LOST!

There are few things that provide healthy detachment from the pressures and worries of my real world. One of these is a spending a limited time watching TV. Everyone needs to take a break from the realities of life. I have chosen to follow the TV series, LOST. I justify taking the time because it is only one hour a week.

LOST is about a group of people who are stranded on an island in the south pacific after a terrible plane crash. There are about 46 survivors who struggle against injury, illness, mistrust and an island that is full of scary things, like large creatures and an evil black cloud that seems to attach very randomly. When each survivor confronts their fear of these strange creatures it seems that the evil cloud no longer appears. But then there are the "others" that are adding a whole new layer of threat. Given all their trauma and threat I often think that they need a chaplain! Perhaps they have one in the character Mr. Eko. He seems to introduce Christian themes into the series.

Without trying to stretch the metaphor I have to say that nearly every episode causes me to think about those who are LOST spiritually. There is a whole generation of people living in our neighborhoods that have little to no interest in Christian things. They are people that have at best, a blending of religion that forms a generic spirituality. I think about some of my neighbors who maintain a distance to Christian faith. In fact, just the other day I was told that Christianity is really not that important! My look of surprise may have said enough. I stared at him with the look of "What!?" This man shared that he was once an ordained minister with a conservative church and later became ordained to a more liberal church and more recently he became a Catholic. He left his more conservative views for more liberal views to finally end up in a very religiously symbolic church. He confessed that he doesn't know if he was "de-evolving or evolving." He rationalized his actions by saying that at least he was helping others who were in need. I shared my simple faith with him and said that it is about Jesus' shed blood for my sin. Pray for this man, we will call him "Jack."

I wish that I could have convinced this person that Christianity is more than just going to church. For this man and many others, they don't understand the personal, relational opportunity God longs to have with us. For many, Christianity is only about going to church on Sundays. For the cast of LOST the reality of being trapped on a threatening island experience is a daily reality. In our comfortable life we don't seem to be LOST but in reality without Christ we are forever LOST.

I met another man the other day who shared with me his spiritual journey. He talked about being at the top of his career ladder, making a lot of money and feeling very empty inside. He said that the change in his life occurred when he went to Statesville Prison (south of Chicago) on a tour with his co-workers. When he entered the jail the heavy door was slammed behind him and suddenly he said, "I was a prisoner." He realized that he was not so different than those being incarcerated. His life was a prison of its own. He said that after seeking out a local pastor in the city near his home he found freedom in Christ's shed blood and forgiveness. It was a chance for him to start all over again! He was rescued from the treat, fear and loneliness of being LOST! Let's call him "Hurley."

Many are like these two men. They may not be concerned about their need or even aware of it but they are still LOST. For those that are dealing with great crisis in their lives, they may be more aware of their need but they need a "Mr. Eko" to guide them and help them find faith. You may be just the person God can use to rescue the LOST. Jesus came to seek and save the LOST. What He may choose to use is you and me!

As for the TV series, we will have to watch and wait to see what comes next. Chances are that those stranded on the island of LOST will never be rescued off the island. It is a Gilligan's Island story in a modern day setting. However, for those of us who are also on this island and know Jesus (like Mr. Eko seems to) our mission is to share Christ's love and hope of salvation to anyone we encounter.

So, send out the search party or let God use you today to rescue the dying and heal the brokenhearted. Let God use you today to point the Way. Let us reach out to the cast of those who are LOST. They are people we know like, Sayid, Claire, Sawyer, Sun, Jin, Locke or Kate. Let us provide hope in Christ to the cast of those LOST in our community today!

For help with this blog: http://www.lost-tv.com/cast/

One Nation or Under God?

I recently read an article regarding the Pledge of Allegiance. (*) In the Pledge of Allegiance the words "under God" were added in 1954 as a means of unifying America against other forms of government that were completely secular. It was an extraordinary move of our government to assert the will of the people who were religious. The vast majority of elected officials support the current wording of the Pledge. The US Senate has voted 99 to 0, and the House 416 to 3, to keep "God" in the Pledge. Even today the majority of our government leadership is supportive of the current pledge as we saw with the majority of government leadership reciting the pledge publicly.

I can't help but wonder, are we a nation under God? Given how our country has become such a divided by such a simple statement. There are many debates about the pledge and even the "In God We Trust" statement on our money. However, the majority of Americans and even those who immigrate to this country accept this pledge as a form of patriotism, having little concern over it's content.

In the article by Warren Richey, he says:

"Not every organization strongly opposed to religious activities in public schools is opposed to the Pledge. In a friend-of-the-court brief, the National Education Association says even with the reference to God, the Pledge is a patriotic observance rather than a religious exercise.

Using the words " 'under God' does not convert the Pledge into a state-sponsored profession of religious belief," writes Robert Chanin in the NEA brief. "Rather, the words are best understood as a reflection of the simple historical fact that the founders believed in a supreme being, and that their belief led them to dedicate the nation to the fundamental secular precept that all men have unalienable rights to liberty and justice," Mr. Chanin says."

We are not one nation if we remove under God in our pledge. I think that a greater majority of people would be oppose to taking out the words "under God" than would those who would be opposed to taking out the words "one nation." The Bible certainly tells us that our nation is blessed whose God is the Lord! If I had to choose between one nation or under God, I would have to keep God in my pledge! Divided we may be but under God we must be!

We are a nation that historically and nationally embrace God in belief and ethic. We are a nation of laws which have historical roots to Judaism and mosaic law. We are a nation who believe prefer the belief of God. In fact, Barna reports that over 90% of Americans believe in God. So the problem is not the limitation of liberty here. We are a free and democratic nation because we are under God. We understand our freedom of choice and responsibility of action because of God.

Let us wave our flag of freedom of religion not freedom from religion. That is the freedom to worship God, call on His name in prayer and look to God for wisdom and strength. I say, "one nation, UNDER GOD with liberty and justice for all." Apart from God our liberties are left to the cruel authorities of dictators and tyrants act as though they have no accountability unto God.

(*) The US Supreme Court is at the center of a debate over the Pledge of Allegiance.
(11/3/2004) www.csmonitor.com
By Warren Richey Staff writer of The Christian Science Monitor

Psalms 90: 1 - 17 - Study This Chapter

1 Lord, You have been our refuge in every generation. 2 Before the mountains were born,before You gave birth to the earth and the world,from eternity to eternity, You are God. 3 You return mankind to the dust,saying, ";Return, descendants of Adam."; 4 For in Your sight a thousand yearsare like yesterday that passes by,like a few hours of the night. 5 You end their life; they sleep. They are like grass that grows in the morning- 6 in the morning it sprouts and grows;by evening it withers and dries up.

Today I am reminded that God is in charge of my days. No matter the trouble or even the provision of God, He is the master of them both. Job was a righteous man yet he faced enourmous loss. Our God is a faithful God who loves us and no matter the crises we face, He is with us and is our provision.

Be blessed in good times and bad!

Rapid Response Team Opportunity!

I am excited to report that one of my prayer request has been answered. I recently made application to the Billy Graham Association to participate in their "Rapid Response Team" being deployed to the Gulf Coast region. My application has been approved!

I will now be making a trip (short-term missions) to assist in the hurricane relief effort. I will participate as a chaplain to local first responders as well as those affected by the distructive force of the hurricane. I will be part of this deployment team for one week and am making preparation to depart in the early spring. I appreciate your prayers!

Your prayers are working, so keep it up! I stand ready to serve God where He directs.

Being blessed,

Rev. Rick Carder

A Quote To Ponder On Injustice

"Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere." - Martin Luther King

When working with people in crisis one thing remains true for all. That is, God is very much aware of their plight! God sees the oppressed and hurting victim of life's injustice. Many see the inconsistancy of life, the extreems of wealth and poverty and wonder where is God. Many see the disadvantanged and express frustration with the seemingly non-responsive nature of God. Many grow in their woundedness and become bitter and indifferent. Many simply give up! But the message we deliver is that God loves mercy!

Martin Luther King was a man who's ideals for human justice shaped a nation's treatment the rights of people. His Christian ethic wove into his political "justice for all" idealism. He won this battle the rights of black Americans. But it was sacrificed by the shedding of his blood by an assassin. His words now echo into the landscape of American idealism; a justice for all.

In the scope of world hunger, death, dictatorships and world disorder we all wonder, where is God? But, the good news is that God is just and loves mercy. He knows the sin-fallen nature of mankind. He know about man's self-districtive nature. He sees the suffering of the oppressed. He knows we are like "sheep without a shepherd." He has sent a Great Shepherd to rescue us who is Jesus Christ.

He has responded!

His response is to love mercy. His response is to pronounce judgment upon injustices. The problem is our response to embrace this Truth. We want justice on our terms. We hold back mercy when it is within our power to deliver. We reject the gift of Christ's love and hope for eternal life. Just ask anyone you meet, "If you could be god, how would you right the wrongs of this world?" Seldom will you find an answer, "For God...(I)...so loved the world that He (I) gave my only son (so that) whosoever believes in Me would not die but have eternal life." (Would we be willing to love as Jesus demonstrated on the cross and say, "Father, forgive them"?

King had it right, injustice for any one is a threat to justice for everyone. But, in the eyes of the our Holy God, his justice will come and let us prayer that we receive His mercy throught Jesus Christ, our Lord.

We carry a message for those in crisis. It is a message of HOPE through FAITH in Jesus Christ. Our efforts to deliver help to the hurting is to bring good news in bad times; it is to help people find CHRIST in CRISIS!

Wesleyan Theology and Post Modernism

Research from Rev Rick Carder

The central claim of this article is that debates over the integration of psychological theories and findings, on the one hand, and Christian doctrine, on the other, largely boil down to differences in theological methodology, and that the theological methodology often associated with John Wesley offers a compelling model of such integration. Section I lays out how it is that while there are logical and normative matters involved in discussions of theoretical integration, methodological issues are at the heart of such discussions, and hence, how it is that one's theological methodology determines one's theory of integration. Given this thesis, Section II outlines the general contours of Wesleyan theological methodology. This methodology involves four mutually interacting though hierarchically arranged sources of knowledge: Scripture, tradition, reason, and experience. The final section elucidates the manner in which this understanding of theological method can be taken as a viable and vital model of the theoretical integration of psychology and theology.

from: Wesleyan theological methodology as a theory of integration. by Porter, Steven L.

source: Journal of Psychology and Theology, September 22, 2004.

via: HighBeam™ Research

COPYRIGHT 2004 Rosemead School of Psychology

The Church: Making An Impact

A friend of mine was often quoted as saying; “You impress people from a distance, you impact them up close.” (This quote originates from Howard Hendricks.) This statement has been a part of my ministry philosophy for nearly twenty years. Churches today are charged with the task of making disciples that truly make a difference in the lives of people. While much of the ministry is people oriented many leaders simply perform ministry as a duty and task. Some leaders leave an impression upon people but the ministry is distant and too often indifferent to individuals. The Challenge of this article is to look at ways a church can disciple people that make an impact on people.

Making an impression isn’t hard to do. All a church has to do is develop a program that meets the interests of people through forms of entertainment. For example, a church can perform a great musical. Many show up and enjoy the program. They leave the performance impressed with the talent and ability of people. However, they may have not been impacted. Often churches fail to do follow up after a musical. Gathering a crowd is celebrated by churches! But where they impacted? Sure the performance was good and may have brought about a tear and heart-felt response. But, is this the impact churches really want to make? Some churches may even record decisions that were made and indicated on a response card. Did the church follow up with this decision? Did they place a personal phone call or home visit to discuss this decision?

What if a church could develop a discipleship ministry that focused its efforts on making an impact upon the lives of people? What would this look like? Making an impact requires something that merely making a positive impression. It requires a personal contact and involves a personal interaction with someone. This is something that churches often miss by simply gathering a crowd.

What is my point? In ministry to people in crisis or families who are needy a key to transformation requires a personal connection. This is a relational impact that changes a person’s outlook on life and potentially that way they view faith and religion. Simply impressing a person is superficial. Often people say things like, “They were nice.” Or “they dressed well.” But what if people responded by saying, “That person really cares about me”

IN THE MINISTRY OF LOVE TO THOSE IN CRISIS people are looking for something genuine and authentic. This should be the hallmark of compassionate ministries. People should be impacted by our ministry, not just impressed with its quality or organization or performance-based outcomes. While making an impact should involve excellence it should never settle for “good impressions” that in the long run do not change lives.

Pastors and ministry leaders can not do this alone. They need to develop an army of people willing to be disciples that reach people through personal means. It a church is to make a larger difference than its army of followers should also be larger. It starts with the leader and those willing to become disciples and serve in the name of Christ should be recruited and trained.

Tell me what you think about this article. For more ideas on how to make an impact on people go to http://www.compassdriven.com/ or http://www.love-cc.org/ . Let me know what your church is doing to make an impact on people.

At Their Point of Need

Over my nearly twenty years of pastoral ministry I have encountered many opportunities to witness God’s Love and pray for the needs of people. Recently I have had times of prayer at my nearby coffee shop, Panera Bread. I usually have meetings in the community and occupy a booth there.

I am thrilled of the many times I am able to share Christ’s love with people. One particular opportunity came when I was sipping my coffee when someone approached me asking, “Can I talk to you?” I listened as this person shared their hurts and asked questions. Within minutes of such an opportunity I always interject my faith, share the good news of God’s love and invite the person to pray with me about their concerns and needs. There are times when I have even been able to lead someone to Christ.

Meeting people at the point of their need is a powerful and very fulfilling opportunity. Everyday I start out by praying to God and asking for a “divine interruption” so that I may share with and pray for those in need. These divine appointments that interrupt my day are blessings. When God decides to use me to meet someone at the point of their need I believe that this is crisis evangelism; sharing good news in bad times.

There are many places that these divine appointments can take place. When I was church planting in Indiana a few years ago I worked part time as a probation officer in the alternative sanctions program. Nearly every week at Probation I had opportunity to share God’s love and pray for people at their point of need. Time after time I would enjoy a wonderful time of prayer with co-workers who would share with me their deepest hurts and disappointments. Often I would share my faith with them.

Crisis evangelism is all about being prepared at any moment to look for these opportunities to care for and share God’s love with people at their point of need. It may be during a sickness, extended hospital stay, unexpected loss, disappointments, catastrophic news, job loss, personal crises, family difficulties, financial problems or any other times when bad news disrupts a person’s life.

Tell me about a time when you had the opportunity to share God’s love with people at the point of their need. Click on comments and let me know!

Seperation of God and State or Acknowledgment?

Controversy exists on how churches and government should relate. Some say that churches should remain separated from government. Government officials wrestle how much their personal faith in God should play a role with their decisions. The following list of constitutional preambles demonstrates that our patriarchs of parliament and government structure did have a faith in God and made their faith a part of America.

No matter what the voice of public opinion is, when our country is confronted with catastrophic crisis events, we all pull together to demonstrate our faith in God. I hardly ever hear about the separation of Church and State when a tornado devastates a community or an earthquake destroys homes or when a hurricane displaces thousands of people. What is obvious is that faith-based groups make up the majority of the response efforts and churches make significant financial contributions to help people in need. Compassion that comes from God is demonstrated through the lives of caring people!

America's founders did not intend for there to be a separation of God and state, as shown by the fact that all 50 states acknowledge God in their state constitutions: Alabama 1901, Preamble. We the people of the State of Alabama, invoking the favor and guidance of Almighty God , do ordain and establish the following Constitution.
Alaska 1956, Preamble. We, the people of Alaska, grateful to God and to those who founded our nation and pioneered this great land.
Arizona 1911, Preamble. We, the people of the State of Arizona, grateful to Almighty God for our liberties, do ordain this Constitution.
Arkansas 1874, Preamble. We, the people of the State of Arkansas, grateful to Almighty God for the privilege of choosing our own form of government...
California 1879, Preamble. We, the People of the State of California, grateful to Almighty God for our freedom.
Colorado 1876, Preamble. We, the people of Colorado, with profound reverence for the Supreme Ruler of Universe.
Connecticut 1818, Preamble. The People of Connecticut, acknowledging with gratitude the good Providence of God in permitting them to enjoy.
Delaware 1897, Preamble. Through Divine Goodness all men have, by nature, the rights of worshipping and serving their Creator according to the dictates of their consciences.
Florida 1885, Preamble. We, the people of the State of Florida, grateful to Almighty God for our constitutional liberty, establish this Constitution.
Georgia 1777, Preamble. We, the people of Georgia, relying upon protection and guidance of Almighty God, do ordain and establish this Constitution...
Hawaii 1959, Preamble. We, the people of Hawaii, Grateful for Divine Guidance ... establish this Constitution.
Idaho 1889, Preamble. We, the people of the State of Idaho, grateful to Almighty God for our freedom, to secure its blessings.
Illinois 1870, Preamble. We, the people of the State of Illinois, grateful to Almighty God for the civil, political and religious liberty which He hath so long permitted us to enjoy and looking to Him for a blessing on our endeavors.
Indiana 1851, Preamble. We, the People of the State of Indiana, grateful to Almighty God for the free exercise of the right to chose our form of government.
Iowa 1857, Preamble. We, the People of the State of Iowa, grateful to the Supreme Being for the blessings hitherto enjoyed, and feeling our dependence on Him for a continuation of these blessings establish this Constitution.
Kansas 1859, Preamble. We, the people of Kansas, grateful to Almighty God for our civil and religious privileges establish this Constitution.
Kentucky 1891, Preamble. We, the people of the Commonwealth are grateful to Almighty God for the civil, political and religious liberties...
Louisiana 1921, Preamble. We, the people of the State of Louisiana, grateful to Almighty God for the civil, political and religious liberties we enjoy.
Maine 1820, Preamble. We the People of Maine acknowledging with grateful hearts the goodness of the Sovereign Ruler of the Universe in affording us an opportunity ... and imploring His aid and direction.
Maryland 1776, Preamble. We, the people of the state of Maryland, grateful to Almighty God for our civil and religious liberty...
Massachusetts 1780, Preamble. We...the people of Massachusetts, acknowledging with grateful hearts, the goodness of the Great Legislator of the Universe ... in the course of His Providence, an opportunity and devoutly imploring His direction .
Michigan 1908, Preamble. We, the people of the State of Michigan, grateful to Almighty God for the blessings of freedom establish this Constitution.
Minnesota, 1857, Preamble. We, the people of the State of Minnesota, grateful to God for our civil and religious liberty, and desiring to perpetuate its blessings:
Mississippi 1890, Preamble. We, the people of Mississippi in convention assembled, grateful to Almighty God, and invoking His blessing on our work.
Missouri 1845, Preamble. We, the people of Missouri, with profound reverence for the Supreme Ruler of the Universe, and grateful for His goodness .. establish this Constitution ...
Montana 1889, Preamble. We, the people of Montana, grateful to Almighty God for the blessings of liberty establish this Constitution ...
Nebraska 1875, Preamble. We, the people, grateful to Almighty God for our freedom ... establish this Constitution.
Nevada 1864, Preamble. We the people of the State of Nevada, grateful to Almighty God for our freedom establish this Constitution ...
New Hampshire 1792, Part I. Art. I. Sec. V. Every individual has a natural and unalienable right to worship God according to the dictates of his own conscience.
New Jersey 1844, Preamble. We, the people of the State of New Jersey, grateful to Almighty God for civil and religious liberty which He hath so long permitted us to enjoy, and looking to Him for a blessing on our endeavors.
New Mexico 1911, Preamble. We, the People of New Mexico, grateful to Almighty God for the blessings of liberty
New York 1846, Preamble. We, the people of the State of New York, grateful to Almighty God for our freedom, in order to secure its blessings.
North Carolina 1868, Preamble. We the people of the State of North Carolina, grateful to Almighty God, the Sovereign Ruler of Nations, for our civil, political, and religious liberties, and acknowledging our dependence upon Him for the continuance of those .
North Dakota 1889, Preamble. We, the people of North Dakota, grateful to Almighty God for the blessings of civil and religious liberty, do ordain...
Ohio 1852, Preamble. We the people of the state of Ohio, grateful to Almighty God for our freedom, to secure its blessings and to promote our common
Oklahoma 1907, Preamble. Invoking the guidance of Almighty God, in order to secure and perpetuate the blessings of liberty … establish this ..
Oregon 1857, Bill of Rights, Article I. Section 2. All men shall be secure in the Natural right, to worship Almighty God according to the dictates of their consciences..
Pennsylvania 1776, Preamble. We, the people of Pennsylvania, grateful to Almighty God for the blessings of civil and religious liberty, and humbly invoking His guidance
Rhode Island 1842, Preamble. We the People of the State of Rhode Island grateful to Almighty God for the civil and religious liberty which He hath so long permitted us to enjoy, and looking to Him for a blessing
South Carolina, 1778, Preamble. We, the people of he State of South Carolina grateful to God for our liberties, do ordain and establish this Constitution.
South Dakota 1889, Preamble. We, the people of South Dakota, grateful to Almighty God for our civil and religious liberties ...
Tennessee 1796, Art. XI.III. That all men have a natural and indefeasible right to worship Almighty God according to the dictates of their conscience...
Texas 1845, Preamble. We the People of the Republic of Texas, acknowledging, with gratitude, the grace and beneficence of God.
Utah 1896, Preamble. Grateful to Almighty God for life and liberty, we establish this Constitution.
Vermont 1777, Preamble. Whereas all government ought to ... enable the individuals who compose it to enjoy their natural rights, and other blessings which the Author of Existence has bestowed on man ...
Virginia 1776, Bill of Rights, XVI .. Religion, or t he Duty which we owe our Creator … can be directed only by Reason ... and that it is the mutual duty of all to practice Christian Forbearance, Love and Charity towards each other .
Washington 1889, Preamble. We the People of the State of Washington, grateful to the Supreme Ruler of the Universe for our liberties, do ordain this Constitution
West Virginia 1872, Preamble. Since through Divine Providence we enjoy the blessings of civil, political and religious liberty, we, the people of West Virginia reaffirm our faith in and constant reliance upon God ...
Wisconsin 1848, Preamble. We, the people of Wisconsin, grateful to Almighty God for our freedom, domestic tranquility
Wyoming 1890, Preamble. We, the people of the State of Wyoming, grateful to God for our civil, political, and religious liberties … establish this Constitution. "Those people who will not be governed by God will be ruled by tyrants." - William Penn

(The Preamble statements in this article has been verified as TRUTH according to: http://www.truthorfiction.com/ )

TELL ME WHAT YOU THINK TODAY.

the planter

Are you looking for an authentic New Testament church filled with mature, Spirit-filled believers who are consumed with Great Commandment hearts and sold out to Great Commission priorities? Can you imagine a church community that is transparent and authentic where believers and unbelievers can gather and have needs met? Can you imagine a church community where people love God and others without limits? Can you imagine a church community sold out for the Great Commission, even willing to give it all up for the cause of reaching lost people? I dream of a new disciplemaking system that reaches and builds disciples who reach others and in turn builds New Testament communities or churches. I long for the church to be effective in being the Church. Check out: the planter (Catch the vision growing in St. Louis, MO)

The Need to Talk It Out

“The Need to Talk It Out”


When I was in my pre-teen years an incident occurred that has forever shaped my view of life. Like most pre-teens today, I was no different. I had my friends that I hung out with. I had a desire to play “kid’s games” while knowing that I was expected to be a teen. I had my activities and social activities as well as my responsibilities and chores. I grew up along the shores of Lake Erie in Michigan. I loved fishing, hunting small game, tromping through the marsh, playing baseball and going out in my row boat. Life seemed perfect! I was sheltered from the problems of the inner-city of Detroit. Life has it usual disappointments…like doing the dishes. Living is a large family with six brothers and one sister, there was always someone willing to do something with you or even just to provide the usual “follow the bigger brother” and be a nuisance game.

One day while I was riding my bike with a friend, life forever changed. As I rode my bike on Bayside Drive I came upon a most unusual site. While changing a tire a man laid over the spare in a very curious position. I called out to him but there was no reply. I went closer to discover that the man was not resting but looked dead. I shook him with little result. I was stunned. I ran down the street calling for help.

Within minutes the neighborhood was swarming with neighbors and soon several Sheriff Deputies and medical people. I watched as they worked on the man to revive him. Their efforts did not produce results. The man’s wife was crying nearby as they announced to the crowd that the man was dead. I watched as they loaded his lifeless body into the ambulance and drove off. The officers asked me some questions and wrote down my name.

Within an hour my world had suddenly changed. I was now aware of something that I had never seen before. Sure, I knew of death. My grandparents had died and I attended their funeral. My friend’s uncle died and I remember the ambulance coming to his house. But up until now, death was something different. It was not so eventful to me. It seemed to be peaceful and a quiet hush overshadowed it. It was something that happened but no one really ever talked about it.

The crowd began to disperse and people went back to their homes. Life seemed to just go on for most people but not for me. I needed to talk to someone about what had just happened but there I stood, alone. I too eventually went home but before I could talk about it, my family already knew. My mother was on the phone telling my father and my siblings were chatting with others about it. No one asked me anything. I was left to deal with this life-shattering event seemingly alone.

Several days went by before the incident was brought up again. I was asked by my pastor to tell him about the old man. I told him everything I experienced. He asked me if I was doing okay. He wanted to know if I slept okay. He asked if I had any nightmares. He asked me if I was afraid in any way. I answered him the best I could. It was a good feeling because he talked with me about the old man. He let me know that God was a good God and knew of the incident. He made me feel special by telling me that I was God’s special messenger when I called out for help for the old man. He said that I was brave for waiting for help to come. Perhaps the best feeling came because someone actually let me talk about the old man.

Today we call this debriefing and defusing. It is a technique that provides an outlet for healing the stress of a crisis event. Chaplains, police officers, medical personnel, counselors and other professionals utilize this strategy to limit the results of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (ptsd). PTSD is a long-term psychological disorder that comes as a result of an untreated stressful crisis experience. Problems that result could cause “flashbacks” or reliving the experiences in an unhealthy manor or unresolved fear or even unhealthy angry outburst can result.

What my pastor provided for me was a closure to the negative experience. He didn’t minimize the incident but helped me find peace and ways to deal with my fears. Churches are providing small group discussions for people dealing with crises in their lives. These small group discussions are part of Crisis Evangelism. They provide good news in bad times! Churches that provide a caring community of people demonstrating empathy and compassion is Crisis Evangelism. People have a need to talk it out! Join the discussion today.

ARE THEY OK?

“ARE THEY OK?”

We have all thought it. "I wonder, are they ok?" Every time we hear a siren or see a car accident we have wondered if the people involved will be ok. There is something within all of us that our heart goes out to those at the scene. As a believer in prayer I will lift of a word of prayer for those involved in the accident. I ask God to protect the children that may be involved. I ask God to provide comfort those who survive. I ask God to protect emergency workers responding to the call. You are like me I am sure. Our heart goes out and we wonder, “Are they ok?”

When I was about ten years old I was the witness of a car accident. If it weren't for my mother's careful defensive driving we too would have been victims. In this case we were witnesses to a car driving way too fast for road conditions. The car was going well over seventy miles an hour when it passed us and the curve ahead was too sharp to maneuver. The car skidded off the road, just missing a residence and rolled four times before coming to rest upside down in a field.

With little hesitation we rushed over to the accident looking for ways to help the driver and passenger trapped in the car. There were two people inside the car trying to get out of the damaged wreckage. A smell of gasoline was in the air. My mother expressed her caution for the risks but we proceeded to free the occupants. The victims were thrashing and kicking, making every effort to free themselves. It took us a few minutes but we were able to free each passenger. My mother made attempts to calm the driver and provide basic medical attention. He sustained a large cut on the forehead and was very agitated. The other passenger looked to be in shock. He just sat on the ground moaning. Later we learned that he had broken his arm.

The police and ambulance did arrive to provide additional medical assistance while the police took our statement. Alcohol use was a factor in the accident. Within days of the accident a police officer visited the house for further information about the accident. The accident left an incredible impression in my memory. There were many times after this scene that I wondered, are they ok?

I am sure that this incident, along with several other memories like this, has contributed to my interest in helping people who are dealing with crisis. Thankful there are wonderful First Responders (Law enforcement, Medical Technicians, Nurses, Fire-fighters and others) who give immediate assistance when tragedy strikes. Having provided Chaplain Services over the years and provided Pastoral services to police departments in Indiana and Illinois, I have seen the personal sacrifice and risk that First Responders take when providing emergency help. I also believe that there is a place for community volunteers who wish to lend a helping hand. Places like the Salvation Army, The Red Cross or emergency volunteer organizations that lend a helping hand.

Everyday we learn of tragic circumstances confronting people. News reports are rapid and intensive as they report Tsunami scenes, Hurricane and tornado scenes, trapped miners, and many other incredible tragedies in our world. We are reminded that life is temporary and often filled with tragic times. A Ministry of Presence in times of crisis is a real ministry to people in need. This is just one way caring people can make a difference. The church should play a roll in meeting needs. Bringing good news in bad times is a great opportunity to demonstrate the love of God during tragic times; during times of incredible doubt and personal hurt. Crisis Evangelism is a ministry of communicating the good news of Christ’s love to people in the midst of terrible times. There are opportunities to bear witness of a loving and incredibly good God during difficult times in the life of people dealing with crises of all kinds.

Let’s unite together to develop ways to meet people at their most difficult times. By conveying our love and ultimately God’s love through a Ministry of Presence we can make a profound difference the aftermath of crisis.

8 Simple Ways to Control Stress

8 Simple Ways to Control Stress!
(image placeholder)
Simple modifications in posture, habits, thought, and behavior often go a long way toward reducing feelings of stress and tension. Here are 8 quick and simple things you can do immediately to help keep your stress level under control.
1.  Control Your Anger:
Watch for the next instance in which you find yourself becoming annoyed or angry at something trivial or unimportant, then practice letting go - make a conscious choice not to become angry or upset. Do not allow yourself to waste thought and energy where it isn't deserved. Effective anger management is a tried-and-true stress reducer.
2.  Breathe:
Breathe slowly and deeply. Before reacting to the next stressful occurrence, take three deep breaths and release them slowly. If you have a few minutes, try out breathing exercises such as meditation or guided imagery.
3.  Slow Down:
Whenever you feel overwhelmed by stress, practice speaking more slowly than usual. You'll find that you think more clearly and react more reasonably to stressful situations. Stressed people tend to speak fast and breathlessly; by slowing down your speech you'll also appear less anxious and more in control of any situation.
4.  Complete One Simple To Do:
Jump start an effective time management strategy. Choose one simple thing you have been putting off (e.g. returning a phone call, making a doctor's appointment) and do it immediately. Just taking care of one nagging responsibility can be energizing and can improve your attitude.
5.  Get Some Fresh Air:
Get outdoors for a brief break. Our grandparents were right about the healing power of fresh air. Don't be deterred by foul weather or a full schedule. Even five minutes on a balcony or terrace can be rejuvenating.
6.  Avoid Hunger and Dehydration:
Drink plenty of water and eat small, nutritious snacks. Hunger and dehydration, even before you're aware of them, can provoke aggressiveness and exacerbate feelings of anxiety and stress.
7.  Do a Quick Posture Check:
Hold your head and shoulders upright and avoid stooping or slumping. Bad posture can lead to muscle tension, pain, and increased stress.
8.  Recharge at the Day’s End:
Plan something rewarding for the end of your stressful day, even if only a relaxing bath or half an hour with a good book. Put aside work, housekeeping or family concerns for a brief period before bedtime and allow yourself to fully relax. Don't spend this time planning tomorrow's schedule or doing chores you didn't get around to during the day. Remember that you need time to recharge and energize yourself - you'll be much better prepared to face another stressful day.

A not-so-new-way of reaching people for Christ!

Jesus modeled compassion! As He announced his divine purpose He did so by reading of Isaiah 61. This passage of scripture spoke of compassion and love demonstrated to people in great need. Recorded in Lu 4:18 - "The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me, because He has anointed Me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent Me to proclaim freedom to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to set free the oppressed..." we discover that Jesus had not only a heavenly ministry of salvation but also a more earthly ministry too!

Clearly Jesus demonstrated love in action by His ministry to heal the sick, comfort the brokenhearted, raise the dead, recover sight to the blind, heal the physically disabled and feed the hungry. We too are instructed to "do unto the least of these." (Mt 25:40 - "And the King will answer them, 'I assure you: Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of Mine, you did for Me.' )

A not-so-new-way of reaching people is to demonstrate our LOVE to those in crisis. Jesus was a presence in time of need. (See: John 11:11 - "He said this, and then He told them, "Our friend Lazarus has fallen asleep, but I'm on My way to wake him up." )

People are in crisis everyday! What can we do about it? Provide a ministry of presence in the name of Christ. By doing this we comfort the brokenhearted!

Forced to Grow Up!

Children are confronted with crisis everday like never before. In our current age of instant information and global view of terrorism, natural disaster, world hunger, serious illnesses like aids or pandemic virus infections that could effect us in an instant, children are no longer sheltered. Children are forced to "grow up" and deal with global fearful issues. This article by John Walkup who provides some suggestions on how to help children deal with crisis.

September 11, 2001
MEDIA CONTACT: David Bricker
PHONE: 410-223-1728, pager 410-283-9008 / E-MAIL: dbricker@jhmi.edu

Dealing With Crisis: Advice To Parents in the Aftermath of Terrorist Attacks

Violence or the threat of violence at home and abroad can cause extreme anxiety in children. Johns Hopkins Children’s Center psychologist John Walkup, M.D., presents the following advice for parents to help children cope with recent terrorism in New York, Pennsylvania, and the District of Columbia.

• Parents should watch their children’s behavior closely. Children take cues from their parents. If parents show nervousness or anxiety, children may become anxious and nervous themselves. During stressful events, parents should show emotion without losing control of their emotions. Parents should be with their children without smothering them with attention.
• Television sets and radios should not be left on all day, but instead viewed or listened to at selected times with parental supervision. Over-exposure to images of violence or destruction can make events even more difficult for children to deal with.
  Parents should use strong, firm discipline with children who create disturbances in response to what they hear and see in the media.
• Parents should put themselves in a child’s place and try to respond to perceived feelings in addition to the concerns the child is able to verbalize.
• Maintaining the structure of a daily routine is crucial. Eating and bed times remain consistent. Studies have shown that the long-term impact of this kind of trauma can be minimized by continuity and strong family values.
• As a family, draw on religious experience and/or other foundations of community support.

Working with people responding to crisis

Working with people responding to crisis? Here is a series of articles that can help.

Preacher's Magazine Open Letter

Teens and Crisis

HELPING TEENAGERS WITH STRESS

Teenagers, like adults, may experience stress everyday and can benefit from learning stress management skills. Most teens experience more stress when they perceive a situation as dangerous, difficult, or painful and they do not have the resources to cope.

Some sources of stress for teens might include:

• school demands and frustrations
• negative thoughts and feelings about themselves
  changes in their bodies
• problems with friends and/or peers at school
• unsafe living environment/neighborhood
• separation or divorce of parents
• chronic illness or severe problems in the family
• death of a loved one
• moving or changing schools
• taking on too many activities or having too high expectations
• family financial problems

Some teens become overloaded with stress. When it happens, inadequately managed stress can lead to anxiety, withdrawal, aggression, physical illness, or poor coping skills such as drug and/or alcohol use.

When we perceive a situation as difficult or painful, changes occur in our minds and bodies to prepare us to respond to danger. This "fight, flight, or freeze" response includes faster heart and breathing rate, increased blood to muscles of arms and legs, cold or clammy hands and feet, upset stomach and/or a sense of dread.

The same mechanism that turns on the stress response can turn it off. As soon as we decide that a situation is no longer dangerous, changes can occur in our minds and bodies to help us relax and calm down. This "relaxation response" includes decreased heart and breathing rate and a sense of well being. Teens that develop a "relaxation response" and other stress management skills feel less helpless and have more choices when responding to stress.

Parents can help their teen in these ways:

• Monitor if stress is affecting their teen's health, behavior, thoughts, or feelings
• Listen carefully to teens and watch for overloading
• Learn and model stress management skills
• Support involvement in sports and other pro-social activities

Teens can decrease stress with the following behaviors and techniques:

• Exercise and eat regularly
• Avoid excess caffeine intake which can increase feelings of anxiety and agitation
• Avoid illegal drugs, alcohol and tobacco
• Learn relaxation exercises (abdominal breathing and muscle relaxation techniques)
• Develop assertiveness training skills. For example, state feelings in polite firm and not overly aggressive or passive ways: ("I feel angry when you yell at me" "Please stop yelling.")
• Rehearse and practice situations which cause stress. One example is taking a speech class if talking in front of a class makes you anxious
• Learn practical coping skills. For example, break a large task into smaller, more attainable tasks
• Decrease negative self talk: challenge negative thoughts about yourself with alternative neutral or positive thoughts. "My life will never get better" can be transformed into "I may feel hopeless now, but my life will probably get better if I work at it and get some help"
• Learn to feel good about doing a competent or "good enough" job rather than demanding perfection from yourself and others
• Take a break from stressful situations. Activities like listening to music, talking to a friend, drawing, writing, or spending time with a pet can reduce stress
• Build a network of friends who help you cope in a positive way

By using these and other techniques, teenagers can begin to manage stress. If a teen talks about or shows signs of being overly stressed, a consultation with a child and adolescent psychiatrist or qualified mental health professional may be helpful.

Your Child (1998 Harper Collins)/Your Adolescent (1999 Harper Collins).

Article from: http://www.aacap.org/publications/factsFam/66.htm

Missing today...

Evangelism is missing today: 96 % Never Share Their Faith
This article is taken from Focus on the Family…  When people are hurting, sharing good news and hope in Christ is the best thing you can provide.
>From: "Pastor's Weekly Briefing" <pwb@fotf.org>>by H.B. London, Jr.This past week, I received a copy of an interview with my friend, James Merritt, President of the Southern Baptist Convention and an Atlanta-area pastor. In the release, Merritt expressed his concern regarding the lack of passion for evangelism he sees among Southern Baptists -- which just happens to be the nation's largest non-Catholic denomination. His concern is one all of us should have for the church in North America.
Pastor Merritt made some informative observations. For instance, "It takes 40 Southern Baptists to win one convert." How many members of your church does it take to win a convert? He also noted, "96 percent of all Southern Baptists have never shared their faith." What percentage of your congregation would you estimate share their faith? He stated, "71 percent of Christians say we ought to respect other people's rights to believe what they want to believe and leave them alone." His opinion is that he would not give up his right or responsibility to do all he could to convert a person to what he believes is the only way to salvation -- Jesus Christ.
I am sure some of you might question his comments because we all approach evangelism from our own understanding -- but the passion part is very correct. Paul wrote, "I am made all things to all men, that I might by all means save some" (1 Cor. 9:22).
Copyright (c) 2002, Focus on the Family - All rights reserved. International copyright secured.

REFLECTIVE BLOG

REFLECTIVE BLOG: EXPERIENCES FOR THOSE IN PRISIONS AND JAILS: Alpha Jail Bible Study – The Power to Transform Lives (written by Rick Carder)

I have been a part of the Alpha Bible Study for nearly three years. I have seen God use Alpha in powerful ways - especially at the Du Page County Jail. This 10-week study brings the reality of Christ LOVE through a series of dialog and thought-provoking questions.

DuPage Jail: The DuPage County Jail is the 2nd largest county jail in Illinois. Over 800 people are held at the Wheaton facility every day – over 14,000 travel its doors every year.

I SERVE: I have had a jail service at DuPage for 6 years now...teaching classes, worship services, computer training, and one-on-one counseling. I currently volunteer as a Chaplain and teach a Thursday Night Alpha Bible Study for men.

FIRST START: When we first started our class - we were not sure of its success. It took us 6 months to be approved to start another program... We were given a NOT-SO-IDEAL time - competing with CSI (one of my favorites). We were given the hottest room in the jail (4 UVW) -- literally, the room temperature is in excess of 80 degrees most weeks.
HOWEVER - God was working...our first class held 2 (who admitted to coming just to get out of their POD.) ...But God had some business to take care of...and eventually the group grew and we had a waiting list!

THE POWER TO TRANSFORM: I believe that Alpha has a special anointing from God - Nicki Gumble's materials are incredible but the power lays in the Word of God...the Word that NEVER returns VOID. I have seen many whose lives have been changed - God has done it through the power of the Word and His Holy Spirit!

STORY ONE: Jay* -- I know Jay's family - his sister lived with our family for about a year. (We are Foster Parents with Probation). Jay is awaiting a decision by the court - HIS LIFE IS ON HOLD! It was just a few months back that I came to know Jay...it was during the funeral of his brother, age 28 who died; leaving a wife, Chrissy and 18 month old, Cassy. I did the funeral for him.
Jay was devastated! I met with Jay and invited him to attend Alpha. He was bitter about his brother’s death and blamed God. I told him that we can help answer his doubts about God and give him new hope. He reluctantly agreed. (It helped that his sister (our former foster child) and her mother ORDERED HIM TO ATTEND)

THE CHANGE: Jay had only come for a few weeks when he indicated that he prayed to receive Christ...It was a couple of weeks later that Jay drew me this picture (show image).

STORY TWO: Bruce* -- Bruce is a very unique man. He is over 6 feet tall - muscular - African American who grew up in church - but drugs and alcohol have robbed this man of his dignity and faith. (Bruce will tell you that he committed crime because it fed his addictions.) Bruce is now in a rehabilitation program in Elgin.
Bruce is a good example of how a prodigal’s son can come home! Bruce came to Christ through another ministry at the jail but it was Alpha that gave him back his JOYFUL SONG! Bruce now sings for Jesus.

I can't get into all the change he testifies to receiving but I can give you just a taste of the song that Jesus has restored.

Since we have begun our class - now on our third - we have had over 50 attend...there have been over 30 that have prayed to receive Christ in just our first class session. The praise goes to the Lord who is the author and finisher of our faith!

*names changed for privacy
---------
Isaiah 61:1, 3, 7 read - "The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is upon me, because the Lord has appointed me to bring good news to the poor. He has sent me to comfort the brokenhearted and to announce that captives will be released and prisoners freed...I will give beauty for ashes, joy instead of mourning, praise instead of despair...Instead of shame and dishonor, you will inherit a double portion of prosperity and everlasting joy."

-------I wish I could tell you about Luster, John, Jeremiah, Will, Kennard....
Bruce once wrote us a song - our theme song: "Rejoicing will come; these tests build character, for we have already won. Our Sentence is really light, compared to what we really deserve. Our Sentence was our blessing, to our surprise. What the devil meant for evil, God bestowed to us His grace. His mercies have allowed us to get back into the race...."

Critical Incident Notes

Written by: Rick Carder (From a training conference on Crisis Debrifing)

Critical Incident Stress Debriefing is provided through a qualified and certified team of care provides. Here are some of the training materials that a Crisis Care provider and offer you.

The Need –
90% of the United States citizens will be exposed to a traumatic event during their lifetime.
Suicide rates have been seen to increase as much as 63% in the first year after an earthquake.
Approximately 1 million persons each year become victims of violent crimes while at work.
16 persons die at work everyday.

A “critical incident” is any incident causing one to experience a threat to his or her own life and well-being, overwhelming feelings, stress reactions and an inability to function effectively:
- Vehicle Fatality
- Assaults/Homicides/ Robbery
- Explosion, Fire, Collapse
- Natural Disasters

There are costs for the employers and businesses –
Pursuit of medical, psychiatric and legal opinions
Protracted medical treatment for “unrelated” physical complaints
Use of illegal substance to self-medicate
Inability to concentrate at work
Hypervigilence and guarded behavior
Irritability with fellow workers and customers
Resignation and attrition of fellow employees

PTSD (Post Tramatic Stress Disorder)
Psalm 21:14 –
“I am poured out like water,
And all my bones are out of joint;
My heart is like wax;
It is melted within me.”

God’s Redemptive Power
Psalm 40:2-3
“He brought me up out of the pit of
destruction, out of the miry clay.
And he set my feet upon a rock making my
footsteps firm.
He put a new song in my mouth, a song of
Praise to our God;
Many will see and fear
And will trust in the Lord.”


LUKE 10
Meet the need:

• On its own turf


• At the point of greatest need


• In situations others avoid


• Across typical social boundaries


• Outside of usual reimbursement systems


• As Christ would