Pastor Tim's Blog for Kids

Part of the plan - 1

2011-05-31T17:14:00.002-04:00

Hey Kids,
I forgot to mention one thing you could put in your summer plans right away. Talk to mom and/or dad about coming to Kids Games June 13-17. We'll be here every night from 6-9pm.

The "Plan" vs. I'm Bored

2011-05-31T16:39:00.003-04:00

Hey kids,
Summer vacation is just about here. Do you have any plans? Hopefully you aren't planning on being "bored." Now that school is out you have a lot of free time. I want to encourage you to talk with your parent/parents about some things you would like to do this summer so that you can have a plan instead of just sitting around and waiting for something exciting to happen. Don't forget to include God in your plans and even pray about what He would like you to do this summer.

Living Ready For Jesus' Return

2011-05-23T12:51:00.004-04:00

It was all over in the news, the world is going to end on 5/21 - earthquakes, the rapture. Everyone seemed to be talking about it. 5/21 has come and gone and here we are. I wanted to give you some scripture concerning this and encourage you to LIVE READY because we don't know exactly when Jesus will come back. 2 Peter 3:3-18

3 Most importantly, I want to remind you that in the last days scoffers will come, mocking the truth and following their own desires. 4 They will say, “What happened to the promise that Jesus is coming again? From before the times of our ancestors, everything has remained the same since the world was first created.”

5 They deliberately forget that God made the heavens by the word of his command, and he brought the earth out from the water and surrounded it with water. 6 Then he used the water to destroy the ancient world with a mighty flood. 7 And by the same word, the present heavens and earth have been stored up for fire. They are being kept for the day of judgment, when ungodly people will be destroyed.

8 But you must not forget this one thing, dear friends: A day is like a thousand years to the Lord, and a thousand years is like a day. 9 The Lord isn’t really being slow about his promise, as some people think. No, he is being patient for your sake. He does not want anyone to be destroyed, but wants everyone to repent. 10 But the day of the Lord will come as unexpectedly as a thief. Then the heavens will pass away with a terrible noise, and the very elements themselves will disappear in fire, and the earth and everything on it will be found to deserve judgment.

11 Since everything around us is going to be destroyed like this, what holy and godly lives you should live, 12 looking forward to the day of God and hurrying it along. On that day, he will set the heavens on fire, and the elements will melt away in the flames. 13 But we are looking forward to the new heavens and new earth he has promised, a world filled with God’s righteousness.

14 And so, dear friends, while you are waiting for these things to happen, make every effort to be found living peaceful lives that are pure and blameless in his sight.

15 And remember, the Lord’s patience gives people time to be saved. This is what our beloved brother Paul also wrote to you with the wisdom God gave him—16 speaking of these things in all of his letters. Some of his comments are hard to understand, and those who are ignorant and unstable have twisted his letters to mean something quite different, just as they do with other parts of Scripture. And this will result in their destruction.

Peter’s Final Words
17 I am warning you ahead of time, dear friends. Be on guard so that you will not be carried away by the errors of these wicked people and lose your own secure footing. 18 Rather, you must grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
All glory to him, both now and forever! Amen.

2011-05-23T12:51:00.001-04:00

Attitude

2011-02-23T16:19:00.002-05:00

Thought I should get a February word out to you. You all know what facebook is though I think you are supposed to be a certain age to have an account right? Anyways, My daughter put a quote on hers about attitude and it got a lot of response including some from me. I will put a quote on your parents blog that I won't use here. Anyways, to get to the point, attitude is a life key. When you find your self in trouble and you get grounded what do you think your parents are waiting for? It is usually a change in your attitude - it reflects where your heart is at. I would venture to say that if you get in trouble, instead of being defensive or having a bad attitude, ask God to help you to own your mistake and to have a good attitude. It might actually get you out of trouble quicker than you thought. Remember mostly that your attitude is a choice you make and as we say every week, "I need to make the wise choice!"

New Year 2011 part 2

2011-01-10T08:56:00.002-05:00

We had a great time in church yesterday (1/9/11). Learning about DETERMINATION is a great tool to help us in this new year. I shared that God gave me a word for this new year and that word is "Growth". I want to grow in my relationship with Jesus, and I got some great ideas from everyone yesterday. Reading my Bible, praying at a regular time, worshipping God ALL THE TIME, and going to church are all things that will help me grow. Thank you for your help and I'll let you know how I'm doing! Time to go pray and read my Bible.

New Year 2011

2011-01-04T11:12:00.002-05:00

There is a sense that God is ready to do something very special in 2011. We have been praying for all that God has for us as individuals and as a church. I pray that this year you experience such growth in God that others see Him in you and even ask you why you are so different from everyone else. As a church, we are fasting and praying for 21 days so we can focus on Him and hear His voice more clearly. I encourage you to talk with your parents about a time you can pray as a family for this New Year and for all God wants to do in and through you in it. Happy New Year and God's mega-blessings!

FEAR - of God

2010-12-29T14:07:00.003-05:00

What are you afraid of? Spiders? Storms? The dark? Heights? There are all kinds of fears we can have but did you know there is actually a good kind of fear to have? It is the fear of the Lord. It is actually where knowledge and wisdom begin. It says - God, you are in charge, I am not. You know everything, I don't. you have all power, you made everything and you are the central part of the world and most importantly my life. When we fear God, we listen to his word. We do what it says like, treating others the way we should. So, if you're brave enough, ask God to help you to fear Him. Fear that respects. Fear that is in awe (wow God!).

December 2010 - JOY

2010-12-06T09:53:00.003-05:00

This month we're talking about Joy - finding a way to be happy even when things don't go your way. Last month we celebrated Thanksgiving. I think these two things tie in with each other, especially at this time of year. Sometimes we can receive a present from someone and feel disappointed rather than thankful. It wasn't what we wanted or hoped to receive. If we don't like it, we don't say thank you and we can even say something not so nice. If we remember to be thankful it can help us to be happy with what we received. After all, the giver of the gift really didn't have to give us anything at all. This Christmas, make sure you say thank you for your gifts and you'll be surprised as to how happy you can be when you are thankful. Maybe you can even take the time to write a thank you note to someone who has done something nice for you. That would be a nice gift for them and it would probably bring them some JOY. Have a blessed Christmas!

Helllloooo - Thanksgiving

2010-11-10T11:28:00.002-05:00

Thought to myself it's been way too long since I've posted here. We had a son get married, celebrated Harvest Fest and now, November is here. One of my favorite holidays of the year comes in November - Thanksgiving. It is good for us to stop and think about how truly blessed we are. I pray you have many things to give God thanks for. It's also important to remember to keep your attitude of gratitude. Here are a couple of reasons why from God's Word. Romans 1:21"Yes, they knew God, but they wouldn't worship him as God or even give him thanks. And they began to think up foolish ideas of what God was like. The result was that their minds became dark and confused." And 1 Thessalonians 5:18 - No matter what happens, always be thankful, for this is God's will for you who belong to Christ Jesus. Not only does God want us to be thankful, it keeps us thinking right.

Ready or Not - Summer's Winding Down

2010-07-29T11:47:00.003-04:00

Almost the end of July. It reminds me of something I wrote on my face book page the other day about stores. I think one of the meanest things stores do is put "Back To School" stuff out in early July. It seems like the summer just got started and they are already talking about going back to school. I'm not down on going to school but I think in this 24/7 society that's going 110 miles per hour we need to relax and enjoy where we are at without always feeling pressured to worry about what's coming. Now that statement opens another whole can of worms. We do need to be ready in advance for the most important event mankind will know - the return of the Lord Jesus Christ to the earth. We're not supposed to "worry" about tomorrow, but we are to be ready. So, back to school? It's good to be ready but don't let it rob you of enjoying the summer vacation you still have left. Jesus' return? I hope and pray you are ready for this and that you continue to live ready. How do you get ready? A-B-C: A - admit you've sinned. B - believe Jesus died for your sins and rose again. C - commit your life to Jesus Christ.

Camping July '10

2010-07-09T09:32:00.002-04:00

It's time for the trip up north "To da UP eh?" One thing I have enjoyed over the years is my annual camping trip with one of my kids to the UP of Michigan. This year I get to add another generation to the tradition. Chas, (son), Jhace (grandson) and I will be heading up to St. Ignace. This all started back in 1978 when Candy and I camped in the back of our '76 Datsun pick up truck. A lot has changed since then but the campground we found seems to be locked in a time warp. Not a whole lot different 32 years later. We look forward to a time of fires, outdoor cooking, cooler temperatures and new adventures. We also like to roll down the windows when we cross the Mackinaw Bridge. The cold air makes us laugh as we drive across. I thank God for all the wonderful memories and for the ability and provision to be able to go on these wonderful trips. I hope you have some great things planned that you can give God thanks for too!

July 4th 2010

2010-07-01T11:24:00.002-04:00

Starting the month of July and I'm thinking about one of our family's favorite things to do is go to the fireworks on July 4th. We will be walking in the parade this year handing out nearly 200,000 different items to those watching. Later in the day we will be doing a kids booth at the Middle School building on Wilson. Stop by or look for us in the parade if you are around. Make sure to say hi and most of all have a safe holiday. When you watch the fireworks and go oooh, and aaah, remember one day we will be seeing all that God made and that will be the biggest OOOOOOOOOOOOOOH'S and AAAAAAAAAAHH'S of all!

Summer Vacation 2010

2010-06-10T13:50:00.002-04:00

Here it is. The end of the school year (for most). We have a tradition in our family concerning the first and last days of school for the year. On those days we go out to have dinner at Russ' restaurant. Something to look forward to (if you like Russ') that feels special because you get to spend time with family. Whatever tradition you may have for the summer - a vacation trip, camping, swimming, camp, etc. I pray that you stay safe and don't take a vacation from God. Have a good summer!

Food + Dog = Happiness

2010-05-20T15:31:00.002-04:00

It's been a little bit since I've posted about our new dog "Oggie." An Olde English Bulldog. They say these dogs can be "bullheaded", stubborn and that they need to be taught who's the boss. Oggie is actually quite smart and sadly stubborn. He knows what it means when you say, "House." The problem is that he doesn't want to go in there - unless you give him a treat. He knows what it means when you say, "Come" but He ignores you unless you have some food in your hand. He will do anything for food. I like how God uses things in our everyday lives to teach us about Him. My dog reminds me that I know what is right. I should be willing to do it without a "special treat" because it is the right thing to do. So, remember not to be stubborn like a bulldog, but willing to be quickly obedient when you're asked to do something. It brings joy to those who ask you and mostly, it brings joy to your Heavenly Father. A new formula - Instruction + Obedience = Joy.

Kids Fine Arts - 4/24/10

2010-04-30T11:28:00.003-04:00

Last weekend we held our 7th Kids Fine Arts Festival here in the State of Michigan. We had over 300 kids come and share their talents which included: drama, human video, singing, puppets, short sermon, visual art, creative writing, instrumental solos, dance, stomp, and more. I have always told kids, "You are not the church of tomorrow, you are the church of today." You may be tomorrow's leaders but God has anointed you to preach the Gospel and share His love today. I was so encouraged to see the gifts God has poured out on kids and for their willingness to grow and develop them. That is what Kids Fine Arts is all about. I pray you discover your gift and use it for the glory of our soon coming King!

April Showers - Trust God

2010-04-29T10:55:00.004-04:00

Wow! I was looking at the calendar and there are only two more days left in April. I hadn't posted anything this month so I thought, "I better get one in here." The old rhyme - "April showers bring may flowers" comes to mind. This has been a different April. It started warm and windy which made May's flowers come a little early. Then it got cold and put those flowers and the fruit they turn into in danger. Now the month is ending the way it began, warm and windy. I remember a few showers, but not very many. All of that makes me think about how much we don't know, what we can't control, but the fact that, "I can trust God no matter what." This is one of the things we remind ourselves of every week in Kids First. When things don't go like you think they should remember to trust God. When something challenging or difficult comes your way remember to trust God. If you don't like how things are going, trust God. If you don't have what you think you need, trust God. I think you get the idea here. When we look at God instead of our problems, our problems look a lot smaller. After all - who or what is bigger than God? See you May!

Spring has Sprung

2010-03-30T14:54:00.002-04:00

It officially turned into the Spring season on March 20th. My last post I talked about my kids birthdays. One of them was born on the first day of Spring. I always like to tell her the story of how when she was born, it had been a cloudy, kind of gray icky day but when she was born, the clouds broke up, sun came out and warmed everything up, especially our hearts with our little Spring baby. I don't know about you, but I'm ready for no more snow and for some flowers, even some thunderstorms. Remember, this is the day the Lord has made - rejoice and be glad in it!

My Kids Birthdays

2010-03-30T14:45:00.002-04:00

It is March and that means birthdays at my house. My kids were all born in the same week - 20th, 25th and 27th. It's kind of like having triplets only they were born two years apart. Every year we like to do something special for each one. Let them pick the food they would like for dinner. Take them on a special date. Something to let them know how much we love them and are blessed by God's gift of them to us. We celebrate all you kids that God allows us to minister to as gifts from Him also. May you feel the love of your Heavenly Father and I pray that God mega-blesses you !

Time for a break

2010-02-25T12:59:00.003-05:00

A lot of families take vacations every year. I remember sharing earlier how much I liked going on vacation in the summer when I was growing up. Visiting new places, seeing new things, trying something different. And now, I get to take a vacation and step away from the normal busy schedule. Pastor Candy and I are looking forward to the opportunity to take a break and to go visit my mom in her winter home. The thing is - God knows we need breaks too which is why He gave us the Sabbath. The religious leaders made things more about the Sabbath and obeying rules than they did about God giving it to us for rest. That's what Jesus said - "The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath." All of that to say, I'm looking forward to a good Sabbath rest. And for you, don't forget to take a break. it refreshes you body, soul and spirit. By the way, they come after you've done your homework and chores, not the other way around.

Oggie the Doggie - Eating

2010-02-08T14:58:00.003-05:00

Who doesn't need to eat right? I am amazed at how fast this dog can eat 2 cups of food. I never hear a bite, then a crunch, crunch, crunch. It's more of a snort, gulp, gulp, gulp then the next thing you know, the bowl is empty. One not so nice side affect from his fast eating from time to time is a throw up surprise. Not icky, but looks almost like the food he ate out of the bowl only in a tube form. His eating habits make me think about a couple things. How hungry am I for God? I really do need regular spiritual meals and nourishment. Do I just gulp and snort, or do I take my time and think about what I am reading and letting it digest, getting down into me so it will give me health and strength? Or, does it come up and out as quickly as I try to put it in? Eat regularly, take small bites, chew your food well, both physically and spiritually.

Oggie the Doggie Growing

2010-02-03T13:24:00.002-05:00

When we first got our new puppy he was right around 21 pounds. Two weeks later he had grown to 25.5 lbs. I have no idea how much he weighs today but he is getting huge. It's hard to pick him up and his head and tail stick way out their now. the other thing he wants is to eat all the time. Sounds a lot like being a kid doesn't it. Made me think of how we should all be growing in Jesus and always hungry for his Word. Keep on coming back for "Oggie" updates.

Oggie the Doggie

2010-01-26T19:36:00.002-05:00

A little while back I wrote about lessons I learned from my dog Walter. Now we are on an new adventure with a puppy we got on New Years Eve. His name is Ogust (pronounced August) but we call him Oggie for short. He is an English Bulldog. He already weighs 25 and a half pounds and isn't even 4 months old. I think he's going to be big. They say when you get older, you start to look like your pets. Uh oh, I think we got the wrong kind of dog in that case. Really, the older I get, the more I want to look like Jesus. Stay tuned for the new adventures of Oggie the Doggie.

New Year 2010

2010-01-09T14:53:00.002-05:00

It's a new year and a lot of people I talk to are excited about God doing something very special in their lives and on an even larger scale this year. I want to encourage you to prepare yourself for what He wants to do in and through you. Here are five things to help you to prepare your heart and to grow stronger in your faith:
1. God's Word - read it daily
2. Memorize Scripture - read His Word often and hide it in your heart
3. Prayer - talk to God regularly. Don't forget to listen too
4. Faith - build your faith. Know what you believe about God and why
5. Worship - it's not just songs but how you live every day
If you practice these things, it will help you grow stronger in the Lord and prepare the way for Him to move in your life and through your life to touch others. Here comes a great 2010!

Gifts/Giving Dec 09

2009-12-14T16:09:00.002-05:00

We have been talking about Compassion in Rush Hour this month. On 12/13 we talked about gifts and how God gave us the greatest gift ever - Jesus. We followed that up with a question - What will you give? This time of year, so many people focus on what they want for Christmas, they miss the opportunity to listen and see what would bless those around them. I want to encourage you to follow God's example and give your very best this year. You'll have to watch and listen. Pay attention to those around you to see what would be a blessing to them. Compared to getting stuff, you actually do feel better when you give and especially when give your very best. Make this Christmas about others and discover the joy of giving.

Things I learned from my dog Walter

2009-12-01T14:04:00.002-05:00

Kind of a sad note to start off December but here is something I learned about life from my dog. On Thanksgiving evening he decided to go for a walk on his own and got hit by a car. He was hurt real bad and he didn't make it through. He always lived life a little dangerously. When we first brought him home, as a puppy he decided to try out some rat poison - he made it through that one. Several other close scrapes with vehicles, fights with muskrats and other critters and dogs and the list goes on. It got me to thinking. When we live our lives headed in a direction that is opposite to the way we should be going, eventually it could get us. The Bible says there is blessing in obedience. We talk every week in Rush Hour about three rules. One of those is, "I need to make the wise choice." I wish my little dog would have made the wise choice and stayed home but he didn't. I hope you choose your friends wisely and if they ever want to talk you into going someplace you know you shouldn't, that the Holy Spirit will speak to your heart and you will make the wise choice and do what is right. Rules are good and they protect us. Obedience to instruction and direction does the same thing. Even Jesus learned obedience as He grew up. I wanted to share with you what I learned form my dog that is a good reminder of why we need to make the wise choice.

Thankfulness - Nov 09

2009-11-05T15:20:00.002-05:00

A new month is here - November. I was thinking about Harvest Fest being behind us now and what are we looking forward to? November is the month we celebrate Thanksgiving, so I thought I'd share a little bit about being thankful. First - I know when I have worked hard to do something for someone and they say "thank you" it means so much. It shows they recognize what I have done for them. These two words, "Thank You" can be so powerful. When I hear those words I am reminded that I also need to share them with others. I mentioned Harvest Fest in the beginning of this blog. It takes a lot of people to make it happen and I thank each and every one of them. Take some time to look at the people in your life that do special things for you. It could be mom and the clean clothes you don't even have to think about. It could be dad and his encouraging words or the help he gives you. It might be a teacher or Sunday School teacher who helps you to learn something new. Maybe even a brother or sister or friend who helps you to do chores. I am sure there are all kinds of ways that others help you so take the time to think about what they do and then let them know you see how they have helped you by saying those two simple and powerful words - THANK YOU.

Halloween 2009

2009-10-20T13:17:00.003-04:00

When my kids were growing up, our family didn't celebrate Halloween in the normal sense. It is also my brother's, their Uncle Ted's birthday. We did used to make it a family day and had a lot of fun, it was special for sure and the kids looked forward to it every year. Snacks, videos, crafts and more were part of our day. We have offered for years, an alternative to going out to "Trick or Treat" called Harvest Fest. We will be having this time of fun again this year at the Xchange from 5:30 - 8:30 pm Saturday, October 31, 2009. You are invited and encouraged to bring a friend with you.

Thank You Oct 09

2009-10-08T20:49:00.002-04:00

Two of the most powerful words in the English language - THANK YOU. I know how good it makes me feel when someone tells me thank you. That they noticed I worked or tried hard to do something for them. It also reminds me that I need to use those same to words to make others feel as good as I do when I hear them. Give these two words away as often as you can and you'll be amazed at the power they have to encourage others and make you feel better at the same time. Most of all, remember to say thank you to God for all He has done, is doing and will do for you.

Fall 2009

2009-10-05T14:39:00.002-04:00

I love this time of year. The leaves change color on the trees, temperatures are lower, humidity is down (except when it's raining) and fun is in the air. Jumping in piles of leaves, drinking fresh apple cider, walks outside enjoying the fresh air, what a wonderful season. It reminds me of God's seasons for our lives. Some seasons have to do with our physical age, others have to do with the character God is building in us. Enjoy every season God gives you and thank Him for it. Even if it's hard or difficult remember seasons change. The main thing is that they are ordered of God for His best purpose in your life.

Friends - Sept 09

2009-09-30T10:35:00.002-04:00

I was thinking about friends today. They are one of the more important choices we make in our lives. It is important to have friends who encourage you to do the right (God) things. Friends who don't want to be with you because of what you have or what you can give them. I want the kind of friends who will be thee when I need them. Friends who don't come and go but stick with you. Jesus is the kind of friend who "sticks closer than a brother." I pray you have good friends and that you have the most important friend anyone could have - Jesus.

Back To School 09

2009-09-14T10:00:00.002-04:00

When I was a kid, I never thought it was fair to have to go back to school when it still felt like summer outside. Sitting in a classroom looking out at the beautiful weather that was summer vacation yesterday was very distracting. I imagine the snow will be flying here soon enough. With all of the changes seasons bring and the calendar that tells us where we need to be and what we need to be doing, one thing doesn't change - God. Now that school is back in session, make sure people can see Jesus in you. What you do, what you say, the look on your face, how you treat others are all things that can help someone see who Jesus really is. This is how He chose to reveal Himself - through you and through me. I pray God helps you to have the best school year ever and that you will help others to know who He is by how you live.

Prayer - Sept 09

2009-08-31T09:05:00.003-04:00

One of the most life-changing, powerful things a Christian can do is pray. It always surprises me that people try every other way to take care of something and then say, all I can do now is pray. Really, that's where we should start - with prayer. We have developed a new Kids First Prayer journal to help our students and teachers develop the practice of prayer in their lives. I look forward to seeing and hearing how God is moving in the lives of His people. A prayer request for you as you read this, "God, please send us revival in the lives of our children and staff @Kids First.

Love - Again

2009-08-24T10:25:00.002-04:00

We have been talking about LOVE in Rush Hour this month. I wrote in an earlier post about the Fruit of the Spirit - Love. Today I was thinking about what we've been learning on Sundays. One of the best explanations I received about love was years ago when I decided I was "In Love" with Pastor Candy (she wasn't a Pastor then). The Pastor who was talking to us before we got married gave me a very simple example of what LOVE is. He said, "We like something because it pleases us. When we LOVE someone, we want to please them." He asked me if I loved my fiance' and of course I said yes. I've learned a lot more since then. Remember this simple thing, LOVE focuses outward, like focuses inward and we are called to LOVE".

Traveling

2009-08-05T13:08:00.002-04:00

I have loved to travel since the time I was young. Family vacations (mentioned in an earlier post), business, missions trips. I have walked, driven, flown, ridden on the train, taken buses, been on boats and more. I like the adventure of traveling. On a recent trip to California, I had probably my worst experience ever when it comes to flying. Talk about an adventure. On the way there our flight was delayed because of thunderstorms, so we missed our connection to our final destination. We absolutely had to be there and asked about other flights and we were offered no real help at all. We finally made our own arrangements with another airline and had to spend a lot more money to get to where we needed to go but PRAISE GOD, we got there. On the way home, our flight was again delayed, this time because of mechanical and security issues. We sat in the airport for 7 hours waiting for our flight and after all that, we missed our connecting flight home. We were told that we would at least have a hotel room to stay in for the night. When we talked to the people about our room, they told us, "no", we couldn't have one. After about an hour and a half of negotiating, we were finally given a voucher (coupon) for a free room. When we went to leave the airport, there was no shuttle available and we were told it would cost $55 to take a taxi. It would also take a half hour or more to get there. We decided the free hotel wasn't really free and ended up sleeping (not really) in the airport for 4-5 hours to try and catch an early flight home. With all of the mess, challenges and frustration, I kept asking, "God, what do you want me to learn from this?" That's an important thing to do. Let God take advantage of any and every situation you find yourself in and He will use it for good. God can show you how He provides, how He refines, how you can have peace and joy, how your delay might really be about helping someone else. There are many things that we don't see when we are all upset about how bad things are going for us. If we stop and ask God, He will help us to see a bigger picture and how we can even be blessed by less-than-fun circumstances. I pray your travels go smooth.

Clouds

2009-07-27T15:10:00.002-04:00

Some people might think this strange, but I like cloudy days. Too many days of sunshine in a row and I start needing to see some clouds. I also like storms. Not destructive scary storms, but rain, thunder and lightning, those are cool. Last week my son Chas and I were talking about the clouds, the forecast calling for rain and everything looking like it was passing us by. We were all bummed that we weren't getting any rain. We even talked about a scripture in Proverbs (25:14) that talks about clouds and wind that don't bring rain. Guess what? It rained and it came down hard. So much rain thatit washed the rocks in my landscape ran down the driveway, into the street, then down the drain. Now I have a new project. Fixing the landscaping which is another thing I like to do, just not in the rain. Hope you are enjoying the nice cool summer.

Camping

2009-07-13T13:21:00.002-04:00

Have you ever been camping? Ever since I was a kid, I have loved to sleep in tents. Yes, my version of camping is not sleeping at a Holiday Inn or even in a camper. A good ol' tent and sleeping bag. Now that's camping. The first tent I ever bought was called a "Pup Tent" and was barely big enough for two kids. In the summer, I would pitch this little tent in the yard and sleep out night after night. As I got older, I found the family tent in our shed. it was a big, heavy-duty, canvas, cabin tent that had two rooms. It was tall enough for us to set up bunk bed cots. I would set up our family tent and we would spend weeks at a time out there. One room we used for a card table so we could do puzzles and games, the other room was for sleeping. One of my favorite things to do to this day in the summer is go up to the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. I have had a tradition of taking turns going to St. Ignace with one of my three kids each summer. This year I get to go up with Nycki and her husband Jordan. We pitch a tent, have campfires, and one of the best things, we cook breakfast and dinner outdoors. When I think about camping, it kind of reminds me about what God says about us being sojourners, travelers here on this earth. It is temporary, like living in a tent instead of a house, and one day we will be home, our forever house, with Him in heaven. I wouldn't want to live in a tent every day of my life, though I do enjoy going camping. I think God wants us to enjoy our time here on earth, but He is looking forward to us one day, being with Him forever in heaven. Another thing I thought about was in the end of the book of John. Jesus cooking breakfast outdoors. After He had been crucified, buried, and risen from the dead, He was on the beach cooking some fresh fish for His disciples. Nothing tastes as good as food cooked outdoors. Remember to enjoy God's blessings and the special things you get to do here on earth, but don't settle just for that. Keep your eyes focused on Jesus and the home you will one day have with Him in heaven forever. That's better than any tent or camping trip could ever be.

Relaxing

2009-07-08T13:01:00.002-04:00

Summer vacation. I'm just getting back into the swing of things after taking a week off from work. Yup, being a pastor can definitely be work. The bonus is, I love what I do. It's important to take time to relax and enjoy the blessings God has put in your life. It's also more important not to forget Him while you are enjoying those blessings. I know I said it earlier, but it is worth repeating. Take a vacation, but don't take a vacation from God. Remember to pray, read your Bible, and go to worship services. It makes your vacation better when you include God.

Summer Vacation

2009-06-17T13:29:00.002-04:00

Summer. When I was in school, this was my favorite time of year. I would get to see my grandma and grandpa. We would take a family vacation. I got to see places like Yellowstone National Park and Washington DC. One of my favorite things was NO SCHOOL, YAY!!! I could sleep in, play with my friends, go fishing or swimming, pretty much everything I wanted to do. So far in this blog I have used a little one-letter word, "I" an awful lot. When I was growing up, the one big thing missing in my life was not knowing who Jesus was and how much He loved me and wanted the best for me. I was focused on "I" (me). This summer, I want to encourage you to have fun and enjoy all that God has for you and keep Him in the center of all you do. Take a summer vacation from school, but don't take a vacation from God!

The Fruit of The Spirit - Recap

2009-06-11T14:07:00.003-04:00

The fruits we have been going over the last few weeks can show up in our lives by our own efforts. The difference in them being from the Holy Spirit is that they all exist together, can be seen regularly, and they are ongoing. Our own human effort and hard work can look good for a while, but we need the Holy Spirit's help to have this fruit in our life regularly and long-term. Be fruitful and multiply - meaning - let God's Spirit do His work in you and lead others to Jesus. These are things we can't do without Him.

SELF CONTROL

2009-06-10T16:50:00.003-04:00

Didn't mean to leave you hanging and waiting for the last of the Fruits of The Spirit - SELF CONTROL. This is one of the most needed things in the lives of people today. Not just people who believe in Jesus, but people in general. Because we are not willing to tell ourselves no, or to wait for something, we create a lot of trouble or challenge that is not necessary. SELF CONTROL in a simple way is what we teach in Rush Hour - "Doing what you should do, not what you want to do" (based on 252 Basics). So next time you want to do or have something, ask yourself the question, "Is this something I should do or have, or just something I want to do or have?" Keep growing and showing that fruit!

GENTLENESS

2009-05-19T13:53:00.002-04:00

GENTLE - courteous, kind, patient, not harsh or rough. That's what the dictionary has to say about GENTLE. GENTLENESS is the action part of being GENTLE and it needs to apply not only to our actions, but also our speech. When the Holy Spirit does His work in us, it will come out in every area, the look on our face, tone of our voice, actions, etc., not just a part but the whole.

FAITHFULNESS

2009-05-18T12:50:00.002-04:00

A big word with a big challenge. I was reading today from 2 Timothy chapter 2 and it talked about when we are unfaithful, God is still faithful because He cannot deny Himself. It is part of who He is. Faithfulness is being there when you are needed no matter how hard it is for you. Faithfulness is giving a phone call or texting someone (friends or parents, or someday your boss) to let them know if you can't be somewhere when you said you would or you were supposed to be somewhere at a certain time. Faithfulness is being dependable, reliable, and accountable. Faithfulness is needed to make friendships work. Faithfulness stands by others when no one else does. Faithfulness is more about others than it is about yourself. Faithfulness is about being more like Jesus. Help us Lord to show Faithfulness every day.

GOODNESS

2009-05-14T16:32:00.002-04:00

GOODNESS sounds a lot like kindness to me. They are definitely very closely related and also both fruits of the Spirit. Can we be kind without being good? Can we be good without being kind? I think about the person who came to Jesus and called Him "Good Teacher." Jesus told him only God was good. Makes me think about goodness in my life is reflecting God because only He is good. GOODNESS is God-likeness, or godliness. A combination of Being good and doing good. A challenge for us to let others see God in is.

KINDNESS

2009-05-06T19:25:00.002-04:00

How important is it to you that people are kind to you? The "Golden Rule" tells us that we need to teat others the way we want to be treated. It's easy to be nice, or kind to someone when we want or need something from them. It is a lot harder for us to be kind to others when we don't receive it right back. We need the Holy Spirit's help to show kindness to others, especially when we don't think they deserve it. I remember hearing someone say, "it's better to be kind than to be right." That means it is more important show kindness than to win an argument. Remember how you want to be treated and ask god to help you treat others that same way.

PATIENCE

2009-04-23T10:24:00.002-04:00

I can't wait to write about PATIENCE! I can't wait for you to read this! Have you ever said "I can't wait." Most people have, at least once. We do a series in Kids First about PATIENCE and the definition is this: "Waiting until later for what you want now." That can be a hard thing. I want cookies now, but I have to mix the dough, then I have to bake them, then I have to let them cool so I don't burn my tongue. Yes, I could go buy some from the store, but the best cookies are home made, a little warm and served with a nice cold glass of milk. There are many things we want in life: To go somewhere, to get a new bike, to drive a car, to get our own home, and on the list goes. It is important to remember that PATIENCE can be a real blessing. When we have to work for something, save our money to purchase it, we enjoy it even more. I admit, I usually get most impatient when I am waiting to go somewhere. I can even get a little grumpy. If was a little more patient, I would look more like Jesus than when I get grumpy just because I have to wait an extra minute or two (or three or four). So remember, next time you are in a hurry or want something, not to complain, whine, or get grumpy. Ask God to help you wait and to show the fruit of the Holy Spirit - PATIENCE in your life.

PEACE

2009-04-15T09:18:00.002-04:00

Not a piece of pie, or piece of cake. Not a piece of pizza or giving someone a piece of your mind, I heard about someone who did that and didn't have anything left. What about PEACE of mind instead? I think most everyone understands and desires PEACE and the benefits it brings. Many think of the world we live in and the different wars we have fought or are fighting now. PEACE instead of war, that's a nice thought. If you have a little brother or sister you might think about how you would like some PEACE and quiet. Am I right? The fruit of the Spirit, PEACE, is different. It's not about the absence of war or conflict, it's not about quiet or being left alone. It's not even about mom and dad not arguing or having a disagreement that makes you uncomfortable. It is knowing that God is with you and everything will be okay even in the middle of all those things. One of my favorite verses in the Bible talks about PEACE. Philippians 4:6 says to be anxious for nothing. Have you ever been worried, concerned, uncomfortable, afraid of or about something? That's anxiety. The Bible tells us that when we feel that way, we should pray and let God know about it, even being thankful. I think we can be thankful because we know we can trust God no matter what. Then He tells us that His PEACE that goes beyond our ability to understand, will guard our hearts and minds. Jesus says He gives us PEACE that the world cannot. How true is that? So the next time you feel anxious, pray and thank God and He will give you what you need most, PEACE.

JOY

2009-04-06T14:18:00.002-04:00

Joy - not just being happy or feeling good, JOY. Did you know you can have JOY even when things don't seem to be going your way? One of the pieces of our Christian Armor is the Helmet of Salvation. In Psalm 51 David talks to God about not taking from him the Joy of his Salvation. Joy, knowing you belong to God through Jesus, can protect your mind. It helps you to think right. Here's another thing to think about. The Joy of the Lord is our strength. We can have joy from God that gives us strength to walk through times when things seem to be falling apart or not going our way. The key to this is being in a relationship with God, knowing He is on your side, working all things together for your good. Now that is something worth smiling about! It bring me JOY!

LOVE

2009-03-30T15:53:00.003-04:00

First on the list of the Fruit of the Spirit is "love." So much that could be said, so little space. One of the best descriptions ever written about love was by the Apostle Paul in 1 Corinthians chapter 13. The end of that chapter talks about three things remaining. Faith, hope, and love, the greatest of these being love. Man longs for love which is shown by the fact that Love is the subject of many songs. Always hoping for love, never truly finding it outside of God. It is how people will know we love Jesus, by how we love one another. It covers a multitude of sin. Perfect love casts out all fear. It is so powerful it moved God from heaven to earth. Love gives. Love is a choice. Ultimately, God is love.

No Law

2009-03-26T15:10:00.003-04:00

Sometimes people think they would like to live with "No Rules." Can you imagine playing a game where there were no rules? How would you know you were winning? How would you know if you were losing? What if Speed limits weren't posted and your parents got pulled over for doing 35 mph and the policeman said that today the speed limit was only 5 MPH on this street. Sound crazy? It would be. Rules help things stay focused and on track. There is one thing I was thinking that goes with the title of this blog - "No Law." It refers to the Fruit of the Spirit: Love, Joy, Peace, Patience, Kindness, Goodness, Faithfulness, Gentleness, and Self-Control. Against such things there is "no law." Not a lack of rules, these things fit inside any rule that exists. Over the next several blog entries, we'll be talking about these fruits. Have a great day!

Breaking the Law

2009-03-25T16:54:00.003-04:00

Have you ever been doing something you know you shouldn't be doing and someone walks in the room? Your heart starts beating faster, you get nervous, there's a funny feeling in your stomach. There's this little thing called your conscience that triggers those feelings. Really, it's God's Spirit He installed in each of us. The Bible says the laws of God are written on the tablets of our hearts. When we aren't being obedient, we not only know it, we can feel it. Now concerning God's Laws, the Bible tells us if we break one, we've broken them all, we're guilty of breaking every law. The Bible also tells us that everyone of is already guilty, no matter how good we think we've been. There is only one way to get back in right standing with God, to have that feeling in the pit of your stomach removed. His name is Jesus and He paid the price for all of us "lawbreakers." When we come to God asking for forgiveness through Jesus work on the cross, confessing our sins, the Bible tells us He forgives us. Not only that, He removes our sins from us as far as the east is from the west. Wow, I feel better already. Thank you Jesus for freeing me from my guilt!

MISSION IMPOSSIBLE?

2009-03-19T16:41:00.002-04:00

I have been thinking a lot about the word MISSION and exactly what in means to people who believe in and follow Jesus. A mission is a job with a specific purpose. When i was growing up there was a show on TV called Mission Impossible. Recently there have been some movies made with the same title. I am not recommending the movies, but I do think about being asked to do something that seems impossible. God has given us a CO - MISSION. To go into all the world and preach the "Good News" about Jesus. To make disciples. Sometimes that might seem impossible for us. I mean, who am I that anyone would listen to what I have to say. This is the way God designed it to work though. The one thing about the CO - mission is that God is our partner. where our ability ends, God's does not. he even tells us that we CAN DO ALL THINGS through Christ, so that really makes it more of a MISSION POSSIBLE or to get a little silly, a MISSION HIM POSSIBLE. Be faithful to share the Good News and God will be faithful to touch the people by His Holy Spirit. This message will not self destruct in 10 seconds.

Number 3

2009-03-11T15:59:00.004-04:00

I was looking at my last post and it made me think of something very simple, yet very profound. A man that I went on a missions trip with carries around ink pens he gives away. I found this out when I needed to borrow a pen, so he gave me one. On his pen it read, "I'm Third." After that the words, "God First, Others Second, I'm Third." What a great way to think and live. Instead of being selfish and thinking only about me, I remember that what God wants comes first, then I need to treat others the way I would want to be treated, others second, then finally, I come in last. People thinking and living like that could really change the world.

Number One

2009-02-25T16:29:00.002-05:00

What's the first thing you think about when you wake up? What's the first thing you do? I was thinking about this the other morning. Sometimes I think of all I need to do that day. Sometimes I pick up a book I was reading the day before. Sometimes I get it right, I think about God, I read His word. What is number one in your life? Our actions show clearly what or who we think is most important. Remember to put God first in your thoughts and actions, don't just say God is number one, show He is.

You're Not The Boss of Me

2009-02-17T13:31:00.002-05:00

Do you ever get tired of people telling you what to do? A big brother or a big sister, baby-sitter, teacher, mom, dad, and on the list goes. Would it be better if you were in charge and got to tell everyone else what to do? What if...they all felt like you, and didn't do what you said if you were in charge? Man, things would be very crazy. God has put people in our lives to be in charge of us for a good reason. Protection, safety, learning, and God says when we submit to those He has put in charge of us, we are really submitting to Him. Ask God to help you have a good attitude and to follow instructions like He was the one giving them to you.

How Good Are You?

2009-02-11T17:04:00.002-05:00

A lot of people believe that God is good. They believe that heaven is a good place. they also believe that all good people will go to heaven. It just makes sense right? Is that how you think? Most every person believes they are good, but they don't know if they've been good enough to get into heaven. God tells us through His Word of a different perspective. There was a thief dying on the cross for His sins. Not a "good" person. He was a criminal that the law said deserved to die for his crimes. When he asked Jesus to remember him, Jesus told him he would be with Him in paradise, interesting. He didn't have time to become good enough to get into heaven. What he did do was ask for forgiveness and Jesus did just that. Remember it's not "good" people who make it to heaven, it's "forgiven" people. That takes the guess work and worry about being good enough out of the picture. Put your trust in Jesus, not in yourself. If you have never done that, remember it's as easy as A-B-C. A - Admit you've sinned. B - Believe Jesus died for your sins and rose again, then finally C - Commit your life to Jesus Christ. Simply pray an ABC prayer and ask God for His help to live for Him.

"That's Not Fair!"

2009-02-02T13:09:00.003-05:00

Have you ever said those words? Has anyone ever said them to you? Usually people say, "that's not fair" because things aren't going the way they want them to go. I'm glad God is not fair. Really! He is righteous, just, loving, but not fair (at least how we think about it). If we got what we deserved, what was "fair," we wouldn't be in heaven with Him forever because it wasn't "fair" for Jesus to have to die on the cross for my (our) sin. So next time you think about FAIR, remember God's perspective and thank Him for loving you instead of being fair.

Last week of the First month

2009-01-26T11:55:00.004-05:00

I was thinking today about the New Year and here we are, in the last week of the first month of this New Year. Wow time goes fast. I hope things are still feeling new and fresh for you in 2009. Some of my favorite scriptures about new are: "old things have passed away, I make all things NEW," "His mercies are NEW every morning," and "If anyone is in Christ he is a NEW creation." I am so thankful we serve a God who is constantly making things NEW for us.

A New President

2009-01-20T15:17:00.002-05:00

This week our church is praying for our local, state, and national governmental leaders. Today President Barak Hussein Obama was inaugurated as the 44th president of the United States of America. Paul told Timothy to pray for all who are in authority over us so we can live godly, peaceful lives (1 Timothy 2:2). As Paul urged Timothy, make sure you pray for our new president faithfully. That God will bless, keep, and lead him in the days ahead.

12 - Prayer Focus

2009-01-12T12:21:00.003-05:00

Hey kids! We are in the second week of our 12 weeks of prayer. This week's focus is for repentence (turning from sin) and renewal (feeling fresh) in the American church. As you pray I want to encourage you to write down THREE things. 1 - your list of prayers. 2 - your list of what you want to thank God for. 3 - A list of prayers God has answered for you. I believe you will see number three grow and you will be amazed at what God does. I am praying that we will see God work miracles in our midst and that we will see Matthew, Lexi, and Alyssia totally healed. Keep praying!!!

2009-01-05T14:08:00.002-05:00

2009 - A New Year. There are a lot of times when I enter a new year, that God gives me a word or focus for the year. As I was praying and thinking about 2009, the word "DESTINY" struck me. Where am I going? Where are you going? What is my destiny? What is your destiny? The biggest thing you want to be aware of is your eternal destiny. That is only secured in what Jesus has done for you. We could never be good enough to make God love us. He already does and nothing we do changes that fact. Make sure you are trusting Jesus with your eternal destiny and that you are putting God in the very center of all you do in 2009!

Welcome!

2008-10-08T14:08:00.001-04:00

Welcome to our kidsfirst website. In this blog I plan on including interesting information, an encouraging scripture, or answering any questions you may have. Feel free to email your questions to me through the website and I will post answers here. You can also share any prayer requests you have and we will be sure to pray for you. I'm so glad you are checking things out and pray that God is blessing you as you live for Him.