tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-61411947677825532952024-03-13T17:56:41.474-07:00QuestChurch & Family: TWO Combined influences make a greater IMPACT than just TWO influences.Steve O.http://www.blogger.com/profile/06295743995043036006noreply@blogger.comBlogger23125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6141194767782553295.post-65606453591721582322012-03-20T08:13:00.001-07:002012-03-20T08:13:55.641-07:00Do I Really Believe This Book?<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:trackmoves/> <w:trackformatting/> <w:punctuationkerning/> <w:validateagainstschemas/> <w:saveifxmlinvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:ignoremixedcontent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:alwaysshowplaceholdertext>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:donotpromoteqf/> <w:lidthemeother>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther> <w:lidthemeasian>X-NONE</w:LidThemeAsian> <w:lidthemecomplexscript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> 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mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-priority:99; mso-style-qformat:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast; mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;} </style> <![endif]--> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif"">2 Timothy 3:16 says, "All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness..." We used this verse as a reminder last weekend in Quest that we can trust the Bible as being true because God guided the writing of His Scripture. But something else hit me with this passage. I'm sure that "something" was the Holy Spirit wanting to get my attention. As I understand that the Bible is indeed the Word of God given to us, and it is all true, do I live like I believe it?</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif""><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>There are many times I do, but unfortunately there are many times I do not. This living like I don't believe the Bible usually cannot be seen; it’s in the attitude of the heart. It's being selfish with my time. It's the negative thoughts. It's the critical thoughts. It's the pity-parties I feel entitled to. In short, it's sin that easily creeps into my life and pulls me away from God. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif""><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>I can't help but think that if I had really lived like I believed the Bible was God's message to me; my children would have been affected in a much more positive way for God than they were. Don't get me wrong, I'm blessed to have the daughters I have. They are Godly women who guide their children to Christ. I'm saying, the times I lived like the Bible was just another book had a spiritual impact on my family. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif""><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>I am thankful I serve a loving God who is full of grace and mercy; who forgives, corrects, and builds up. Where I fell short as a father and husband, I'm sure He jumped in. Where are you? Do you say without a doubt that the Bible is God's true Word to us? If you say it, have you asked yourself lately, "Do I really believe this book?" Do I live like I believe all it has to say? What a journey. God help me live each day like I believe every word that was spoken by you. </span></p>Steve O.http://www.blogger.com/profile/06295743995043036006noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6141194767782553295.post-1948884316089045332012-03-09T12:04:00.001-08:002012-03-09T12:09:25.194-08:00It All Goes Back In The Box<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:trackmoves/> <w:trackformatting/> <w:punctuationkerning/> <w:validateagainstschemas/> <w:saveifxmlinvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:ignoremixedcontent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:alwaysshowplaceholdertext>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:donotpromoteqf/> <w:lidthemeother>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther> <w:lidthemeasian>X-NONE</w:LidThemeAsian> <w:lidthemecomplexscript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> <w:dontgrowautofit/> <w:splitpgbreakandparamark/> 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mso-style-priority:99; mso-style-qformat:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast; mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;} </style> <![endif]--> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;">Tuesday was Election Day. My wife and I have been working at the polling place for over a year. It is a great way to serve the community and meet some really neat people. This past Tuesday the turnout was not very large, so I had the opportunity to get into a paper book. I say paper book because like many of you, I read electronic books. That was more information than you needed. The book is by John Ortberg and the Title is, <u>When The Game Is Over It All Goes Back In The Box</u>. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;">At this point I am half way through the book, but have been reminded about a very important need in many of our lives, especially if you have children still in the house. We are a culture of stuff, work, and business. Many of us thrive on these things at the expense of our families. But here is the thing, we can be busy, climb the financial and social ladder, and be a success in the eyes of the culture, but one day it will all end. One day it will all go back in the box. All the missed time with family will not mean much when someone else has your job, your wealth, your positions. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;">I experienced this in my life from two points of view. If I was going to spend time with my dad when I was a child, I knew it was going to be on the golf course. Now I love the game, but that is not why I started playing. I started playing to be with my dad. There have been times my family suffered an absent dad as well. I enjoy work. It can be like a hobby to me. I enjoy the people I work with and what I do. But there were times, especially when my children were small, that I put in too many hours at church and not enough time at home. Now, no one would argue that doing things at church, for the church are bad things, but when they came before my family I don't know that God was pleased. I finally corrected this as I had a loving wife who continued to guide me to spend more time with the girls. I am so glad I did. I think we are the friends we are today because God used Debi to help me see what was really important. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;">Too often in America we live like this life will go on forever. It won't. It is a good reminder to all of us that when it is all said and done, what our children want from us is time, and they want this over stuff, activities, money, and job titles. They want you. What game are you playing? What will go back in the box when your life is over, the stuff of our culture or memories that will never be put away in the minds of your family? "When The Game Is Over It All Goes Back In The Box."</span></p>Steve O.http://www.blogger.com/profile/06295743995043036006noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6141194767782553295.post-23371882619338446192012-02-26T12:14:00.003-08:002012-02-26T12:21:05.904-08:00Punish or Redeem?In First Timothy 1:20, Paul in writing to Timothy says that he has given, "Hymenaeus and Alexander over to Satan to be taught not to blaspheme." On the face this can seem as a harsh move by Paul, however he had redemption in mind. It was Paul's desire that these men be<br />in such a position that they would once again seek God and return to their faith.<br /> This verse leads me to ask two questions of myself. First, why is it always easier to punish than redeem? Unfortunately, at our core, punishment makes us feel good. It seems to satisfy the feeling that we have of being put upon by another. Punishment doesn't often make a person better, just more careful. Redemption on the other hand is hard. It takes forgiveness. It takes putting ourselves last behind the best interest of another. It means we may not experience the perceived justice we think we are due. But the result may mean that a person becomes closer to God and useful to the Kingdom and others. Second, what is God's nature? Though God has punished evil people throughout history, His nature is redemption. That is what the cross is all about. That is why we have the opportunity to have a relationship with God. God's nature is that all of us are redeemed to His Kingdom.<br /> When I am tempted to punish, I need to be reminded of this passage in First Timothy. I need to remember that since God's nature is redemption, that must be my nature as well.Steve O.http://www.blogger.com/profile/06295743995043036006noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6141194767782553295.post-29919107970001164742012-02-01T10:49:00.000-08:002012-02-01T10:52:01.563-08:00Greetings?<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:trackmoves/> <w:trackformatting/> <w:punctuationkerning/> <w:validateagainstschemas/> <w:saveifxmlinvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:ignoremixedcontent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:alwaysshowplaceholdertext>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:donotpromoteqf/> <w:lidthemeother>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther> <w:lidthemeasian>X-NONE</w:LidThemeAsian> <w:lidthemecomplexscript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> <w:dontgrowautofit/> <w:splitpgbreakandparamark/> <w:dontvertaligncellwithsp/> 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mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin-top:0in; mso-para-margin-right:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:10.0pt; mso-para-margin-left:0in; line-height:115%; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast; mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;} </style> <![endif]--> <p class="MsoNormal">Paul’s greeting to Timothy in 1<sup>st</sup> Timothy 1:1 says, “Paul, and apostle of Christ Jesus by the command of God our Savior and of Christ Jesus our hope.”</p> <p class="MsoNormal">I don’t know about you, but there are times when I am in such a hurry to read what comes after the greeting I miss what it contains. When I studied this greeting with the help of Barclay, Paul reminds us of a few important things.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">“Paul and apostle.” Paul saw himself as an ambassador or envoy of Jesus. We are familiar with ambassadors. Their job is to represent a person or country in the best possible way. </p> <p class="MsoNormal">“By the command of God.” Paul thought of himself as holding a king’s commission. He was not only given a job to do, but had the authority to accomplish it. </p> <p class="MsoNormal">“Christ Jesus our hope.” Jesus is only the hope we have; hope of moral victory, hope over circumstances, and hope of victory over death. <span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Jesus is our hope.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">I then need to ask myself a few questions. How am I doing as God’s ambassador? Am I representing Him well? Am I fulfilling the King’s commission? God created me for a purpose, and has gifted me to accomplish that purpose. How is my hope? Is my hope in Jesus alone, or do I hope in things other than Him? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Short greeting; powerful lessons.</p>Steve O.http://www.blogger.com/profile/06295743995043036006noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6141194767782553295.post-71774473305754716672012-01-26T08:15:00.000-08:002012-01-26T08:20:10.142-08:00Spinning an Egg<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:trackmoves/> <w:trackformatting/> <w:punctuationkerning/> <w:validateagainstschemas/> <w:saveifxmlinvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:ignoremixedcontent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:alwaysshowplaceholdertext>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:donotpromoteqf/> <w:lidthemeother>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther> <w:lidthemeasian>X-NONE</w:LidThemeAsian> <w:lidthemecomplexscript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> <w:dontgrowautofit/> 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mso-style-priority:99; mso-style-qformat:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin-top:0in; mso-para-margin-right:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:10.0pt; mso-para-margin-left:0in; line-height:115%; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast; mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;} </style> <![endif]--> <p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;">How can you tell an egg in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">hard-boiled</span> or raw? Spin it. A raw egg will not spin very well. A <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">hard-boiled</span> egg will spin like a ball. That way, you tell what’s inside. That’s what I was able to talk about with a group of kids last night. We know what’s inside of a lot of things because we have experience with them. Some examples are a jack in the box, a jelly-filled donut, and even an inflated balloon. </p> <p style="font-family: arial;" class="MsoNormal">If we are Christians, can people know what’s inside of us based on what they see on the outside? James 1:22 reminds us that to hear God’s Word and not do what it says is useless. When this is our approach to God’s Word, we are deceiving ourselves about what’s in us. James says we need to not only hear God’s Word, but do it as well. </p> <p style="font-family: arial;" class="MsoNormal">I reminded the kids that God wants hearers and doers, not just doers. When people look at us, can they tell God lives in us? Do we treat others in a way that would be pleasing to God? Our actions are like spinning an egg; it will show what’s in us. Hearing and doing; easy to understand, harder to accomplish.</p>Steve O.http://www.blogger.com/profile/06295743995043036006noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6141194767782553295.post-81816832324876696382010-12-16T04:59:00.000-08:002010-12-16T05:14:53.342-08:00The Desert; Really?At the end of the book of Numbers, prior to the <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Israelites</span> entering the promised land, Moses is recounting their journey. They moved from place to place, many of which I have a hard time pronouncing, until they get to a point of decision; go with God and take the land, or, "let's go back to Egypt where we had it so well." You know what happened next, rebellion and forty years walking in the wilderness. Why is it that we are so willing to wander than follow God's direction? Is it really so much better in Egypt?<br />This is the message of Christmas. God sent Jesus to us so we would not have to wander in the wilderness of life, moving from problem to problem without guidance or direction; without the peace and the joy implicit in walking with God. During December in Kids Quest we have been looking at Joy - finding a way to be happy, even when things don't go your way. We have discovered that joy is a choice, and that we find true joy in the greatest gift ever given; Jesus.<br />I hope your Christmas is filled with joy. I hope your life is filled with the direction of God, not wandering in the wilderness. Yes, we face giants from time to time, but as we were reminded in Kids Quest, we serve a God that is bigger than all things. This is a truth for all of us. May you have a Merry Christmas with this reminder from the book of Numbers.Steve O.http://www.blogger.com/profile/06295743995043036006noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6141194767782553295.post-78500451365575950352010-09-28T06:22:00.000-07:002010-09-28T06:41:37.101-07:00Something From NothingThis past Sunday, I was reminded in a sermon about one good way to help people understand that there must be God. We all have stuff. Most of us have too much stuff, but stuff we have and it all came from somewhere. Everything we have, had, or will have had a beginning. In fact, we cannot think of a thing in our <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">existence</span> that did not have a beginning; that is unless we include God. Even the most ardent Big Bang Universe people have to come to the conclusion that all the stuff that went "Bang" had to come from somewhere. I am not saying I am a <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">proponent</span> of this theory, but if one is, the stuff that went "Bang" had to start somewhere. That leads us to the Creator, God. Genesis 1:1 reminds us that in the beginning was God, and that is all that was. He spoke and the universe as we know it happened. All that ever was and will be came from His creative <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">genius</span>. This is a great reminder for kids as they are told many things in school that may not line up with a creator. There is a simple answer; it all had to start by someone, and that someone is God.Steve O.http://www.blogger.com/profile/06295743995043036006noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6141194767782553295.post-49140915060100275642010-08-24T04:48:00.000-07:002010-08-24T05:20:32.737-07:00What A CrowdSo during my quiet time I have begun reading the book of Numbers. I know, hold the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">excitement</span>. What I have <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">discovered</span> over the years is that God can teach me something new in any part of the Bible, and chapter one of Numbers is no exception. As I am reading the list of the tribes and how many men over the age of twenty there are, it strikes me that Moses is literally trying to usher around two million people through the desert. Then it hits me that the entire time these people are moving from place to place, God is providing food and water for everyone, every day. Talk about a Big God.<br />Then I am reminded that if God can do this, He can care for my family and yours. You see, it's not about numbers, it's about God's desire to love and care for people. I don't know about you, but the times my <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">family</span> was in a place that was not good, it was usually due to my poor decisions, not God <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">guidance</span>. His desire for families is to guide them through this journey of life while providing for their needs. If He can do it for two million, He can do it for a family.Steve O.http://www.blogger.com/profile/06295743995043036006noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6141194767782553295.post-51387051955856918962010-06-06T16:17:00.000-07:002010-06-06T16:35:06.987-07:00Little PrincessDebi and I <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">recently</span> spent a week with our children in Georgia. We had a great time with our children and grandchildren. As many of you know, <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">EllaGrace</span> joined our family several months ago, arriving from Ethiopia with a <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">sippy-</span>cup and the clothes on her back. A little <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">orphan</span> girl who <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">had</span> spent a few months abandoned on the streets of a large city was adopted into a loving family. She is now a <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_5" class="blsp-spelling-error">Dantzler</span>, just like her sisters. She has a mother and father whom she loves and who love her. She is family. There will not be a time when she is not a <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_6" class="blsp-spelling-error">Dantzler</span>.<br />As I was thinking about this one of the times <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_7" class="blsp-spelling-error">EllaGrace</span> and I were taking a lounge in the chair, I was reminded that this is our story. We were alone, trying to survive life the best we could, then one day through faith we were adopted into God's family. We will always be part of that family. We are part of a family that loves us and cares for us. Just like <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_8" class="blsp-spelling-error">EllaGrace</span> will always be a part of our family; through Christ we will always be a part of God's Family.<br />I am grinning as I think about that sweet face smiling at me; the one that reminds me the grace and mercy God shows us as undeserving as we are. What a family.Steve O.http://www.blogger.com/profile/06295743995043036006noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6141194767782553295.post-80341307645313211722010-04-17T05:53:00.000-07:002010-04-17T06:13:48.306-07:00No ConditionsI was listening to Chris Tomlin while taking a walk this morning. One of the songs I heard was, "Unfailing Love." God takes us where we are, without condition and helps us grow to where He wants us to be. With God there is only one condition, becoming His child. Beyond that His love for us is perfect and constant, even when we fail.<br />This should be the picture of the home as well. Homes where love and respect are conditional lead children to become adults who are skeptical and question their <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">worthiness</span> to be loved. Every home should be a place where children are loved unconditionally, where a child can fail in safety, and discover how to grow from failure. Homes should be a place where children are disciplined in love, and loved through their mistakes. Homes are where children are learning to become the adults God will need them to be, and parents are the main teachers.<br />Homes have rules, but not <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">conditions</span> to be met in order to be loved. That is not God's plan for the family. God is clear; train your children, guide your children, love your children as God loves you and rears you to be the person He created you to be. Parents have the same responsibility to their children. No conditions.Steve O.http://www.blogger.com/profile/06295743995043036006noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6141194767782553295.post-53946607444304359582010-03-30T04:54:00.001-07:002010-03-30T05:05:34.402-07:00I'm No Different<span style="font-family:arial;">I read the account of Jesus' trial in Matthew 27 this morning and some thoughts occurred to me. Judas had remorse; do I? It's easy for us to think we would have stood with Jesus; We would not have run; We would not have yelled, "Crucify!"; But we did. Jesus, Creator of all that is, <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">endured</span> rejection, humiliation, pain, and separation from God for the first time in eternity because of me. He died for me so I could live. I was Judas, the High Priests, The <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">Governor</span>, the crowd, the soldier; no different in my flesh than these. God created us <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">and died</span> for us so we could spend eternity with Him. What a gift. With all the excitement Easter brings in the home, let me encourage you to remind your family that it is about the sacrifice of the Suffering Servant. We are who we are because of what Jesus did.</span>Steve O.http://www.blogger.com/profile/06295743995043036006noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6141194767782553295.post-78835839327150095512010-03-21T18:18:00.000-07:002010-03-21T18:23:17.517-07:0021 Steps<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu-X3EUEw7QzBUyQm5m-Uw3xVu85wRC6tPWc0zMJ0rwJX74DF_wMWdMlLR5mD7NYSaPXfX_JjtfSbhapW4Gox845emdh_GcQoxBG_RIcMerbc48_6caugdgq0BzCjBB91R8SUj9aVutlJc/s1600-h/Tomb+2.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 288px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5451261999511062898" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu-X3EUEw7QzBUyQm5m-Uw3xVu85wRC6tPWc0zMJ0rwJX74DF_wMWdMlLR5mD7NYSaPXfX_JjtfSbhapW4Gox845emdh_GcQoxBG_RIcMerbc48_6caugdgq0BzCjBB91R8SUj9aVutlJc/s320/Tomb+2.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><div><span style="font-family:arial;"></span></div><div><span style="font-family:arial;"></span></div><div><span style="font-family:arial;"></span></div><div><span style="font-family:arial;"></span></div><div><span style="font-family:arial;"></span></div><div><span style="font-family:arial;"></span></div><div><span style="font-family:arial;"></span></div><div><span style="font-family:arial;"></span></div><div><span style="font-family:arial;"></span></div><div><span style="font-family:arial;"></span></div><div><span style="font-family:arial;"></span></div><div><span style="font-family:arial;"></span></div><div><span style="font-family:arial;"></span></div><div><span style="font-family:arial;"></span></div><div><span style="font-family:arial;"></span></div><div><span style="font-family:arial;">We had the privilege to spend the last week in Washington D.C. It is an amazing place. We were there to receive our new granddaughter. She is a dandy. Debi and I look forward to see how God will use her for His Kingdom’s work. While we were there we had a chance to see much of the city. One of the most impressive things we observed was the changing of the guard at the tomb of the Unknown Soldier. 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, these special men pay honor to those who have given their lives for our freedom by standing watch over this tomb. Each guard takes 21 steps, turns and faces the tomb for 21 seconds, turns and shoulders his weapon away from the tomb for 21 seconds then takes 21 steps to the other side and repeats the process. These guardsare ever vigilant, always watching, never resting.<br />This is what we do with our children. We stand guard over their hearts, ever vigilant, always watching, never resting. They need us to do this. They need a guard to help them maneuver the pitfalls of life. They need a guard who will help them when they fail to discover failure is not the end, but usually the beginning of a good thing. They need a guard who will never rest when it comes to them knowing who God is and the plan He has for their lives. That guard is you. 21 steps, turn, wait, turn, 21 steps and repeat the process. Your children are depending on your vigilance. Be their guard. </span></div>Steve O.http://www.blogger.com/profile/06295743995043036006noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6141194767782553295.post-59316037781429030122010-03-15T08:42:00.000-07:002010-03-15T08:58:53.411-07:00In just a few days, our family will be welcoming a new member. Her name is EllaGrace, a three year old beauty. When she was two-and-a-half, she was abandoned in a large city in Ethiopia. Through the miracle of grace, she was found and taken to an orphanage. Over a year ago, our daughter and son-in-law started the process to adopt an orphan from Ethiopia. In three days, this little cast out will be given to a family who will love her deeply and share the opportunity of life. Grace and love in action.<br />Isn't this the way Jesus accepted us? We were orphaned, without hope, with no family. We were taken in, saved from our life of flesh, and given a new home and family; a family that loves us deeply and has given us the gift of life. Grace and love in action.<br />The family is God's plan for sharing His love and plan for all people. The new family of EllaGrace will pas this on to her. Let me encourage you to pass this on to your children, not only in word, but in how you live life.Steve O.http://www.blogger.com/profile/06295743995043036006noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6141194767782553295.post-14374767960532152422010-02-22T10:27:00.000-08:002010-02-22T10:49:18.165-08:00Just Do It<span style="font-family:arial;">This past Sunday, Kids Quest began its 40 Day Study on Worship. We looked at the Ark of the Covenant, how it was to be made, and what was placed inside. Our Bottom Line for the week is, "I should do what God asks me to do." That sounds like a good thing. It sounds easy enough to do; just follow His instructions.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">I don't know about you, but I fail at this from time to time through an action, an inaction, or a thought not kept in check. Like Paul, I want to please God with my life, but there are times I do the things I don't want to do. It's in these times that I am reminded I need to be spending more time with God and more time in His Word. Will this help me be perfect? By no means. Will this help me live a life that is more pleasing to Him? By all means. I simply need to do what God asks me to do. He desires, above all other things, relationship with me and you.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Let me encourage you to spend <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">time</span> this week with God and your children. This could be at meal time, before the day gets going, or right before bed. Children will learn the importance of relationship with God and doing what He asks them to do as they see it modeled by mom and dad. That <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">sounds</span> like a thing we can all do.</span>Steve O.http://www.blogger.com/profile/06295743995043036006noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6141194767782553295.post-19318477653533208052010-01-05T09:49:00.000-08:002010-01-05T09:52:46.837-08:00It's A Good Thing?During the month of January we will be looking at the virtue of Discipline – Doing what you need to do now so you can grow stronger. The word ‘Discipline’ often brings images to the mind that are negative, but discipline can be a good thing. There are disciplines, if we will value them, that will help all of us grow in our faith. This month in Kids Quest we will be sharing about the disciplines of reading the Bible, memorizing Scripture, prayer, and sharing our faith. These will be good studies for families to work on each week as well. I hope you are finding value in the God Time Cards and Refrigerator Door Cards your child receives each Sunday. These materials contain information that can aid you as you help your child discover Spiritual disciplines that will help him grow stronger each and every day. May this be a great start to a great 2010.Steve O.http://www.blogger.com/profile/06295743995043036006noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6141194767782553295.post-81549328283083593872009-12-16T13:09:00.000-08:002009-12-16T13:10:22.599-08:00I'm InI love this time of year, especially living in a part of the country that actually gets cold during Christmas. I hope you have Christmas traditions with your children. One of our traditions is to read the story of the birth of Jesus from Luke 2 on Christmas Eve. However, there in a passage in Luke 1 that always amazes me. I have discussed this with a few people recently. When Gabriel visits teenage Mary and shares all that will be happening, she does not understand it all but does not hesitate to say, “I am the Lord’s servant, may it be to me as you have said.” In today’s jargon Mary was saying, “I don’t get it all, but I’m in.” She didn’t encourage Gabriel to look for a better candidate; she didn’t make excuses; she simply trusted God and was willing to be used by Him for His great purpose.<br />There have been times in my life when God has asked a thing of me, and my response was not a Mary response. I have tried to find excuses. I have tried to get someone else to do it. But here’s the thing, when God makes a request, we need to be ready to respond like Mary did, “I don’t understand it all, but I’m in.” That’s the person I want to become. More and more, when God makes a request of me I want to be the kind of believer that does not respond in any other way than to say, I’m in.” How about you?Steve O.http://www.blogger.com/profile/06295743995043036006noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6141194767782553295.post-91647264125666769572009-12-03T14:04:00.000-08:002009-12-03T14:07:20.201-08:00For Us?The Holiday Season is in full swing. I hope your Thanksgiving was a great one. As we approach Christmas, I sometimes get caught in the tension of trying to slow down, reflect, and be thankful for all God has provided in Christ and the need to visit people and complete the shopping. I love the season and being with family; I am not so much about the business of shopping and running around. Okay, I feel better.<br />During the month of December our focus in Kids Quest will be Compassion – caring enough to do something about someone else’s need. This is a great study for the month of December, and will help us all stay focused on why we celebrate. God sending Jesus to live with us, so he could die for us was the ultimate act of compassion. God saw our need and cared enough to do something about it. What a gift.<br />One way we are showing compassion as a church is through the Open Table food pantry we are starting. I hope you will be able to participate as a family. You can learn more about this ministry at gracepoint.cc/opentable.<br />I wish your family a Very Merry Christmas. May it be a great celebration of life and joy in the Savior.Steve O.http://www.blogger.com/profile/06295743995043036006noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6141194767782553295.post-29032173564262031742009-11-16T10:34:00.000-08:002009-11-16T10:38:09.100-08:00Time, Time, TimeAdults moving around the room with their children. There is a fun buzz of young voices involved in activity. Business, but a good busy. Parents and preschool children doing activities together and talking about what God has created. Cookies were iced and extra icing was eaten or saved for later. There is nothing like sitting with mom and dad, snacking on cookies and milk while listening to the story of creation. Thank you for all who attended out Starry Night event last Friday and especially for those Preschool Leaders and teachers who made the night happen. Families had a great time making creation crafts together and being reminded of God’s goodness. I don’t know about you, but my fondest memories of childhood do not include lots of stuff. My fondest memories include card games, ice skating, and the story of the birth of Jesus while with my family. Kids like stuff, there is no doubt, but they like time with mom and dad a whole lot more. As we move into the holiday season, there will be a temptation to fill our moments with activity and shopping. Let me encourage you to carve out some family time as well, if you haven’t already. Stuff will be forgotten, but the moments spent together as a family will last a lifetime.Steve O.http://www.blogger.com/profile/06295743995043036006noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6141194767782553295.post-76525381442482425352009-11-02T07:55:00.000-08:002009-11-02T07:57:36.810-08:00Does God deal with you on areas of life you need to improve? Lately He has been dealing with me on an issue. I feel bitter-sweet about these times. On one hand I hate the feeling of disappointing God and His revelation of my shortcomings. It can be painful. On the other hand I am thrilled God reveals these shortcomings to me, because in doing so, it reminds me of His love for me and that He is still molding and shaping me. When God points out needed areas of growth I become a better person; at least I think that is God’s plan. So, I continue to grow, and in doing so will continue to be reminded by God that there are things in my life that don’t please Him. On the up side, He reminds me when I do please Him as well. This is love in action.<br />On another note, Faith in Action Sunday was a great day, and a great tie in to what we will be studying this month in Kids Quest. In November we will be looking at Cooperation – working together to do more that you can do alone. Our memory verse will be Ecclesiastes 4:9. One way we will help our students put action to this study is through Operation Christmas Child. Your child will receive information this Sunday on how your family can participate. I know that not all families can participate, but if you can, I hope you will. I’m looking forward to Sunday already.Steve O.http://www.blogger.com/profile/06295743995043036006noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6141194767782553295.post-31694633458703226362009-10-20T07:10:00.000-07:002009-10-20T07:13:03.577-07:00U Can 2This past Sunday we used the story of Dorcas to continue our study of Individuality. Our push was, when you use what you have to help others, you can make a difference. We reminded the kids that everyone has the ability to do something, no matter how old they are. Like Dorcas, we all have things we can do to help, and in doing so, make a difference in the lives of others. On Sunday, November 1st, our church will have a chance to put this teaching in action by participating in Faith in Action Sunday. On this day, we will meet at the church (more information about times to come) and then go out in our community doing a variety of activities that will tell our community that we care. These activities will be easy to do, and very kid friendly. This will be a great way for families to live out the concept that when you use what you have to help others, you can make a difference. I hope you will join us.Steve O.http://www.blogger.com/profile/06295743995043036006noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6141194767782553295.post-64962704838037055192009-10-12T08:45:00.000-07:002009-10-12T08:47:11.282-07:00Dscovering Who You Are....In Kids Quest on Sunday, we continued our discussion about Individuality – discovering who you are meant to be so you can make a difference. We talked about Epaphroditus, just a regular guy who God used in a big way to make a difference in Paul’s life.<br /><br />Many times I can be guilty of thinking that I am not able to do big things to impact lots of people, but that may not be who I was meant to be. I can help those around me who have a need; people from my family to strangers.<br /><br />God can us me to make a difference, and sometimes those small things are huge in the life of the recipient. When we take care of others, even in what we may think are small ways, we do make a difference. My problem is that sometimes I am so busy doing stuff that I miss the need God places before me.<br /><br />My prayer is that I will see the opportunities God places before me, and if He has placed it before me, He has already equipped me to accomplish it. We serve a great God.Steve O.http://www.blogger.com/profile/06295743995043036006noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6141194767782553295.post-10235013394044126112009-10-06T07:48:00.000-07:002009-10-06T07:49:25.465-07:00October News...Welcome to the Kids Quest blog. We will try to use this blog to share thoughts about what we are studying each month in Kids Quest so we can partner together to speak the same things into your child. We will also post pictures and share information about activities. In addition, I will try to share information for parents and thoughts about Scripture. Your thoughts are always welcome.<br />In October, we will be looking at the virtue of Individuality; discovering who you are meant to be so you can make a difference. All too often, our kids get wrong information about what it takes to be important. We are all important because we were created by God. He chose to create each of us and that is what gives us worth. He chose to create us all differently and with a purpose. As we journey through life, we strive to find that purpose. God has a great plan for your child. It will be exciting to see that plan unfold in the days ahead.Steve O.http://www.blogger.com/profile/06295743995043036006noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6141194767782553295.post-69577142140810199092009-09-08T15:30:00.001-07:002009-09-08T15:43:33.057-07:00A New School Year..I can remember all the firsts of the beginning of a new school year. First week, new teacher, first homework due, first gym class. It was fun to be back at school with all my friends. The school had shiny clean floors, we all had new shoes, new lunch boxes, new crayons, and new jeans. We made new friends and we hung around our old friends.<br /><br />Debi and I enjoyed supper with our girls on their first week of school. It gave us time to talk about their concerns and helped them get over their instant worries of the day.<br /><br />Take time at the supper table to laugh and tell stories of your school memories, this frees your children to open up and tell stories of their week.Steve O.http://www.blogger.com/profile/06295743995043036006noreply@blogger.com0