Sojourn into marvelous light

The handoff

2009-12-07T13:24:00.000-05:00

I was sitting in a public area in recent days and witnessed this scene that elicited a stream of thoughts and feelings. It occurred at a table easily within my view, though the company under observation were just far enough away that with other traffic in the room on I could not actually hear what was being said. So I deduced this mostly from my imagination: a young woman meeting with both her near-fiance and her father:

It was a square table they decided upon, each with their coffee in hand as they pulled back their chair with the free hand. The two men faced each other from across the table, and she sat alone on one mediating side between them.

To her right was a young man, 23-ish and bristling with energy that was slightly nervous and otherwise. His smile was warm and effortless, and his gaze easily jumped towards her. Not so much to the male across the table. For, to her left, he faced an older man: late forties-ish, whose gaze was without apology in its quest for truth. His intense thoughtfulness could be misinterpreted as disapproval, I thought to myself, yet his relaxed hands (folded as they were) otherwise conveyed an ease with the occasion.

The jewel was in the middle: to one a daugher, to one a girlfriend. She was all of 22, her hair pulled back and tethered for the business at hand. Hers was the brightest smile at the table. I read her as summoning all the powers at her disposal for the task at hand: a meeting of the minds regarding her future with this young man. As she watched her would-be-fiance speak she seemed dizzy with the promise of their life together. Her eyes would glance back over at her father and look for approval as the young man spoke. She would reach out and rest her hand on his occasionally. Her eyes would dance as she looked to her father: Isn't he wonderful? they said, wordlessly.

The 15 minute gathering ended as they stood and set their chairs back into their pre-summit formation. His words were slow in coming but had warmth as the candidate had passed some scrutiny. As they left she put her arm around each of them, taking a step that would put them all at the same pace. I watched them leave and mused at the significance of the exchange, the heart negotiation of a young woman bridging the worlds of the two Important Most Important Men in her life.

Updates to blogroll

2009-11-27T11:20:00.000-05:00

Have had a great Thanksgiving time with family in Charleston, SC, though we've missed Matthew terribly. Here are some pics from Thursday's football throwings out front:

Also, I've added Petra and Rhonda to my blogroll. Enjoy!

Thoughts from my birthday

2009-11-23T13:50:00.004-05:00

Celebrated a birthday last week. I've not been one to let "that number" define me... people are so unique, why be a slave to disappointing conventions. But with this birthday, its had kind of an exclamation mark to it. Old things have passed away, God is doing something new. It's in the air: the vibrant color of the leaves in this area have peaked and the air has turned from pleasant to chilly. It was the day that all the leaves were finally off the tree in the front yard. So, I don't feel "older" per se but find myself captured and listening to the rhythm of the Creator God putting the earth to rest. Winter is making its way steadily through these woods, along with the increasing silence of creation at rest.

A temptation to getting "up there" is to think that patience cannot any longer be rewarded, there is not enough time for this any longer and so your opportunities might be lost and promises are left on God's desk, not unread but yet forever unkept. Yet in this is the importance to wait. To ponder before the One who fastidiously treasures the human tear, and who wisely hides His answer so that we might perhaps draw closer. Perhaps grab His face and desperately turn it to ours and there find His concern has been deeper than we could have known or imagined, His eyes steeped in earnest desire to share His life with us. His gaze carefully insisting that we cannot know Life without Him always in our consideration, the One Who Made Us calling us time and time again to set Him before us and lavishly love Him and honor Him for His unending perfections and beauty. Jesus said it brilliantly to The Father - "Now this is eternal life: ... (to) know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom You have sent." (John 17:3)

Finding life is about losing it for the sake of love. And as the clock continues its foray into the 7 or 8 decades we might have been allotted, the choice to lose it in such a way as this yields an even greater reward than before because the currency we have to spend is less. These are the lessons of my 49 years. I have tasted and I have seen that the Lord is good.

Voice of the Martyrs prayer update

2009-11-23T08:21:00.002-05:00

“On his knees the believer is invincible.” C H Spurgeon

As the Scripture says, "Anyone who trusts in him will never be put to shame." Romans 10:11

Kazakhstan — Christians Fined, Deported — Forum 18 News

Psalm 5:11-12: But let all those rejoice who put their trust in You; Let them ever shout for joy, because You defend them; Let those also who love Your name Be joyful in You. For You, O LORD, will bless the righteous; With favor You will surround him as with a shield.

Two Christian brothers, Viktor and Didrikh Leven, have been convicted of participating in religious worship without state registration in Akmola Region, Kazakhstan, according to Forum18 News. On Oct. 14, Viktor, who was born in Kazakhstan but holds German citizenship, was found guilty of "carrying out missionary activity without local registration" under Article 375-3 of Kazakhstan’s Administrative Code. Viktor was fined 6,480 Tenge (US $43) and ordered deported. He successfully appealed his sentence, and his fine and deportation were annulled. Meanwhile, on Oct.28, Didrikh was convicted of violating Article 374-1 of the Administrative Code, which forbids "leadership or participation in the activity of an unregistered social or religious organization." He was fined 100 times the minimum monthly wage. Reportedly, Didrikh plans to appeal to the same Akmola Regional Court that overturned Viktor's punishment. On Nov. 5, Feruza Utegenova, a member of New Life Church in Aktau on the Caspian Sea, was deported to Uzbekistan. She had been convicted and fined in June for "carrying out missionary activity without local registration" (Article 375-3) after she gave a Christian children's magazine to a 12-year-old girl in her neighborhood. The Voice of the Martyrs stands with these and other believers facing persecution in Kazakhstan. Pray that the charges against Didrikh will be dropped. Pray that God will grant Feruza strength and guidance as she seeks to serve Christ. Pray that authorities will stop harassing Christians in Kazakhstan.

CHINA — House Church Banned — China Aid Association

Hebrews 10:23-25: Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful. And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, 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.

On Nov. 2 more than 30 officials from four government agencies barged into the Wanbang Missionary Church in Shanghai, China and accused believers of holding an illegal meeting, according to China Aid Association. Leaders from each of the agencies, including the Shanghai Municipal Public Security Bureau (PSB) and the State Administration on Religious Affairs, then interrogated the senior pastor, Cui Quan. PSB officers also questioned other church partners affiliated with the church. After concluding that church members were meeting “illegally,” police officers banned the church and forbade the believers from meeting in the future. Pray that these believers will be encouraged to continue to meet together despite opposition. Pray for significant and lasting advances in religious freedom in China.

UGANDA — Muslims Attack Worshippers — Compass Direct News

James 1:2-4: My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing.

On Nov. 1 more than 39 Muslim extremists armed with machetes and clubs attacked the World Possessor's Church International in Namasuba, just outside the capital city of Kampala, Uganda, while believers were holding a worship service. When the church members heard the Muslims outside, they gathered at the front door to try to prevent them from entering. Some believers were able to escape through the church's rear door. When the Muslims noticed one of the Christians taking photographs of them, they beat him severely. Nearby residents eventually arrived on scene and helped the Christians ward off their attackers. When police arrived, they assisted in stopping the assault but made no arrests. Pray for God to sustain all the victims of this attack through His peace and grace. Pray that the members of the church will grow in to be like Christ even though they face ongoing opposition.

The House of God Forever

2009-11-16T19:33:00.000-05:00

God is my shepherd
I won't be wanting
I won't be wanting
He makes me rest
In fields of green
With quite streams
Even though I walk
Through the valley
Of death and dying
I will not fear
'Cause you are with me
You are with me

Your shepherd staff
Comforts me
You are my feast
In the presence of enemy
Surely goodness
Follow me
Follow me
In the house of God, forever

God is my shepherd
I won't be wanting
I won't be wanting
He makes me rest
In fields of green
Like quiet streams
Even while I'm walking
Through the valley
Of death and dying
I will not fear
'Cause you are with me
You're always with me

Your shepherd staff
Comforts me
You are my feast
In the presence of enemy
Surely goodness
Follow me
Follow me
In the house of God, forever
In the house of God, forever
In the house of God, forever

Teddy Roosevelt's words on the critic

2009-11-10T14:08:00.000-05:00

"It is not the critic who counts; not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles, or where the doer of deeds could have done them better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly; who errs, who comes short again and again, because there is no effort without error and shortcoming; but who does actually strive to do the deeds; who knows great enthusiasms, the great devotions; who spends himself in a worthy cause; who at the best knows in the end the triumph of high achievement, and who at the worst, if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who neither know victory nor defeat." - Theodore Roosevelt

Psalm 119

2009-11-09T14:22:00.000-05:00

25 I am laid low in the dust;
preserve my life according to your word.

26 I recounted my ways and you answered me;
teach me your decrees.

27 Let me understand the teaching of your precepts;
then I will meditate on your wonders.

28 My soul is weary with sorrow;
strengthen me according to your word.

29 Keep me from deceitful ways;
be gracious to me through your law.

30 I have chosen the way of truth;
I have set my heart on your laws.

31 I hold fast to your statutes, O LORD;
do not let me be put to shame.

32 I run in the path of your commands,
for you have set my heart free.

Voice of the Martyrs prayer update

2009-11-06T10:23:00.002-05:00

To the present hour we both hunger and thirst, and we are poorly clothed, and beaten, and homeless. And we labor, working with our own hands. Being reviled, we bless; being persecuted, we endure; being defamed, we entreat. We have been made as the filth of the world, the offscouring of all things until now. 1 Corinthians 4:11-13

CHINA — Student Expelled for Confirming Faith in Christ — China Aid Association

Psalm 140: 12–13: I know that the LORD will maintain The cause of the afflicted, And justice for the poor. Surely the righteous shall give thanks to Your name; The upright shall dwell in Your presence.

On Oct. 20, Chen Le, a high school student, was expelled from Xinjiang High School for refusing to denounce his faith, according to China Aid Association. The High School Division of the Huashan Middle School expelled Chen after he signed a document confirming he was a Christian. ChinaAid reported that Chen Le does not regret signing the document confirming his faith in Jesus Christ. He continues to stand courageously for his faith, even though his expulsion means he is barred from college entrance exams. The Voice of the Martyrs encourages you to pray for Chen and his family during this challenging time. Praise God for his faithfulness. Ask God to protect and encourage him.

INDONESIA — Police Use Force to Evict Bible Students — VOM Contacts

Matthew 5: 10–12: Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, For theirs is the kingdom of heaven. “Blessed are you when they revile and persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely for My sake. Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you.

On Oct. 27, The Voice of the Martyrs contacts reported nearly 1,000 students at the Arastamar School of Theology face eviction from a West Jakarta former Mayor’s office, where they were living temporarily. The day before students received the eviction notice from the High Court of West Jakarta, local government authorities cut off electricity and water to the site, leading to student demonstrations. “That day … a thousand students were demonstrating outside of the building and making [a barricade with their bodies] to prevent the police troops, local government security troops and High Court officials from going into the building and destroying the building,” VOM contacts said. “ The riot began when some people from the back row of police troops [threw] stones against the students; then the students repelled it by throwing plastic chairs and stones against the police troops,” VOM contacts added. Local government authorities have told the students to leave the building by Nov. 9 because the building will be destroyed. In July 2008, Muslim extremists destroyed the Bible school campus with Molotov cocktails. They also attacked the students with acid and machetes as they were being evacuated from the burning buildings. The staff and students from the Bible school’s campus were forced into temporary shelters all over the city including a camp ground in Kampung Pulo village. Pray for the students’ encouragement and protection. Praise God for their unwavering witness.

INDIA — Christians Targeted in Violent Attacks — VOM Contacts

Hebrews 10:32–39: “Blessed are you when they revile and persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely for My sake. Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you. “You are the salt of the earth; but if the salt loses its flavor, how shall it be seasoned? It is then good for nothing but to be thrown out and trampled underfoot by men. “You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.

But recall the former days in which, after you were illuminated, you endured a great struggle with sufferings: partly while you were made a spectacle both by reproaches and tribulations, and partly while you became companions of those who were so treated; for you had compassion on me in my chains, and joyfully accepted the plundering of your goods, knowing that you have a better and an enduring possession for yourselves in heaven. Therefore do not cast away your confidence, which has great reward. For you have need of endurance, so that after you have done the will of God, you may receive the promise: “ For yet a little while, And He who is coming will come and will not tarry. Now the just shall live by faith; But if anyone draws back, My soul has no pleasure in him.” But we are not of those who draw back to perdition, but of those who believe to the saving of the soul.

KirkNDee loading day

2009-11-04T10:45:00.000-05:00

Voice of the Martyrs prayer update

2009-10-30T10:41:00.000-04:00

“Blessed are you when they revile and persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely for My sake. Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you. “You are the salt of the earth; but if the salt loses its flavor, how shall it be seasoned? It is then good for nothing but to be thrown out and trampled underfoot by men. Matthew 5:11-13

PAKISTAN — Imprisoned Believers Appears in Court — VOM Sources

2 Timothy 3:10-12: But you have carefully followed my doctrine, manner of life, purpose, faith, longsuffering, love, perseverance, persecutions, afflictions, which happened to me at Antioch, at Iconium, at Lystra—what persecutions I endured. And out of them all the Lord delivered me. Yes, and all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution.

On Oct. 14, Asia Bibi’s husband, Ashiq Masih, her daughters and VOM contacts met her for 15 minutes before her court appearance. “Asia is in strong faith. Her eyes were hopeful. Praise God,” VOM contacts said. Asia told VOM contacts she prays everyday at 3 a.m. “I thank God that the jail administration has good behavior with me,” she said. “I don’t have trouble from them, but I miss my daughters and family. Please arrange my soon release from this jail.” Asia’s daughters were visibly upset when they met her. “The little daughter was continuously asking her mother ‘Mama when are you coming back home?’” VOM contacts said. Isha, the eldest daughter, cried and hugged her mother and would not let her go. Isha pointed to the veil on her mother’s face and said, “I want to see your face, remove this cover.” It was a sad scene. The court rescheduled another hearing for Oct. 27. On Oct. 17, Sandul and Gulsher Masir had a court hearing, but again the investigating officer did not appear. Another hearing was scheduled for October 26. Continue praying for these believers. Call on the Pakistani government to insure that the rights of Christians like Asia, Sandul and Gulsher are protected.

UKRAINE — Church Bombed in Ukraine — VOM Canada

Psalm 140:12-13: I know that the LORD will maintain The cause of the afflicted, And justice for the poor. Surely the righteous shall give thanks to Your name; The upright shall dwell in Your presence.

On Oct. 14, a homemade bomb was thrown into the Calvary Chapel church building in Kaharlyk, Ukraine. The building is also the residence of Pastor Wayne Zschech and his family. At 7 a.m., Pastor Zschech's wife awoke to the smell of smoke. Fire officials were called to the scene the blaze which caused minor damage to the building. The six people asleep in the church at the time of the attack escaped without injury. The assailants spray painted "Out with Sects" and "OYH," an abbreviated name for a Ukrainian Nationalist movement, on the church wall. Pastor Zschech later said, "We pray that the Lord would call people to salvation and that he would build up his body. We rejoice in being chosen worthy to suffer for the sake of our Lord and His Gospel. We do also pray for safety but hold this prayer out with open hands." Thank God no one was hurt in this attack. Pray that the perpetrators of this attack will be brought to justice and come to faith in Christ.

CHINA — Update: Chinese Pastor Released — China Aid Association

Matthew 5:11-16: “Blessed are you when they revile and persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely for My sake. Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you. “You are the salt of the earth; but if the salt loses its flavor, how shall it be seasoned? It is then good for nothing but to be thrown out and trampled underfoot by men. “You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.

Praise God! On Oct. 12, Pastor Hua Huiqi, was released from prison, according to China Aid Association. Pastor Hua was arrested by Chinese officials on Sept. 17 and thankfully, he was not physically mistreated during his detention. Upon his release, however, officials reportedly threatened to harm his 13-year-old daughter if he "caused any trouble." Pastor Hua, who is recovering at home, has urged the international community to continue praying for his ailing Christian mother, Shuang Shuying, who has also faced imprisonment. He has also requested prayer for his dying brother, Hua Huilin. Thank God for this family’s faithfulness and ask God to heal those that are sick. Pray the Holy Spirit will encourage and minister to them.

Pure in heart

2009-10-26T10:41:00.001-04:00

While teaching the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus made a series of remarkable statements. They are remarkable because Jesus did not agree with any measure of deception - He spoke only what was true because He Himself is Truth, (i.e. Jesus was referring to Himself when He made the statement that: "You will know the truth, and the Truth will set you free."). Yes, my reader, truth is a Person. The reference point for the things that are true and right and pure and lovely are found in an exclusive, unique place. Truth has a Name and a Face. And these like no other!

Among the riveting declarations Jesus gave men among those Beatitudes was that the pure in heart will see God, (Matt. 5:8). It begs the question then as to what constitutes "pure in heart" because if we have some basic grasp of the mercy and desire of God to reconcile men to Himself then we will WANT to see God. If God is seen as something less than desirable then we don't see God as He is. If thats too big of a leap for you to take reading this then you need to start at square one, right now, and begin to ask God yourself for evidence and assurance that He wants you to know Him. Its just that simple: seek Him out. Ask for Him to reveal Himself to you in such a way that you can feel safe in your beginning pursuit of Him. For some of you, simply finding this web page is one such evidence.

Moving beyond that to where you are in active, deliberate pursuit to find God it behooves you to have hope that you can see God. Man was made for communion with God like nothing else we were made to experience. Nothing fits into your life as importantly and as pleasurably as knowing God. But we all start when we begin to grasp how fallen we are. By fallen, I mean that we are actually blind and deaf when it comes to spiritual truth. We cannot generate our own light to even begin to seek Him. No man is "smart enough" to find God, or "good enough" to assume fellowship with Him. Man's best and brightest cannot close the distance between us and Him. He is truly that Glorious and Wonderful, and we are truly that broken and poor. Man by himself seeks for himself. The warmth of love and the pleasures of His Beauty are vacant in our experience as well as from among what we desire. Is humanity that desperate without God? Yes. What we build for and hope for and dream about is so much less than what God offers us.
"OK, Greg Burnett", you say. "If thats the state of my existence then how can I ever hope to be pure in heart? How can I ever hope to see God?" Good questions. Critical ones. I'll address those in a follow up post.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

In a personal note, I'm yet waiting for the next season. To everything there is a season, and its clear we are done in the local context. I moved my family to Charlotte 11 years ago, and God sent us to build prayer here. He has exceeded my expectations in that regard and for that I am forever grateful to be a part of His work on the earth in my generation. I remember in the first several years while we were waiting on the Lord here a friend called me and described me as "shipwrecked". I was rather intrigued by his observation, which I recognized came from Acts chapter 27. The apostle Paul was shipwrecked during his missionary pursuits. (There is even an inlet on the island of Malta called St. Paul's bay which legends holds was the place Paul landed as depicted in the scriptures). Reflecting upon it for some time, I saw some validity to his statement in that God leads us into difficulty to grow us into greater Christlikeness. Through such circumstances the temptations to get bitter are great, like the reefs around such an island. The only way through them is to worship and pray, to find God in His word. Oh to be more impressed with God Himself than our circumstances! (Even in the blessing, and times of increase and favor!)
So I'm waiting again. I would quickly state here, friend, that God's best is worth waiting for. Let Him lead you in His triumph, don't lean on your own strength or understanding. Instead, get lower! As singers have sung, the river of God's Spirit rushes to the lowest place!
As for me, I'm watching and worshipping. I'm listening and looking for glimpses of His beauty! I bear witness that a man can only accomplish the works of God when he is sent by God. And so I wait. Find me watching, O God. See my weak heart which desires You and strengthen that which must remain!

No Reply

2009-10-20T10:29:00.000-04:00

This happened once before,
When I came to your door,
No reply.
They said it wasn't you,
But I saw you peep through your window.
I saw the light, I saw the light.
I know that you saw me,
'Cause I looked up to see your face.

I tried to telephone,
They said you were not home,
That's a lie.
'Cause I know where you've been,
And I saw you walk in your door.
I nearly died, I nearly died,
'Cause you walked hand in hand
With another man in my place.

If I were you I'd realize that I
Love you more than any other guy.
And I'll forgive the lies that I
Heard before when you gave me no reply.

I've tried to telephone,
They said you were not home,
That's a lie.
'Cause I know where you've been
And I saw you walk in your door.
I nearly died, I nearly died,
'Cause you walked hand in hand
With another man in my place.

No reply, no reply.

Voice of the Martyrs prayer update

2009-10-16T08:56:00.002-04:00

“True prayer is not a mere mental exercise, nor a vocal performance, but it is deeper far than that – it is spiritual communion with the Creator of heaven and earth. God is a Spirit unseen of mortal eye and only to be perceived by the inner man; our spirit within us, begotten by the Holy Ghost at our regeneration. Prayer is a spiritual business from beginning to end, and its aim and object end not with man, but reach to God himself.” Charles Spurgeon

“But will God indeed dwell with men on the earth? Behold, heaven and the heaven of heavens cannot contain You. How much less this temple which I have built! Yet regard the prayer of Your servant and his supplication, O LORD my God, and listen to the cry and the prayer which Your servant is praying before You: that Your eyes may be open toward this temple day and night, toward the place where You said You would put Your name, that You may hear the prayer which Your servant makes toward this place. 2 Chronicles 6:18-20

PAKISTAN — Sandul Bibi and Gulsher Masih Appear in Court — VOM Contacts

2 Timothy 3:10–12: But you have carefully followed my doctrine, manner of life, purpose, faith, longsuffering, love, perseverance, persecutions, afflictions, which happened to me at Antioch, at Iconium, at Lystra—what persecutions I endured. And out of them all the Lord delivered me. Yes, and all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution.

On Oct. 7, Sandul Bibi and her father, Gulsher Masih, appeared in court in Faisalabad, Pakistan, according to The Voice of the Martyrs contacts. The investigating officer in their case, Anayat Ullah Rahmani, did not appear in court. As a result, the judge set another court date for Oct. 17. Sandul and Gulsher have been in prison for more than six months on false blasphemy charges. Pray that Gulsher and Sandul will be released from prison. Praise God for their faithfulness and witness in prison, and ask God to strengthen their family.

SOMALIA — Christian Leader Killed — Compass Direct News

Matthew 5:43–48: “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you, that you may be sons of your Father in heaven; for He makes His sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust. For if you love those who love you, what reward have you? Do not even the tax collectors do the same? And if you greet your brethren only, what do you do more than others? Do not even the tax collectors do so? Therefore you shall be perfect, just as your Father in heaven is perfect.

On Sept. 28, an Islamic extremist shot and killed Mariam Muhina Hussein, an underground church leader, after discovering six Bibles in her possession, according to Compass Direct News. The day before the shooting, a leader of the Islamic extremist group al Shabaab reportedly sent his wife to visit Hussein's home in Marerey village. She pretended she was interested in learning about Christianity. During the visit, Hussein read passages of the Bible and told the woman that she could visit regularly to discuss God's Word, according to Compass. The following day, the al Shabaab leader, identified as Sheikh Arbow, went to Hussein’s house with several other men and requested a Bible. When Hussein gave one to him, he revealed that he was looking for "Christians who have defiled the Islamic religion" and ordered her to show him the other Bibles that she owned. When she handed them over, Arbow shot her three times, killing her instantly. In recent weeks, several Christians in Somalia have been killed because of their faith in Christ. The Voice of the Martyrs rejoices in the life of Mariam Muhina Hussein. Praise God for her faithfulness. VOM encourages you to pray that those who mourn for her will draw near to Christ for comfort. Pray that God will grant Somali Christians encouragement and strength as they face trials for their Christian witness. Also pray that God will draw persecutors into fellowship with him.

INDIA — Pastor Attacked — VOM Contacts

Revelation 2:10: Do not fear any of those things which you are about to suffer. Indeed, the devil is about to throw some of you into prison, that you may be tested, and you will have tribulation ten days. Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life.

On Oct. 4, Pastor Prakash was attacked by 25 Bajrang Dal extremists while he was ministering in Kaiwara village, Bangalore Rural District, according to The Voice of the Martyrs contacts. The extremists assaulted the pastor and accused him of cheating people. After the attack, the pastor was questioned and held on complaints of “illegal activity.” Fortunately, other believers provided evidence that the pastor had not broken any laws but had visited their homes for prayer. At last report he was still in custody. Pastor Prakash has been in ministry for more than 10 years and pastors a church of 80 members. Recently, he had expanded his ministry to Kaiwara village, where 15 believers had been meeting for prayer on Sundays evenings. The Voice of the Martyrs actively supports persecuted believers by providing legal assistance to Christians like Pastor Prakash who have been arrested for their faith. VOM encourages you to pray for Pastor Prakash’s immediate release. Pray for the safety of his family and other believers in the area.

Organic Leadership: institutionalisation

2009-10-14T09:54:00.001-04:00

Organic Leadership: institutionalisation

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Mighty to Save

2009-10-05T09:13:00.001-04:00

This is one of the most invigorating worship songs, in my experience, in recent years:

Voice of the Martyrs prayer update

2009-10-02T08:56:00.002-04:00

PAKISTAN — Woman encouraged in Prison — VOM Conatcts

Romans 15:4-6: For whatever things were written before were written for our learning, that we through the patience and comfort of the Scriptures might have hope. Now may the God of patience and comfort grant you to be like-minded toward one another, according to Christ Jesus, that you may with one mind and one mouth glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.

On Sept. 16, The Voice of the Martyrs contacts in Pakistan reported that 20-year-old Sandul Bibi’s faith is strong despite being held in prison for 11 months. She is encouraged by reading the Bible and a copy of Tortured for Christ. “In the month of March, Sandul…studied (Tortured for Christ). She is really encouraged. Last month when she traveled for Faisalabad for [a] court hearing, secretly she gave that book to her father Gull Sheer and said to him, ‘Please read it in jail. This is a unique book,’” VOM contacts said. When Sandul’s family visited her in prison during the recent Muslim holiday, Ramadan, she told them about fellow prisoners trying to pressure her to celebrate the Islamic holiday which forces Muslims to fast from sun up to sundown. “I am Christian I pray to Jesus Christ why should I say prayers with you,” she told them. “I will not do that.” Even though Sandul has faced some challenges in prison, she told her family her faith in Christ is strong. “When I feel lonely, I talk with God during the prayers, in the presence of God I feel strengthened and peace in mind. I am happy that this way. God fulfils his words that “I am with you,” Sandul said.

SOMALIA — Christian transporting Bibles killed — Compass Direct News

Psalm 68: 1-5: Let God arise, Let His enemies be scattered; Let those also who hate Him flee before Him. As smoke is driven away, So drive them away; As wax melts before the fire, So let the wicked perish at the presence of God. But let the righteous be glad; Let them rejoice before God; Yes, let them rejoice exceedingly. Sing to God, sing praises to His name; Extol Him who rides on the clouds, By His name YAH, And rejoice before Him. A father of the fatherless, a defender of widows, Is God in His holy habitation.

On Sept. 15, 69-year-old Omar Khalife, a Somali Christian, was shot dead by members of al-Shabaab, a Muslim extremist group, when Bibles were found in his possession, according to Compass Direct News. At approximately 10:30 a.m., a bus transporting Omar Khalife was stopped by extremists at a checkpoint near the city of Merca. When the extremists discovered 25 Somali Bibles in one of the bags Khalife was delivering to an underground fellowship group they demanded to know who owned them. When the passengers did not disclose the owner, they used photos in the bag to determine the owner. When they realized the photos resembled Khalife, they asked him if the Bibles were his. When he did not respond the extremists shot and killed him. They transported Khalife's body and the Bibles to Merca and displayed them as a warning to others. Later that day, a member of the extremist group reported Khalife's death on a local radio program. Khalife, who had been a Christian for 45 years, was active in sharing the gospel and baptizing Christian converts from Islam. He is mourned by his wife and seven children. Praise God for the life and testimony of Omar Khalife. In recent months, Khalife is the latest believer killed by the Muslim extremist group al-Shabaab. Ask God to protect and encourage believers who courageously continue to stand for Him in the midst of danger. Pray for peace in war-torn Somalia.

CHINA — Prominent pastor detained by officials — China Aid Association

Psalm 100: 1-5: Make a joyful shout to the LORD, all you lands! Serve the LORD with gladness; Come before His presence with singing. Know that the LORD, He is God; It is He who has made us, and not we ourselves; We are His people and the sheep of His pasture. Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, And into His courts with praise. Be thankful to Him, and bless His name. For the LORD is good; His mercy is everlasting, And His truth endures to all generations.

On Sept. 17, Pastor Hua Huiqi was arrested by Chinese authorities in Fengtai District, Beijing, according to China Aid Association. Pastor Hua reportedly called his wife, Ju Mei, and told her he had been forced into a Public Security Bureau (PSB) vehicle while on his way to a dinner meeting. Less than half-an-hour later, Hua phoned his wife again and told her that the police had taken him to an unknown location. The phone line then went dead. Meanwhile, on September 22, Pastor Hua was escorted to Beijing Tiantan Hospital by five PSB officials to visit with his brother, Hua Huilin who is seriously ill. The Hua family's request for him to visit his brother had previously been denied. His elderly mother, Shuang Shuying, who was released from prison a few months ago, is also seriously ill and Hua has been denied requests to visit her. Pray for this family that has endured a lot for the sake of Christ. Ask God for Hua’s release and for healing for his brother and mother. Pray believers in China will remain faithful.

Until the day breaks and the shadows flee away

2009-09-30T09:31:00.000-04:00

Interesting angle yesterday as the sun was coming up: light came in and was on the clock I keep on my desk, so I captured this picture of it. I bought this clock at a garage sale while a student at the University of Texas in Austin. I got it in the spring of 1983 and we've toted it along in all of our moves since. That was the spring I died, in the sense that I was approached by Jesus and confronted by Him whether if I would surrender my life. Someone made comments recently about my laying down ZHOP, saying it must be better this way if I couldn't live without the prayer room. That kind of thinking is so far away from the mechanism deployed in my mind that its not even the same kind of language. My life has not been about my ambitions or personal accomplishments. I have an ego like anyone else that at times wants recognition and even applause. But I ask the Lord to help me keep it in check. I want to be about obedience, and pleasing God. Truth be told, I'm waiting for His assignment again. Success will ultimately be seen as agreeing with Jesus and working with Him in whatever capacity He puts us in.

Until the day breaks and the shadows flee away,
I will go my way to the mountain of myrrh
And to the hill of frankincense. - Song of Solomon 4:6

Video: We Give You Praise

2009-09-26T13:21:00.002-04:00

Lyrics | Delirious? lyrics - We Give You Praise lyrics

Voice of the Martyrs prayer update

2009-09-25T18:01:00.000-04:00

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Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, Romans 5:1

INDIA — Church Damaged in Attack — VOM Conatcts

2 Corinthians 12:9-10: And He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in needs, in persecutions, in distresses, for Christ’s sake. For when I am weak, then I am strong.

On Sept. 9, St. Francis De Sales Church in Bangalore, India, was attacked by more than 15 Hindu extremists, according to The Voice of the Martyrs contacts. Extremists armed with weapons broke into the church, damaged window panes and statues inside the church. A house behind the church was damaged. The church has about 3,000 members who attend services conducted in different languages such as Tamil, Malayalam and English. Following the attack, the church priests, Father Aloysius and Father Selvaraj, filed a complaint with the police. The Voice of the Martyrs supports and assists persecuted believers in India. VOM ministers to persecuted believers by providing emergency medical treatment and ministry resources like motorbikes for pastors. Ask God to encourage the leaders and members of this church. Ask God to protect and encourage Christians in India as they share the Good News of Jesus.

PAKISTAN — Teenager Abducted by Muslims — VOM Contacts

Psalm 91:1-5: He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High Shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the LORD, “He is my refuge and my fortress; My God, in Him I will trust.” Surely He shall deliver you from the snare of the fowler[a] And from the perilous pestilence. He shall cover you with His feathers, And under His wings you shall take refuge; His truth shall be your shield and buckler. You shall not be afraid of the terror by night, Nor of the arrow that flies by day,

On Sept. 16, The Voice of the Martyrs received reports that Sidra, a Christian teenage girl, was abducted by Muslims in Pakistan. The Voice of the Martyrs contacts reported she was with family members when 16 Muslims isolated her and her brother, and then beat him badly and abducted her. Sidra’s father and mother are frantic and are requesting prayer for their daughter’s safe return. This is the second time Sidra has been abducted by Muslims. In February 2008, she was abducted while getting ready for school and was held in captivity for eight months. While being held Sidra was violated and Muslims attempted to force her to deny Christ, but she refused. Recently the family was holding prayer meetings in their neighborhood and praying for Muslims in their home. They believe this upset local Muslims and led to the abduction.

CHINA — Believers Assaulted, Church Destroyed — China Aid Association

2 Thessalonians 1:3-5: We are bound to thank God always for you, brethren, as it is fitting, because your faith grows exceedingly, and the love of every one of you all abounds toward each other, so that we ourselves boast of you among the churches of God for your patience and faith in all your persecutions and tribulations that you endure, which is manifest evidence of the righteous judgment of God, that you may be counted worthy of the kingdom of God, for which you also suffer;

On Sept. 13, a mob of more than 400 people, including Chinese officials, barged into the Good News Cloth Shoes Factory on the site of the Fushan Church building in Linfin City, Shanxi province, according to China Aid Association. The officials used two construction vehicles to tear the building's foundation and also attacked church members who were sleeping on the site. Believers were assaulted with bricks and other blunt objects. The attackers smashed windows, doors and appliances, and looted church members' money, cell phones, clothes and books. They also stole the factory's business license. At least ten church members were severely injured in the violence. Several were taken to the emergency room for treatment. However, the hospital was told by unidentified authorities to withhold medical treatment, including blood transfusions, from the injured church members. The factory's electricity, water supply and telephone have been terminated and guards have been placed on-site to monitor the supply lines. The Voice of the Martyrs has supported persecuted believers in China for more than 30 years. Pray that the Lord will strengthen members of the Fushan Church in their hearts, minds and bodies as they face opposition for their faith. Pray that they will demonstrate Christ's love and compassion to their persecutors.

Carolina, say you will

2009-09-21T15:28:00.000-04:00

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Back in Metrolina today. Great trip to California. Good connections professionally, and time with friends as well. Saw bits and pieces of IHOP 10th anniversary goings on. ZHOP was received by IHOP-KC Saturday night, which is amazing and wonderful. We want those called to prayer to have every reason to stay engaged before the Lord wherever He calls them. Now we'll tie a bow on it and bless the Lord.

California, say you will

2009-09-18T23:05:00.005-04:00

Coming in on the 101 a short while ago was quite the moment. When I looked over and saw the "Ventura County" sign by the highway something hit me like a ton of bricks. I realized that I am quite the idiot. To return to this place while I am working through the emotional vortex of closing down ZHOP is something like adding broken glass to the wind blowing in the hurricane around you.

I am looking forward to visiting friends the next couple of days, and this is my first time back west since we moved to Charlotte 11 years ago. I was stunned by the strength of emotions I still have towards this region, though circumstances and relational breakdowns were roadblocks to our mission getting traction back in those days. I'll deal with it, what a surprise.

In our journey, we have touched something precious to God during our years in California when we experienced the beginnings of real-world city reaching as grounded in focused intercession. Then we were led to Charlotte, waited for the go-ahead to start small prayer meetings that fore-ran the conception of ZHOP that began when Kirk Bennett led a team to Charlotte from IHOP-KC. Then the zeal of the Lord accomplished a prayer meeting that started in January, 2006 and ended in June, 2009. In other words, God Himself led us in a prayer meeting that lasted for 3 and 1/2 years.

Selah.

The sun is going down now... a new year is just beginning (according to the Jewish calendar). I commit here in print before God and His angels that I will yet wait and pray for night and day prayer to be integrated together with evangelism to bring in the great harvest before Jesus returns. I bear witness to this "divine chemistry" that is in the fullness of God's heart and hand to give to His Church in our day. The nations will be shaking but in the midst of such trouble... Jesus' Name will be poured out as the most pleasant fragrance the world can know through both God's Spirit and His bride's earnest, lovesick witness.

Its coming, its coming, its coming. I am resolute, my heart is fixed O God. My heart is fixed.

Michael Jordan HOF speech

2009-09-14T09:39:00.001-04:00

Kids, do not watch this video: the one of Michael Jordan accepting his induction into the basketball hall of fame. Its not a pleasant sight, something of a train wreck. What used to be perceived as his "competitiveness" and "drive" to excel on the basketball court when filtered through the sports media and marketing agencies is now more clearly seen as bitterness that is tempered with a bloated sense of self-importance. You can google for the video, its now in internet posterity. To use that context to belittle others you have disagreed with along the road of life is sad to see. Michael referred to the chiding of one of the coaches in Chicago who (attempted to) direct him away from selfish play on the court: “Tex said there was no I in team. Well, that’s true. But there is an I in win. So however you want it.” He literally addressed his children in his speech and said (in light of his accomplishments) "You guys have a heavy burden. I wouldn't want to be you." I've interacted with some pretty arrogant, aloof people along the way, and at the end of the day I can't help but think that while they feel clever in the moment or triumphant in what they accomplished (which was largely then at the expense of others) there is yet the final assessment of a life well-lived. Its not being the loudest person in the room, or most effectively gathering others to yourself. The world is rampant with those "heroes" and we even wink at it and at times tacitly approve of it in the Body of Christ. Jesus said the greatest among us were those who were serving others in the most giving, assertive way... not to be seen nor applauded but to make the lives of others better. Consider John Bunyan and David Brainerd, of Jim Elliott and his companions. And most of all, consider Jesus. He came into the world, His own did not receive Him, yet He did not hesitate to lay down His life.

I Will Make Them Joyful

2009-09-09T10:24:00.001-04:00

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Yesterday the stock market rose 56.07 points. It reminded me of Isaiah 56, verse 7 where the Lord says:

Even them I will bring to My holy mountain,
      And make them joyful in My house of prayer.

      Their burnt offerings and their sacrifices
      Will be accepted on My altar;

      For My house shall be
      called
      a house of prayer for all nations.

Terrific song: Close to You

2009-09-07T14:59:00.002-04:00

It’s a love song yeah, one you can’t get out of your head
Oh we can be happy again in his love
Arise my love winter is over and gone
The time for dancing and singing has come

And we want to be closer
To be close
To be close to You
Draw us and we will run
We will run
We will run to You

- Mark Mathis, 'Warship' CD

Voice of the Martyrs prayer update

2009-09-04T09:04:00.000-04:00

But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us. We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed. 2 Corinthians 4:7-9

INDIA — Church burned in Andhra Pradesh — VOM Sources

Romans 8:34-36: Who is he who condemns? It is Christ who died, and furthermore is also risen, who is even at the right hand of God, who also makes intercession for us. Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? As it is written: “ For Your sake we are killed all day long; We are accounted as sheep for the slaughter.”

On Aug. 20, The Best Friends Church building in the village of Mahasamudram in Andhra Pradesh, India, was burned to the ground by suspected Hindu extremists, according to The Voice of the Martyrs contacts. A dedication service for the newly constructed church building had been scheduled for Aug. 30. The pastor constructed the building on his property after hosting the services in his home for seven years. Ask God to protect the pastor’s family who live near the burned church. Pray that the believers of this church will continue to gather together for worship. Pray that those responsible will experience repentance and salvation, just as Paul did.

SOMALIA — Christian Convert Murdered by Extremists — Compass Direct News

Revelation 2:10: Do not fear any of those things which you are about to suffer. Indeed, the devil is about to throw some of you into prison, that you may be tested, and you will have tribulation ten days. Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life.

Compass Direct News reports that on Aug. 18, a Christian convert from Islam was shot dead in Bulahawa, Somalia, by members of al-Shabaab, an Islamic extremist group. In early 2009, Ahmed Matan began facing harassment from Muslim extremists who demanded to know why he had expanded his trading business to Mandera, a town in neighboring Kenya. Two weeks before his death, Matan informed the former leader of the underground church he had attended since 2001 that extremists were monitoring his activities and preventing him from working in Kenya. Matan is survived by a wife and three children, ages 7, 4 and 3 months. Pray for those grieving the loss of Matan. Pray that Somali believers will remain faithful even upon threat of death.

BELARUS — Church Evicted — Forum 18 News

Psalm 91:11-16: For He shall give His angels charge over you, To keep you in all your ways. In their hands they shall bear you up, Lest you dash your foot against a stone. You shall tread upon the lion and the cobra, The young lion and the serpent you shall trample underfoot. “Because he has set his love upon Me, therefore I will deliver him; I will set him on high, because he has known My name. He shall call upon Me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble; I will deliver him and honor him. With long life I will satisfy him, And show him My salvation.”

On Aug. 20, New Life Full Gospel Church in Minsk, Moscow, was issued an eviction notice by government officials, forcing them to abandon their church building purchased in 2002, according to Forum 18 News. The church is adamant they do not fear the government’s threats. “We’re here praying and believe God will protect us,” Sergei Lukanin, the church’s lawyer told Forum 18 News. “As a lawyer I believe the state could do anything, including the use of force. But as a believer I rely on God.” Government authorities have not disclosed why the church is being evicted, but have repeatedly refused to grant the church’s application for registration. In 2002, Belarus passed a restrictive religion law that made all unregistered religious activity illegal. New Life Full Gospel Church is one of many churches in Belarus facing increased restrictions by the government. Forum 18 News said the government has fined two other churches since July in the western town of Baranovichi. Ask God to encourage members of New Life Full Gospel Church and for their testimony to draw nonbelievers into fellowship with Christ.