I Like Chaos

First week of training is done and the most important I have learned is that I run toward the chaotic. 
Difficult and demanding situations do not scare; in fact, they excite me.  All week I have learned about the challenges of chaplaincy ministry (which are a lot like church planting in NYC), and I am more excited than ever to be involved.  The problem, however, is that while I embrace challenge, doing so does not make me immune from its negative effects, such as estrangement, stress, and exhaustion.  It's a bit ironic, until you consider the source of my calling.
 
The Spirit calls each of us to a different ministry and environment, and each has its unique rewards and challenges.  But in every calling there is often a foundational aspect of that call that simply cannot be done by the natural characteristics or abilities of the individual.  Of course, it is the Spirit who overcomes these obstacles, but He often does so through manners that exhaust us in the process.
  
I know that this is not popular theology, but it's true!  Consider 2 Corinthians 4:7-12.  Paul writes that his life of ministry (and that of all believers) is one of consistent challenge for the glory of God.  None of us can escape this truth since it is at the heart of God's means for demonstrating His glory in us and unto the world.
  
So here is the deal: don't run from the challenges God sets before you, and don't be surprised when the task takes a toll on you mentally, physically or otherwise.  When we are weak, He is strong.  When we are brought low, He is shown exalted.  Embrace the chaos.

Approved for Battle

2 Tim 2:15 -  Do your best to present yourself to God as one (tested and) approved, a worker who has no need to be ashamed…

I’ll probably get flack for posting this, but after 8 years of ministry, primarily to young adults, combined with these past four in seminary, has given me plenty of opportunity to observe a large number of people.  The sad truth is that most people do not want to ‘work.’  Sure, they want a position, a paycheck, or an opportunity, but they don’t want to be tested, criticized, or held accountable; which is what ‘work’ is.

I leave today for yet another multi-week military chaplaincy training mandate.  Like so many others, I am very eager for the opportunity and adventure.  It is fun and exciting to do something new, work in a unique environment and wear camouflage.  However, this is only a very small reason for my enthusiasm.  The real source of my eagerness is the opportunity to learn, fail, and learn some more after failing.  I know I am a good and qualified minister, and I know my level of physical readiness is above those much younger than me; but I also know that I am not perfect, and that true effectiveness depends on near perfection.  I want to be yelled at, attempt new and outrageous tasks, and do it all under intense pressure now, so that I will be that much better tomorrow.  Perfection does not come instantly and it certainly does not come easily.  I am greatly distressed by the number of people who bristle at ‘red tape,’ extensive pre-requisites, or criticism.  Only after the blade is thoroughly grinded with the stone does it become an effective instrument of war.

About Supporting our Ministry

In lieu of our recent transition out of NYC, many have asked about our financial needs. We are retaining our status as national A/G US Missionaries and will serve under special assignment through church planting and chaplaincy.  We would be honored if you would please continue your support during this new season of vocational ministry.

Donations and support can still be sent to:
                        AG US MISSIONS
                        1445 Boonville Ave
                        Springfield, MO 65802

Our account remains # 293-4370.  Please do not hesitate to
contact us directly.  We cannot serve without YOU!

Here we Plant Again

     So, what’s next?!? Sadly, there is no shortage of unbelieving and searching people, including in our own home towns. Over the past year, we have come to know and support the church-planting efforts of Shawn Bentley and Life Church-Hershey. His vision and strategy for reaching the ‘unchurched’ and disconnected are identical to what we implemented in Queens. It is now our privilege to partner with his team and assist them in bringing forth a Spirit-filled church in Hershey, PA.
      We plan to focus on evangelism and discipleship efforts, as well as welcoming newcomers. Our hope is to begin weekly Bible Studies, build community, and see the Spirit move according to Acts 2. The ‘spirit of religion,’ and thus the need, is very great in this area, but we see opportunity to connect with a community that has a rich history in service. We are honored to be a part of this & covet your continued support!

Promises Fulfilled in Queens

   When we arrived in NYC 8 years ago, all we knew with certainty was that God had promised to build His church and launch a regional form of ministry if we would obey faithfully. This year, that promise has been fulfilled! On March 9, FHCC will embrace new, indigenous leadership and join the Point Church (A/G) ministry network. This strategic partnership ensures our commitment to Spirit-filled ministry, biblical accountability, and an evangelistic emphasis to the Jewish community in both Queens and the greater NYC area.

     We are humbled by all the Lord has done through us in NYC. We have baptized 75 new believers, preached to thousands, performed weddings, dedicated babies, comforted the grieving and seen every miracle of I Cor 12 fulfilled. There is now a Spirit-empowered, community-reaching church in the heart of a Jewish neighborhood, where none previously existed. While it is hard to say goodbye to our church family in NY, we are confident in FHCC’s new leadership, excited for the future of that church, and eager to set out on the new endeavors to which God has called us as AG US Missionaries.

Mentoring Boys into Men

I love discovering and growing in the particular gifts and calling God has placed over my life.  For so long I had inadvertently limited His plans  by buying into popular trends and historical rhetoric.  In short, I was attempting to discern the will of the Lord by merely going with the flow rather than seeking His voice.  Minor oversight with potentially tragic consequences.  Fortunately, God is a God who never lets us and go, and, if necessary, will SCREAM and SHOUT to get our attention.

With all of this being said, I love the consistent and evolving ministry opportunities God has provided through a local Christian school.  Some of you may recall that the same school our two oldest boys attend has also served as a place for me to volunteer coaching sports, speaking in chapels and serving as a counselor to several special kids.  As the school year winds down, the effects of our labor are humbling.  Not only was I (Jeremy) asked by the students and faculty to be the Commencement speaker, but also several students have cited my message, ministry and example as the single-greatest influence in their walk with Jesus.  We know that it is not “I,” but the Spirit shining through us.  We love these kids and the incredible plans God has for them.

Local Church Update

This past month, the church in Forest Hills (FHCC) has experienced a real “shot in the arm.”  Not only have the new people from Easter stayed with us, but they are also growing in their faith, making new friends, and serving in ministry.  It’s not a windfall of numbers, but it is solid evidence of God’s involvement and effectiveness in the ministry.  One of these new ladies is of particular inspiration, given her Chinese heritage.  She came to faith through a home church in Communist China and has spent the last few years living in CA and TX amid a myriad of churches and Christians.  However, it was not until she began attending our church plant that she felt at “home” and with like-minded, dedicated Believers.   In her words, “FHCC not only preaches what it means to be a Christian, but every member tries to live out that conviction and message with great cost.”  Amen!