Back in the Pew

After a year and a half of vocational pastoral ministry in a most wonderful place called Delia, I have been planted back in the pew for a season. Although I am uncertain as to how long this season will last, I am rejoicing at the opportunity to sit under the preaching of some godly men. As Lynette, Dawson and I adjust to life in southern Alberta, our love and prayers go out to all those who encouraged us along the way both in Stettler and Delia.

After our first Sunday at Calvary Grace, we were glad to make some contacts with some quality folks that share a common desire to be rooted in the gospel and relevant in telling others about the person and work of Jesus Christ.

We are anticipating a fruitful ministry in and around the Calgary region. As God continues to magnify the riches of his mercy and grace in our lives, we trust that he will give us humble obedience to his will and ways. To God be the glory as we seek to please him in all respects.

"Grace: the most transformational word in Scripture...Grace will convince you of your unworthiness without ever making you feel unloved."

A great statement by Paul David Tripp

Iron Sharpeners

"Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another."
Proverbs 27:17

In recent days I have undergone some much needed sharpening from men of influence in my life. As a man that is prone to dullness, I thought it would be fitting to express sincere thanks for three men in particular that put me back on the cutting edge. Although there are others that have ministered to me in different times and in different ways, God has used these three fellas in instrumental ways as of late. Interestingly enough, all three of these guys are currently serving in pastoral ministry with varied expressions of a similar call.

The first iron sharpener that I will comment on is the one I have known the longest out of the three. By his influence on my life I have been sharpened in matters concerning: godliness, sincerity, and instruction. As a young teenager I looked up to this cowboy preacher, as one who displayed a down-to-earth approach to living out the great truths he loved to proclaim. He and his wife have been involved with a church plant that has evidenced deep-biblical roots, and an increasing level of fruitfulness in gospel ministry.

The second iron sharpener is one that has had a great level of influence on me beginning with my college years. One of the ways that he has sharpened me is by convincing me that the key to understanding the New Testament is unlocking the Old Testament. As he took me through the Old Testament, I began to see more of Jesus in the typology of characters like Moses, and Joseph. In addition, this wise teacher seemed to help refine my passion for the sovereignty of God in such a way that is both worshipful and insightful to others.

The third iron sharpener is a peer that I have got to know over the past year. He has sharpened me in the area of diligence and commitment to finding out the meaning and implications on any given Scriptural text. Although he and I were raised on opposite sides of Canada, we have been brought near by a similar appreciation of the doctrines we love. Our mutual sharpening of one another made a sharp growth curve after travelling down to the Shepherd's Conference together in southern California.

I feel a sense of indebtedness to these men for their indispensable influence. I thank God through Christ for them.

Branding and the Holy Spirit

One of the great privileges of cowboy'n is being asked to rope calves at branding time. Brandings have become a great part of the social aspect of the cattle industry. Neighbours and friends meet to get a job done, talk about the weather, and tell tales of their spring calving experiences. Although some city slickers might argue that branding is all fun for the cowboy; yet all trauma for the calves, it is an important task that guarantees calf ownership come roundup in the fall.

I suppose branding was more of a necessity at the turn of the century when Allflex tags were not yet available. Besides, every cattle producer knows that the likelyhood of tags being ripped out is not an impossibility. In addition, if a rustler did happen to steal some calves, a tag could be easily cut out and replaced. There is no lying with the good old-fashioned branding iron. The iron leaves a permanent imprint that stays with the animal its entire life.

As I got to thinking about branding, I began to reflect upon a key privilege of all those who have responded in faith to the unsurpassable grace of God through Jesus Christ. In the book of Ephesians (which happens to be one of my favorite Pauline letters) the apostle praises God for the work of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit in salvation.

The blessing of the Father's free and sovereign grace in choosing us before the foundation of the world is ours according to the purpose of his will (Eph. 1:3-6). Furthermore, we have redemption through the blood of Christ, the forgiveness of tresspasses according to the riches of his grace (Eph. 1:6-12). Lastly, but not least of these is the spiritual blessing of being sealed with the promised Holy Spirit (Eph. 1:13-14). Of this blessing of the Holy Spirit we turn our attention.

In the same way cattle ranchers brand their cattle, God through Christ sets His seal of ownership on all those who believe in Christ in a personal and saving way. This seal of ownership is the Holy Spirit. He is the guarantee of our inheritance. In theological terms, the seal of the Holy Spirit is an inward mark of God's ownership of His people. In cattlemen's terms the brand of the Holy Spirt guarantees that God has vested interest in that critter.

What is more, as the guarantee of our inheritance, the Spirit of God is the down payment of our full and complete redemption. That is, the foretaste of eternal joy in God's presence! This is a glorious blessing for those who hang their hat on Christ alone for full and complete salvation. The savior's of our time, things like money, prestige, and possessions, seal our fate as we flounder around from one temporary pleasure to the next. Our great Savior, Jesus Christ, is the grounds of being branded, as it were, by the Spirit of God. This is a most excellent privilege for the believer. While branding is an outward imprint of temporary ownership, the Spirit's seal is an inward reality of eternal ownership to God the Father through Jesus Christ our Lord.

All this is said to be, "to the praise of His glory." Glorifying God is our appropriate response to all the spriritual blessing that are ours!

Thoughts Concerning Meditation

Last night, at our weekly prayer meeting, I shared some thoughts concerning meditation. With the help of some Puritan minds, I found some practical advice on the subject of meditation, which led into a reflection on the first sixteen verses of Psalm 119.

Thomas Manton once wrote,
"Meditation is a middle sort of duty between the word and prayer, and hath respect to both. The word feedeth meditation, and meditation feedeth prayer; we must hear that we be not erroneous, and meditate that we be not barren. These duties must go hand in hand; meditation must follow hearing and precede prayer."

Thomas Watson defines meditation as,
"a holy exercise of the mind whereby we bring the truths of God to remembrance and do seriously ponder upon them and apply them to ourselves."

Watson concludes,
"A Christian without meditation is like a soldier without arms, or a workman without tools. Without meditation the truths of God will not stay with us; the heart is hard, and the memory is slippery, and without meditation all is lost."

Edmund Calamy said,
"A true meditation is when a man doth so meditate of Christ as to get his heart inflamed with the love of Christ, so meditate on the Truths of God, as to be transformed into them, and so meditate of sin as to get his heart to hate sin."

Calamy further instructs that,
"Meditation must enter three doors: the door of understanding, the door of the heart and affections, and the door of practical living."

By way of exhortation, Calamy commands,
"Thou must so meditate of God as to walk as God walks; and so to meditate of Christ as to prize him, and live in obedience to him."

(These great Puritan quotes and others can be found in Joel Beeke's Puritan Reformed Spirituality).

Perhaps my favorite place for meditation is on my rawhide lazy-boy. It is in the saddle that I often ponder the wonder of God's handiwork. From Meadowlark's to Crocus's I witness first hand God's wisdom and creativity in what he has made known to all mankind through general revelation. What's more, I reflect upon the excellencies of Christ and his once for all sacrifice for sin. I consider where I might be in life were it not for God's grace, his faithfulness, and his loving-kindness. Often times, like a cow chewing her cud, I bring up truths that are partially digested like the supremacy of God in all things. When I think upon God's sovereign rule over all things: from dust particles, to the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, to the circumstances of life, I often respond in prayer and praise for all that God is for me in Christ.

I trust that meditation upon the living Word (Jesus), and the written Word (the Scriptures) will launch you into deeper intimacy with God, and growth in the knowledge of his character and ways. May the Spirit of God assist you and I both concerning the practice of meditation.

Confronting Anger

At this point I would ask that you permit me to make a confession. As of late, I have noticed a personal propensity toward outbursts of anger. Such blow-ups have come in times I feel: done wrong, disappointed, discouraged, or depressed. Although I have not recently punched any holes through walls, spontaneously combusted due to increased pressure, or started throwing things around, I need to wage war on this besetting sin in my life. If my anger were to be compared with a thermometer, the mercury has reached dangerous levels.

Fueled by impatience, selfishness, and lack of self control, my anger is clearly sin, and must be killed. The anger that rises up within me, is not righteous anger; but rebellion toward God. Not only does my anger grieve the Holy Spirit, it acts like rottenness in my bones, poison in my belly, and backed up sewer in my soul. This anger is relationship damaging, dishonoring to God and a poor example of Christ like ministry.

Outside the heart exposing truths of the Bible, I have found two sources that have served as ointment to my infection. The first was written by an English Puritan from the the 17th century named Richard Baxter called Anger Management. The second was written by a contemporary American Counselor named David Powlison called Anger: Escaping the Maze. By way of commenting, I will begin with the later, and conclude with some practical directions from the former.

Using the illustration of a traffic jam, Powlison determines that the motivations of anger are often: pride (my will be done as opposed to Thy will be done), fear of man ("What will people think of me if I am late"), and the lusts of the flesh ("I want" such and such - which may or may not be material worship). Powlison determines that when cravings or false beliefs rule my life they produce anger. He goes on to say, "If God ruled my life, I might feel disappointment, but I wouldn't be floundering in the swamp." At this point, when I experience a propensity toward anger I do well to ask myself, "What is ruling my heart at this time?" Is it God, me, others, animals, or stuff? The quicker I can evaluate what is ruling my heart, the quicker I will extinguish anger. In this way, I will fight anger by prizing the promises of God in Jesus Christ.

Richard Baxter also provides some great insights concerning anger. Here are 16 practical directions against sinful anger set out by the great Puritan writer himself.

1. The principal help against sinful anger lies in accustoming the soul to right attitudes.
2. Be careful to keep a humbled soul that does not think too highly of itself, for humility is patient and does not exaggerate injuries.
3. Be careful to avoid a worldly and covetous mind.
4. Put a stop to your anger early, before it goes too far.
5. Take control of your tongue, hands, and countenance, even if you cannot at the moment quiet or command your passion.
6. At the very least, keep silent until reason has had an opportunity to speak and you have had a chance to think.
7. If you do not find it easy to quiet your anger or restrain yourself, then leave the place and company that have provoked you.
8. Make it your habit to avoid talk and dispute with angry men, so far as you can do so without neglecting your duty.
9. Do not meditate upon past injuries or things that have provoked you when you are alone.
10. Keep your minds in lively thoughts of the exemplary meekness and patience of Jesus Christ.
11. Live as in the presence of God; and when your passions grow bold, repress them with the reverend name of God, and remind yourself that God and his holy angels are watching you.
12. Look at others in their passion, and consider how unlovely they make themselves.
13. When anger rises, confess your sin without delay to those around. Take the shame to yourself. Shame the sin and honour God.
14. If you have allowed your passion to break out and to offend or wrong others, by word or deed, freely and speedily confess it to them for forgiveness.
15. As far as circumstances allow, go immediately to God in prayer for pardon, and grace against this sin.
16. Make a covenant with a faithful friend to watch over you and rebuke your passions as soon as they begin to appear. Promise him that you will take it thankfully and in a proper spirit.

Here is some wisdom from the Scripture itself which cannot lie.

Ecclesiastes 7:9 - "Be not quick in your spirit to become angry, for anger lodges in the bosom of fools."

Proverbs 16:32 - "Whoever is slow to anger is better than the mighty, and he who rules his spirit than he who takes a city."

Proverbs 15:18 - "A hot-tempered man stirs up strife, but he who is slow to anger quiets contention."

Proverbs 19:11 - "Good sense makes one slow to anger, and it is his glory to overlook an offense."

Perhaps these words of wisdom will help us all as we seek to confront anger together.

Gutsy Guilt

John Piper has recently come under attack for his invitation to Rick Warren to speak at the Desiring God National Conference. Although many have criticized Pastor John for inviting the 'Purpose Driven'/pragmatic preacher to stand behind his pulpit, let us not forget the great influence the Christian hedonist has had on many of our lives. In a popular book entitled When I Don't Desire God, Piper offers some practical help in fighting for joy in the midst of sin using a principle he calls "gutsy guilt." The concept comes from Micah 7:8-9 which says,

"But as for me, I will look to the LORD; I will wait for the God of my salvation; my God will hear me. Rejoice not over me, O my enemy; when I fall, I shall rise; when I sit in darkness, the LORD will be a light to me. I will bear the indignation of the LORD because I have sinned against him, until he pleads my cause and executes judgment for me. He will bring me out to the light; I shall look upon his vindication."

From this passage Piper makes two observations. On the one hand, Micah recognizes he is guilty of sin and accepts the sorrow and gloom that hang over him. He does not try to short-circuit God's discipline with sentimental talk of God's mercy. In the midst of this gloom under God's anger, Micah also gets right in the face of his enemy and exclaims, "Rejoice not over me, O my enemy; when I fall, I shall rise." Apparently the enemy is telling Micah that the sin cuts him off from God and leaves him in a hopeless situation. What makes Micah's guilt gutsy is that he counts on God's light in the darkness that God himself sent. He says, he will bear the consequence of his sin until God himself pleads his cause. In other words, while experiencing the guilt of his sin, the writer believes God will come and free him from darkness and enable him to live in joy again. Piper draws application by writing, "Micah's words are an utterly crucial illustration of how to preach the gospel to ourselves when discouragement and darkness threaten to overwhelm us as Christians. Micah's way-the biblical way-is very different from the quick fix that tries to deny the seriousness of sin and the pain of God's discipline" (pg. 89 When I Don't Desire God).

Over the past few months, some of the believers at Delia Christian Fellowship (including my wife and I) have been wrestling with how to fight besetting sin with proper remorse while at the same time acknowledging victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. I have been encouraged lately to see brothers and sisters in Christ take sin seriously like Micah did. People are beginning to see more of the exceeding sinfulness of sin, and displaying brokenness, and contrition. At the same time, I trust that we are laying hold of the righteousness of Christ and displaying Micah like faith. Piper's use of the term "gutsy guilt" is complemented by Micah's "bold brokeness" in the fight for joy.

In contrast with gutsy guilt, Dietrich Bonhoeffer comments on an unwillingness to go with Micah into darkness and bearing God's reproach using a term he calls "cheap grace." He comments,

"Cheap grace is the preaching of forgiveness without requiring repentance, baptism without church discipline, Communion without confession, absolution (set free from consequences of guilt) without personal confession. Cheap grace is grace without discipleship, grace without the cross, grace without Jesus Christ, living and incarnate....The only man that has the right to say that he is justified by grace alone is the man who has left all to follow Christ...We...have gathered like eagles round the carcass of cheap grace, and there we have drunk of the poison which has killed the life of following Christ" (The Cost of Discipleship).

The central strategy for fighting for joy in a world filled with sin is preaching the gospel to ourselves. Romans 8:1 says, "There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. For the law of the Spirit of life has set you free in Christ Jesus from the law of sin and death." The secret of gutsy guilt goes hand in hand with what Jerry Bridges calls "Preaching the Gospel to Yourself" in The Disciplines of Grace. In this book Bridges writes, "When you set yourself to seriously pursue holiness, you will begin to realize what an awful sinner you are. And if you are not firmly rooted in the gospel and have not learned to preach it to yourself every day, you will soon become discouraged and will slack off in your pursuit of holiness." Let us consider the concept of gutsy guilt (fighting sin like a justified sinner) and remember to practice preaching the gospel to ourselves daily.

Advice Worth Repeating

"For every one look at your sins, take ten looks at Christ."

Robert Murray McCheyne

Spring Calving

Yesterday I witnessed the later stages of a calf being born. Having been raised on a cattle operation, I guess I took for granted all the signs of new life I grew up seeing in the spring time. Viewing cattle mothering their new-born babies is a remarkable thing. Drenched in amniotic fluid, the calves will stretch out their necks and shake their heads intensely, clapping their ears as they agitate and snort out the mucous from their mouths.

Many farmers and ranchers alike are in the thick of calving as April approaches. With late night checks, tagging, backwards calves, sick calves, and other calving problems, cattlemen of all kinds seem to be strengthened by the wonder of new birth. In the midst of the challenges of first-calf-heifers, and cantankerous cows, I trust that all those who are currently in the thick of calving will take the time to reflect upon the wonder of new birth. It truly is a miracle!

God Moves in a Mysterious Way

When speaking about God's management of the world, the term "providence" is often inserted. Providence is a term associated with God's involvement in all things. More specifically, his maintaining of creation, his cooperation with every action, his orchestration of every event, all in fulfilment of his purpose. In a nutshell, God's providence refers to his ongoing relationship to creation. Upon recent reflections on God's providence I was reminded of the words of 18th century English hymn writer named William Cowper (pronounced Cooper).

Throughout the stormy trials of life, Cowper displayed a Job-like commitment to the Lord in the midst of suffering. The tough times of Cowper's life led to suicide attempts, and insanity. Entering into an Insane Asylum, the distressed wanderer hooked up with a Christian Doctor by the name of Dr. Nathaniel Cotton. Cowper was miraculously converted by God's grace while institutionalized at St. Albans Insane Asylum and left in June of 1756. Interestingly enough, Cowper met with the former slave ship captain, John Newton (writer of Amazing Grace). Together, Newton and Cowper wrote a collaboration of 348 hymns called the "Olney Hymns" named after the town Cowper settled in. After a post-conversion attempt at suicide, and yet another season of despair, Cowper would fight with depression right up till the point of his death.

One of the puzzling realities of Cowper's life is his perseverance of faith in the midst of mental illness. Sometimes Christians are guilty of romanticising saving faith in Christ to the exclusion of personal struggles like: sorrow, despair, desperation, and depression. Whats more, is that Christians often try to humanize God into thinking he owes people all the answers to all of life's questions. William Cowper was a man that held tightly to God's sovereignty as a comfort in sorrow, and strength in weakness. Just listen to the heart of the hymn writer exposed in one of his most well known hymns, "God Moves in a Mysterious Way."

God moves in a mysterious way
his wonders to perform;
He plants his footsteps in the sea,
and rides upon the storm.

Deep in unfathomable mines
of never-failing skill
He treasures up his bright designs,
and works his sovereign will.

Ye fearful saints, fresh courage take;
the clouds ye so much dread
Are big with mercy, and shall break
in blessings on your head.

Judge not the Lord by feeble sense,
but trust him for his grace;
Behind a frowning providence
he hides a smiling face.

His purposes will ripen fast,
unfolding every hour;
The bud may have a bitter taste,
but sweet will be the flow'r.

Blind unbelief is sure to err,
and scan his work in vain;
God is his own interpreter,
and he will make it plain.

William Cowper, 1774

Rumspringa

As a teenager, one of the most influential books I read was the Joshua Harris bestseller, I Kissed Dating Goodbye. Last night, I began to read another book by Joshua Harris that just might be as influential as the first book I read of his. The book is called Dug Down Deep. Harris's opening chapter serves as a real attention grabber, especially with its unusual title, "My Rumspringa." As strange as it might sound, rumspringa is a word in the Pennsylvania Dutch language that means "running around." In Amish culture, the church believes that a young person should have liberty to explore the forbidden delights of the outside world before committing to a life of simplicity. At age sixteen, Amish teens enter into a season of zero rules. Rumspringa ranges from simply wearing make-up, playing video games, and using cell phones, to drug use, having sex, and binge drinking. Apparently 80-90% of Amish teens choose to return to the Amish church after their season of taste tasting the pleasures of the world. I suppose the reasoning behind rumspringa is that the young people will see the unpleasantness behind hangovers, and hooligan activity, and return to the laid back life of Amish living. I wonder along with Harris whether the Amish youth are choosing God by going back or just choosing a safer and simpler way of life.

After reading about what Harris called "My Rumspinga" I began to recall my experiences as a teen. Looking back, my season of sowing wild oats, was not as wild as some; yet was altogether bad all the same. I generally respected my parents, and did all I could to please them. My outward performance however did not last long, especially concerning matters of faith. From ages 13-15 I generally went along with the "church thing." I enjoyed the social aspects of youth group, put on a good front around the leaders of the church, and tried my best to outwardly conform to what I had come to envision as Christianity. By the time I was 16, I had lost allot of my ability to perform as one who was deceived into thinking I spiritually O.K. My craving for worldly pleasure overpowered my willpower to obey what I knew was right. I'll never forget the words I heard from one of my peers, it was at a Rodeo, and the individual said, "You sure have a potty mouth." I had never thought of myself as being that carnal, a chameleon yes; but not a potty mouth. At this time in my life everything connected with faith meant duty, and everything connected with the world meant fun. I was as the old country western song writer sang, "looking for love in all the wrong places." At this time in life Toby Keith had come out with a popular song, called, "I wonna talk about me." This was the theme song in my fantasy land. The business of religion became nothing more than a Sunday morning thing.

Mt rumspringa ended when my "me-ology" was transformed through the renewing of my mind and affections to "theology." In sum, my pursuit of pleasure took a turn from lapping up what was left over in a broken cisterns to falling face first into the fountain of living water, where God replenished what was lacking in my pursuits, namely himself. It was through a radically transformed preacher that preached a radically transformational message of pursuing delight in God that my ramspinga ended. I'll never forget the first sermon I heard from this former body builder/hockey player that previously played the position of "enforcer". His first sermon preached at my home church was from Jeremiah 2:12,13 which says, "Be appalled. O heavens, at this; be shocked, be utterly desolate, declares the LORD, for my people have committed two evils: they have forsaken me, the fountain of living waters, and hewed out cisterns for themselves, broken cisterns that can hold no water." I knew that I had forsaken God in my quest for fame, lasting joy, and relationship. I was running around (rumspinga) after things that could not fully satisfy.

There are a few young men in my circle of influence that are either in rumspringa or gradually coming out of it. As one who has been there myself, I have special interest in such guys. I really appreciated Joshua Harris's chapter on "My rumspringa" because it caused me to go back in time and reflect upon my conversion experience. I find myself coming to a similar place as Harris did at the end of the chapter in which he writes,

"The irony of my story-and I suppose it often works this way- is that the very
things I needed, even longed for in my relationship with God, were wrapped up in
the very things I was so sure could do me no good. I didn't understand that such seemingly worn-out words as theology, doctrine, and orthodoxy were the pathway to the mysterious, awe-filled experience of truly knowing the living Jesus Christ."

A New Ministry Pardner

On Monday, I made a 18 mile trek with a new ministry pardner. Unlike most travelling companions, the one I made the journey with is measured by hands, and not feet. Furthermore, he is covered with blackish-brown hair, leaves hoof prints and road apples on the trail, and has a hearty appetite for hay. My new ministry pardner is not much of a talker; yet it has been known for animals of a similar kind to speak if you read through the book of Numbers. If I have totally baffled you, my new ministry pardner is a 5-year-old, bay, quarter horse gelding. For any city slickers out there, this is not the same type of quarter horse you see at the Mall that only moves when there are coins in the slot! He is there real deal!



Fittingly, as a travelling companion in gospel ministry, I call him "Silas" (the shorter form of Silvanus). Although it is highly unlikely for Silas to join in church leadership any time soon, or travel to modern day Antioch (Acts 15:22-35), he is the pardner of a man who has deep aspirations to spread the gospel far and wide and use a horse in the process. Inasmuch as I would see myself as more of a Timothy than a Paul, I intend to have many travels with Silas (Acts 15:40,41) as I tell people God's best news revealed in Jesus Christ. I don't intend for Silas to be treated as an outlaw of sorts, or be jailed, (as in Acts 16:25-40); but there will no doubt be risk ahead of us as we anticipate adventures together. Perhaps Silas will be a steed that receives honorable mention in letters (2 Cor. 1:19; 1 Thess. 1:1; 2 Thess. 1:1; I Peter 5:12), or maybe he will be just another horse. Whatever may be the case, I am sure blessed to have a new prospect that I trust will enable me to do further kingdom work in Delia and abroad.

Changing Hearts, Changing Lives

Our Sunday evening fellowship group just began a profitable study from Paul David Tripp and David Powlison entitled Changing Hearts, Changing Lives. In the first session, Paul David Tripp, made two profound statements that prove to be necessary Christian character qualities.

1. "The loving courage of honesty"

What Paul Tripp further explained as "trimming the truth vs. speaking the truth in love." I found the section stressing the importance of speaking the truth in love quite convicting. I was made aware of an important reality expressed by the following quote: "Truth not spoken in love ceases to be the truth because it has been twisted by another human agenda."

2. "The humility of approachability"

Humility is a necessary ingredient for personal ministry. I need more than a little humbling as I seek to counsel people in a way that influences them in a God-honoring, Christ-exalting, Spirit-empowered and Biblical way.

The lesson at hand was the start of what I hope to be a life changing study for me, along with many others who I trust will faithfully attend.

Shepherd's Conference

I am currently digesting from a great feast in southern California. Along with two other brothers from Younstown, AB, I had the great privilege of sitting under the ministry of John MacArthur, Al Mohler, Rick Holland, Phil Johnson, Tom Pennington, and Steven Lawson. The conference from my perspective was: equipping, encouraging, refreshing, and convicting. There was a spirit of excellence behind all that was done in the name of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ. The times of singing were a foretaste of heaven, and the times of learning served as a great preparation for further gospel ministry in Delia. A big thanks to all those who prayerfully supported me. It would seem more appropriate to reflect further on the conference after spending some much needed time in preparation for a new sermon series I will be preaching from the book of Romans. This is a book I approach with a certain level of fear and trepidation for its depth and detail concerning the gospel. May God help me as I sit under his Word.

Cowboy Wisdom #2

Roy Roger's "Rider's Rules"

1. Be neat and clean.

2. Be courteous and polite.

3. Always obey your parents.

4. Protect the weak and help them.

5. Be brave but never take chances.

6. Study hard and learn all you can.

7. Be kind to animals and care for them.

8. Eat all your food and never waste any.

9. Love God and go to Sunday School regularly.

10. Always respect our flag and our country.

Reformation in Geneva

One day, if the Lord permits, I would love to tour Europe and visit sites that connect the dots of Reformation history. If this were ever to happen, I would be sure to explore what has been referred to as "The Protestant Rome" namely Geneva, Switzerland. Two particular points of interest to me would be "The Reformation Wall" (shown here) and "The International Museum of the Reformation". Why is it that Geneva has such an appeal to me? Is it because Geneva is the city that is usually associated with John Calvin (included on The Reformation Wall)? Yes it is; yet that is not the primary reason. The main reason why I am interested in the city of Geneva is because of its historical example of being a disciplined Christian community and center for ministerial training (Church History in Plain Language by Bruce L. Shelly).

Whereas Protestant teaching found its original expressions in Lutheranism, the Reformed Protestant church developed a further concept of change in the sixteenth century. Holding to the same belief in redemption, the Reformed church affirmed the belief in salvation: by grace alone (sola gratia), through faith alone (sola fide), in Christ alone (sola Christus), according to the Scripture alone (sola Scriptura), to the glory of God alone (sola deo gloria). Having said this, there are a few distinctives that separated Lutheranism from Reformed Protestantism. One difference relates to a less liturgical form of worship embraced by the Reformed over against the continuation of many Catholic symbols, and medieval practices in Lutheran churches. What is more, the Reformed church evidenced a greater separation between church and state, with more of a congregational style of government that some argue prepared for democracy in the secular realm. With a high view of preaching, the sovereignty of God, and good works as evidence of the Holy Spirit's work in the lives of believers, Reformed Christianity had no small affect on sixteenth century culture.

The Swiss cities of Zurich, and Geneva were greatly influenced by the rise of Reformed theology and practice. Ulrich Zwingli, a bold warrior for reform in Zurich, died in battle in his prime. In Geneva, a french-born lawyer named John Calvin influenced an entire city after his miraculous conversion. As an astute academic, Calvin organized Reformation theology in a classic work known as The Institutes of the Christian Religion. His writings were well received by a fellow named Guillaume Farel (included on The Reformation Wall) who would encourage Calvin to join him in Genevan reform. Change for the better was no easy attempt in Geneva. With lax morals and heresy at hand, Geneva had a great need for transformation. After being banished from Geneva in 1538, Calvin married in 1540 and was persuaded to return to Geneva in 1541. Interestingly enough, Geneva's spiritual state was improved greatly by the faithful preaching of God's Word. Calvin's insight provided a model that was employed willingly by the city council. By submitting himself to the will of God, Calvin was used as an instrument to categorically change Geneva.

The Scottish Reformer, John Knox (also included on The Reformation Wall), studied in Geneva in those days and said the city was, "the most perfect school of Christ that was ever in the earth since the days of the apostles." Persecuted people fled to Geneva, and students from all around Europe came there to learn the Scriptures. A fresh discovery of the timeless truths of the Bible brought about an incredible change in Geneva. Today, Canadian cities, towns and villages struggle with all sorts of immorality. In addition, apathy and a lack of spiritual life among members of small communities raises up great barriers to progress. To see Geneva progress from state of flagrant depravity to a place of spiritual awakening serves as a real testimony of how the gospel can change an entire city for the good. Theodore Beza (included on The Reformation Wall), head of the Geneva Academy, continued reform in Geneva after Calvin. In the same way, God is calling people in the 21st century to continue God's work of reformation in the lives of His people. What we need most in our communities is a reformation of spiritual vitality (through the preaching of God's Word) in the name of Jesus Christ. Perhaps your community will be the next new Geneva!

Confronting Fear

I'll never forget my first experience coming out of the bucking chutes at a rodeo. My debut ride was neither on a bronc nor a bull; but on a woolly critter in a competition known as Mutton Bustin'. Although my chest stuck out with courage upon my Dad entering me up in the event, it wasn't long until a certain lack of confidence in my own ability overruled the situation (unlike the Mutton Buster' in the picture). Upon digressing onto the startled ewe, my fears turned to tears, and my emotion led to a great commotion of yelling and screaming. With great persuasion, my Dad convinced me to grab hold of the thick shank which was sunken into a mat of wool. In my troubled state I can remember my Dad saying, "Are you ready?" With great apprehension, I began to back paddle from my previously cocky attitude and wanted nothing more than to set my feet upon solid ground. Before I even had a chance to contest against the the prospect of a sheep ride, I found myself engaged in perhaps the most wild and woolly ride of my life. With mouth wide open and knees up high, I bellered at the top of my lungs as the flash of fleece bolted out of the chute. Before the dust had settled from the split hooves of the fleeing flock member, I recall walking back to the chute with a deepened understanding of what is meant by an adrenaline rush. Forgetting about the initial trauma of being in the chute, I was overwhelmed by shear glee. After giving the Rodeo clown a high five, I strutted back to the chutes as if I had successfully rode Bodacious (an infamous bull in the sport of rodeo known as "The World's Most Dangerous Bull).

My first experience sheep riding at the FCA (Foothills Cowboy Association) rodeo in Carbon, AB is the most vivid encounter with fear I remember as a young cowboy. If memory serves me correct, the opening of the chute to my first sheep ride, gives rise to many other experiences where I have had to face fear right in the eye. The story I have shared serves as a reminder of how prevalent fear is in our daily lives.

The Bible speaks a great deal about fear. In the Scriptures we find: exhortations to fear God, cautionary warnings relating to fearing man, and instruction as to how to overcome the fear of circumstances including death. In the book of Hebrews 2: 14,15, the author answers the question, "How does Christ deliver us from the fear of death?" The answer is threefold.

1. Jesus became a man "...He Himself likewise partook of the same things [flesh and blood]..."


2. Jesus died - it was as a matter of fact "...through death..."


3. Jesus conquered Satan "that...he might destroy the one who has the power of death..."

Consequently, Jesus delivers us from the fear of death. Hebrews 2:15 says that Christ not only conquers the devil but "delivers all those who through fear of death were subject to lifelong slavery." We have no reason to fear our last and greatest enemy if we embrace Christ as our Redeemer, Warrior, and merciful High Priest. If you have embraced Christ in this way, you have no reason to fear anything. Whether it be a circumstance you are facing in life or death itself. Death is a universal reality that is as certain as the nose on your face. Disillusioning yourself to death is like a skydiver arguing against the law of gravity. Without Christ your life is akin to jumping out of an airplane without a parachute. Using this analogy to illustrate the connection between fear of death and lifelong slavery, John Piper in Future Grace comments that slavery through the fear of death occurs in two ways. The first enslavement involves denial of reality (slavery to illusion). The second enslavement involves succumbing to fear (slavery to terror). Lets consider how this enslavement looks in practical terms in the lives of all those who will face death, namely everyone.

Slavery to illusion is when truth claims regarding death are discredited. For instance when someone holds the view that the death of a human is no different than the death of a tree. Or the universalist view that everyone goes to heaven when they die. If the thought of dying brings more pain because of the loss of possessions, and friends than it gives joy at gaining Christ, we might have religious delusions. If you are presently putting your faith in yourself, your religion, or any other person apart from Christ you may fall under this category of being a slave to illusion. If this is true of you, I trust, hope, and pray that you might be summoned to faith in the Lord Jesus Christ by the working of the Holy Spirit.

Slavery to terror is when individuals succumb to fear as I did in the chute. Weeping, screaming, and spiritual unrest are all signs that point toward slavery of the terror sort. St. Augustine of Hippo once said something to the effect that you will be restless until you find your rest in Christ. Is your soul in safe-keeping in Christ? Or tossed by the winds of unbelief and hostility toward God? You can often notice terror in the lives of folks that are in a state of dying without Christ. It is most unpleasant to witness. If this type of slavery is true of you, I beg you to flee from the wrath of God upon your sin, and cling to Christ as your only hope for salvation and a heavenly home.

I can recall a time in my life that I had no assurance of my salvation. I experienced the terror of not knowing whether my sins were forgiven in Christ. It was as if I was enslaved to the idea that salvation depended upon my performance as a good boy. It wasn't until I discovered the infinite worth of Christ, and His once-for all-time performance of dying on the cross for sin that I experienced a sweet release. It was as if I was a man falling from the air at 10,000 feet and discovered that a parachute had been provided for my rescue. Have you discovered Jesus Christ personally? I trust you have, for God's glory and your inexpressible joy!

A Profound Worldview Tour

Since coming to Delia a year ago, we have heard nothing but good things about Focus on the Family's Truth Project. At the the beginning of the year, one of the members of Delia Christian Fellowship offered to lead a small group using The Truth Project as curriculum. We have found the study to be quite profound. Last night, Del Tackitt, lead a session on history.

By way of introduction, the tour roused interest in history by reciting Isaiah 46:9,10, "Remember the former things of old; for I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is none like me, declaring the end from the beginning and from ancient times things not yet done, saying, 'My counsel shall stand, and I will accomplish all my purpose." As the presentation continued, the speaker drove home how important the concept of remembering is in the Scripture. Del Tackitt used the Scriptures very well in building a case for the importance of history by guiding the listeners through the history of redemption and the importance of remembering the Lord. As I recall the food laws, feasts, and Passover described in the first five books of the Bible (Pentateuch), it becomes all the more clear that the purpose behind Jewish customs was primarily for remembering. For Christians today, the Lord's Table (Communion) is an ordinance that calls us to remember. We remember our helpless state without Christ, and our blessed state in Christ. We remember that we have been reconciled (restored into a right relationship) with God through the death of Christ on the cross. We recall I Corinthians 5:21, "For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God." History is important because humanity tends to forget. Deuteronomy 8:11 says, "Take care lest you forget the LORD your God."

On a cautionary note, Del brought up both the danger and power of Historical Revisionism. In a nutshell, Historical Revisionism says, "If you rewrite the past, you can make people believe whatever you want in the present." In addition, the session on history brought up postmodernism and the cultures rejection of metanarratives. Basically what postmodernism is saying is that "there is no larger story." Without the recognition of a larger story that is written by God, man becomes the focus of writing his own story. We become nearsighted, and forsake God's revelation of truth in the Person of Jesus Christ, because we are so caught up with our own lives.

Allow me to share with you a discovery I made at age 17. This discovery came to me by the gracious hand of God. It is simply that I am not the center of the universe. Its not all about me! Sure God has included me in his story; yet I am not the be all and end all of history. As strange as it might seem, it wasn't until I discovered that my chief purpose in life is to glorify God by enjoying Him forever, that I began to experience fulfilment and joy. So much of the time, we are so caught up in writing our own autobiography, and polishing up our investment portfolios that we forget about God's story. Its all about Him folks! He is the author of history, he is the one who has spoken into history, and he is the one to be treasured throughout history.

A Great Canadian Cowboy

Growing up on a cattle operation north of Blackie, Alberta, I was raised with a healthy respect for those who laid the foundations of the ranching industry. From the books my Dad read, I could tell that he stood on the shoulders of great ranchers that have gone before him. One man, that had a stature that could very likely hold up my Dad, is a true legend in the eyes of many Canadian cowboys and city folks alike. His name was John Ware (1845-1905).

Born into slavery in South Carolina, John Ware understood the value of treating all men, regardless of color of skin, with dignity and respect. Perhaps his upbringing had allot to do with the development of admirable character qualities such as: being good natured, a hard worker, honest, and a family man. At the expense of being a real gentleman, when John Ware settled in southern Alberta he was given a nickname that included a common racial slur toward black people. What's more, he was known by the Blackfoot First Nations people as "Matoxy Sex Apee Quin" (bad black white man). The Blackfoot's figured he was some how connected to the spirit world because of his uncanny strength, and sizable presence standing over 6 feet tall and weighing somewhere in the area of 230 lbs.

John Ware's contribution to Canadian history was in large part due to his skill as a cowboy. After leaving the Carolina's, he learned the skills of being a cowhand in Texas. Leaving Texas, John Ware headed north arriving in Idaho in 1882. While in Idaho, the talented cattlemen joined a cattle drive that was taking a herd to Alberta. Upon arrival, John Ware took a real liking to Alberta. Perhaps it was the freedom from discrimination that was not a reality in the southern states. Maybe he was motivated by opportunity and a foreseeable future in the ranching business. Whatever may be the case, Ware ended up working on the Bar U ranch (southwest of High River, AB) and Quorn ranches. It wasn't long before John Ware developed a reputation of being a stellar cowhand, a talented horse trainer, and a man of influence among the people of his day.

By the turn of the century, John Ware had a wife named Mildred, 5 children, and a spread northeast of Duchess, Alberta. Unfortunately, the Ware family was forced to leave after a spring flood wiped out their home. Hitting the trail once again (1902), John and his family moved to an area I consider to be the most beautiful place outside of heaven. South West of Calgary, in high country, is where John Ware spent the remaining time of his life, in an old log cabin that overlooked what is known as Ware Creek. Three years later, tragedy struck the Ware family with the death of John's wife Mildred to pneumonia (1905). Despite John Ware's impressive horsemanship and claim that he had never been thrown from a horse (a claim that is rare among cowboys), his life was ended the same year as his wife's in a fatal horse wreck. Leaving behind four sons and a daughter that was 12 years old at the time named Nettie, the Ware family also left a legacy in western Canadian culture.

In the life of such a man, one can attribute John Ware's success to God's common grace. Were it not for Ware's influence, Canadian cattlemen would not have a history worth writing about. His character and competence as not only a cowboy, but as a forefather of Alberta history cannot be overlooked. Some say that John Ware discovered Turner Valley oilfields with the flick of a match, and invented Steer Wrestling 20 years before the Rodeo event came to the Calgary Stampede. Clearly the life of John Ware contributed a great deal toward the prosperity enjoyed by Albertans even today.

Behold a God of Justice

We live in a day and age that demands second chances. Some of our favorite expressions can be the likes of, "Give the guy some leeway." Or, "Can you cut me some slack." We have all heard and have perhaps even said the familiar words, "Give me a break." Perhaps our human relationships make make easy provision for do overs because of consistent mishaps.

Currently I have been reading through the book of Leviticus. Although I have developed an appreciation for this book over the past 3-4 years, I must say that Leviticus is quite difficult to understand. If viewed from a purely rationalistic perspective, I could see Leviticus being a book of great contention, and frustration. However, if Leviticus is read with the understanding that God has revealed Himself as both loving and just, the book has the potential to speak a great deal into our lives under direction of the Holy Spirit. One of the difficulties with Leviticus is that an overarching theme is death. Death of bulls, death of sheep, death of birds, and even the death of people.

In Leviticus chapter 10 we are confronted with what seems to be an injustice. Upon a closer look, it will be discovered that the sudden and immediate death of Aaron's sons Nadab and Abihu is one of the greatest portrayals of justice in the Scripture. We must bear in mind that Leviticus gives clear and concise protocol as to how God is to be approached. The God of the Bible is not to be approached in a cavalier manner. It is not as if fallen humanity can barge into His presence without careful consideration and caution. After accepting Aaron's sacrifice (Leviticus 9:23,24), Nadab and Abihu offered profane fire before the LORD. There willy nilly attitude was not overlooked but treated as a display of outright defiance toward God's prescribed method of doing priestly ministry.

Thankfully the Scriptures are not silent in regard to the LORD devouring the rebellious brothers. The Bible does not give excuses for such events taking place; just reasons. The reason is given in Leviticus 10:3 which says, "This is what the LORD spoke saying, By those who come near Me I must be regarded as holy; And before all the people I must be glorified." You see, God is not willing to set aside His glory, even for the sons of Aaron. Just because Aaron was close with Moses didn't mean God would overlook such blatant error. In today's culture of money and fame, we seem to think that dollars and cents can get us out of serious problems. Either that or we try to bypass judgement with a connection we have with a higher level of authority. Aaron knew his sons were guilty and so "held his peace."

Have you ever offered profane fire before God? You may be thinking to yourself, I have never used censors or incense, or anything of the sort so how could I be guilty of unauthorized fire before God. Well, did you know that God has given people today a prescribed way of approaching Him? That way is through the blood of the Lord Jesus Christ. If you reject God's provision of a sacrifice for sin, namely His dearly loved Son, and seek to enter into the presence of Almighty God by your own merit, you are no different than Nadab and Abihu. They rightfully received their due for disobedience, and you will too. Ignorance isn't bliss in such matters. Therefore I urge you to come to God in the way he calls you to. God has mercifully provided a way for worshippers to approach Him through the death of Jesus. As sinful as they may be, Christ's all-sufficient sacrifice shields all those who put their faith in Him. God has a burning zeal for His glory that will by no means overlook the disobedience of man. Behold a God of Justice!

The Word of God Brings Life

One of the most curious; yet hope-filled passages of Scripture comes from a vision in Ezekiel 37. At first glance the subject matter of the valley of dry bones seems obscure, morbid, even grotesque. Having said this, Ezekiel's vision contributes a great deal to our understanding of the restoration of God's people, resurrection, and the life giving power of God's spoken word.

By way of review, Ezekiel's exposure to the dry bones was followed by the question, "Son of man, can these bones live?" The prophets response was a simple, "O Lord God, You know." This question is followed by a highly unusual command, "Prophesy over these bones, and say to them, O dry bones, hear the word of the Lord. Thus says the Lord God to these bones: Behold, I will cause breath to enter you, and you shall live" (Ezekiel 37:4). Interestingly enough, when the prophet began to prophesy there was a rattling sound compared to that of the earthquake in Ezekiel 3:12,13. The bones came together, sinews and flesh stuck to the bones, and skin covered the once dry bones. What is more, the Lord called Ezekiel to prophecy to the breath, "Thus says the Lord God: Come from the four winds, O breath, and breathe on these slain, that they may live (Ezekiel 37:9). Amazingly, the bodies were animated into living beings that stood on their feet as an exceedingly great army.

Thankfully we are provided with an explanation of the significance of the dry bones becoming living beings in Ezekiel 37:11-13. The bones are identified as the whole house of Israel to display the hopeless situation they found themselves in. However, the vision comes as a blessing in the sense that promised restoration is given to the people. We are told in verse 13 that the purpose of God's restoration is that the people know that God is the LORD. He is the one who created everything by the word of his power (Gen.1), He is the one who called Abram into a covenantal relationship with Himself (Gen.12), and He is the one who animates His people when he puts His Spirit within them (Ezekiel 37). This language is reminiscent of Ezekiel 36:26, "I will give you a new heart, and a new spirit I will put within you. And I will remove the heart of stone from your flesh and give you a heart of flesh."

The word of God brings life! "I have spoken, and I will do it, declares the LORD" (Ezekiel 37:14). For the purpose of application, may I suggest that Ezekiel's vision highlights the importance of hearing God's word. The word of prophecy from Ezekiel is God's word. Allow me to share an observation. I get the impression that the faith of many Christians in the church today is likened to the valley of dead bones. There is spiritual dryness, observable joylessness, and the semblance of death and decay. When my faith seems cold I am reminded of Romans 10:17 which says, "faith comes through hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ." It is faith that animates lethargic, and apathetic Christians, and faith comes through hearing the word of Christ.

I am currently reading a book by Mark Dever entitled, Nine Marks of a Healthy Church. I was not too surprised to find that the first mark of a healthy church related to the preaching of God's Word. You see without the revelation of God's Word, there is no hope for dry bones left in a valley. In Dever's first chapter entitled Expositional Preaching, he asks, "How does God put His Spirit in Israel so that they will live? He does it by His Word." This is a brilliant; yet simple observation. God puts His Spirit in the lives of people through the implantation of His Word.

In addition to this Dever says, "It is in Christ that the Word of God has fully and finally come to us." This is a tremendous truth, that should cause each and everyone of us to cling all the more closely to our Lord, Savior, and Treasure, Jesus Christ.

In speaking of how the Word of God brings life, Dever astutely recognizes that "the church of God, can only be created around the Word of God." The church of God is not created out of a focus on great programs, community involvement, or entertainment driven preaching. If we are feeling lifeless and devoid of the Spirit's animation we need nothing less than a resolution to keep our noses in the Book. It is in fresh discoveries from the Bible that we experience renewed spiritual life.

Perhaps my favorite words in the English vocabulary all begin with the letter R. Although I love, riding, roping, and reading, I am talking more along the lines of restoration, reformation, and revival. Closing off his section on how the Word of God brings life, Mark Dever quotes a statement made by the old Reformer Martin Luther. When asked about his accomplishments Luther said, "I simply taught, preached, wrote God's Word: otherwise I did nothing....The Word did it all." Lets not forget that it is the Word of God that brings life.

Cowboy Wisdom #1

"Cowboy dress is determined by three factors: weather, work, and vanity."

A few weeks back I was reminded by my Mother of a season of life that I refused to wear jeans that didn't have a Wrangler patch on the right back pocket. At the beginning of a new school year it seemed to be customary that I would get a couple new pairs of Wranglers. It didn't matter whether they were black or blue; but they could on no circumstances be Levi's. I'll never forget the first time my Mother decided to save a few bucks and buy me Levi's instead of Wranglers. I was appalled! How could she send me to school without the best of cowboy garb?

Looking back, I am mindful of a certain level of vanity that is accompanied with the cowboy image. Bright shirts that make you stand out like a peacock, shiny silver buckles, and distinguished tall hats seem to have a purpose beyond practical matters. Although there are many cowpokes that pay very little attention to matters of fashion, it may be argued that there is a level of undue pride in appearance that sits under the brim of certain cowboy hats (including mine).

The words of the Preacher in Ecclesiastes 1:2 are as follows, "Vanity of vanities, all is vanity." If this includes the subject in question, it would seem that cowboy attire often includes that which is futile, useless, and insubstantial. Interestingly enough, in some cases the most skilled cowhands are the most crudely dressed. When it comes down to the nitty gritty duties of roping, and riding, it doesn't matter whether you have a flashy Wrangler 20X collared shirt on, or a shirt that was passed on to you by your Grandad with brown paisley's on it. The substance of a cowboy does not lie on external dress; but on internal resolve and grit.

Saddlebag Preachers

In the rise of evangelicalism on the North American shore, the Methodist Church exemplified a tireless pursuit of spreading the gospel. A noteworthy preacher by the name of Francis Asbury (displayed here) exemplified a deep passion for Christ in his circulation of the message of the gospel in the 18th and 19th century. Popularly known as a "circuit-rider" or "saddlebag preacher" Asbury (along with many other Methodists) took the gospel to people on horeback.

Asbury believed that people were lost without Jesus and displayed a genuine concern for the state of souls. It is said that Asbury covered 270,000 miles, crossed the Appalachian Mountains more than 60 times, and preached 16,000 sermons over the course of 45 years. The life of the itinerant preacher was rough, rugged, and relentless. His home was often the great outdoors, under a blanket of stars. Many circuit-riders died at a young age from long, hard miles and exposure to the elements. The persistance of circuit-riders led to a spoken proverb: "The weather is so bad today that nothing's out but crows and Methodist preachers."

In a day of urbanization, the rural church often feels neglected, unimportant, and unable to keep preachers for any length of time. Saddlebag preachers believed that no town or district was too small to have a gospel witness. Furthermore, these itinerant preachers believed the words of the Great Commision to "Go therefore and make disciples of all nations..." These men were active gospel proclaimers that were motivated out of a genuine devotion to Christ to bring the message of Jesus to every person. Although the age of circuit-riding has been replaced by cars, and trucks, the principle of spreading the gospel far and wide with every means we have available should never be forgotten.

The Goodness of the Gospel

At the end of January my wife and I had the distinct pleasure of joining the Calvary Grace Conference in Calgary, Alberta entitled "The Goodness of the Gospel". We were deeply blessed by spirit-empowered preaching, reconnecting with old friends, and spending some time with my family. The sessions were filled with discoveries of the most excellent sort. It should be of no surprise however, since the subject at hand was both timely and timeless. I was reminded by the speakers that 'The Goodness of the Gospel' is affirmed throughout the entire Bible. It is the focal point of all redemptive history from Genesis to Revelation. Although I learned this principle while at Bible College, it was good for me to be reminded of this especially now that I am in pulpit ministry.

On a personal note, I can honestly say that the gospel is not only good news; but the best news I have ever heard. The verse that changed my entire perception of the gospel from a code of dos and don'ts to something to be treasured is Matthew 13:44. There I read, "The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field, which a man found and covered up. Then in his joy he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field." As a 17 year old farmboy these words instilled in me the type of joy that compelled me to leap over corral fences in a single bound. The gospel was no longer drudgery; but delight.

Ever since that Holy Spirit awakening, I have treasured the gospel supremely because of the Person that embodied 'good news'. His name is Jesus. He has become the only grounds for my salvation, and the foundation of my joy. I can honestly say that the gospel has become good news to me, as I trust it also has for you.