Life is quiet...as usual...and it offers simple lessons.

Somethings just catch your attention when you live in the country.

A small farm tractor passes by the house. This is a common pattern today. The local farmer is gathering the rolls of field grass. Used for feed, the farmer must have collected nearly 20 large rolls.

As the sun fades into the horizon this lone worker gathers his harvest. The months of preparation now comes to an end as this farmer gathers his goods from the harvest.

It reminds me of the work we have as believers. We are commanded to share the truth about God's love which is often cultivating the soil, planting a seed, caring for the harvest, and then gather together the fruit of your labors. This simple outline defines the work of the Great Commission.

Well, enough said. Let us get to the harvest. Jesus said the the harvest is plentiful but the laborer are few.

Father's Day Thoughts

Today is Father's Day. It has impressed upon me as I sit in church today, I am blessed to celebrate the second generation of the Christian heritage upon the Carder family. Of course Cindi's side of the family is into their fourth generation. What a blessing to have inherited her family's blessing.

It was around the time of my birth that my father and mother came to Christ through the ministry of The Wesleyan Church in Monroe, Michigan. I am forever grateful for the ministry of this local church. This is an incredible story for another blog.

Now it is my generation who is raising a family for Christ. As i sit in church today i am joined by my daughter, Jossy on my left and Jeremiah on my right. I am proud of my children. (Jon is at boot camp right now.) The spiritual heritage that Cindi and I have attempted to pass on, while it is young, is for the third and fourth generation. I hope that what is experienced and the values taught will positively effect my children's children. (If the Lord shall prevail.)

It is really a joy to celebrate Father's Day as a believer. I have a father who is eternal who cares for me.

Jo Anne Lyon on Purity and Power

Jo Anne shares her heart at Wesleyan Church General Conference. She stretches delegates and guests to enter into the world because this is holiness expressed and demonstrated where the worldly trappings of self and status are left at the feet of Jesus.

She ask us if people see Jesus in our face! She reminds us that a pure heart and power of the Holy Spirit can transform a community. People are not attracted to us but to Jesus.

THIS NEW GENERAL SUPERINTENDENT OF THE WESLEYAN CHURCH HAS TAKEN THE SHIP'S HELM AND ENCOURAGING US TO BE PURE AND RECEIVE POWER.

Video from Yahoo! - Wicked Weekend Weather

Wicked Weekend Weather
http://cosmos.bcst.yahoo.com/up/player/popup/index.php?cl=7766839

Local mission work!

Serving at a local mission - Brookhaven Class project. We served 100 meals.

Dungy book signing at IWU

Tony with Rick at IWU Convocation event

God's power displayed in beauty

The majesty and glory of God. Ever feel overwhelmed by God's power? This is out my back door of a passing storm. It looks beautiful on this side. For those on the other side - in the midst of the storm, it's presence is powerfully felt. Just a thought!

Connecting

EVER FEEL DISCONNECTED?

Read Acts 2:42

Here are several thoughts about this scripture and subject:

1. SHOWING UP

2. INTERACTING WITH OTHERS

3. TAKE THE STEPS THAT YOU CAN TAKE.

4. BE WILLING TO SHARE WHAT YOU HAVE.

5. MAKE THE EFFORT TO GROW IN ACCOUNTABILITY.

6. LEARN WHO TO PRAY FOR AND SPEND TIME IN PRAYER.

7. TX/RX - give and take relationships - like internet communication...it is a two-way street.

8. DEVELOP CLOSE FRIENDS.

9. DRAW OTHERS INTO YOUR "NETWORTH" - include those on the outside.

10. FIND A HURT THAT YOU CAN SERVE.

11 . BE WILLING TO GET DIRTY...BE VULNERABLE.

THESE ARE JUST A FEW THOUGHTS.

IWU Alumni Director Rapid Response Chaplain

Rick Carder, a volunteer chaplain with the Rapid Response Team, responded to the Northern Illinois University shootings.

Click for Full Story

Indiana Wesleyan Alumni Director Rick Carder, a volunteer chaplain with the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, was one of those who responded to the Northern Illinois University shootings, February 14. As a part of the Rapid Response Team, Rick participated in providing ministry and care giving to the students, parents, and alumni of NIU. While there, he says, “The Rapid Response Team had the awesome opportunity to share the love of Jesus with many.” He reports that the team was “surprised and excited” that most of the people that they interacted with on the campus received them positively.

Life's challenges are mere opportunities!

The challenge in life...

Crossing each hurdle is not the toughest part; rather it is facing life 's hurdles that are your greatest challenge . Just a thought.

His Resurrection is amazing.

His Resurrection is amazing. His birth, childhood , ministy, miracles, teaching, death and life-evermore profoundly changed history from that very first Easter.

Resurrection Sunday means hope for

Resurrection Sunday means hope for the hopeless and distressed!
This Easter celebrate the One who has overcomer the grave !

A vision from my front window

OnSunday, I stayed home in bed; illness overwhelmed me. I stared out my picture window to the empty field, wet and dreary. Time crept by so slowly. I watched T.V., read a book, browsed the paper and all the while feeling rather blah! I tried to read some email but with little enthusiasm. Illness will do that to you. My perspective was a little preoccupied with my illness. My vision was not insightful nor inspiring. Illness will do that to you.

As I think about it today I wonder how many people who deal with clinical depression must feel. I wonder what vision those who struggle with mental health illness would feel. I wonder what those who have lost everything familiar would feel.

Perhaps their vision is no different than mine. Their outlook no better than my own.

In crisis evangelism, we work with people whose vision for life is interrupted by the circumstances around them. Their vision for life is blocked by overwhelming conditions.

Hmmm. This is something to think about the next time you encounter someone who is dealing with dramatic changes and life's circumstances.

Just a thought!

"Why couldn't we drive it (the demons) out?"

The disciples often had trouble understanding the work of Christ in this world. In Matthew the disciples struggled with doing the ministry. They tried but with little success. One day Jesus was asked to bring healing to a child. The child was believed to be demon possessed. The disciples were unable to provide the miracle the man desired for his son. Jesus used this time to teach a lesson about faith. He rebuked the disciples and healed the child, commending the man for his faith by healing his son. THE LESSON?

Well it seems that the disciples just did not understand thinks of the Kingdom of God. They were short-sighted. There are many reasons perhaps why the disciples had such a touch time understanding what Jesus taught. We have the benefit of seeing things through a rear-view perspective; having the Bible.

Yet, we too fall short in that we seldom can provide such an impressive act like Jesus demonstrated. It it that we spend so little time with Jesus? With so much medical or psychological knowledge, do we fool ourselves to think that we have the answer?

Perhaps we may never be given the chance to cast out demons like Jesus did but in the ordinary, do we pass up the little opportunities too? You know, the friendly greeting to a stranger, the opportunity to help the hopeless, and the casual opportunity to bless someone you may not even know.

Notice what Jesus said. Verse 20: "He replied, 'Because you have so little faith. I tell you the truth, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there' and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you.'"

The faith of a small little mustard seed can move a mighty mountain?

In crisis evangelism, you have the opportunity to bring "a spiritual first-aid" to the frustrated and hopeless. Practicing a little faith for those who are hopeless can be a powerful thing. Showing a little love (in Jesus Name) to those who are in despair can shake the very earth; causing those in the valley to be lifted up to the summit of God's presence.


Matthew 17:14-22

14 When they came to the crowd, a man approached Jesus and knelt before him. 15 "Lord, have mercy on my son," he said. "He has seizures and is suffering greatly. He often falls into the fire or into the water. 16 I brought him to your disciples, but they could not heal him." 17 "O unbelieving and perverse generation," Jesus replied, "how long shall I stay with you? How long shall I put up with you? Bring the boy here to me." 18 Jesus rebuked the demon, and it came out of the boy, and he was healed from that moment. 19 Then the disciples came to Jesus in private and asked, "Why couldn't we drive it out?" 20 He replied, "Because you have so little faith. I tell you the truth, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there' and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you."
22 When they came together in Galilee, he said to them, "The Son of Man is going to be betrayed into the hands of men.

The Ministry of ....

Ever wonder what “ministry” is really all about? I have pastored for over twenty years in a variety of local church setting and I am often amazed at how many church ministry applications there are. There are as many philosophies as there are pastors. Pastors use a variety of approaches; from evangelism to discipleship. Each approach uses “ministry” applications. But, what is the ministry?

Jesus demonstrated it through service. The disciples demonstrated it through leadership. The early church demonstrated it through carefully defined theology. Today, we demonstrated ministry through programs. Today, the church of America is fully equipped with every kind of resource and activity. Pastors often act as recruiters in the pulpit rather than conveyor of truth.

Ministry has become a rather complex set of programmatic solutions. Church consultants are needed just to understand how to find the right approach. Purpose-driven, seeker-sensitive, worship-art help confuse the meaning of ministry. Day-cares and small groups are created to provide programmatic answers for select demographic groups. Ministry is happening but exactly what is happening remains a mystery.

I question whether there is a strategic pattern to ministry or is it just a random series of programmatic attempts! I am not sure what the answer is but one thing is for sure; the ministry of the local church is not reaching the unchurched neighbor as well as it can.

In Crisis Evangelism, the approach is neither programmatic nor random. It is an attempt to present Christ’s message of love at a time of greatest impact. Crisis Evangelism serves to care for, listen to and pray for those dealing with crisis. It is a ministry of Christ’s presence!

I am reminded of Luke 10 that talks about Jesus sending out the disciples. He instructs them that as they are welcomed in homes to tell people that the Kingdom of God has come near to them. It they are rejected, Jesus says to just move on! It is one of the best illustrations of how ministry can transform hearts through a care-giving effort of love.

The next time you think of ministry, think about this; the impact of the church is best felt by those who need a gentle touch and a kind word. This is not program-driven but rather human and godly intervention. It is by all means a ministry of….God’s presence.

Personal and Postmodern

Just a thought: Evangelism today is judged by relational values. Most people today look harshly at the church if it fails to include relational dynamics. Postmodernism says that if the message is not relevant, the message is worthless. It is postmodern thinkers that tell us the authenticity and respect are key values today.

One thing that postmodernism tells us is that if we are going to be effective we must be willing to invest time and energy into relationships that matter. People do not just want to hear about truth, they want to experience it (on their terms). This generation is more preoccupied with the way things are done not the things themselves.

Knowing this means that we must not decide an either - or, but rather a both - and! If we are going to effectively reach people with the life-changing message of Christ, we must get up-close and personal.

A friend of mine used to always say, "You IMPRESS people from a distance but you IMPACT them up close." This is a great motto for the church today. Let's make a difference by being willing to get up close.

Just a thought!

What does the church need to learn?

Isn't it amazing that the evangelical church has made such a profound impact on culture? Many of the great social impacts that the church has made include hospitals, medical clinics, youth programs, intercity missions, homeless shelters, counseling care centers and many philanthropic advances (to name a few) are attributed to the Christian faith. The evangelical church has contributed greatly over the past century alone!

In modern times, the church can not rest on it accomplishments. The church must learn! It must learn to reach our world in ways that demonstrate compassion and care. It must learn how to adapt it's ministry to meet the needs of people today. The church must adapt without compromising it's mission.

Today's blog centers on what the church must learn? As I write this blog today I sit at a Panera Bread in Coral Springs, Florida. The sites and sounds of people here impress me that the church must learn to adapt to the culture, language, experience of people within just a ten-foot reach of my computer. The church, particularly the evangelical church, must recognize the importance of keeping the message of Christ's love and hope of salvation relevant to the needs of people.

Today we live in a vastly diverse community. At this Panera Bread there are people from the Mexico, Caribbeans, Cuba, Porto Rico and nearly every region of North America. They come with many different backgrounds. What a mission field! But, how is the church to relate to this vastly diverse people group?

Perhaps I am simplistic but the answer seems to be in the way the church interacts with the culture we live in without changing the message of Christ. As I observe Panera Bread, it offers a market-researched product that connects with customers. They offer the same menu with a slight seasonal variation. They provide a positive impression and friendly service. They care about the needs of people (at least in the food and coffee department). Panera Bread may hold one key to effective Church ministry. It is consistency with it's franchises and products while exhibiting positive service. I have been to as many as ninety different Panera Bread stores in my travels and they are all very similar!

What of the church? How consist ant is the message from the Church? How consistent is the service? Like any McDonald's chain, the products, service and care is the same at every single McDonald's.

I am not suggesting that every church offer a coffee shop. But what may be a solution is that the church offer one consistent theme like "Service with a smile!" Yes, the church experience is unique and every denomination has it's focus but what if every Christian simple say, "How may I help you?" and follow through with "Thank you. Do you have any suggestions on how to improve our service?" The message of God's Love and Hope of Salvation in Christ remains the thread that weaves God's Word but it is mastered by the "Golden Rule" of treating your neighbor as you would yourself.

I read a book recently called "The Starbucks Experience" and it has forced me to think about how I treat others. While secular in nature it does impress on me the importance of Christ-likeness! Consider this: If every Christian were as nice to people at Church as the employees of great eating Establishments like Panera Bread or you name it, this would completely change the perception of Christians. Think about it!

A FOOTNOTE TO NIU

It occurred to me the other day that I did not clearly explain how and why I decided to volunteer as a chaplain at NIU. Several observations may help explain my motivation and opportunity.

When I got the call to volunteer with the Rapid Response Team (RRT) I couldn't help but say, "YES, I will be there!" Just days prior to NIU's tragic shooting a series of severe storms and tornadoes impacted the lived of many in the Jackson, Tennessee area (and throughout the state). Instantly the nation was told of the tragic death of over fifty people. In nearly the same heartbreaking news story came stories of incredible triumph. At Union University (UU), heavily damaged by the storm, the student body shared words of hope. The students of UU shared the message of God's Love! My heart, like yours, was instantly engaged!

The relief efforts were great. Many came together from across the Christian College network. Even Indiana Wesleyan University (IWU) responded with financial gifts and the students of IWU provided additional assistance. I felt the sudden urge to response as well by going. Well, this opportunity did not work out. But, when I heard about the opportunity at NIU, I jumped at the chance to assist.

Isn't it interesting how God directs our steps. With the permission of IWU, I spent the weekend at NIU. What a wonderful experience! Not only did God use our team but he ministered to our team as well. It was a joy to fellowship, pray with and work with the RRT.

Why did I go? Well, quite frankly I felt the Lord's prompting, He worked out the details and as evidenced by the response of NIU, we were used by the Lord to care for and pray with those impacted.

Perhaps part of my rationale also has to do with the connection I have to a University. What would IWU do if faced with similar circumstance? We can only pray that our students, administrators and faculty maintain close, personal connections with those in our programs of education. We can only hope that we too can be a witness, like UU, of God's provision and love.

Lessons learned? Just one. IWU, like other colleges and universities, must remain personal, caring and willing to take the time to listen to the needs of each other. We must be willing to provide care and prayer for anyone hurting throughout our community!

Prayer Evangelism - a welcomed message

Ever wonder why people don't listen when you want to talk about Jesus? It seems that many Christians complain that our society is just not listening to the claims of Christ.

Let me share with you a story that may actually change your perspective of evangelism.

While at NIU, the Rapid Response Team (of which I was a part of) had the awesome opportunity to share the Love of Jesus with many. In fact, MOST! Many that we interacted with on the campus of NIU received us positively. As our team mingled with students and alumni at the memorials, dorms, student center, and dining areas, we were surprised and excited at the positive response from people.

Is evangelism tough? NO! If people are careful to listen and demonstrate an open spirit, sharing hope in Christ is usually respected if not accepted. The claims of Christ must be presented in loving terms, not judgemental and harsh accusatory. Beyond this, if we offer to pray for and pray with people, our attitude will convey a positive message. Chances are, your offer to pray will encourage positive interaction.

I suggest we offer "prayer evangelism!" By presenting caring terms and careful to listen (even through asking thoughtful questions) you will usually get farther. Relational objectives will befriend evangelism efforts....just a thought!

Only at Disney!

Only in Orlando!

I just had to post this. While traveling to Orlando, Florida I spotted this vehicle. WOW! What a spectacle! This car must have over a thousand Disney toys glued to it. All I can say is that it takes all kinds.

Perhaps the lesson learned is that no matter what you might encounter in life, don't take life too serious. There is always someone stranger than you!

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My experience at NIU - Compass Chaplain Services, NFP

Dear Friends;

I wanted to let you know about my recent volunteer efforts at NIU (Northern Illinois University).  I served the weekend as a volunteer with the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association as a Rapid Response Team Chaplain at NIU. I have recorded some of the efforts and opportunities we had.  To view my blog:  www.rickcarder.blogspot.com

I was able to take the weekend and help promote hope and the love of Christ to students at NIU.  As you already know, I work at Indiana Wesleyan University as the Alumni Relations Director for the College of Arts and Sciences. 

I plan to make several ministry trips throughout the year.  I usually am deployed through the Rapid Response Team with the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association.  However, other opportunities that come my way include training and leadership in the community and church ministries.

Thank you for your friendship! 

Just a reminder; contributions to Compass Chaplain Services, NFP are tax deductible.  Your support is appreciated. Your financial gifts help defray my personal expenses. 

Rev. Rick Carder

Compass Chaplain Services, NFP

President and Volunteer

9543 E 300 N

Van Buren, IN 46991

www.compassdriven.com

Monday Morning

This morning our team gathered for debriefing and sharing what God has been able to do. Many stories were shared about how we were able to prayer for and share with NIU student, alumni and community people. It is amazing what God is able to do!

Damien shared about the opportunities he had to speak with officers and social workers.

Mindy shared about being able to speak with anxious parents. She also was able to speak with several foreign exchange students. It was so impressive to see Mindy hug and comfort so many.

Some gathered at the Recreation Center. They were able to provide ministry to faculty affected by this tragedy.

Dennis shared with over a dozen and prayed for them, bringing them comfort and hope.

God can truely bring peace in the midst of broken pieces! At NIU, it is clear that God can provide help in times of trouble.

As I was checking out of my room I had the opportunity to speak with Dundra, an Indian student. He shared that he was a Hindu but very impressed with the many Christian chaplains. I explained the difference in religions and that because of Christ, salvation is a free gift. I shared that we can have the assurance of eternal life. While he did let me prayer for him, he said he was not sure about the claims of Christ. I left him with a "The Life of Christ" booklet by Billy Graham.

I also had a last minute exchange with Andrew while he waited for the bus. He shared the anxiety he felt. He said, "You never think that going to school could be so unsafe." I told him that God has a plan for our lives. I prayed for him and left him with literature. I also told him that according to Jeremiah that "God knows the plans he has for us. Plans for hope and a furture..." Pray for Andrew so that he may come to a personal relationship with Christ.

Convocation at NIU

Dr. Peters opened the Convocation by encouraging the students, parents, alumni and community. "We will not let this tragedy define us." he said. Northern Illinois University gathered in several campus buildings, sum 30,ooo expected. I gathered with a few Rapid Response Team Chaplains at the Alumni/Visitors Center. Nearly 500 others gathered to hear a variety of University leaders and government officials speak words of hope while memorializing the lives of those lost. Many expressed emotions and gentle hugs.

During this convocation gathering were several opportunities to share God's love and prayer for those hurting. Jackie is a student who approved us for prayer. She spoke of shock and personal sadness. She told us about another friend who committed suicide just a few days prior. We told her of God's love and provision. We shared the plan of salvation and left her with literature. We had a memorable exchange in prayer that seemed to really encourage her.

On Monday and Tuesday over 600 mental health specialist will gather with students in their classrooms and dorms. During the Convocation gathering we were able to speak with quite a few of these counselors.

Northern Illinois University Pictures

Tragedy and God's Message of Hope

As part of the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, I have been deployed with the Rapid Response Team. The team of Chaplains from all over the country have been invited to participate in providing ministry and care-giving to the students, parents and alumni of Northern Illinois University. My role here will be from February 23-26, 2008.

Already we have seen several powerful example of hope and profound ministry. As the students return to campus there are many fearful and emotional reactions. All across the campus there are memorials filled with messages, candles and flowers. Over the next several days I will be posting short updates of the ministry impact we are seeing as we mingle and speak to people.

Today I met and spoke with Charles Rex Arbogast. He is an AP photographer. His images (one above) reveals the incredible impact this tragedy has had. Charles is a believer in Christ. He has been with the AP for over 20 years. A surprise to me but he has grown up in The Nazarene Church. See related link:

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/02/15/AR2008021500270_2.html
(Cut and paste link)

I also had the awesome opportunity to pray with and share the hope we have in Christ with many. Students like Danielle and alumni like Melissa have felt the incredible grief and hurt as a result of this tragedy. I have cried with and hugged several as they stood, almost numb, in front of the memorials.

There will be a Convocation service (simulcast) all across campus on Sunday evening. Several of us will be deployed in various locations. We hope to demonstrate Christ's love and comfort during this difficult time as they return to campus.

Please pray for those impacted by such a terrible tragedy.

More to come.

Courage of Faith - When Tragedy Strikes

Today the Associated Press published an inspiring article about the courage and faith of LaFayette, Tenn. When Macon County faced devastating tornados. One think that stuck me most was the report of a Church (LaFayette United Methodist Church) that immediately developed ministry and made a difference for Christ. The report told how community volunteers mobilized and provided aid to those in need. One volunteer, Karen spoke of her faith. "Long said her faith - now more than ever - allowed her to help other."

Her courage, like so many others, was used to meet the needs of those hurting most. Their faith has pointed out the incredible impact Christ can have. Even through crisis, Christ can make a profound difference.

Another volunter and disaster center leader commented, "'They say there are no athiest in fox holes,' Griffin said. 'There is a deep desire to know God. And when tragedy strikes or adversity comes our way, those desires are brought to the forefront - whether we want them or not.'"

For us left unimpacted by this devastation what we can do is very important. We can pray and offer our resources for those impacted. This we can do!

I am back at it!

Compass Chaplain Services, NFP web applications and blog is back! After
months of inactivity, I have decided to become active once again in blog
writings and ministry.

The tragedy of the tornado has devastated the lives of many in
Tennessee.

News reports have been provided: "President George W. Bush toured
tornado-battered parts of the U.S. South on Friday and pledged to help
the region rebuild after the worst rampage of twisters in nearly a
quarter-century killed 58 people."

http://www.reuters.com/article/americasCrisis/idUSN08493562

These news reports have made many of us feel empathy for the many
impacted by this tragedy.

Compass Chaplain Services, NFP wishes to help communicate the importance
of reaching people in need for Christ. "Discovering Christ in Crisis" is
our motto. For twenty years, I have served the needs of people dealing
with crisis. Over tree years ago I developed the web site,
www.compassdriven.com to help explore the vision and ministry to those
in crisis.

After registering as a Chaplain and participating with Rapid Response
Team through the Billy Graham Association (and participating with
Hurricane Katrina ministry in Biloxi, MS) I was on my way to a ministry
of presence in Jesus name. Wow! What a wonderful experience.

I wrote in 2005:

People are responding to crisis every day! It is estimated that someone
is faced with a major crisis every 50 seconds in which they will require
emergency assistance. (Source: Crisis Care Network, Inc)

This is why Compass Ministries is so vital. People need to turn to
someone they can trust in help them through crisis. Partnering with
local law enforcement and emergency response teams, Compass Ministries
serves by providing Crisis Care Management and Stress Debriefing for
first responders as well as the general community citizens. By serving
as a Police Chaplain, Compass Ministries helps to bring emotional
"First-Aid" to victims as well as emergency responders. Compass
Ministries serves as a bridge to the community as a network of qualified
counselors, agencies, organizations and professionals.

Stay tuned!

Rev. Rick E. Carder '87 (B.S.) '03 (M.A.)