“Vision Reset”.

We all desire recognition, honor, respect. These Are the metrics by which we judge our success in the world, even our value. This should not be so; for all these things are fleeting. They wax and wane as we go through life. So what then? where do we find lasting value? what can we identify with that will bring lasting meaning to our lives? something that will not merely fall out of vogue as fashions change.

The pat answer is “Our identity in Christ” yet knowing this and the truth behind it; many of us (myself included) need something more tangible something to hold, grasp. In my view this can only come when we realize our true life purpose; the thing we are morally compelled to do. When we find this it brings meaning to our lives. The very fact that we are living breathing and functioning within the context of what we are made to do becomes the metric by which we determine our value and level of success.

If we fail to find our purpose we will latch onto many things that will fail to yield the very meaning we so desire. This is where the development of our foundational life vision becomes critical. If we fail to lay a proper foundation in this we either sell our destiny short by securing small (easily achievable) goals that don’t fulfill, or we become lost, listless, undefined in our life walk. Constantly searching but never achieving, never finding the fulfillment we so desperately seek.

Despite understanding this it seems I’ve gotten off track again. What I originally saw as my life vision has proven incomplete; in that the vision I had set for myself has failed in taking me where I want to go. This is not a failure of the concept of vision but a failure in my ability to implement said concept. In scope my vision was shortsighted, even incomplete in several key areas. This left voids and gaps that demanded to be filled.

And so it’s time to hit the reset button, to start over, to reconfigure the vision and make the necessary changes so In that moving forward the critical areas of life will have the direction necessary to take me to my desired destiny.

Luther.

"Made in His image".

I Had recently read an article about why Egyptian artifacts are frequently found with their faces destroyed (particularly their noses) while I won’t go into specifics here the core motivation for this widespread cultural phenomenon according to the author was this; it was a basic cultural belief that damaging the image of the one depicted - damages the person represented either in life or death.

This caused me to reflect on many things that are transpiring in our generation. such as homosexuality and the rise of transgender-ism. fundamentally these beliefs and practices reject the idea that man, his sexual function, and gender were designed to be a specific way; a singular way of divine intention.

Scripture tells us that we are all made in the image of God “Genesis 1:27” we bear His likeness and as His creation we represent Him before the world.

Genesis 1:27 (NASB)

"God created man in His own image, in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them".

And so if I were opposed to God, I would not only seek to destroy his greatest work - that being mankind - through vehicles such as abortion or genocide for example. but I would also be compelled to destroy the very image of God.

You see, defacing the image in my view has a greater long-term impact than taking a singular life. Once a life is over its direct influence is permanently lost. but if that image is defaced, twisted, Marred, yet allowed to remain it can negatively reflect whom it was created to represent to all who would see it.

And so in a country that professes to be majority Christian, a country that gives a nod to its Judeo-Christian heritage yet legalizes the slaughter of its children, rejects the natural physical distinctions between the genders and rebel's against Godly moral foundations; what does that country’s actions say about the deity it claims to serve?

There are those who would profess to be wise and evangelize their “post Christian” rhetoric. yet their “wisdom” is a continuation of an age old deception that has no other goal than to profane the image of the one true God. given that agenda, it’s clear to whom its practitioners truly belong.

As Solomon once said, there is nothing new under the sun.

Luther Miller III

“Resting on the Mountain”.

Vision.

Vision has the capacity to propel us forward into things we could only dream of, it is a double edged sword for it can cut us down if that vision is un-attained.

There is a point where we come to terms with who we are. One takes inventory of the recurring themes and practices that have dominated our life’s patterns. We choose our class despite our aspirations. We may yet look to the top of the mountain we feel destined to climb and even continue to strive after its peak. But we cannot ignore the lingering thought that we would find it acceptable if we never achieved any greater height.

When our desires transcend our means; for a time this is vision. If the vision is delayed a strange sickness occurs and we pierce ourselves with self-inflicted wounds.

One can choose to accept their station or continue to foolishly press forward chasing the winds of proverbial "vision".

Our unmet expectations become the source of our pain. When this state is maintained we only reveal our own pride-fullness and set ourselves upon the path to our own fall.

The choice set before us is thus: Will I continue in my striving and pierce myself with many pains? Or will I accept all that I am or am not? The answer will determine if we walk the road of bitterness or of inner peace.

Luther.

"External Voices".

We are subject to so many inputs, from the secular media, prevailing culture, family, friends, and even our own internal voices of doubt and disbelief. It’s what we do with this input that determines our outlook upon life.

While we must carefully discern which of the many voices we choose to listen to (and it is our choice); one qualifier to bear in mind is the issue of failure. Failure can be a lesson, which leads to experience, which in turn can be an effective teacher. So in this we need not disregard those voices that have experienced past failure for they may have valuable lessons to teach.

The qualifying issue must be the issue of consistent failure within a single area for that is the dis-qualifier. It reveals not experience but a failure to learn the lessons at hand despite repeated attempts. Therefore this “voice” is not qualified to speak into anyone’s life, it is wholly detrimental and we would be foolish to give heed to its instruction.

Luke 6:40 (NASB)

“A pupil is not above his teacher; but everyone, after he has been fully trained, will be like his teacher”.

One must never give ear to someone (something) who has demonstrated consistent failure in an area. For if you do you will learn to repeat their mistakes and your life will pattern theirs.

Luther.

“Guru Meditation Error”.

2018.

I recently found myself discussing some aspect of computer programming with a colleague. I don't quite know how we got on the particular subject of loosing ones work due to a computer crash, but he mentioned an antiquated error from some of the earlier systems he was familiar with. Hence -"Guru Meditation Error". This error frequently (as I understand it) resulted in the loss of ones total work. It was the hard stop, the reset, for all of ones efforts. The cure?  to re-boot and start over. It is with this in mind that I recall the events of the past year.

The past year has seen us through a season of difficulty and change, it has been marked by fractured relationships, the incarceration of close family, negative legal settlements, and a break from familiar community involvement. All of which has led to a peculiar kind of isolation.

Now entering 2019 the theme (by necessity) has become one of re-focusing, re-committing and re-establishing foundational priorities. It’s this shift that has not only brought a level of humility (that if I’m honest I’ve resisted) but also one of hope or better to say renewed faith.

There are some things that have remained constant; surprisingly so. Yet I wrestle with the question, am I following what is merely familiar and comfortable or are these inherent qualities? And if so – should they be?

2 Corinthians 5:17 (ESV)

“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come”.

This is the launching pad for 2019. As we navigate forward into an unknown future my confidence is found in the One who has sustained me.

Luther.

"God's Call".

For the last several weeks I have felt a pull upon my heart. There has been an attraction to the idea of wilderness. This draw has led me to the accounts of John the baptist primarily. I keep asking myself the question. why? Why was John there in the first place? Given his fathers role as high priest in the rotation and the cultures standard of the son following in the fathers "profession" why was John preaching in the wilds vs. the temple?

Some have said that Johns presence there was a rebuke to the religious establishment of his day. This is quite possible as he was very vocal about his feelings toward the Pharisees - those "brood of vipers" (Luke 3:7). Another has said that the wilderness for John was a sanctuary of sorts, it was a place of intimacy and isolation with The Father. It is this idea that resonates most with me.

For me the idea of wilderness is two fold; it represents a place alone, a spiritual existence where one is isolated from everything around them. A place where their heart is exposed and their soul laid bare before the Lord. The second aspect is the physical; for me the wilderness must be found out-of-doors, it cannot be separated from the fields, trees and waters. In this way the wilderness is anchored to this world just as we are while we remain in the flesh.

So what do I make of all of this? Well for now in the initial stages of this "pull" I have responded by setting aside time for early morning prayer - outdoors. As it is march its still fairly cold out in the morning and I cant say I'm enjoying that part but it does feel good praying without the distractions of all that transpires indoors. It brings a much needed focus to my prayer life.

During my latest time in "the wilderness" I read this passage:

Psalm 16:8-11 (The Voice)

8 He is ever present with me;

    at all times He goes before me.

I will not live in fear or abandon my calling

    because He stands at my right hand.

9 This is a good life—my heart is glad, my soul is full of joy,

    and my body is at rest.

    Who could want for more?

10 You will not abandon me to experience death and the grave

    or leave me to rot alone.

11 Instead, You direct me on the path that leads to a beautiful life.

    As I walk with You, the pleasures are never-ending,

    and I know true joy and contentment.

I will not abandon this call; on the contrary if I'm to become what the Lord would have me to be, I must progress forward in this, give myself fully to this pull to draw even closer to the one whom my heart desires. There can be nothing else.

Luther.

"Squeezing Lemons".

"The only way to know the quality of the juice is to squeeze the lemon".

This statement characterizes the season I am experiencing. As my family is weeks away from moving into our newly built home, I am conscious of not only the physical transition but what this move means for our future as a people of faith also.


This season was initiated through following the spirits leading. It reminds me of the parable of the "Pearl of great price" - We (my wife and I) have given up everything in pursuit of a new direction, no longer content to wander in the wilderness of religion. We have chosen to walk in the way of faith. Our attitude is either we will completely fail or people will stand in amazement at what is being accomplished through us. There is no in-between.


So back to lemons. This new season sounds very exciting. Its all new, dreaming and exploring the details of vision as we pursue our destiny. What we have found ourselves unprepared for was the squeezing of this transitory season. You see if the Lord is preparing you for something, and you submit to His process; then He has an obligation to prepare you for your assignment. We were not ready! And so this season has been one of squeezing; of testing and tempering. We both have been pressed in a myriad of ways most of which has been uncomfortable and speaking for myself; has challenged my resolve on more than one occasion.


I have learned things about myself that I never guessed would've been a part of my makeup. I have seen attitudes displayed that are unbecoming a believer. I have been made fully aware of my inadequacies before the Lords standards. I have also never been closer to my wife. Nor have I ever experienced a greater sense of family bonding than in this season. There have been many lessons learned and no doubt many more will follow. Do I feel prepared for the assignment ahead? honestly No I do not, but I think that's a good place to be. Dependent vs. independent.


My take away for this season is thus; for me to achieve and walk in the assignment that has been laid out before me I must yield to the molding process. I must allow The Lord to mold me into His vessel and no matter how uncomfortable this process is I am looking forward to the "lemonade" that follows.

Luther.  

"Judgement & Resolution".

Two sundays ago I read the following passage.

Psalm 102:3-7 (HCSB)

"For my days vanish like smoke,

and my bones burn like a furnace.

My heart is afflicted, withered like grass;

I even forget to eat my food.

Because of the sound of my groaning,

my flesh sticks to my bones.

I am like a desert owl,

like an owl among the ruins.

I stay awake;

I am like a solitary bird on a roof".

In response I found myself writing the following in the margin of my bible: 

"This is my sanctuary; Where dreams are sacrificed on the alter of neccesity. favor has turned to shame. My name changed to outcast, to Ronin. My worship is heard in the wilderness; only those there can see. Yet they cease to look toward Heaven" 

As you can imagine my frame of mind is revealed in that response. 2017 has been a challenging, transitory season. As we (my family and I) have moved from one paradigm into another we have seen - or rather, been shown - many things. Of these lessons one seems apropriate to share; it is this:

"The foundation of my life is revealed in my response to Christ".

This, the statement that is shaping my outlook for 2018. King Herod was not remembered for his contributions to the roman state. Such as his expansion of the Second Temple in Jerusalem (Herod's Temple), The construction of the port at Caesarea, and the fortress at Masada. His political advancements are relegated to the corners of history were few travel. No; Herod is imortalized in our minds as the king who attempted to slay the Christ child. Herod is remembered for his response to Christ. All humanity is not exempt from this same reality. Our very lives are a testimony to how we have responded, either positively or negatively, to Christ.

What concerns me the most regarding my written response to scripture is this, "Yet they cease to look toward heaven". Of those who dwell in the wilderness places of life (of whom I am one) I see many whose response to Christ and His kingdom is one of indifference. To me this is tragic. For one to see and to hear and yet remain unchagened is a picture of death. Life moves, ever changing, flowing all around creation and wisdom speaks increasing knowledge. Despite all this the dead remain unchagened, immovable, still.

Yet there is hope. Just as John the Baptist preached in the wilderness there was life - the offering of genuine life - awaiting those who responded to the message of the kingdom; Christs message. It is my sincere desire that for this new year those who dwell in the wilderness will "look toward Heaven" and respond to Christ in such a way that your entire lifes paradigm is changed. Abandon the silence of the grave of inactivity in exchange for a vibrant life of realized destiny.

This is my mission. To respond to Christ in such a way that my life points not to myself, not to my achivements or talents; but to the one I call Lord. For all the days I am assigned to the wilderness, I will lift my eyes and walk the roads that are set before me.

This is my resoulution; I pray it is yours.

Luther.

"Keys to Discovering Your Purpose".

Discovering your life's purpose, that specific thing you were called to do. However you phrase it your purpose is foundational to who you are as a person and where you will go in life. It goes without saying that if you don't know your purpose you cannot truly know who you are, nor where your headed.

A life without direction is subject to wander, always traveling but never arriving. 

In some of our previous videos we frequently talk about “vision”. Yet vision requires that you already know your purpose, for vision is the means by which your purpose is achieved.


With that said (we) want to share a few steps you can take that I believe will help you discover your unique life's purpose. This is not an exhaustive treatise on the subject by any means but a primer of sorts to set you on the path of personal discovery.


Enjoy the video.

Luther

"Introduction to the Kingdom".

where do we begin?

If everything has a starting point then our kingdom journey thus far is no exception. From those small beginnings we have arrived to this first destination - The "Introduction to the kingdom".

We have always held to the philosophy that you teach what you know. As we learn and grow we invite you to come on the journey with us.

The takeaway from the following video is this:

The kingdom IS a literal government, as such it's structural order is comprised of four components:

1. A King - Jesus Christ (See Isaiah 9:6-7)
   
2. Subjects - People of all nations (You! - Everyone has the potential to be a part of His kingdom)
   
3. Law - The law of God as revealed in the bible - The constitution of God's people.
   
4. A Territory - The entire earth. Where God's people use their influence for His glory, the kingdom is manifested in that area. 

All things have a beginning, I pray that this may be yours.

Luther.

Recap: "Rediscovering The Kingdom" Retreat.

The following post is a brief recap of our (Maranda and myself) experiences attending the "Rediscovering The Kingdom retreat" in Naples Florida hosted by Trista Sue Kragh of K.C.I.

Naples Florida.

The affluent culture here is a stark contrast to Midwestern norms. As you can imagine we both were quite awestruck at the beauty and overall opulence of the area.

In light of our observations and after much discussion - (this is of paramount importance) - we are thoroughly convinced that the residents of Naples cannot properly celebrate Christmas. At least not to the superior level as us Michiganders do! (how could they sans snow? do they decorate palm trees?)
I felt for all those poor souls, unable to experience the months of sunless grey skies, brutally cold temperatures, treacherous roads, and the coup-de-Gracie Lake effect snow!

The Elusive Floridian Squirrel

Well all jesting aside. We had a wonderful time at the Rebuilding The Kingdom retreat. It was refreshing not to mention energizing meeting and interacting with this (Kingdom minded) extended community.

It was a common to hear accounts of those who had experienced the confines of religion. And then see these same individuals awaken to the Kingdom message and more so the implications that message had upon their lives. As the retreat progressed one could witness connections being made, friendships garnered, and attendees gathering in small groups discussing what they learned in the previous session. A highlight for me personally was the baptisms which took place at Mrs. Kragh's residence. To me it was a picture of what early church baptism must have been. Authentic, organic and intimate - these are the words that come to mind when I replay that afternoon.

There is much much more I could say but by way of synopsis; The surroundings were beautiful, the teaching was authoritative while being undeniably biblical - in essence it was truth. And the experience was as revelatory as it was intimate. So will we return next year? I have no doubts. Yet until then we will continue learning, seeking and feeding our hunger for the Kingdom.

Luther.

"Jumping Ship".

If you can imagine a ship stuck in port. Busy with preparation yet somehow it never embarks. The passengers, akin to seagoing residents of the "hotel California".


The temptation to jump ship is only experienced by those who are called toward the horizon. The complacent know nothing of these kind of impulses, they simply wait for the ship to embark; which it has historically never done.


So if you are one to whom the horizon calls, I offer this advice. Know that if you jump, you place yourself at the risk of drowning. Yet despite personal peril, it may be more beneficial to drown on your way toward the horizon than to stay in port, gazing into the unreachable distance which calls to your heart.


For all the days you are separate from the hearts true place of residence are only a cold sort of death. Like a warm blanket on a cold day its comfort and security will slowly draw upon your strength until you are no longer capable of answering the call of the distant horizon. And in that day of bitter discovery the ship in port will be revealed as your eternal prison.


So if you are of the called, then my advice is to jump. Brave the chill waters, face the unknown. Take this action now while you have the fortitude to do so. Yes, you may drown. You may fail. But you may succeed. The alternative is to live a life wasted and bitter - gazing into the "could've been".

Luther.

"The Problem with Revival".

There was a time in my Christian journey where I vehemently advocated the idea of revival.

I embraced the view that all the global church needed, and all the wider culture needed was revival - an encounter with the one true God that will alter the course and very structure of every individual and system. This sounded wonderful, it became my hope and expectation. This directly translated to my religious activity - which is to say; I waited, and waited, and waited.

At one juncture this view that I held was challenged. It was pointed out that the culture (spiritual climate if you will) of the old testament was a "Visitational" one. God's interactions with His people was limited to select individuals at select times in select circumstances.

In contrast; under the new covenant - brought by Christ all God's people are inhabited by His spirit; the very person of the Holy Spirit. What this means is that by comparison God no longer merely "visits" His people. He literally lives within them. We are living in a "Habitational" spiritual climate and culture.

If we take this truth and apply it to the concept of revival things start to become dis-joined. The view of revival says that we must wait patiently until God chooses to come and visit His people in a tangible way. Maybe if we worship longer, or praise louder, or display some form of charismatic behavior, we may be able to goad Him into manifesting. Despite the revival view, the scriptures are clear in that God is not coming to "visit" us. He is living within us; He is already here!

The problem with the revival mindset is not that we want God to touch our lives and the world around us in a tangible way. The problem lies in that while we are waiting on God He is waiting on us. We see this principle in the parable of the Talents and Minas. God is waiting on His people; who are full of His Spirit to not only be personally transformed but responsible in bringing a measure of transformation to every area of our influence.

From a formulaic perspective "revival" is simply this: "God's people doing what God has called them to do". If that statement is true then the "issue of revival" rests squarely on the shoulders of God's people.

To wait on God for "revival" is a testament to the spiritual laziness, immaturity, and unwillingness of God's people to do the very things He has designed and gifted them to do. I concede that this is a harsh statement; and in fairness many may be ignorant of their gifting's and callings. Even-still that does not negate our responsibility. And let us not forget (apart from the issue of salvation) it is on the basis of our calling that we will be judged.

As a "Post-Revivalist"; where am I now?

Now, my focus has been and continues to be discovering not only who I am and what I'm called to do; but to empower and where possible equip others to do the same. When people are awakened to their potential and empowered to do what God has called them to do; then we will see lives changed, culture transformed, and systems and structures redeemed.

We no longer have need of chasing after or waiting upon "revival". We have the capacity to achieve everything revival promises. For if God is within us, He is with us, and if He is with us - we have no excuse.

Luther.

"Forgotten Heritage".

The concept of heritage has come to the forefront in my study of the Kingdom. It is apparent that we know and understand our true origins before we can clearly see our destination. In this sense, where we come from does affect where we are going.

Judges 2:6-11 (HCSB)

6 Joshua sent the people away, and the Israelites went to take possession of the land, each to his own inheritance.7 The people worshiped the Lord throughout Joshua’s lifetime and during the lifetimes of the elders who outlived Joshua. They had seen all the Lord’s great works He had done for Israel. 8 Joshua son of Nun, the servant of the Lord, died at the age of 110. 9 They buried him in the territory of his inheritance, in Timnath-heres, in the hill country of Ephraim, north of Mount Gaash. 10 That whole generation was also gathered to their ancestors. After them another generation rose up who did not know the Lord or the works He had done for Israel. 11 The Israelites did what was evil in the Lord’s sight. They worshiped the Baals.

To forget God is to forget our heritage. Not that we fail in remembering Facts about Him; but that we cease to keep Him at the forefront of belief and practice. Simply put; we remember that God exists, but this knowledge has no effect on our daily lives.

This characterizes the American Christian experience. Holding to a form of Christianity, yet forgetting the original purpose for our existence (as found in the dominion mandate Gen. 1:28). in this state we exist - separate from the God we claim to serve. Unable to receive the life and power to sustain us in our purpose.

Forgetting our heritage has consequences.

We become stuck in the mire of rote religious services. Plodding along wasting the gifts which have been so generously deposited within us. Living purposeless lives bereft of joy. We have forgotten that we were designed to impact the world and cultures around us. we are called to leave a legacy of Kingdom activity, not one of exclusive indifference to the world.

What saddens me the most is seeing the false gods and Antichrist structures defended and promoted all in the name of the one true God. and in our arrogance we walk the long road of deception moving farther and farther away from our creator and His purpose for our lives.

Deuteronomy 31:17 (HCSB)
My anger will burn against them on that day; I will abandon them and hide My face from them so that they will become easy prey. Many troubles and afflictions will come to them. On that day they will say, 'Haven't these troubles come to us because our God is no longer with us?'

A life lived well is a life connected to one's heritage.

Luther.

2017 - "A New Resolution".

Greetings all and a Happy New Year,

As we look into the new year I want to share some insights concerning 2017.

2017 is a year of discovery, discovery of who we are as citizens and ambassadors of His Kingdom as well as a year of action. I believe it is time for God's Ekklesia - His called out ones - to go beyond our usual routines and penetrate our culture with a view to transform this age in preparation of the age to come.

I believe we are in a season of transition. A season where the traditional church structure will begin to crumble. Any structure that is not in line with, and yielded to the Kingdom of God will begin to be dismantled (un-assembled) and dis-mantled (removal of spiritual authority and covering). These structures are no longer sufficient to reach a lost and dying culture. And so it falls to those with Kingdom vision to use their Holy Spirit empowered gifting to reach into the darkness of a world with broken systems and mindsets and pull people and resources into the light of His Kingdom.

I believe that 2017 will be a year of either choosing or separation among God's people. There will be two groups - Those who can see the Kingdom, but will be unable to enter because of their refusal to let go of a traditional religious church structure. And those who will receive the calling of God's Kingdom mandate and begin to take action.

2017 will be a year for believers to begin to live up to Christ's standard or to further insulate themselves from the world they are called to engage.

Let me encourage you friends, to yield to the call God has placed before you. To look beyond the four walls of your churches toward the world around you. Use your gifting's and talents to bring Gods order, wisdom, love and life to a broken and hurting world.

Beloved; do these things and you will not be found wanting on the day you stand before the Lord.

Luther Miller.

"Stagnation".

My wife and I are just exiting a long season of spiritual opposition. This opposition has manifested as closed doors toward ministry, financial struggles and natural situations and circumstances that were only designed to distract.The cumulative result this opposition has played in our lives has caused us to become stagnant.

Stagnation is defined as follows:

• The state or condition of having stopped, as by ceasing to flow or run.
• Foulness or staleness emanating from a standing pool of water.
• Failure to develop, progress or advance.
• The state or quality of being or feeling sluggish and dull.

 The only cure for stagnation is movement.

Having recognized the opposition, we have begun to take the necessary steps out of this valley. Our experience has taught us that the key indicator of stagnation is not so much the inactivity in a given area, but the response to that inactivity. for us we found that stagnation (the effects of) caused us to attack and criticize what we held dear. Like a cancer you begin to destroy the very things you once held dear. and once you destroy these things the paralysis of loss will keep you in a place of defeat.

There is hope however; if you have found yourself in a season of spiritual stagnation, there is a way of escape. One that has pulled me from the trenches of depression and defeat and set my feet back upon the firm path.

Friends; we can call upon our Father in a spirit of repentance. Calling Him back into our heart to displace the cares and distractions that have turned our eyes from our first love. He will stir the waters of our spirit, filling us again with fresh living water. Then you will begin to see things move and flow.

The enemy of our souls wants us to die a slow death in the shallow pool of stagnation.The Father would that we become rivers of living water; flowing, moving, and running down from His mountain. To be poured out upon a dry and thirsty land.

Luther.

"Street Ministry - Learning Curve".

For my blog readers who may not know, we have started our own discipleship ministry!
(You can view our website here: Ravensvoiceministries).

I won't elaborate on that here as a simple visit to our ministry site would make any comments redundant (as this Blog has been incorporated there).

What I do want to share is one aspect of our ministry, that being street ministry.
This past weekend marked our second foray into street evangelism. This has been an exciting journey for us as it has also been a challenging one.

One of our main motivations for street ministry has been Healing, and simply engaging with the public at large in attempts to share christ, as well as an opportunity to offer discipleship for those interested.

View of downtown Holland Michigan.

We have seen some miracles take place even on our first attempts. There was one in particular where a young man with four broken knuckles received healing - much to both of our surprises! It is not that we were in doubt on God's power to heal, or that we lacked faith, for we seen others healed before but the reality that God would move through us - in that environment - took us by surprise. We prayed for many others and most people that we approached were receptive and all were polite regardless.

For this second outing we had split into two teams, our family as "team one" and another couple ministering as "team two". For us things went a little differently. The very first person we approached, a woman who was scheduled to have knee surgery the following week; was hesitant to have us pray. After a little persuasion on our part she relented once we prayed she was surprised to have all her pain disappear! Unfortunately the hesitation we experienced with her marked much of our encounters. We did however meet more than a few people from out of town who were fellow believers and commended us for what we were doing which was encouraging.

All in all we have much to still learn, and sadly there are few to glean from. but we know that as God goes with us we needn't despise the small beginnings.

Luther.

Book Review: "The Apostolic Church Arising".

I don't usually do book reviews, and this is not one, at least in the traditional sense. Yet this book has made a significant impacts in my life both personal and ministerial. With that said I thought it would be appropriate to share some of those views here. So that is my disclaimer as it were, if you are looking for the "traditional" report (i.e. content) there are many who are more qualified that have done that already.

Mr. Heidler presents a historical perspective of what the early church was, how it operated, and how it eventually succumbed to the cultural influences under Constantine. The presentation of the new wineskin vs. the pastoral model was insightful, creating a picture of where the church is and where it needs to go. Furthermore the book depicted how the early churches apostolic hubs worked leading to the spread of the gospel and the kingdom of God. Chapter 12 – “Making the transition” gives a basic outline towards becoming a “new wineskin church”; while this is admirable I personally found it only led to more questions leaving many gaps between the suggested points. More specific information, especially as it relates to the congregations perspective would’ve been welcomed.

The book underscores how we have strayed far from the early church model. so much so that were we to return to said model overnight it would be categorized as fringe or dare I say even heretical.To be honest that information has caused me to question the validity of the “church” – at least as we understand it in America. Church today offers little in the way of evangelism, with much of its growth owing itself to member transfer rather than new conversions. Church today has been ineffectual in influencing the culture as evidenced by the increasing moral depravity of our nation. Church today fails in its mission to disciple, train and equip; leaving many members sidelined as it relates to their callings resigning believers to a life of spiritual dependence and inactivity in the kingdom. The church as we know it is not the Ecclesia of the bible; and that fact has me questioning the value and purpose of the “church” as it stands today. Consequently this reflects upon my involvement as a believer and leader in similar structures. This much I do know, if the current church is the bride of Christ we are in a woeful state. 

This book has given me more insight into what an apostolic hub looks like – at least generally, and it has re-kindled a hope that the church as we know it can become that “something more” I’ve always believed it could be, namely a place where those desiring God can be used. Not used merely to further a man-made kingdom of control but used to further Gods kingdom through our own unique gifting’s and callings. A church where Gods people can become fully alive in every sense. For when the world sees a people who radiate their creator they cannot help but to desire the one who gives that life. I want to be a believer whose life ultimately points to Christ. And if an apostolic hub can help me fulfill that calling than I take the vision of the “new wineskin” as my own.

No matter what direction the church heads, we as individual believers must take it upon ourselves to "go" and "do" the work of the kingdom. If we can do that with the assistance of the church and its leaders all the better. But if those who are over us fail to lead, we still have no excuse, we are called to make disciples, to preach the gospel, to expand the kingdom. when we stand before the throne of judgement (and we all will) we will have no excuse for why we did not do what God has called us to do. For it is He that has equipped us for every good work. It is true that our works do not save us, yet that is not to be confused with our Lord's expectation that we do "good works" while here on this earth - let us act accordingly; whether the church supports us or not.

Luther.

"The Failure of a Spiritual Community".

Church. Community. These are words that (for christians) should engender thoughts of safety and acceptance. Unfortunately for a select group of people this is not the case.

Let me relate a very recent experience.

A young teenager had a dream to go to the mission field and possibly one day open an orphanage. She reads books by and about like minded persons; she saves her "mission money" in a mason jar in her parents cupboard. She serves in her local church's youth programs, and she waits for an opportunity to explore the reality of her dream.

Now, this same girl had signed up for the annual youth mission trip sponsored by her church; paid her deposit and applied for her passport (all with her parents approval). She drafted a support letter and began receiving monies toward the trip. Everything was going fine until a meeting with her pastor. It was this meeting (which was the culmination of several committee meetings and phone calls, all unbeknownst to her) where she was told she would not be going on the trip; a crushing blow to a young girl. She was ultimately denied access to the trip for one reason; the leaders were not "comfortable" with her "problem" - that being, she is physically disabled.

It would seem that discrimination is alive and well in the American church; and it is a sad testimony against the faith. What I find disheartening is that this young ladys denial was not based on any real fact; quite the contrary.

• She was not denied on the basis of moral grounds; she had no evidences of what we would label as gross sin.

• She was not denied on the basis of opposing theological views; she was ready to represent her church and its teachings in the same manner as her peers.

• She was not denied on the basis of church liability; taking a group of minors out of the country has no increased liability if one of them happens to be disabled.

The basis of her exclusion was an overestimation of her physical limitations. The belief that she is not physically able to handle mission activity. Irregardless of the fact that her "condition" was so minor in comparison to others with similar disabilities that outwardly there is little discernable difference between her and a "healthy" girl of the same age. In addition this same girl would engage in a myriad of physical activities - all without the assistance of others - such as iterative jogging, ballet, and outdoor photography.

There was no reasonable activity on this mission trip that she would have not been able to perform. It was the perception of her disability that caused her to be excluded; and I personally find that offensive. It seems that the church has forgotten that it is supposed to be an inclusive community of people with the same beliefs not the same socio-economic background, race, gender, or in this case physicality. It is our common belief that must be the basis of our unity.

Effectively the church has communicated "We don't think you have what it takes". "You don't fit our idea of the right kind of person". Which is another way of saying "We don't think you can be used by God".

I've had the privilege of knowing a few disabled persons and my experience shows me that these individuals cannot and will not allow any diminished capacity (physical or otherwise) to prevent them from living the fullest life possible. Imagine if the church would believe in the disabled, at least as much as they believe in themselves.

Here the American church shows its immaturity. It's high time for some growing up to take place; to move past our flawed perceptions and stop dehumanizing those who are disabled either physically or mentally. We all need to start finding creative and genuine ways of including those with limitations in every facet of church life and ministry. For if the Spirit of God dwells in these persons then they too have gifts that are worth receiving.

Until the body of Christ can live out of this paradigm it will continue to show the world that it is Christians who are the truly "disabled".

Luther.

“The future of Youth Ministry”.

Today I was asked the question, “Where do I see the youth ministry going in 2016”?

Now I can only speak from my experience serving with the youth ministry of our own local church; given that, there are two major areas I believe will be key for 2016 as it relates to youth ministry.

For the past 3 years our church has not had a youth pastor. This fact was and still is problematic for many parents and leaders. Yet in spite of the absence of a pastor the youth ministry leadership team has stepped up to not only fill that void but has also fostered the implementation of some things, that quite honestly may not have happened were a youth pastor in place. It seems that necessity IS the mother of invention. This situation has shown itself as a positive however, causing an influx of spiritual life and growth within the ministry. And I believe it signals one of two significant areas of change.

1)      I believe that 2016 will bring a complete structure change to traditional youth ministry. We will see a more entrepreneurial attitude in the youth. There will be more of a focus on what goes on outside the four walls of the youth ministry and the larger church. Youth will begin to seek opportunities to be used in ministry – giving out what has been put in them, vs. receiving what we’ve traditionally offered them. This shift will see young people become the new agents of the ministry and not the ministry’s focus, that focus will be shifted outward.

On the heels of this dynamic, or possibly as a result of; we are seeing more youth (specifically our young adults) step into leadership roles as those in “control” of the youth ministry make them available. More and more youth are no longer content to watch their leaders live out an example of Christian faith and witness; they (the youth) want to live out their own faith. Willingly embracing the “learning curve” that comes with being proactive in ministry. Today’s youth don’t want to be taught so much as guided along their own journey. To put it another way; the youth are going swimming in deep waters, they won’t wear life-jackets (their too restrictive) but they are asking us to be watchful life guards.

2)      I believe that 2016 will see more youth take a leadership role through various avenues (Again as the current leadership provides opportunities). These roles will manifest in (but not limited to):

a.       Creative teams assigned to special projects, anything from event planning to ministry outreaches to crafting the very ministry services within the larger church.

b.      Areas of service within the larger church body. We will see greater integration of our youth in positions that traditionally were held for adults only. I see this as a renewal of mentoring and discipleship.

c.       Outside ministries and community involvement in various social causes. This is key, because if we fail to create avenues for our youth to serve, be used and grow; they will gravitate to those who will. The adage "If you don’t use it you lose it" holds true here. We need to remember the youth will be the church in a handful of years. We cannot afford to lose them due to lack of opportunity!

In closing; I see these two major areas as coloring youth ministry in 2016. Old models and methodologies must be let go if we hope to accomplish God's goals for this year.we shouldn't fear this change - it is for the better, I am anticipating great things happening in youth ministry. 

As a leader I am reminded that it must be my goal to not only allow change to happen, but to be (one of many) a driving force behind that change. Our youth – the future leaders of the church, deserve no less!

Luther.