL) is funded through a generous grant from the Lilly Foundation as well as from private donors, and it happens at the Green Lake Conference Center in Wisconsin. I am part of Class Six, which means five classes have preceded mine, and Class Seven is just beginning. Each class starts with 50 or so pastors representing churches from a variety of denominational backgrounds.
Did you know that 2,800 churches died last year in America? It is as though the Lord extinguished their candles because they loved themselves more that the communities they were called to serve. It is easy to become satisfied with our weekly offerings, to live on our endowments, or to think that the size of our church is “just right.” We would not want to become too big, we think. The Lord says to the church that the problem is not the possibility of our church becoming too large, but of thousands around us leaving this life without any hope for eternity. The problem is that, no matter what we say, we are not outward focused.
A church has to choose to become outward focused. Any pastor will tell you that a church does not become focused on its community naturally. Many pastors recognize that their personal influence is simply not strong enough to turn their churches around and cause those churches to become intentionally focused on their communities and become congregations that are missionally empowered. Plus, when pastor goes off to a conference, he/she often returns excited about some new thing, but the church yawns, having seen all this before. CECL is different, in that lay teams accompany the pastor on two of the five CECL weeks, which offers the opportunity to help a number of church leaders get on the same page as their pastor, be refreshed in their spirits, and become enthused about what God wants to do in their church.
Attention is paid to the personal devotional life of the pastor, the pastor’s marriage, and to relationships within the body of believers. As no pastor is imbued with super powers, we all need the encouragement and accountability that sharing in a peer group and having a coach provides. I have been in active pastoral ministry since 1974. For me, having a coach/mentor as well as a peer group that is working on the same problems as I is a priceless encouragement.
Pastors know that it is easy to preach sermons designed to promote an outward focus in their churches, but it is another thing entirely to get church members to be willing to change their ways, be open to other people sitting in “their” pews, and be intentional about making disciples. But, healthy churches make disciples. Healthy churches make room in their hearts and in their schedules and in their buildings for whatever God calls them to do.
The fact is that we have all chosen committees and charged them to create vision and mission statements. When their work was done, we congratulated them, and then we went on “doing church” as we have been without any significant changes happening in our hearts.
CECL Cont. Part 2
So, transitioning our churches is a key concept if we want to break the cycle of degradation and entropy that characterizes churches as they move through their history. The steps are not new; I remember studying them as part of National Ministries’ Church Planters Institute some years ago. The difference is that CECL pastors are not walking through this transition process alone.
“It’s a vision thing.” Any committee can come up with a fine sounding vision or mission statement, but it will be worth no more than the printer ink that is used to reproduce it… unless that vision is sought and given by God. Your church can take the time to ask God for whatever it is that He wants for you, and then actively wait for Him to show it to you. If you or some of your church did the “Experiencing God” study by Henry Blackaby, you already know that watching to see where God is working is crucial to discovering where you should put your energies.
During CECL Weeks three and four, lay leaders are invited to join their pastors for the weekend at Green Lake. This affords a tremendous opportunity for both pastors and leaders to pray together, share together, and listen to what the Lord is saying through each other. The teaching times during these weeks are immensely practical and helpful for both pastor and people to find themselves on the same page.
Several of our church’s leaders flew to Green Lake last week. Needless to say, there is a certain excitement about what God has already said to us as we return to Cape Cod. For example, we know that God has opened our church to the recovery community, so this seems to be an area where God is already at work. We intend to do some prayer walking in our neighborhoods and around our church, and to step slowly into the area of fasting, as we ask God to give us His heart for our community. We began a pilot small group in the spring, and now plan to develop several Grow Groups to encourage personal discipleship and growth among our members.
You’ll be encouraged to move slowly into this process. The potential for conflict is a reality. Some may be less than desirous of any attempt to change church as they have known it. That is why we are seeking to build and strengthen our own relationship with the Lord, so that we can partner with Him and not impatiently run ahead of Him.
Why Do We Do What We Do- I am attending the Continuing Ed on Interim Ministry. The required reading is a book called "Drive:The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us" It's not a bad book. I find it to be an easy read, just not all that surprising. That's ok. I really do not like surprises all that much. The author, Daniel H. Pink is describing a third motivation that is involved with creativity, and effectiveness. I am a little more than half way through the book, and Pink has spent quite a bit of time looking at positive reinforcement via tangible rewards and the limits to their effectiveness.
Those in ministry understand this. People do not readily get involved in ministry for the tangible rewards. There is another motivation. People will make considerable sacrifices for their priorities.
Some Pastors have been talking to me saying that in their efforts to live out the Great Commission personally and in conjunction with equipping the members of their Church to do the same fewer and fewer people are concerned about life after death, and eternal rewards. However more are interested in finding purpose, and meaning. I think this also is seen in the answer to the question why do you go to church here? More times then not it has to do with the love demonstrated by the people of a particular church. I suppose that is not so new. The New Testament repeatedly states how love is evidence of the presence of God and the gifts of the Holy Spirit. It is clear to me that people will do for love what they would not do for money.
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