WikiWorship

Common Table

2012-02-25T03:29:00.003-08:00

I am really excited about this new venture that we are taking as a church. Common Table has been talked about and discussed ever since we started WikiWorship. If you will remember ---- the last time we had WikiWorship it was on Sunday Evenings. As a result of this great time of fellowship and growing with each other we have decided to begin Common Table. This is a regular gathering on Sunday evenings at 5:30pm in our new fellowship hall. This will be a very relaxed atmosphere, where you will be encouraged to have a cup of coffee and sit in the worship service. There will be singing, praying, scripture reading, but also lots of interaction. The first week will be very similar to WikiWorship. We will address a question. That question is: "If religion is supposed to preach open-mindedness and forgiveness, why are they the first ones to close their hearts and minds to the other religions?" This will be discussed in light of the passage from Luke 23.34 where Jesus says from the cross: "Father, forgive them; for they do not know what they are doing." Come on out for this wonderful time to grow in our faith and to share fellowship with one another at the table. There will be a meal right after the service.

Ash Wednesday

2012-02-22T06:50:00.001-08:00

This is an article that I wrote on Ash Wednesday. I hope this is helpful.

During the forty days leading up to Easter the church traditionally observes a time of penance and fasting. This time of preparation for Easter is commonly called Lent. Lent begins on Ash Wednesday (which is March 9th this year) and ends on the Saturday before Easter. Ash Wednesday is a day that is set aside for us to remember that God created us out of the dust of the earth. While at the same time, it is to dust we shall return, like it says in Genesis 3.19: “By the sweat of your face you shall eat bread until you return to the ground, for out of it you were taken; you are dust, and to dust you shall return.”

An early church father, named Gregory of Nyssa, would take his students into the catacombs and show them the decaying bones. In Homilies on the Beatitudes, he wrote: “Have you not seen in the burial ground the mysteries of our existence? Have you not seen the heap of bones piled on each other, skulls stripped of flesh, staring fearsome and horrible from empty eye-sockets? Have you seen the grinning mouths and the rest of the limbs lying casually about? If you have seen those things, then in them you have observed yourself.” Ash Wednesday creates space for us to deal with our mortality. To stare into the eyes of death and see Jesus' passionate arms reaching for us from the cross.

What the church offers us on Ash Wednesday is not some quick fix—it is not some miracle drug—it is not some hair dying kit. Instead, what the church offers us is the opportunity to embrace our mortality. To look at the bones decaying and realize that we are dust—and to dust we shall return. We are not offering a picturesque stained glass Jesus or promises of the picture perfect family. Instead, the church is offering you what is real. That we all face our death, and that we all face our sin. God is the one who will make us clean—even in the midst of our death and sin. Let us find our hope in the one who overcame death and sin. The one we follow as we carry our crosses through this Lenten journey.

During Lent last year we celebrated Palm Sunday. During that Sunday we remember Jesus' triumphal entry where people waved palm branches and shouted Hosanna! For Ash Wednesday we take those same palm branches and burn them—saving the ashes that are left. Then we apply them to our foreheads—reminding ourselves of the sins that so easily ensnare us. How we participate in celebrating Jesus, while turning our backs on him when the going gets too tough. This is our calling to repent of our sins and embrace our crucified savior and Lord.

I would encourage you to attend an Ash Wednesday service this year. For it is an opportunity for us to remember that we are dust and to dust we shall return. While at the same time it helps us to remember that our hope and power come only from Jesus' victory over sin and death.

Building the Warren's Grove Sanctuary

2012-02-20T08:37:00.000-08:00

Some Shots Inside and Out

2012-02-06T04:40:00.001-08:00

Athanasius - John 12

2012-01-29T02:19:00.001-08:00

This is a quote from Athanasius concerning John 12: “For it is only on the cross that a man dies with his hands spread out. And so it was fitting for the Lord to bear this also and to spread out his hands, that with the one he might draw the ancient people and with the other those from the Gentiles and unite both in himself. For this is what he himself has said, signifying by what manner of death he was to ransom all: 'I, when I am lifted up,' he says, 'shall draw all unto me.'”

John 3.14-21

2012-01-14T05:51:00.000-08:00

This coming Sunday we will be focusing on the Mission of the Church. As United Methodists our mission is this: "The mission of the Church is to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world." Here we can see that what we are about as the church is discipleship. We are to be disciples that make disciples. This changes things ----- and not just a few things, but the entire cosmos. For we are to live into the prayer "on earth as it is in heaven." Our scripture that we will be focusing on is John 3.14-21. Here we see the nature of God. That God is a God of love ---- that loves the world. God loved the world so much that he sent his Son to redeem creation. Hence, Jesus is a missionary God, who came to reveal God's love to us. Have you ever thought of Jesus as a missionary? Does this change how we view ourselves as missionaries?

The Christian Faith

2012-01-02T07:51:00.000-08:00

While we are remodeling the downstairs section of our building we are combining our Adult Sunday School classes. These classes will be held in the sanctuary. During this time we are going to be teaching on some of the core beliefs of the Christian Faith. You are invited to come and learn more. Here is the breakdown of the classes:

Sunday, January 8th @ 10am - Rev. Milton Hadley will be teaching on the Missional Church
Sunday, January 15th @ 10am - Jed Poston will be sharing about how the Lord has called him into the ministry and what it means to be called.
Sunday, January 22nd @ 10am - Pastor Ben Burnside will be teaching on the Atonement.
Sunday, January 29th @ 10am - Youth Pastor Colin Knapp will be teaching on Heresies.
Sunday, February 5th @ 10am - Pastor Ben Burnside will be teaching on the Trinity and the Sacraments.
Sunday, February 12th @ 10am - Youth Pastor Colin Knapp will be teaching on the Holy Spirit.

Moving the Portico Into Place 12.23.2011

2011-12-24T09:23:00.001-08:00

Remodeling 12.21.2011

2011-12-24T09:21:00.001-08:00

A Christmas Eve Prayer for Those Who Do Not Go To Church

2011-12-22T08:19:00.000-08:00

This is a prayer written by Kenneth Carter. He is a District Superintendent in Western North Carolina:
"Lord, I don't go to church much. I don't go at all...Well, I go at Christmas. I'm home then. I feel drawn to it. I like the Christmas Eve service, the coolness of the air. I feel like a child again...it's surreal. I know folks make fun of people like me. What can I say? I've drifted...but there is a pull back. Are You speaking to me? I hear something in the sermon, sometimes, but mostly it's the music and the candles. What is it about those candles? And the darkness?The darkness...or maybe it's the light, I suppose. Light and darkness. I know about light and darkness. I live in both. I've got some of both in me. I'm basically a good person, I think, but I struggle...I know about light and darkness. But I want to be closer to the light. I want to light that candle and sing those words: "And in the dark street shineth, the everlasting light..." I would like to live in that light, Lord.I would like to come home. I would like to be born again."

Why Do We Worship on Christmas Eve?

2011-12-15T04:56:00.000-08:00

This was an article that I wrote for the Courier=Times on December 17th, 2011.

This time of year I have visions of my childhood. I see candles being held by countless people. I see a sea of illumined faces singing of how silent a particular night was long time ago. I see families gathered together to lift up the name of their Lord. I see a well-worn ancient book opened to particular pages and read by people that have been shaped by the book.

These visions of my childhood remind me of the gathered church coming together on that “Silent Night” — that “Holy Night”. Some of my fondest memories growing up have to do with my family going out into the dark and cold of the night to worship the God who came in the flesh. This was a time to worship the God who was radical enough to be born like one of us. This God is Jesus Christ who is the Lord of lords and the King of kings.

In my first few years of living in Roxboro, I was shocked at how few people actually gather for worship on Christmas Eve. Countless folks would respond to my shock by saying that they were gathering together with family in different homes or out of town to do “Christmas”. I would then say: “Well, you know that they are invited to worship Jesus as well, and you know there are churches in other towns that gather for worship.”

Recently there has been a constant barrage of criticism at corporations and organizations that are attempting to be politically correct by saying: “Happy Holidays”, rather than “Merry Christmas”. I have heard this criticism emerge from the so-called Christian community. But I would ask, if we think that we are to remember that Jesus is the “reason for the season”, then I can think of no better way to remember the incarnation then by gathering together and worshiping the God who came in the flesh. This time of worship should then stir within us a desire to go and serve Jesus as the church he has called out of darkness into his wonderful light.

The word Christmas has evolved over the centuries. Christmas began as the “Christ Mass”, which was celebrated by the church over a millennium ago. This “Christ Mass” would be a gathering of the church to remember the incarnation of Jesus and then celebrate his coming in the flesh through communion.

What the “Christ Mass” has evolved into is what many churches call the Christmas Eve Candlelight Service. At this service there traditionally is the reading of Luke 2, the singing of hymns, a reflection on how we are changed by the incarnation, the partaking of the Lord's Supper, and the lighting of individual candles as everyone sings “Silent Night”.

This is a time for all of us to remember that Christmas is not about us, and it is not about our desires and wants. Instead, we remember that the God of the universe came and was born in a feeding trough.

This year, bring your whole family to a Christmas Eve Candlelight Service. If your particular church doesn't have a service then encourage your pastor to begin one. Grab a candle and gather with others as we go out into the night worshiping the God who came to us. Spend some time around the manger throne this season because we are given an opportunity to gaze in and reflect on God's great love for us.

Mary

2011-12-13T18:36:00.000-08:00

“Now imagine the emotional state of a teenager who just found out she is pregnant and has yet to tell her parents. Not quite sure Mom and Dad bought the 'God did it' excuse immediately, if ever, and from that point on, God's blessing would only continue to bring pain into Mary's life—all the way to the foot of her son's cross.” Recently I read Mike Slaughter's book Christmas is Not Your Birthday. I really appreciated the things he had to say about the sacrifices that Mary made in preparation for Jesus' birth. As I consider that ---- I wonder what kind of sacrifices that we make in preparation for Jesus' coming? So often, this time of year we get caught up in what we want and what we need to be doing. For a moment, consider the sacrifices that need to happen in our lives in preparation for Christ coming. What is the Lord calling you to be about? What do you need to sacrifice to live into that calling?

Putting up Molding

2011-12-09T06:51:00.001-08:00

Laying Drains & Putting up Sheetrock

2011-12-09T06:50:00.001-08:00

Thanksgiving

2011-11-23T04:26:00.000-08:00

I always enjoy thanksgiving. In my mind, this is the one holiday that has not been tainted by the ever imposing commercialism that is so apparent at other holidays. At the heart of it ---- thanksgiving is still about giving thanks. Granted that you do get enough sale ads in the newspaper ----- that one can literally fill up a small dumpster. In reflection on this year I have so much to be thankful for. I first of all thank the Lord for DeAnne and for all the blessings that she brings into my life. She keeps me grounded and causes me great joy. I also thank the Lord for four wonderful children. They have helped me to be a great father. I love hiking with them and exploring this wonderful world with their new eyes. But I also thank the Lord that he has called me to be a pastor. I have to say that it is the most wonderful calling ever. I hesitate to call it a "job", but I think I have the best "job". It is a true honor to serve the Lord and his people. To all of you, I thank you for your love and affection toward me. You all bring me great joy and I constantly thank our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ for your presence in my life. My prayer is that all of you find much to be thankful for this Thanksgiving.

Writing on the foundation

2011-11-16T11:20:00.000-08:00

Putting up the Bricks - 11.2.2011

2011-11-02T11:53:00.001-07:00

How To Pack A Shoe Box

2011-11-02T09:37:00.000-07:00

Operation Christmas Child - 2011

2011-11-02T09:23:00.001-07:00

This coming Sunday we will be having our annual Operation Christmas Child Shoe Box Packing event. Click on the image above to go to a link that will describe what we need to bring to this event. Bring all of the things you need to pack a shoe box, along with a shoe box ----- and then we will be packing them. This will be on Sunday, November 6th at 4pm in our fellowship hall. If you have any questions you can see Evelyn Duncan.

Psalm 107.1-16

2011-10-26T01:32:00.000-07:00

This coming Sunday we will be focusing on Psalm 107.1-16. In this passage we hear a common theme ----- crying to the Lord. We find this particularly in verse 6, "Then they cried to the Lord in their trouble, and he delivered them from their distress." As I have been thinking about crying to the Lord, I thought of the baby birds that cry out to their parents for food. They make quite a racket. While the birds are little, the parents will spend countless hours working to feed these criers. Recently I read a blog post that was encouraging supervisors / managers to not be enablers of the crying baby birds in their work places. But instead they needed to show tough love so that these people that refused to grow in their careers would be given the chance to fly. I understand the point ----- but for the Christian there is always the place of crying to the Lord in our distress and in our trouble. That might be summed up most succinctly in the prayer "Our Father". The Lord is our Father and we can ask him to provide our daily bread. For just a moment, consider if you need to spend some time crying out to the Lord? ----- rather than trying to handle situations by yourself. Always remember that God hears our prayers.

Yesterday's sermon

2011-10-10T06:09:00.001-07:00

I got this as an email this morning. This is pertaining to yesterday's sermon.

Psalm 106.1-6 & 19-23

2011-10-06T11:48:00.001-07:00

This coming Sunday we will be focusing on Psalm 106.1-6 & 19-23. In this psalm the writer comes back to the story of Israel in the wilderness. During Israel's time wandering in the wilderness they rebelled against God and made the image of a golden calf to worship. The psalmist writes in verses 19-20: "They made a calf at Horeb and worshiped a cast image. They exchanged the glory of God for the image of an ox that eats grass." Here we can see that the Israelites created an image that had to be fed ----- rather than worshiping the one true God that fed them manna in the wilderness. But, the psalmist hesitates to pronounce judgment on these past sins ----- because he judges himself along with Israel's mistakes. He says this in verse 6: "Both we and our ancestors have sinned; we have committed iniquity, have done wickedly." In this verse we can see the proper response to reading from the Bible. Instead of casting judgment upon the people of the Bible ----- we should realize that we have sinned and committed iniquity and done wickedly. Have you all ever cast judgment on the sins of those who have gone before us?

Sermon from last week

2011-10-01T07:39:00.000-07:00

I have had a number of folks tell me that the sermon that I preached from last week really hit home. As a result of this there has been much discussion about it. I would encourage you to listen to it if you haven't had a chance. I am sorry that there is a little background noise on it. We are working on that problem. Also, please add to the discussion. Are there traditions and stories that we need to do away with so that we can live into God's story? You can listen to this sermon either by clicking on this link to the church's sermon page. Or you can see a link over on the right hand side of the blog page (a little further down), but here is the link to that as well.

Pouring Concrete - Part #4 - 9.9.2011

2011-09-15T07:22:00.000-07:00

Pouring Concrete - Part #3 - 9.9.2011

2011-09-15T07:21:00.000-07:00

Pouring Concrete - Part #2 - 9.9.2011

2011-09-15T07:20:00.000-07:00

Pouring Concrete - Part #1 - 9.9.2011

2011-09-15T07:19:00.000-07:00

Commissioning of New Church in Durham

2011-09-15T04:14:00.001-07:00

“If there are good things that happen at Durham Resurrection Community, Warren's Grove gets the credit.” This was said by Pastor Ryan Quanstrom on Sunday, September 11th, 2011. He said this while preaching at Warren's Grove United Methodist Church here in Roxboro. This was to be Quanstrom's last Sunday with Warren's Grove, for he will be starting a church in Durham called Durham Resurrection Community, a Church of the Nazarene.

Two and a-half years ago Ryan Quanstrom was assigned to Warren's Grove as their Student Associate Minister. During that time Quanstrom learned what it meant to be a pastor and to be in ministry through a local church. In his sermon he described his experience with Warren's Grove this way: “Warren's Grove has embraced me and loved on me. You have been a church that has helped me to live into the calling the Lord has placed on my life.”

During Quanstrom's time serving Warren's Grove he has preached numerous times, visited the sick, lead a Sunday School class, helped with a mission trip to Outdoor Mission Camp, spoke at WikiWorship, started a young adult ministry, and many more things. Pastor Philip Chryst said this about Quanstrom: “Ryan has truly been a blessing to Warren's Grove. It is sad to see him go — while at the same time we are so proud of Ryan. We are excited to see the Holy Spirit use him to reach out to the community of Durham with love and compassion.”

In his sermon Quanstrom described why he is starting a new church in Durham. He said: “There are a great number of people in pain and people that are suffering in Durham. Durham is a community where tons of young people are lonely and need the love of Jesus, and it seems as if the church is not present in that pain and in that suffering. So we are going to be a community of faith that embodies radical hospitality.”

Later in the service the congregation of Warren's Grove came to the altar and laid hands on Ryan Quanstrom and members of his church that were in attendance. Many people in the congregation prayed for Durham Resurrection Community. They then commissioned the church to go and be in mission to the city of Durham. To go and make disciples of Jesus Christ.

The pattern of commissioning comes from the book of Acts chapter 13. In that chapter it says: “While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, 'Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.' Then after fasting and praying they laid their hands on them and sent them off.”

Since Durham Resurrection Community is starting from scratch, the people of Warren's Grove took up a love offering to bless the church. They collected over $1,200. This will help to get the church started with the basic necessities like office supplies.

If you would like to find out more about Durham Resurrection Community you can find them on Facebook and Twitter.

In his sermon, Quanstrom concluded by saying: “We are going to refuse to buy into that fear that dictates so many peoples' lives. Instead, we will have courage. For we hope to be a sign and foretaste of the coming Kingdom of God.”

Psalm 105.1-6 & 37-45

2011-09-14T07:10:00.000-07:00

This coming Sunday we will be focusing on Psalm 105.1-6 & 37-45. In this passage the Psalmist is reminding us that we serve a God of covenant. That God has made a promise to us and will see it to completion. The Lord set the people of Israel free from the bondage of Egypt and set Israel free from the captivity of Babylon. It is vitally important for us to remember that this is the God we serve. And that is why the Psalmist recounts the story of Israel's captivity turning into freedom. And then it reads in v43: "So he brought his people out with joy, his chosen ones with singing." The proper way to remember the Lord's redemptive work in the world is by singing and making a joyful noise. Today, carve out time in your day to make a joyful noise as you recount the great works that God has done in your life. For we serve a God who takes pleasure in his people. What are ways that you take joy in what the Lord has done?

New Burlap to Cashmere

2011-09-07T04:07:00.000-07:00

I just got the new CD from Burlap to Cashmere. It has a folk and latin feel to it. The song "Build a Wall" is one of those dance songs that get your body moving. The chorus for "Build a Wall" goes:
"Shade the light, down the song, close the shades, lock the door,
Burn the pages, of your life, as your body, hits the floor
And as you weep, you can hear, there's a an echo, of a call,
Through the valley, of the night, Nehemiah builds the wall."

Psalm 149

2011-09-01T07:29:00.000-07:00

This coming Sunday we will be focusing on Psalm 149. This is the beginning of a sermon series on the book of Psalms. I have been surprised at how seldom to I hear a sermon (or preach a sermon) on the book of Psalms. It is almost as if we just have our eyes go right past it when we are preparing sermons for Sunday mornings. It is in the lectionary each week ---- but rarely do I hear any preaching on the book of Psalms. But, the book of Psalms is probably one of the most popular books in the bible. Probably more people can quote from Psalms then any other book of the bible. As a result of this conviction we will be starting out with Psalm 149. This is a psalm that starts out with the call: "Praise the Lord!" In this praise we are to sing a new song and to be glad in our Maker. And then the psalmist says: "For the Lord takes pleasure in his people; he adorns the humble with victory." We must always remember that the God we serve takes pleasure in his faithful ones. But what does that mean for God to take pleasure? Do we serve an emotional God?

Getting ready to lay the slab - 8.29.2011

2011-08-31T05:29:00.000-07:00

Frederick Buechner - Faith

2011-08-28T02:37:00.000-07:00

I heard a quote by Frederick Buechner at Duke Divinity School's Convocation in 2010. I was putting away some of my notes and came upon that quote again. The above video is one by Frederick Buechner talking about faith. The quote that I was referring to is below: “The common view is that life itself, whatever life is, does not care one way or another, any more than the ocean cares whether we swim in it or drown in it. In honesty one has to admit that a great deal of the evidence supports such a view. But rightly or wrongly, the Christian faith flatly contradicts it. To say that God is Spirit is to say that life DOES care, that the life-giving power that life itself comes from is not indifferent as to whether we sink or swim. IT WANTS US TO SWIM.” ~ Frederick Buechner

Day After the Footings Were Laid 8.25.2011

2011-08-27T12:12:00.000-07:00

Earthquake & Hurricane

2011-08-27T08:12:00.000-07:00

This last week we had an earthquake in our area of North Carolina. Now, at the latter end of the same week we have Hurricane Irene barreling through. This has caused much discussion at our home. We have discussed that this was probably a once in a lifetime occurrence for our children. They have experienced their first ----- and possibly last earthquake. We have discussed how that has impacted folks and what were the procedures for measuring earthquakes.

Then we discussed Hurricane Irene. [Quick parenthetical note ----- last time Irene was named was in 1999 and it came through the same part of North Carolina. DeAnne and I got married the day before it blew through.] One of my children asked why God makes hurricanes. My response was that I am not sure what hurricanes that God makes ----- but I am sure that God loves us and promises to never leave us or forsake us. Suffering is part of our existence as Christians ---- and that is why the Lord gives us one another to help each other carry the heavy loads we each bear.

The notion of God making natural disasters that kill people is hard for me to get my head around. Also, I am not sure if I can make those pronouncements on God's behalf. I am writing this because I would like to hear how you all answer questions like that.

Jury Duty

2011-08-25T08:49:00.001-07:00

For three days I was summoned for jury duty. The first day we were released after 2 hours and the second day we were released after 1 hour. Then on the third day I was selected to serve on a jury in a criminal trial. I got to come home and have lunch in the midst of that trial ---- and DeAnne decided to take my picture. I was actually excited about being picked as a juror ---- and she said that she had to take a picture of me because I am the only person she has ever met that was excited about serving on a jury. It really was a fascinating process and it was extremely different than I thought it would be. Our case was cut and dry so we were done with our deliberations pretty quickly. But I do think that our jury worked hard at being fair and weighing the evidence.

Old Well Filled In 8.9.2011

2011-08-25T08:28:00.001-07:00

Footings being laid 8.23.11

2011-08-25T06:45:00.001-07:00

Jamaica Mission Trip 2011

2011-08-11T05:22:00.001-07:00

This is a video made about the Jamaica Mission Trip that was June/July 2011. Ashley Ayscue created this video.

Moving Dirt and Light Pole at Warren's Grove

2011-08-10T05:10:00.001-07:00

Ground Breaking Service.

2011-08-05T03:39:00.000-07:00

This is our ground breaking service from Sunday, July 17th. We as the church broke ground for God's glory. Our prayer is that in everything we do we proclaim the Lord's goodness and majesty. This video was made by our Associate Minister Touger Thao.

Moving Dirt at Warren's Grove

2011-08-04T10:07:00.000-07:00

Moving Dirt 8.2.2011

2011-08-03T07:11:00.000-07:00

Trees coming down part #4

2011-08-03T04:47:00.001-07:00

Trees Coming Down part #3

2011-08-02T09:30:00.001-07:00

Trees coming down Part #2

2011-08-02T06:45:00.000-07:00

Trees Coming Down part #1

2011-08-02T06:20:00.001-07:00

Outdoor Mission Camp - Campability

2011-08-01T18:55:00.000-07:00

Here is a video of our youth group helping to lead a camp called Campability. This was in Maggie Valley, NC and I would encourage you all to ask them about their experience.

1 Corinthians 15.12-20

2011-07-30T05:19:00.000-07:00

This coming Sunday we will be focusing on 1 Corinthians 15.12-20. The meat of verses 12-19 indicates that if we do not believe in Christ's resurrection, then in essence all of our faith and hope has been in vain. But then in verse 20 the Apostle Paul writes: "But in fact Christ has been raised from the dead, the first fruits of those who have died." We can find our hope in the one who overcame death and the grave. One thing that sticks out to me is the word "fact" that is used in this translation. This quote comes from the New Revised Standard Version [NRSV]. I did a quick search on other translations, and I found that the CEB and the ESV also use the word "fact". But the NIV, KJV, and NASB do not use the word "fact". When that word is used, in regards to the resurrection, how does that change your understanding of the resurrection in regards to history? Do you believe that the resurrection is a historical fact?
I think the word "fact", truly conveys Paul's emphasis on how important the resurrection is for the life of the Christian. But oftentimes, people get a little nervous with the word "fact" when it comes to the fundamentals of the Christian faith. Because we do not open history books and find pictures of the tomb empty ---- or Jesus standing with his disciples looking into his pierced side. So how does this word "fact" differ from our 21st century understanding of "fact"?

Moving the portico at Warren's Grove

2011-07-27T03:15:00.000-07:00

From July 26th, 2011.

Doc Watson

2011-07-21T06:41:00.000-07:00

This last June my family and I went to Boone, NC for a camping trip. One night we were hanging out in downtown Boone and saw that the entire street had been blocked off. The reason for that was the there was a statue being dedicated to Doc Watson ----- and he was there for the dedication! I am a Doc Watson fan ----- ever since I heard a PBS special called the Three Pickers [you can check it out here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LxiligIJ-TU It was awesome to be that close to such a bluegrass legend. Doc Watson was born blind. I have been told that he was able to wire his entire house, even though he was born blind.

1 Corinthians 15.1-11

2011-07-20T05:16:00.000-07:00

This coming Sunday we will be focusing on 1 Corinthians 15.1-11. In this passage we can see that the resurrected Christ appeared to the Apostle Paul. He explains how Christ appeared to Cephas, then the twelve, then to 500, then to James, then to the other apostles, and "last of all, as to one untimely born, he appeared also to me" (v 8). This is grace ----- for Paul was one who persecuted the church. That even one who had sought out death for the disciples of Jesus ----- was transformed into one that proclaimed that Jesus was the resurrected Lord of lords. How has the resurrection of Jesus impacted you? If you look back on your life, what grace do you see extended your way?

VBS Video

2011-07-19T11:40:00.000-07:00

Here is a Vacation Bible School video for this year. This was made by Ashley Ayscue. Enjoy!

Vacation Bible School 2011

2011-07-14T09:01:00.000-07:00

We have been having a great week at Vacation Bible School this week. Our theme has been Hometown Nazareth. We have been studying what it was like for Jesus as a kid. We have had great participation and turn out. And the kids have been learning ALOT! Our commencement is going to be on Sunday and I am super excited to see what the kids have in store for the congregation. I have been working with the youth doing local mission projects ----- therefore, I haven't been around to see some of the fun things they are doing. Looking forward to Sunday!

1 Corinthians 14.12-25

2011-07-09T04:01:00.000-07:00

This coming Sunday we will be focusing on 1 Corinthians 14.12-25. In this passage the Apostle Paul says "since you are eager for spiritual gifts, strive to excel in them for building up the church" (v 12). We are called to use the gifts that the Lord has entrusted to us ----- for the upbuilding of the church. To edify one another in love. Recently, a team of 8 (6 of which came from Warren's Grove) just got back from a mission trip in Jamaica. We were there to help put in a floor in a church called Mitchell Town Methodist Church. This church had been devastated by numerous hurricanes, and they have been unable to worship in their sanctuary since 2005. We, along with about 40 people that came out from all over Jamaica, put together this project where we were able to lay a concrete foundation at the church. In this action we can see what spiritual gifts are to be used for. They are to be used for the upbuilding of the church ------ and this is to be done in love.

New Video

2011-07-08T10:46:00.001-07:00

New Warren's Grove Video to kick-off our new website.

1 Corinthians 12.1-13

2011-06-17T06:40:00.000-07:00

This coming Sunday we will be focusing on 1 Corinthians 12.1-13. In this passage the Apostle Paul tells us about spiritual gifts that the Holy Spirit entrusts to us. In verses 4-6 he uses the word varieties three times. We should all recognize that there are varieties of gifts that God entrusts to us. Those gifts are not all the same. But what is similar to all the gifts is found in verse 7 ------ "To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good." The gifts are given by God for the common good. The real question for us, as the church, are we using our spiritual gifts for the common good?

Shown at Annual Conference 2011

2011-06-16T11:52:00.000-07:00

The Global Young People's Convocation and Legislative Assembly - Berlin, Germany | 2010

About 350 youth and young people representing 32 countries -- from Angola to Zimbabwe --registered for the July 21-26 event, which is sponsored by Young People's Ministries, a division of The General Board of Discipleship of The United Methodist Church.

The five-day event includes worship, Bible study and leadership development for the participants, who come together to bridge the social, economical, religious, ethnic and political gaps and differences that often separate and divide them.

During the convocation, 144 young people and adults who are attending as voting delegates convene a Legislative Assembly, which is designed to give young people a voice in the church through the legislative process.

Annual Conference 2011 - Rev. Tom Holtsclaw

2011-06-16T11:14:00.001-07:00

This is Rev. Tom Holtsclaw and his wife Jan. Tom served at Warren's Grove from 1967-1971. Tom and Jan are retired and living in Roxboro, NC.

Annual Conference 2011

2011-06-15T19:28:00.000-07:00

We are here in Raleigh at Annual Conference 2011. Tonight Bishop Hope Morgan Ward preached. In her message she spoke about how we are to know that the God we serve is exuberant and over the top ----- and because of this radical grace this God cannot be at our control. We trust this God who is love ----- and who has promised to never leave us or forsake us.

Also, I ran into some pastors that served Warren's Grove in the past:This is Rev. David Blackman and his wife Jackie. David served at Warren's Grove from 2002-2006. David is serving at St. Luke's United Methodist Church in Laurinburg, NC.
This is Rev. Chuck Plowman. Chuck served at Warren's Grove from 1992-1996. Chuck is married to Rev. Sally Plowman. Chuck is retiring this year.

Warren's Grove Website

2011-06-13T11:06:00.000-07:00

If you have been redirected to this website from the Warren's Grove site, it is because it is under construction. But we did want you to know what our service times are. We worship on Sundays at 8:45am (contemporary service) and 11am (traditional worship). We have our Sunday School classes at 10am. Also, you can call us at any time at 336.592.3400. Our address is 1511 Wesleyan Rd. Roxboro, NC 27573. See you soon!

Foundation For Evangelism - WikiWorship

2011-06-12T01:28:00.000-07:00

Recently Colin Knapp made a presentation to the Foundation for Evangelism on WikiWorship. This was held at Duke Divinity School. Here is a transcript of what he spoke about. You can find this article by following this link.

"Generally speaking, my understanding of evangelism has deepened and expanded through my interactions with Professor Gunter and Warner. Meaning that I now am not limited to a specific “one-size-fits-all” evangelism. This has led to a creative freedom to dream, think and imagine what could be considered effective evangelism. Such freedom has directly translated into programs such as WikiWorship.

"WikiWorship is a very different way of looking at evangelism. What we have done is invited those with questions to gather within the Christian community to struggle together with the difficult questions that all of us have. In that struggle, we can see the authenticity of the gathered community –– while at the same time, allow everyone to be a part of the direction the discussion goes. We are allowing those from outside the Church to come in and have a real impact on the way the worship service goes. Our intention was not to go out into the community to tell sinners that they were in need of a savior, but rather we invited those from the community to come in and to participate in our faith community.

"The reason it’s called WikiWorship is based of off Wikipedia. And on Wikipedia anyone can edit the content of the website, and what WikiWorship does is that it gives space for anyone to edit the content of the worship service. Yes there will still be prayer, scripture reading, and singing, but what we did is let the questions guide the actual service. During the service we would start with a prayer, in a very informal worship gathering. We would sing a couple songs, and then we would address one or several of the questions that we had gathered. This answer would be concise and to the point, as to allow time for those who are gathered to chime in, we would pass around a microphone allowing anyone to add, subtract, delete, or change the direction of the discussion.

"My church, Warren’s Grove UMC, and I have been greatly impacted by the professors of evangelism at Duke Divinity School. It is my hope that they continue their great work for the Kingdom of God."

1 Corinthians 11.23-34

2011-06-08T06:42:00.000-07:00

This coming Sunday we will be focusing on 1 Corinthians 11.23-34. This passage tells us about how the Lord passed on to the Apostle Paul the institution of the Lord's Supper. And then at the end of those group of verses Paul says in verse 26: "For as often as you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord's death until he comes." This is an intriguing way to look at communion. How do you think the church proclaims the Lord's death through the partaking of communion?

Jet Man Video - Check this out

2011-06-05T01:24:00.000-07:00

You can read the story at this link: http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/42977241/ns/us_news-life/

1 Corinthians 10.23-11.1

2011-06-04T09:36:00.000-07:00

This coming Sunday we will be focusing on 1 Corinthians 10.23-11.1. In this passage the Apostle Paul continues his emphasis of using our Christian liberty for the upbuilding of others. But then he uses his self as an example and tells the Corinthians to imitate him. He says in 11.1: "Be imitators of me, as I am of Christ." That is quite a bold statement. But, at the same time, is that not what we all should be about as Christians? Should we not be able to say something like that to those who are new to the faith? If we cannot say something like that ----- then are we growing in our love of God and in our love for the neighbor? I would love to hear from you ----- could you say to a new believer ---- imitate me as I imitate Christ?

1 Corinthians 10.1-17

2011-05-26T08:21:00.000-07:00

This coming Sunday we will be focusing on 1 Corinthians 10.1-17. In verse 13 it says: "No testing has overtaken you that is not common to everyone. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tested beyond your strength, but with the testing he will also provide the way out so that you may be able to endure it." This verse is a very reassuring verse ---- in the midst of a plethora of indictments laid against the Corinthians. For instance, in verse 9 Paul says: "We must not put Christ to the test." Paul is referencing the Israelites putting God to the test in the wilderness. Here the Corinthians are putting Christ to the test in their insistence to continue in idolatry. I agree with verse 13, where Paul says that God is faithful in those trials that we all experience in life ---- but what about when we test the Lord in our persistent turning to idolatry, arrogance, and sin? Does the Old Testament give us any clues to what happens when we continue to turn back to our own evil ways?

I will miss this man

2011-05-23T12:03:00.001-07:00

1 Corinthians 8.1-13

2011-05-12T10:43:00.000-07:00

This coming Sunday we will be focusing on 1 Corinthians 8.1-13. There is one famous debate that goes on in this passage ---- and that is the debate about eating food that was offered to idols. But, in reality that is not the only issue. There is a huge issue of where you eat this food. In verses 10-11 it says: "For if others see you, who possess knowledge, eating in the temple of an idol, might they not, since their conscience is weak, be encouraged to the point of eating food sacrificed to idols? So by your knowledge those weak believers for whom Christ died are destroyed." It wasn't just about the food -- but it also was about where the food was consumed. Very wealthy people would be invited to temples for parties -- and these parties had a very "public" component to them. Therefore, people could see who was attending. If these rich and "knowledgeable" Christians were seen in these temples -- apparently this would cause some to stumble. I have been racking my brain to think of scenarios that are similar for us in the 21st century -- I think I have some scenarios. But, I would love to hear what you think. In this first century situation people would be invited to these temples for parties -- and the acceptance of the invitation could cause some to fall because it would hurt one's witness. Where does this happen in our modern day context?

1 Corinthians 6.11-20

2011-05-05T08:31:00.000-07:00

This coming Sunday we will be starting back in 1 Corinthians. We took a break from 1 Corinthians during Lent ----- and now we are back. We will be focusing on 1 Corinthians 6.11-20. In this passage the Apostle Paul is looking at what it means to live a life of Christian freedom and liberty. He says in verse 12: "'All things are lawful for me,' but not all things are beneficial. 'All things are lawful for me,' but I will not be dominated by anything." We oftentimes look at freedom as having the ability to do whatever we want to do. That is a mistake as Christians. As Christians we are not free to do whatever we want to do ----- if that is the case then we are not free from ourselves. But I would love to hear what you all think it means to be free in Christ. What do you think?

Martin Luther

2011-05-02T12:27:00.000-07:00

In Martin Luther's book, The Freedom of a Christian Man (1520), he writes this statement: "A Christian is a perfectly free Lord of all, subject to none. A Christian is a perfectly dutiful servant of all, subject to all. These two theses seem to contradict each other. If, however, they should be found to fit together they would serve our purpose beautifully." Do you think that these first two statements contradict each other?

Exponential 2011 - Orlando

2011-04-28T17:25:00.000-07:00

I thought that I would write about my experience at Exponential Conference. I have been at this conference since Tuesday and we leave to come back home tomorrow. It has been a great time away with 20 pastors and we have been learning a lot about the missional church. If anyone is interested in discussing what that is ----- we will need to get together and have a cup of coffee and I will explain it. But the essence of it is this: the church is to look at itself as a mission outpost, rather than a building. Here are some of the highlights so far.That is a picture of a cool system that doesn't need a projector. I have projectors on the brain lately.That is supposed to be a picture of Rick Warren. I was in a Bible Study that he taught on Isaiah 49.We went to Jimmy Buffet's Margaritaville for Dinner on Wednesday night. We ate on the Porch of Indecision ---- not exactly sure what that means.This is the stage for the main part of the conference ---- they had three screens. There were over 4000 people in attendance.We went to the mall and I was really digging on this seating. I have had furniture on the brain as well.And plant decor.Profound statement at the mall. I think this is one of those moments where we should say: "Now that will preach." Or how they say it in Texas: "Now that dog will hunt."Not totally sold on the marketing strategy ------ and we did look around briefly for the brochures ----- I figured they were too small :-)This was the grill for a nice SUV of a lady that rode through a swarm of "Love bugs" in Sarasota, Florida. That just feels like it is a lot of bugs.

Colossians 3.1-4

2011-04-24T00:51:00.000-07:00

Happy Resurrection Day. This Easter Day we will be focusing on Colossians 3.1-4. It starts out with this verse: "So if you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God." Because Christ was raised — we are raised as well. And if we have been raised then why would we seek the things on earth — instead, let us seek the things above. Since we have died and have been raised from our death as new creatures — why would we turn to our old ways? This is a terrific time to remember that we have been claimed by the Lord through the baptismal waters. That Jesus has laid claim to your life. Are there things that you need cast aside to walk in that resurrected life?

Holy Saturday

2011-04-23T03:53:00.001-07:00

This is Holy Saturday of Holy Week. We will be having our Holy Saturday - Scripture Reading and Prayer Service today. It will be on Saturday, April 23rd at 12noon. It says in the creed: "was crucified, died, and was buried; he descended into hell." At this service we will have a time to listen to the scripture readings and to meditate on God's Word. We then will have a time of prayer at the altar where there will be a time of candle lighting. All are invited to come.

Stations of the Cross - Good Friday Service

2011-04-22T03:51:00.000-07:00

Last night we had our Maundy Thursday Service. I would like to invite you all out for tonight's service as well. Tonight is our Stations of the Cross Service - Good Friday Service. At this service we will begin in the sanctuary and continue to a total of 14 stations. At every station there will be scripture reading. We will be traversing the church yard. There will be seating at some of the stations. In this service we follow Jesus on his way to his death on Golgotha. This service is on Friday, April 22nd at 7pm at Warren's Grove. See you then.

Maundy Thursday

2011-04-21T03:46:00.001-07:00

This Thursday we are having our Maundy Thursday service. This will be on Thursday, April 21st at 7pm. Tonight we will be focusing on Exodus 12.1-14. In these verses the Lord instructs Moses and Aaron on how to observe the Passover. During the Passover the Israelites would remember how the death angel passed over every home that had the blood of the lamb smeared on the door posts. In verse 11 the Lord instructs the Israelites to eat the passover lamb this way: "This is how you shall eat it: your loins girded, your sandals on your feet, and your staff in your hand; and you shall eat it hurriedly. It is the passover of the Lord." During this portion of Holy Week we are reminded that we are to be prepared to follow the Lord's leading. And as he leads us to Calvary ----- we should be prepared to go. On this night Judas betrays Jesus. He sells him out for a few pieces of silver. Let us be prepared to follow our Lord ----- even in the midst of betrayal.

Holy Wednesday

2011-04-20T12:22:00.001-07:00

This Wednesday we are having our Holy Wednesday service. This will be on Wednesday, April 20th at 7pm. This is an instructed communion service. In this service we will be learning why we do what we do in worship. Also, we will learn about the different aspects of the communion service and their biblical basis. Jesus says: "But the hour is coming, and is now here, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for the Father seeks such as these to worship him. God is spirit, and those who worship him must worship in spirit and truth" (John 4.23-24) Come and journey with Jesus ----- as we follow him to Calvary.

John 12.20-36

2011-04-19T09:02:00.000-07:00

This Tuesday we are having our Holy Tuesday service. This will be on Tuesday, April 19th at 7pm. The scripture that we will be focusing on is John 12.20-36. In this text Jesus says: "Now is the judgment of this world; now the ruler of this world will be driven out. And I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all people to myself" (verses 31-32). During this time, where we are journeying with Jesus to Golgotha, we are reminded that this long road to Calvary is one that ends with the death of our Lord. But in that death the ruler of this world is driven out, the people of this world are drawn to the cross, and the judgment of this world is executed. From the cross, Jesus invites all to his bleeding side. For it is by his wounds that we are healed. We proclaim Christ crucified ---- which is the power of God for salvation.

Isaiah 42.1-9 & John 12.1-11

2011-04-18T04:37:00.000-07:00

This Monday we are having our Holy Monday service. This will be on Monday, April 18th at 7pm. The scripture that we will be focusing on is Isaiah 42.1-9. In this text the Lord says: "I have given you as a covenant to the people, a light to the nations" (verse 6). During this time, where we are journeying with Jesus to Golgotha, we are reminded that the Lord has blessed us to be a blessing. We are an instrument of God's mercy and grace. We are to be used by the Lord for the benefit of the world. We can see this in Jesus ---- where he reminds us that he came not to be served, but to serve (Matthew 20.28). As the Church, we are called to live for others. We are called to give ourselves away for the benefit of others. One way we will live this out tonight is by having a foot washing service. During this service we will be reminded that Jesus took upon himself the form of a servant and we are to go and do likewise (John 13.1-20). I invite you to come and follow Jesus ----- as we journey with him to Calvary.

Holy Week

2011-04-16T05:12:00.000-07:00

Last year we tried something a little different at Warren's Grove. We decided to have services every night of Holy Week. Holy Week is the week leading up to Easter. It starts on Palm Sunday and then ends on Easter Sunday. They are typically called: Holy Monday, Holy Tuesday, Holy Wednesday, Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, Holy Saturday, and Easter Sunday. I was really excited about making this a part of our worship services last year, and I was pleasantly surprised at how many other folks got so much out of it. These are shorter services and communion is served at each service [except Good Friday and Holy Saturday]. I would encourage you to bring your whole family out to come and remember the passion of Jesus as we all journey with him to Golgotha. Below is the list of the services and you can find Warren's Grove by clicking on this link. On Sunday, April 17th at 8:45am & 11am we will have our Palm Sunday Service.
Monday, April 18th at 7pm we will have our foot washing service, communion will be served.
Tuesday, April 19th at 7pm we will have our healing & anointing service, communion will be served.
Wednesday, April 20th at 7pm we will have our instructed Lord's Supper, communion will be served.
Thursday, April 21st at 7pm we will have our Maundy Thursday service. This is where the altar is stripped. Communion will be served.
Friday, April 22nd at 7pm we will have our Stations of the Cross - Good Friday service. This will be in the sanctuary and church yard.
Saturday, April 23rd at 12noon we will have a scripture reading, prayer and candle lighting service.
Sunday, April 24th at 7am we will have our Easter Sunrise service on the Warren's Grove church lawn. This will be in conjunction with Lea's Chapel United Methodist Church. The Rev. James Jones will be preaching. Breakfast served by the Nurture Committee right after the service.
Sunday, April 24th at 8:45am & 11am we will have our Easter services.

Matthew 21.1-11

2011-04-12T09:57:00.001-07:00

This coming Sunday we will be focusing on Matthew 21.1-11. This is Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem. It is truly a festive and emotional text. While at the same time it is a text that is foreshadowing Golgatha. Verse 10 really hits home for me: "When he entered Jerusalem, the whole city was in turmoil, asking, 'Who is this?'" Isn't this what we are all asking ---- who is this Jesus of Nazareth? Isn't he the carpenter's son? Isn't he the one that was born in the barn of Bethlehem? Isn't he the one that healed the blind man? Isn't he the one that raised Lazarus from the dead? Isn't he the one that was tempted by the devil? Here, we see Jesus riding in with a donkey and a colt (verse 7), and the crowds were over whelming. We are much like these crowds ---- willing to follow when it is festive and joyous ---- but when it involves the crucifixion, do we still follow?

SPRING

2011-04-10T02:38:00.000-07:00

This is our Children from SPRING explaining their experience of being part of this children's ministry. This was from December 2010.

Crop Walk 2011

2011-04-09T02:26:00.000-07:00

**If you cannot view the video, click this link.** We will be participating in Crop Walk in Uptown Roxboro. This is for the all people of all ages. We will start at Long Memorial United Methodist Church (address above) and follow the historic walking trail (2 times). This will be a total of 3 miles. Numerous churches from all over Person County will be participating in this event. Everyone is invited to participate in this opportunity to help stop hunger locally, nationally and globally. If you have not had an opportunity to get sponsors for this event ---- then please just bring a donation to go toward the Crop Walk. A light dinner will be provided by Long Memorial Church. If you would like to find out more information please follow this link: http://www.churchworldservice.org/site/TR/2011SpringCROPHungerWalk/TR-Spring2011?pg=entry&fr_id=12097 Come and serve our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, as we link arms together.

John 11.1-45

2011-04-07T05:16:00.000-07:00

This coming Sunday we will be focusing on John 11.1-45. In this section of John, Jesus' friend Lazarus dies. And as a result of his death, and the grief that is surrounding the situation, Jesus weeps. He is moved with compassion and calls Lazarus to arise from the grave. In this story Martha was angry — Mary was angry — and Jesus was moved by their grief and their anger. His bowels are literally hurting as he weeps. In this passage we see the humanity of Jesus. That the God we serve is a God who weeps. A God who is moved with compassion for people that he cares for. Clearly, it is okay to show emotions and it is okay to be angry and weep. So the question I have for us is: Why do we sometimes try to put a cap on our emotions and feelings — when Jesus is the one who takes the cap off of his?

Thoughts on Being a Pastor

2011-03-30T05:26:00.000-07:00

I thought I would take this opportunity to reflect, with all of you, about being a pastor. I have to say that being a pastor has been, and continues to be, one of the most rich experiences of my life. I absolutely love the opportunity that the Lord has called me to be a part of. This is utterly humbling ---- because I am amazed that God can use a person like me to proclaim and share the good news that Jesus Christ is Lord. I have fallen in love with the church, and I have found the local church to be the place the Lord has called us to live into the prayer "thy kingdom come, thy will be done." When I get to serve beside people that the Lord has sent my way ---- I realize that I have been given an opportunity to serve beside Jesus. The Lord uses ordinary people to be his instruments of grace in this world. And we get the opportunity to say "yes" to Jesus' calling. As a pastor I get to be with people through birth and death, through the baptismal waters and partaking of the Lord's Supper, through weddings and funerals, through singing and scripture reading, through prayer and confession ---- and this is an awe inspiring position to be in. And I want to say thank you to all of you, for allowing the Lord to use a person like me to share the good news that Jesus Christ is Lord.

John 4.5-42

2011-03-24T03:06:00.000-07:00

This coming Sunday we will be focusing on John 4.5-42. In this passage Jesus meets a Samaritan woman at a well. But this wasn't just any ole' well ----- this was a well that Jacob had built hundreds of years before. Jesus asks her for a drink and there is an uncomfortable interchange that transpires. There were so many cultural inhibitions that go on in this interchange. First, men and women didn't really talk in public. Second, Jesus was a Jew and she was a Samaritan. Third, this was going on in the middle of the day ---- when most people would try to stay out of the sun. This conversation culminates with Jesus saying in verse 13: "Everyone who drinks of this water will be thirsty again, but those who drink of the water that I will give them will never be thirsty. The water that I will give will become in them a spring of water gushing up to eternal life." Jesus would have never had this conversation with the Samaritan woman if he had allowed himself to be relegated to the cultural norms. I wonder if we would have these "spring of water", conversations if we could get over some of our cultural inhibitions? Where do you think you could go this week to engage in meaningful conversation?

Matthew 4.1-11

2011-03-10T11:00:00.000-08:00

Click this link if you cannot see this video. This coming Sunday we will be starting a lectionary sermon series that is called "Fearless, the Courage to Question." We will be engaging in questions that revolve around the biblical passages through the lenten season. I would encourage you to follow along through this time by checking back at the blog or on facebook. This week we will begin with Matthew 4.1-11. This passage has to do with Jesus being lead by the Spirit out into the wilderness to be tempted by the Devil. It is interesting that Jesus is actually tempted. To get our conversation started ----- What do you think is the best way to resist temptation in your own life?

Ash Wednesday - March 9th at 7pm

2011-03-08T05:38:00.001-08:00

During the forty days leading up to Easter the church traditionally observes a time of penance and fasting. This time of preparation for Easter is commonly called Lent. Lent begins on Ash Wednesday (which is March 9th this year) and ends on the Saturday before Easter. Ash Wednesday is a day that is set aside for us to remember that God created us out of the dust of the earth. While at the same time, it is to dust we shall return, like it says in Genesis 3.19: “By the sweat of your face you shall eat bread until you return to the ground, for out of it you were taken; you are dust, and to dust you shall return.”

An early church father, named Gregory of Nyssa, would take his students into the catacombs and show them the decaying bones. In Homilies on the Beatitudes, he wrote: “Have you not seen in the burial ground the mysteries of our existence? Have you not seen the heap of bones piled on each other, skulls stripped of flesh, staring fearsome and horrible from empty eye-sockets? Have you seen the grinning mouths and the rest of the limbs lying casually about? If you have seen those things, then in them you have observed yourself.” Ash Wednesday creates space for us to deal with our mortality. To stare into the eyes of death and see Jesus' passionate arms reaching for us from the cross.

What the church offers us on Ash Wednesday is not some quick fix—it is not some miracle drug—it is not some hair dying kit. Instead, what the church offers us is the opportunity to embrace our mortality. To look at the bones decaying and realize that we are dust—and to dust we shall return. We are not offering a picturesque stained glass Jesus or promises of the picture perfect family. Instead, the church is offering you what is real. That we all face our death, and that we all face our sin. God is the one who will make us clean—even in the midst of our death and sin. Let us find our hope in the one who overcame death and sin. The one we follow as we carry our crosses through this Lenten journey.

During Lent last year we celebrated Palm Sunday. During that Sunday we remember Jesus' triumphal entry where people waved palm branches and shouted Hosanna! For Ash Wednesday we take those same palm branches and burn them—saving the ashes that are left. Then we apply them to our foreheads—reminding ourselves of the sins that so easily ensnare us. How we participate in celebrating Jesus, while turning our backs on him when the going gets too tough. This is our calling to repent of our sins and embrace our crucified savior and Lord.

I would encourage you to attend an Ash Wednesday service this year. For it is an opportunity for us to remember that we are dust and to dust we shall return. While at the same time it helps us to remember that our hope and power come only from Jesus' victory over sin and death.

An Exciting Weekend

2011-03-05T04:21:00.000-08:00

We are in the midst of an exciting weekend. It is called the Lay Witness Mission Weekend. We invited missionaries from all over North Carolina to come and share with us what God has done in their lives. This has been an awesome opportunity for us to share what we feel like God is doing in our lives. Any of you that have not had an opportunity to come out ---- I would encourage you to do that. We are having a free lunch today [Saturday, March 5th] at 12noon and at 6pm today the United Methodist Men are cooking. If you have any questions let me know.

1 Corinthians 4.1-5

2011-02-24T07:36:00.000-08:00

This Sunday I will be focusing on 1 Corinthians 4.1-5. In verse 5 it says: "Therefore do not pronounce judgment before the time, before the Lord comes, who will bring to light the things now hidden in darkness and will disclose the purposes of the heart." So often we want to say things like "they'll get theirs", when someone does us wrong. In that statement we are thinking ----- they have done harm to us and now God will get them back. This ends up coming off as vengeful. But, we must pay special attention to this verse that urges us to remember who the real judge is. The one who knows the secrets of all our hearts ---- even our own. By knowing that Jesus is the judge of the secrets of our hearts, does that change our tone when we desire to judge others?

John Huss

2011-02-21T05:30:00.000-08:00

I was sitting and preparing for Ash Wednesday and I thought of this video that I had seen many years ago. This is the end of a segment on a man named John Huss. I would encourage you to learn more about John Huss. He wanted the "common" people to be able to read the holy scriptures. Therefore, he was a proponent of the bible being written in the vernacular of the people. If you cannot see this video then follow this link.

1 Corinthians 3.10-23

2011-02-17T08:10:00.000-08:00

This coming Sunday we will be focusing on 1 Corinthians 3.10-23. In this portion of the letter to the church in Corinth Paul brings up the metaphor of building. Earlier, in verse 9 he said that the church is "God's building". As God's building, our foundation is to be Jesus Christ (verse 11). From that foundation we are to build the building -- to build the church. Paul says in verse 10: "Each builder must choose with care how to build on it." The question that I have for us today ----- and when I say us, I mean the church ----- the question is: are we choosing with care how to build God's church? Are we using gold, silver, and precious stones? (Like Paul tells us to in verse 12) Or are we using wood, hay, and straw? It would be really strange to build a really straight wall ------ using stones ----- and then half way up start using some hay and then some wood and then some straw. And paste on top of that a roof. What does this God's house look like? How is God's building project going in your life?

Lay Witness Mission Weekend

2011-02-12T06:03:00.000-08:00

At Warren's Grove we will be hosting a Lay Witness Mission Weekend on March 4th - 6th. I want to invite all of you to come out for this awesome event. This is an opportunity to grow in our faith and to grow in our knowledge and love of God. This starts on Friday, March 4th at 6:30pm in the fellowship hall. If you need more information please email me and I will email you back philipchryst@gmail.com To see the video that accompanies this click here.

1 Corinthians 3.1-9

2011-02-10T11:44:00.001-08:00

This coming Sunday I we will be focusing on 1 Corinthians 3.1-9. In this passage there is a very famous verse that goes like this: "I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the growth" (3.6). We could look at this verse and pull from it that there are different tasks that we all have to be about in the church. That for some they are to be planters and for some they are to be waterers. But, that is not the point. The point is that the Lord is the one who loves the church and cares for the church and died for the church. Because of that the Lord is the one who is to be in charge of the church and we are not called to be a people that cling to a certain human (ie. Paul or Apollos). Instead, the Lord of the church grows us as his children. A children that he loves and cares for. Our identity is in the one who owns us ----- for we are his. Just like it says in verse 9: "For we are God's servants, working together; you are God's field, God's building." The question that I would like to leave for us today is this: in what ways is God growing us as the church today?

1 Corinthians 1.18-31

2011-01-26T03:59:00.000-08:00

This coming Sunday the text that we will be focusing on is 1 Corinthians 1.18-31. Much of these verses are dealing with wisdom. Paul is highlighting that wisdom of the world is different than God's wisdom. For the Lord's great power is shown in the cross of Christ. In the cross we can boast because the Lord has made us new creatures. One interesting string of verses is found in in chapter 1 verses 27-29. One part says: "God chose what is weak in the world to shame the strong." In your own life ----- have you had experiences where the weak things of life have shamed the strong? I immediately think of back pain or a penetrating question from a child. I remember when I hurt my back so bad I could not even stand up. That was a humbling experience. Or when a question from a little child, would cause me to have to change behavior. Have you all had experiences like that?

Ohio State Football Fan and Legos Fan?

2011-01-20T04:19:00.001-08:00

I was listening to a story on National Public Radio yesterday afternoon about a professor who had built the replica of the Ohio State Football Stadium. I thought that the story was a little hard to believe ----- so I checked it out myself. And I thought I would share with you what he created. It is all out of legos and it took him 5 years to plan, buy, implement and build this replica. It is unbelievable. You can read more on ESPN: http://espn.go.com/espn/page2/index?id=6037754 or listen to it on NPR: http://www.npr.org/player/v2/mediaPlayer.html?action=1&t=1&islist=false&id=133058130&m=133058791

1 Corinthians 1.10-18

2011-01-17T09:58:00.000-08:00

This coming Sunday I will be focusing on 1 Corinthians 1.10-18. In this group of verses the Apostle Paul brings up the division that is going on in the church of Corinth. Apparently, Chloe still had some inside information about the quarrels that are going on in Corinth (verse 11). Paul feels like these quarrels need to be addressed because it is an error for the church to be operating this way. There were divisions about who was more important because of their baptisms. Paul confronts this error and advises the church to cling to the initial message he shared. Now this message is foolishness to some. But, to those who are being saved it is the power of God (verse 18). This message is is found in the cross of Christ. The cross of Christ is the power of God revealed to all the world. But, I would like to hear from you ---- how do you think the cross of Christ is the very power of God in your life?

1 Corinthians

2011-01-13T13:05:00.000-08:00

This coming Sunday I am going to begin a sermon series on 1 Corinthians. This will go till Ash Wednesday (the beginning of Lent). This Sunday I will start with 1 Corinthians 1.1-9. For the most part this is the Apostle Paul's preliminary comments to the church in Corinth. But he also says something very intriguing. It is found in verse 9. It says: "God is faithful; by him you were called into the fellowship of his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord." Those words ---- the fellowship of his Son ---- have really stuck out to me. What is the fellowship of his Son? What does this have to do with the God who is faithful? Does this have anything to do with the relationship of the Trinity? What does this have to do with our fellowship as believers? Interestingly, if you go to the next few verses the Apostle Paul begins addressing the division that is found in Corinth. I think there is an important point to understanding this verse by looking at the division. I would love to hear what you all think. Look it over and comment back.

Bible Translation in Indonesia

2011-01-01T04:34:00.000-08:00

Kimyal New Testament launch in Indonesia from United Bible Societies on Vimeo.

The Journey of the Magi - By T.S. Eliot

2010-12-29T05:30:00.000-08:00

A cold coming we had of it,
Just the worst time of the year
For a journey, and such a long journey:
The ways deep and the weather sharp,
The very dead of winter.
And the camels galled, sore-footed, refractory,
Lying down in the melting snow.
There were times when we regretted
The summer palaces on slopes, the terraces,
And the silken girls bringing sherbet.
Then the camel men cursing and grumbling
And running away, and wanting their liquor and women,
And the night-fires going out, and the lack of shelters,
And the cities dirty and the towns unfriendly
And the villages dirty and charging high prices:
A hard time we had of it.
At the end we preferred to travel all night,
Sleeping in snatches,
With the voices singing in our ears, saying
That this was all folly.

Then at dawn we came down to a temperate valley,
Wet, below the snow line, smelling of vegetation;
With a running stream and a water mill beating the darkness,
And three trees on the low sky,
And an old white horse galloped away in the meadow.
Then we came to a tavern with vine-leaves over the lintel,
Six hands at an open door dicing for pieces of silver,
And feet kicking the empty wineskins.
But there was no information, and so we continued
And arrived at evening, not a moment too soon
Finding the place; it was (you may say) satisfactory.

All this was a long time ago, I remember,
And I would do it again, but set down
This set down
This: were we led all that way for
Birth or Death? There was a Birth, certainly,
We had evidence and no doubt. I had seen birth and death,
But had thought they were different; this Birth was
Hard and bitter agony for us, like Death, our death.
We returned to our places, these Kingdoms,
But no longer at ease here, in the old dispensation,
With an alien people clutching their gods.
I should be glad of another death.

This was written by T.S. Eliot on August 25, 1927. This was after his conversion to Christianity and his subsequent confirmation in the Church of England.

We Three Kings

2010-12-28T09:05:00.001-08:00