STAYING AFLOAT IN A WILD SEA
January 6, 2012 We live in turbulent times. Sometimes the storms of life seem to overwhelm us, economic stress, physical and emotional health problems, relational stress, you name it! The problem is, often we overload our ships, making it hard to stay afloat.

Over the holidays, when many are formulating their New Year’s resolutions God spoke clearly to my heart and said, SIMPLIFY! This was like a cold, unexpected Gatorade bath. Sobering and not what I wanted to hear. You see, I am a little (maybe a lot), ADD. I love to move from one thing to the next. I love distractions, but for 2012 maybe we need fewer resolutions and more focus on what is really important (Simplify!).

It is ironic that so many good intentions (resolutions), are a distant memory by March. Just check out a gym in January and then go back in March and you will see what I mean. Paul understood this when he wrote Philippians 3:13 (NLT) which says,

‘Know Dear Brothers and Sisters, I have not achieved it, but I focus on this one thing. Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead.’

Notice Paul says this one thing, not these 20 things I do. Simplify doesn’t mean to escape to a cabin in the wilderness, it means to focus on what God has called us to do to fulfill our destiny.

Simplify means ‘lightening the load.’ In Acts 27 Paul prophetically warns the ship on which he is a prisoner, to not sail on. They didn’t listen and ended up in a life threatening storm. At one point they realize that to stay afloat they must throw some things overboard (Acts 27:10). Some of us have overloaded our ship and we better throw some things overboard or sink.

What needs to go? What do I need to say no to so I can say yes to what God feels is important? The decisions I make not only affect me but affect all those around me. In 2012 let’s really try to simplify and focus on what is important. It will not only change our lives but will impact those around us. ‘I have chosen to live life simply so that others might simply live.’
Richard Rohr

For more detail listen to the message from January 8 2012.

RUNNING INTO AN ORPHAN
Pastor JR Polhemus
September 15, 2011

Last week I ran into someone who had been a strong part of The Rock. He
and his wife had such a passion for Jesus and were used by God to touch others
lives. I remembered back a few years ago how he had told me that they needed a
break and would be pulling back. They dropped out of the ministry and small group
they were involved in and moved from sitting in the front row to the back in services.
Gradually they drifted away and stopped attending. When I called them to see how
they were doing, they said they were trying out different churches. I encouraged them
to reconnect somewhere. But as we talked that day, he said that they didn’t attend
anywhere. They had gone through some personal struggles and experienced some
deep disappointments. My heart broke for them. I invited them back but he politely
refused, saying it would be embarrassing.

As a pastor my heart breaks for this couple, and others who become orphaned
from the church. I know God’s heart breaks for them also.

Hebrews 10:25 (NKJ) …not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as
is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see
the Day approaching.

Although much maligned and far from perfect, God chose The Church as his
heavenly instrument on earth. The church (the body of Christ), is God’s vehicle to bring
love, peace, harmony and hope to a very dysfunctional world.

We live on a fallen planet which has felt the ravages of sin and pain. We must
remember this isn’t our home, but we are to bring heaven to earth as much as possible.
We can’t do it alone. We need each other, and it is through the body working together
that this happens. Jesus is the head, and collectively, we make up his body.

A few months ago I got a powerful email from a lady who had gone through much
suffering both physically and emotionally. She talked about how her life was totally
transformed by attending weekend services, the Healing Rooms, and connecting with
other believers from The Rock. You could feel her joy bubbling over in the email.

I have seen others (like the person I ran into last week), who pulled away from
the body, because of disappointment and stress, or thinking they just needed a break
from the church. Sadly, they have ended up depressed and isolated.

No matter what you are going through, forsake not assembling together – stay
connected my friends.

Love, Pastor JR

A SURPRISE ATTACK
August 25, 2011

August 1, 2:30 AM, I awoke from a deep sleep, looked at the clock and felt my left
forearm, which was throbbing and swollen. I felt hot and clammy. In a few hours I
was scheduled to minister at Youth with A Mission in Denver, in the first of a series of
meetings that week. I called my doctor in the morning and he said to come right in. I did,
he looked at it and said “Looks like a spider bite, let’s monitor it.”

By late afternoon as I was heading back from YWAM, my arm had grown considerably
in size and my fever had increased. I received a lot of prayer and my doctor immediately
put me on oral antibiotics. The next day things were worse when I got back from
ministering all day and I was put immediately on a stronger I.V. antibiotic. Things
continued to get worse and by Thursday after I returned from YWAM, my arm was
even more swollen even though I had taken another I.V. on Wednesday afternoon as
well. Two doctors consulted and said we are in agreement that you need to go to the
hospital.

For the next four days I was in the hospital receiving massive amounts of antibiotics
through an I.V. The diagnosis was a staph infection which was considered serious,
and I was praying that it wasn’t the bad kind of staph and that it would respond to the
antibiotics.

We had sent out 25,000 mailers to the Castle Rock area with my picture on it telling
about a new series starting that weekend. When the doctor came in and told me on
Friday morning that there was no way I could preach, because they were keeping me
in the hospital at least until Sunday morning, I began to freak out. Then I realized the
Lord had been teaching me an important lesson since we had left for our mission trip to
Europe in June, and that was “Do not worry about the things you can’t control.” So once
again I heard that little voice tell me…”Do not worry about being at church, you need to
get well.” Sometimes I find it really hard to let go. I began to worry about the wedding
I was to perform at 4:00 pm on Sunday for a wonderful young lady who grew up in our
church and a close family friend. I heard the Lord encourage me to just trust Him.

I am so grateful for all the prayer that went forth from my prayer shield, my staff, my
family and my church family. I don’t know if I would have come through it as well if it
wasn’t for those prayers. I know the prayers helped me come through much better than
I might have otherwise. At 12:00 noon the doctor released me to do the wedding! Praise
God!

I Peter 5:7-9 NLT 7Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you.
8 Stay alert! Watch out for your great enemy, the devil. He prowls around like a roaring
lion (or a sneaky spider), looking for someone to devour. 9 Stand firm against him, and
be strong in your faith. Remember that your Christian brothers and sisters all over the
world are going through the same kind of suffering you are.

~Love,

Pastor J.R.

ARE YOU HUNGRY?
May 13, 2011

Think back to times when you were really hungry, what did you do? You found food to eat and often ate until you were full, but have you ever been hungry and eaten food and then realized that the hunger you were having was deeper than physical, it was spiritual? Eating food does not satisfy spiritual hunger; in fact even feasting on God often does not truly satiate the hunger, but can ironically increase it.

I remember in the 70’s there was a spiritual hunger in the land. I am not sure why but there seemed to be many factors. The Great Depression of the 30’s and 40’s had moved America into a quest for materialism, evidenced by big cars with big fins. There was restlessness among young people who were looking for more than materialism. This restlessness of the 60’s and 70’s saw accompanying with it a rise in spiritual hunger. The Jesus movement of the 70’s saw thousands of young people streaming into the Kingdom. At the same time Eastern religions, cults, and the New Age movement were all on the rise. People were looking anywhere and everywhere to feed their spiritual hunger.

Many became unsatisfied with life during this time and so looked to the spiritual to fill them. Blaise Pascal, centuries before had said, “In every one of us there is a God shaped vacuum that only God can fill”. This hunger spilled over with a desire for the Holy Spirit and the things of the spirit. Many denominational churches that had been dead, came alive. This was called the “charismatic renewal”. Stadiums filled with hungry people crying out for the spirit of God. It was an exciting time. Believers from all walks of life were moving and flowing in the gifts of the spirit.

I believe that we are moving into a new time of hunger, with people hungering and thirsting after God and an outpouring of the Holy Spirit. I am seeing the signs…listen to Isaiah 55:1 (NIV):  “Come, all you who are thirsty, come to the waters; and you who have no money, come, buy and eat! Come; buy wine and milk without money and without cost.” The wine refers to the Holy Spirit and the milk refers to the filling of His Word.

Let me describe the hunger I am seeing in David’s words: Psalm 84:2 (NLT) “I long, yes, I faint with longing to enter the courts of the Lord. With my whole being, body and soul, I will shout joyfully to the living God.” Recently I have seen a much greater hunger in our church. Last week, a class that I teach on the Holy Spirit had five times more people than ever before. Beyond that, instead of a spirit of argumentation, there was a spirit of receiving, and a desire to go deeper in the things of God. In the Easter services I saw more people than ever before hungering after God and wanting more. Also, last weekend after the 11:00 am service a girl in her 20’s walked up to me and said, “I haven’t been in church in 15 years. I just started coming the last few weeks and I love this, this is so exciting”. I am extremely excited because the awakening or the move of the spirit we have been anticipating, I believe, is beginning to happen.

We have seen more healings, physically and emotionally in the healing rooms and in our regular services in the last few months than ever before. This is a time as never before to increase our intimacy with the Lord. That means spending time with Him and allowing Him into every area of our life. I don’t want anybody to miss out on this. As a well know commercial on T.V. says, “stay thirsty my friends”. Let’s hunger and thirst together after the things of God.

Love,
Pastor J.R.

FASTING NEGATIVE THINKING
January 31, 2011

Today we came to the end of our 15 day fast of negative thinking (and speaking), at The Rock. It has been very interesting! You can go to the website: www.therock.org and download the messages “Extraordinary”, from January 17 -24th, on how to deal with negative thinking.

This has been eye opening for many of us. I have noticed how my mind naturally gravitates toward the negative. I caught myself worrying about negative possibilities in the future. Also, my wife Yvonne and I had fun encouraging each other after a negative statement popped out, saying: “I wonder if you could rephrase that in a more positive way. “Last weekend as I was at the sound booth, I realized I had forgotten my notes, “you idiot” (selftalk) popped out of my mouth. The person who puts up the words to songs and scriptures smiled and said: “That doesn’t sound very positive”. I was caught breaking the very fast I instituted!

Scripture makes it clear in Ephesians 4:29 (NKJ)… Let no corrupt word proceed out of your mouth, but what is good for necessary edification, that it may impart grace to the hearers. The word translated “contempt” is the Greek word: “sapros”, which means rotten or worthless. Negative thinking precedes negative words. Matt 12:34 (NKJ) Brood of vipers! How can you, being evil, speak good things? For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks. Thus, we must change our thought life with the help of the Holy Spirit. I have heard several great testimonies from this negativity fast. Here is one from Tara Novak: “I have a quick testimony to share with you.   We have a new Mac Book computer and a few days ago I spilled juice on the keyboard by accident and it quit working.  Anyway, I was really upset about the situation as I know that it was going to cost a lot.  BUT, instead of complaining and proclaiming bad outcomes, I chose to ask God for help and I quoted some positive scriptures over the situation.  I  stood on the verse by Romans 8:28 "All things work together for good for those who love God".

So, a few hours later, my husband took the computer to the Apple store to have it serviced and told them how I spilled juice on it and it had stopped working.  They tried to fix it and said it was going to cost us $750.00.  We were willing to do that as we were trusting God with the outcome but shortly afterwards they told my husband that they were just going to replace the whole computer by giving us a new one without any charge.  They told us not to spill anymore juice on our computers.  Wow!  Praise God!

Later that evening, at an employee work party, I won a new Amazon Kindle book which to me was a double blessing.  God sure proves himself when we trust him.  This has really shown me some things about positive speaking and choosing to talk positively about our circumstances.”

This is much more than the “new age” concept of positive thinking. This is lining up with God and his way of approaching life. Hopefully we can continue this fast into eternity together and with God’s help we can change the world we live in!

Love,
Pastor JR

GRATEFULNESS

October 7, 2010

A few weeks ago as I was saying “good-bye” to people after the 11:00 am service, a lady
came up to me with some peaches. I asked her to place the bag by the Welcome Center. They
were the most delicious peaches I have tasted in a long while. I asked people working in the
Welcome Center if they knew her name, but no one did. I have looked for her since, but I am
not sure if I would even recognize her. Anyway, I have been almost haunted by not being able to
express my gratefulness for her kind act.

I am writing this blog, hoping it will help to find out who she is, so I can thank her. Also, I
am sharing this so we can all learn from my mistake. When someone does something nice –
thank them immediately, even if you have to go out of your way. Don’t wait – you may not have
the opportunity in the future.

My mother taught us to always express “thanks” when receiving something. As a child, I
remember a few days after Christmas being made to sit down and write “Thank You” notes. I
dreaded this exercise, but I am so glad my mom taught me the principle of expressing gratitude
as a way of life.

There is a story Jesus tells about ten lepers who get healed. Only one comes back to
thank Jesus. There is the implication that the other nine may not have retained their healings or
at least missed a great opportunity. Gratefulness expressed, helps the expresser as well as the
receiver. Gratefulness also helps to quell anxiety. Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by
prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the
peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through
Christ Jesus. (Phil 4:6-7)

It is important to express our gratitude to God and others all the time, and in all
situations. We should never take for granted the love and blessings of God and others.

“Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks for this is the will of God
in Christ Jesus for you. Do not quench the Spirit”. (I Thes 5:16-19)

I want to express my gratitude to each of you for taking the time to read my ramblings.

Love you,

Pastor JR

THE SIMPLE THINGS OF LIFE
August 24, 2010

It is so easy to get caught up in the fast pace of life and be so focused on the “big” things of life. The “big” things are our job, our health, the economy, etc… When this happens it is too easy to miss the simple things of life. What are the simple things?

I will give you an example…Yvonne, my wife, is helping her mom in North Dakota after the death of her step father. I called my son last night and asked if I could take his wife and our two grandchildren to get ice cream. They invited me to dinner, feeling sorry for me that I would have to eat my own cooking. What a great meal – grilled salmon, rice, fresh cooked squash, and a great salad. We talked and joked and then we took off to get ice cream. The grandkids (ages 2 & 4) were so excited they were giggling in the back seat of the car the whole way. It was a warm evening, so we ordered our ice cream and sat outside. As we all licked our flavors we gazed upon a beautiful sunset. Katelyn, the 4 year old, smiled, leaned over and said, “Poppie, this is my favorite ice cream. Thanks so much!” “No Katelyn, thank you so much! Thank you for letting me slow down and not feel alone. Thank you God for the blessings I take for granted in my fast pace.

Eccles. 9:7 NLT says…
So go ahead. Eat your food (and ice cream) with joy, and drink your wine with a happy heart, for God approves of this! (I added the “ice cream”, but it fits well with the passage).

Jesus always seemed to appreciate the simple things of life. He always had time for people. Although thronged by multitudes, he never lost sight of the individual and made everyone feel special. The woman who pressed toward him, reaching to touch his garment in faith, was dramatically rewarded by being instantly healed. The woman at the well knew Jesus cared, and she became an evangelist, telling everyone to come see Jesus. And little Zacheus scaled a tree and was blessed to have Jesus dine with him that night.

Today I had to drive into Denver to Kaiser Permanente’s main facility. I was feeling rushed when an elderly, crippled couple moved slowly toward the elevator. I caught my breath and held the elevator open for them for what seemed like a long time. My heart went out to them as they started to get on the elevator. When they got in, I began to talk and joke with them as the elevator ascended. We got off on the same floor. I waited and let them go in front of me (which is not my normal behavior). Their whole countenances changed as they began to tell me about their life. They lifted my spirits. What a wonderful encounter.

Stop, slow down and enjoy the simple things of life!
Love,
Pastor JR

A MOVIE IN THE MAKING
April 1, 2010
 
A couple of weeks ago my staff and I were invited to a private showing of a yet to be released  movie which has a strong Christian theme. The man who invited us is a very colorful personality who attends our church and just got saved about a year ago. He is helping to fund the production of this movie, and coincidently the movie parallels his own life very closely. Although the movie is a little rough around the edges, it has great potential.

We were asked for input on what changes we would make, and our input was well received. A few days ago I also had the privilege of meeting the lead actor in this film when he flew from L.A. I was impressed with his humility and genuineness, breaking the Hollywood stereo type. He, the producer, and I all sat down and talked about the important changes. The next day the writer/director flew in, and they all talked about implementing many of these and other changes right away. I am really excited and thank God for this unique opportunity.

Stay tuned. I believe this movie, called “I Am”, could really have a powerful impact on our culture. This film was shot primarily in Colorado by a Colorado based film company. In fact one of the camera men is on our worship team and helps us with our videos.

Unfortunately in the 1960’s most Christians packed up and left Hollywood, removing most Godly influence. The sad results have been obvious as our culture has been negatively impacted. However, the good news is that Christians are getting more involved in certain media especially the film industry. Lance Wallnau, who will be ministering at The Rock, April 29 – May 2, talks about the importance of believers moving back in to positions of prominence in our society. He talks about the importance of occupying the Seven Mountains of influence in our culture. Media and Arts is one of these important mountains.

Please pray that “I am” will have a powerful impact on our culture for God’s glory.
 
Love you,

Pastor JR

THE DISAPPEARING VOICE
January 28, 2010

As I was saying “good bye” to people in the foyer after the last service Sunday, my voice said “good bye.” I tried to speak Sunday night at Pursue, but it was ugly. Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday – still “no voice.” I whispered my way through staff meeting on Tuesday (which according to my worship leader whispering is the worst thing you can do because it strains the voice even more). WOW, I really admire Helen Keller. She couldn’t speak, hear or see and look at all she accomplished!

Thursday, I met with some of the staff for sermon preparation and to go over the weekend services. Still no voice. Some staff members panicked, crying for a “Plan B.” Thus, our youth pastor waited, ready in the wings.

I assured them that I would be okay by Saturday night in time to preach then and both services Sunday morning. I really did feel totally confident, and sensed God had told me not to worry, that I would be fine. Also, the Lord took me back to the spring of my final year at Princeton Theological Seminary. The biggest weekend of my ministry was coming up. Spring is the time when seminarians are about to leave school and follow their call. Thus, two pulpit committees were coming to hear me from two churches that were considering me as a candidate for the pastor of their church. This was big. One committee was coming to the 9:00 AM service and another to the 11:00 AM service. I was the youth pastor at a fairly large Presbyterian Church.

There was one problem: early in the week I had gotten a horrible cold. By Thursday I had absolutely no voice for the most important weekend of my ministry life. Should I cancel? I can’t. What if my voice is not back on Sunday? I decided to pray fervently and listen as carefully as possible. I felt the Lord say that if I did not talk until I got up to preach on Sunday I would be fine.

By Saturday I still had no voice, but it was too late to turn back. As I drove to the church Sunday morning, I wanted to check my voice, but felt the Lord clearly warn me not to, but to trust Him. As I got up to preach, I was nervous. What if nothing comes out? I saw the pulpit committee with their pad and pens poised. I opened my mouth. The first few words were rough, but then my voice got stronger.

I made it through the first service. Would it hold up under the strain of the second service? I prayed for God’s help. And help He did. Seeing the second pulpit committee my nervousness began to leave as the words flowed out, now even stronger. Yea God! I got through it. I don’t remember what I preached. I am sure it wasn’t great, but I was so happy that I could speak. Ironically, both churches extended an invitation to me, although I chose to go somewhere else. Overall it had been a great lesson in listening and trusting. Also, I no longer took for granted the ability to speak. I was extremely grateful.

So as this weekend approached, I had great peace (most of the time). God came through and I was able to speak Saturday night and both services Sunday. Once again I was and am very grateful.

Thank you Jesus!

Pastor JR

God’s Heart Exposed
January 9, 2010

There are some stories that really inspire us….Here’s one that made me cry.

Tony Compolo tells of a trip to Hawaii. When you travel from the east coast to Honolulu, your biological clock runs wild for a day or so, and the first night there, Compolo was both hungry and awake at 3:00 a.m. He went off to find an open restaurant, but the only thing open was a greasy spoon diner run by a guy named Harry. So he sat down to eat a donut.

As he was beginning to eat, a group of prostitutes entered the diner and sat at the counter, trapping Compolo among them. One of the prostitutes mentioned to her friend that the next day was her birthday. Her friend said cynically, “Why are you telling me? Do you want a party and cake; is that what you want?” The first prostitute, names Agnes, said, “Why do you have to be so nasty? I was just telling you. No, I don’t expect a cake and a party; I’ve never had a birthday cake in my life!” There was something about this woman that touched Compolo. After they left, he asked Harry if these girls came in every night. When he found out that they did, Compolo and Harry decided to give Agnes a party. Harry did the cake, Compolo did the decorations and Harry’s wife got the word out.

The next morning at 3:15 there were crepe-paper decorations, a huge birthday cake and about thirty prostitutes and street people in the diner. When Agnes walked in, everybody yelled “Surprise” and they sang happy birthday. Agnes almost collapsed, and she began to cry uncontrollably. She was at her very first birthday party, and the party was for her! She didn’t even want to cut the cake; she took it back to her apartment so she could look at it for a couple of days.

After Agnes left to take her cake home, something just prompted Compolo to say, “What do you say; let’s have a prayer for Agnes.” It just seemed like the thing to do at the time. After the prayer, Harry said, “Hey, you didn’t tell us you were a preacher. What kind of church do you belong to anyway?” In one of those flashes of inspiration where you say exactly the right thing at the right time, Compolo answered, “I belong to a church that throws parties for prostitutes at 3:30 in the morning!” But it was Harry who told the punch line to this story; he said, “No you don’t. There are no churches like that. If there was, I’d join. I’d want to be a part of a church like that!” You know, who wouldn’t?

Something to think about…………

Love,

Pastor J.R.

A DIVINE CONNECTION
October 5, 2009

It’s Monday morning, September 21, 2009 at 5:30 AM….Yvonne and I arrive at Sky Ridge Hospital. Today at 7:30 AM I will get a new hip….dislocated at birth, years of football, wrestling and rugby and tack on long distance running. Dr. Loucks later tells me that my right hip was totally destroyed. I had put if off as long as possible. A few prayer warriors pray for me, the doctor, and the nurses as they wheel me away. My trust is in the Lord!

The surgery is successful I’m told through a drug haze. My nurses and attendants are great. I see a nurse named Joyce from our church. My nurses are “angels” who take great care of me. They do an excellent job of helping me in my pain. I can feel the multitudes of prayers from all of you. I’m doing well.

I get to know another nurse, Leslie, who has grown up in a legalistic, judgmental church. She soaks up how much God loves her as we talk. She is a very caring person and such a blessing! Lucy had a love for Jesus growing up in a Christian family, but has left her first love temporarily. She is a lot of fun and bends over backwards to help me. I can see Jesus working His way back into her heart. Sarah is very caring and we talk about Jesus and her new husband of only a month! The Lord prompts me to give each of them a Jared Anderson C.D. since he was in concert at The Rock the night before my surgery. They love the C.D. and each one tells me how it ministers to them.

Then Sarah drops a bomb shell! “Do you know Stan and Patty Silverman?” “Do I know them? Are you kidding?” Stan was a best friend when I lived in Pacific Grove, California. I’ll never forget how he got saved, I tell her. Stan and Harvey Berman, both Jewish and growing up together in New York City, we’re at the kitchen table in my home. It’s 1974 and I’ve been a Christian for only a few months and Harvey for only a few weeks. Harvey and I start talking about Jesus and “He” shows up. I mean “He” comes right into the kitchen at 127 Lawton Avenue. His presence lights up the room. As we keep talking suddenly Stan interrupts “How can I know this Jesus?” Overwhelmed by His presence Stan invites Jesus into his heart. (I didn’t even know the Jewish terminology: Yeshua Hamashiach). A few years later his girlfriend who soon became his wife, Patty gives her heart to Jesus – WOW!

Sarah says “they are my parents!” I’m blown away! I remember Sarah and her older sister when they were little at their home in Evergreen, CO. We’ve lost touch, but I’m reconnecting on the phone. What a divine connection! God is so good!

There is nothing like an encounter with Jesus. Two thousand years ago Saul of Tarsus, the Jewish superstar and persecutor of Christians, had an encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus. The result was the “Apostle Paul” who has impacted all of our lives through the word of God. No wonder that before every service several people are in the prayer rooms behind the stage at The Rock crying out for His presence and for people to be impacted by Jesus! Isn’t is wonderful He’s still encountering people today?

Thanks for your continued prayer. I love you,

Pastor J.R.

P.S. I’ll be back soon – I miss you!

THE LOST ART OF COMMUNICATION
September 10, 2009

It seems ironic to me that in our fast paced, high tech world we are losing the ability to communicate at a deep level. It seems we are living out the prophetic work of David when he wrote: “Many will rush here and there, and knowledge (information) will increase.” (Dan 12:4 b)

Actually the quantity and speed of communication has never been higher. From email, to twitter, to texting, we have the ability more than ever to communicate quickly and efficiently. We are often inundated daily with all kinds of communiqués. Our cell phones have become body appendages making us accessible day or night. We seem busier than ever, yet I wonder if quantity and speed of communication has not replaced quality?

This past Labor Day weekend after preaching the weekend services, we met friends from the church for a mini getaway at the Inverness Hotel. The guys played nine holes of golf and then met our wives at a restaurant to watch the C.U. – C.S.U. football game. As the only C.U. fan in the group I endured a long night of abuse. (I like C.S.U. but our son and 4-1/2 years of tuition went to C.U., so I’m more committed than ever!) After dinner we went back to the hotel and prayed for each other. It was a fun day (except for the game).

The next day we worked out early, had a leisurely breakfast, and then just hung out at the pool for a few hours with no agenda. Something interesting happened… In a relaxed environment with people we know well, our hearts began to open to each other. We went from sharing concerns for the nation, to concerns for our kids, to concerns for each other. We shared deep from the recesses of our hearts, not just surface banter.

As Yvonne and I drove home the deep, relaxed connection continued. That evening we grabbed a bite to eat with the wonderful couple who had taken care of our three “hoodlums” (our dogs). The communication continued. Later that night Yvonne and I reflected on what a fulfilling time we’d had. The art of communication is more than sending information through email or texting or even talking on the phone. I remember learning in speech class that true communication is 80% body language. When we as believers, communicate from the depth of our hearts there is a fulfillment and satisfaction that God intended. That’s what real community is all about.

So what are the culprits that keep us from this communication with others and our Heavenly Father? “My dear brothers and sisters, be quick to hear and slow to speak” (Jn 1:19). In our fast paced world being busy and accomplishing tasks often overrides the value of communication with each other and God at a deep level. Let’s slow down, smell the roses, and listen to each other’s hearts and our Father’s. It will restore this lost art as well as peace!

Love you,

Pastor JR

OUCH – I’M BEING SQUEEZED!
August 13, 2009

Presently many people are being squeezed by difficult circumstances. It’s pretty obvious that it’s mostly economic. I know of people who have been out of work for over a year and have been trying to find work, but it’s not all financial.

Last night I talked with a long time friend whose wife of many years decided to file for divorce. It caught him totally by surprise. Ouch! He was handling it pretty well but was definitely being squeezed.

What happens when you’re squeezed? If you squeeze a lemon, you get lemon juice; an orange, orange juice – “Out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks.” (Mt 12:34

I remember an incident years ago when I was pastoring in the mountains of Colorado. I was driving home from our Christian school. My six year old son (Mike), and I were in the front and this lady and her young son were in the back. It was snowing and icy. All of a sudden, going around a curve, I lost control and we headed toward a ditch. She yelled “Oh Sh _t!” and then quickly added “praise the Lord, He’s with us.” I was able to pull out and not go into the ditch but it was a “squeezing” moment.

This lady had only been saved for about six months and I chuckled to myself. God was moving in her life!

What happens when you are squeezed? More importantly than a four letter word is what is in your heart? When you are put down, criticized, or slandered do you retaliate? I don’t know about you but often my first reaction is that I want to get even and then get forgiven later. That’s not a good response, but it reveals to me the condition of my heart.

 Rom 12:17-21 NLT
17Never pay back evil with more evil. Do things in such a way that everyone can see you are honorable. 18Do all that you can to live in peace with everyone. 19Dear friends, never take revenge. Leave that to the righteous anger of God. For the Scriptures say, "I will take revenge; I will pay them back,"says the Lord.20Instead, "If your enemies are hungry, feed them. If they are thirsty, give them something to drink, and they will be ashamed of what they have done to you."21Don't let evil conquer you, but conquer evil by doing good.

God is working in all of us. Let’s walk close to Jesus 24/7. Let’s get the word in our heart. David said:  Your word I have hidden in my heart, That I might not sin against You. Ps 119:11 NKJV

The next time crisis comes and that four letter word slips out you’ll hear:I will not be afraid of evil tidings; My heart is steadfast, trusting in the Lord. Ps 112:7 NKJV

As we stay close to Him, the next time you’re squeezed there’s a chance Jesus will come out. Let lift each other up in prayer and support each other during the “squeezing times”! We’re all in this together.

Love,

Pastor JR

HOMETOWN HERO OR PROPHET WITHOUT HONOR?

This weekend I ventured back to Washington Crossing, Pennsylvania. This was the place where General George Washington led his tired, tattered army across the Delaware River with a surprise attack on the British and Hessians (German mercenaries), on Christmas morning. This was a successful maneuver that turned out to be the turning point of the Revolutionary War… but enough on the history lesson; this was where I grew up and spent my first 22 years.

I was invited to preach at the church which was originally just across from my house growing up. Of course then it was very small and very dead. In fact after feeling close to God and attending Confirmation class (in 6th grade) with high hopes, I turned my back on Christianity from that class on. I remember the pastor asking me, along with my other classmates, at the end of a tedious eight weeks…”Are you going to join the church?” Everyone else said “yes”. When he got to me, I said “no”. He said “why not”? I said “I don’t know, but I’m not joining.”

As I look back I believe my spirit was crushed unintentionally by not telling me how I could know God and Jesus and be filled with the Holy Spirit.

Now this church “The Crossing” had moved and was not only much bigger but more importantly very alive! If they had only been like this when I was 11 or 12 years old I wouldn’t have gone through so much darkness. I had met the pastor, Scott McDermott at a Randy Clark “Voice of the Apostles” meeting. What a great person and caring pastor. We really hit it off, sharing the same theological bent. He invited me to come back there and preach.

I have to admit driving there from the airport was a trip. I took time to drive all around the neighborhood before ending up at my youngest brother’s home. Flashbacks overwhelmed me. Good feelings and strange ones rose up in my stomach. I remembered riding bikes with my friends through “the park”, getting into trouble. Also parking by the river with my first real girlfriend, exchanging passionate kisses.
    
I was surprisingly a little nervous when I began to preach. I wove my testimony around my text which was Romans 8:14:   
14 for as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God. (NKJ)  
 Some people from my past came to me after service, but how would they, and my brothers respond (my middle brother had flown down from Massachusetts)? Would I be a “hometown hero, or a prophet without honor?”

Thank God things went better than I expected. Some old friends were touched by the message and let me know. Both my brothers expressed how deeply touched they were. My brother’s friend gave his life to the Lord, along with several other people. But most exciting of all my was my brother’s 11 year old son!
  
The next day the five of us (my brothers, my sister-in-law, their 11 year old son and me), all traveled to the Jersey shore. We reminisced the whole way down and back. We prayed for each other before we dropped off my middle brother at the Philadelphia airport that night. Then we drove by the river just across from where we grew up and had a delicious dinner at a favorite place. Wow, what a great weekend, I’ll never forget it! I don’t know if I was a hometown hero – but I was deeply honored, and it actually changed my perception of how I grew up. What great brothers and what a beautiful place to grow up. Fond memories still flood my soul!

Honored by the opportunity to go back,
Pastor J.R.

HELP LORD, I’M GOING TOO FAST!
Thu, Jun 18, 2009 4:50 PM

Years ago before I knew Jesus I was living in a commune in California in the Santa Cruz Mountains. I needed to go into town to get some supplies, so I borrowed Dean and Kate’s car. It was an old blue Ford. The road to town was narrow, winding and steep. I noticed on the first turn the brakes didn’t work. Each turn was faster and faster. I hit the brake peddle frantically to no avail. Faster and Faster. I pictured myself flying high through the locked cattle gate at the end of the road, dying in the process.

But miraculously the brakes started to grab. They finally held, and my life was spared! Sometimes I feel like my life is like that car flying down the mountain. (By the way, Dean and Kate said they meant to tell me to pump the brakes before driving off!)

Often it seems my internal engine pushes me faster and faster. Responsibilities seem to mount, and instead of being guided, I feel driven. It is easy to do in our culture of “performance and accomplishment. My Dad taught me well, and I see the same drive in my son. So what do I do Lord? Jesus gave us great instructions:

Matthew 11:28-30:
28 Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 29 Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30 For My yoke is easy and My burden is light." NKJV

If I’m yoked with Jesus, then I won’t go too fast, take on too heavy a load, and enjoy life a lot more. There are times when I know I need to slow down and smell the roses, but often they are flying by so fast, I am can hardly see them, let alone smell them.

Right now I’m praying and fasting at 9100 ft. It makes me realize how much I’ve had the peddle to the metal. Praying and fasting slows me down. It helps me to reconnect with God. When I play with my grandchildren, it also slows me down. When I sit with my wife, Yvonne, on our deck, sipping a glass of wine, I slow down and enjoy the evening much more. Ironically, time to be with the Lord, not only slows me down but ultimately accomplish more of what He’s called me to.

Romans 8:14 says:
For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God. NKJV

“Lord, never let me forget I’m your beloved son. Slow me down so that I might be led instead of driven. Lord, help me to enjoy beautiful Colorado sunsets, laughing with friends, walking the dogs, preaching the Word, praying for the sick, and playing with the grandchildren!”

Grateful for life…
Pastor JR