The Bluewater Frontier

A Little Overwhelmed........

2013-08-22T08:49:00.001-07:00

One of my "heroes" during my formative years was a pastor named E.V. Hill. I would try to attend conferences where he was speaking, get "cassettes" (remember those?) of his messages, and basically absorb everything I could from his teaching. He was humorous, enthusiastic, and often times very helpful.

I heard him tell the story of an elderly pastor who was the go to guy for all the young preachers in E.V. Hill's network. Whenever these young pastors needed encouragement they would make an appointment with this seasoned elder in the faith. This weathered brother would listen carefully, sometimes make suggestions, but invariably always came to the same conclusion. Go back to your ministry and "Preach a Little!" Preaching always seemed to make things right. Discouraged? Preach a little! Frustrated? Preach a little!......etc....

If my memory serves me correctly, the first time I heard E.V. Hill tell this story was at a Billy Graham Conference at Wheaton in 1984 where E.V. Hill was speaking. I could have the location details wrong, but I still have the notebook in my archives and could easily check the dates.......but the story still impacts me when I get to the place where I am feeling a little overwhelmed. The lessons that event taught me have served me through three decades of life and ministry.

1. It is good to have some experienced leaders to talk to during difficult times.

2. Going to God's Word for perspective during difficult days always has a calming effect.

3. Focus on what has to be done for sure, when things get a little confusing. In my case as a pastor, regardless of what is going on around me, conflict, sorrow, fatigue etc., Sunday is never far away. So, whenever circumstances tend to fog my vision, I know I have to be ready to preach that weekend. So, to settle down, I have learned to shut the door, break out the Scriptures, and dig in to what God wants to say that week to me and through me. Because in a few short days, I will have one more chance to "Preach a Little!"

I know that your vocational focus may be different than mine, but the habit of dialing in on what has to happen is a good first step in re-establishing equilibrium during confusing times.

Until next time,

Pastor Mike

A vacation visit to a cool, hip, modern, with it, church

2013-08-10T20:44:00.000-07:00

While Sharon and I were on vacation this summer we made it a point to attend worship services that we thought would be different for us. What you are about to read is a compilation of what we observed. We were some of the oldest people in the room in each church we visited. As you look at the list of traits we thought were noteworthy, keep in mind that these churches are lively, regularly conduct multiple services, are apparently attracting large crowds, and going through growing pains as a result.

1. NO PAPER - There were no what we would call bulletins, no printed orders of worship, no bulletin board with brochures about anything. There were some index card like informational handouts, but they all referred you to the website. I used the back of response envelopes to take notes about what we saw, three of them.

2. NO ANNOUNCEMENTS - There was no time in the service where the upcoming events were mentioned, described, or highlighted. Lines of communication included texting, email, or announcements on the website.

3. NO OFFERING - We could only conclude that if you attended the church regularly you knew how to give.........if you wanted to.......

4. CONCERT TYPE WORSHIP - The worship time was a series of songs mostly unfamiliar to us, presented in a way that made us feel like we were at a band concert, surrounded by fellow worshipers who were watching rather than outwardly participating with the professionally proficient worship band while they conducted a concert. Tight jeans, boy band hair, swallowing the mic, and "giving it up" in applause for the band's exceptional performance were all part of the gig. The band's skill level really was exceptional.

5. DARKNESS - The auditorium lights were out almost completely during the worship time, and during the "talk" it was a little lighter, but not enough to read along or take notes. The stage was lit up with rotating lights, lots of theatrical type stage lighting which was used a lot during the worship time. It was so dark that when we first arrived we were personally escorted into the room, and led to a seat. Without that escort we would not have known where worship was taking place, nor would our eyes have been adjusted enough to navigate to a seat. All of these elements are deliberate choices made for a specific reason by a leadership team of some sort.

6. EMPHASIS ON TECHNOLOGY - The room probably seated three hundred people, yet had 6 projectors illuminating the entire front of the meeting room. The band had all the latest gadgets, the website was mentioned repeatedly, and the whole service was visually busy. This event they kept calling an experience was no doubt a lot of work to put together every week.

7. A GADGET GUY ON FULL TIME STAFF - In each case there was a media/computer person dealing with the gadgets and production who was part of the full time staff. The emphasis on media no doubt gave these people plenty to do, and illustrated that if you are going to make a production like this every week, volunteers alone would not do the job.

8. LOTS OF "VISION CASTING" - Here is where we are headed, here is how you can give financially or with your time to fulfilling the vision given to the pastor. There was a strong emphasis on the pastor hearing from God and passing "God's" agenda on to the rest of the people.

So, as you look at this list, what are the priorities you see highlighted here? What is not listed? What priorities listed here are important to you? This isn't about what I think is right or wrong, but "what is" in these churches we visited. How does this list match up with what you think is important?

Getting the Word Out

2013-08-07T13:38:00.001-07:00

I just returned from two weeks of travelling to Gettysburg, Plymouth Rock, Mystic Seaport, and the city of Boston, Massachusetts. We had a great time and we were happy to be home. I learned a lot, remembered a lot, and saw some rather disturbing habits in fellow travelers.

First thing was somewhat humorous. As we visited the replica of the Plymouth Native American settlement, we were treated to some guides in original garb explaining how to construct a dugout canoe, among other things. Catch the situation....... We were looking at a person dressed like a member of the Wampanoag tribe, but talked with a New Jersey accent. The guide was most informative, but the visual incongruency made us chuckle. Here is a picture to help you get a feel for the situation.

On a more serious note, I observed something that I found quite disturbing. As I motored along the interstate highways, it seemed that a good one third of the people I passed or passed me were texting as they drove. Sometimes they were totally immersed in a message while travelling just behind a tractor trailer at 70 miles an hour. Others were texting while passing me at speeds far exceeding the 65 miles an hour I was travelling. If the person in front of them had to stop, or something ran out in front of them, they would have certainly caused a messy pile up. Made me think about the prayer for protection that we prayed that morning before we left on the trip. I am sure these people had heard the numerous warnings in print and on the airwaves about the dangers of texting and driving. Yet they chose to ignore them. Not just ignore them but ignore them with a brazen and complete disregard the potential danger they were creating. Sounds familiar.

As I reviewed things for this weekend's talk I was reminded of the constant warnings in Scripture about rejecting the good news of Jesus. I know that mentioning judgment nowadays is quite unpopular. Our culture has worked so hard at eliminating any penalties in life that in many circles it is actually believed they no longer exist. And if you are crazy enough to be the one who mentions this concept called the judgment of God, I hope you know how to duck! Jesus, however, had no such hesitation nor did he live under such misconceptions. I suspect because he was all too aware of the nature of the judgment awaiting those who reject Him. Luke 10 describes it quite well. But that is why Jesus shows up in their neighborhoods, why he sends his representatives to declare the Kingdom of God is near and to prep the towns and villages for his coming. His preference is that we respond to his offer for rescue and avoid the painful pile ups of life. That is what makes Him such good news. Ultimately, if we ignore the warnings and end up running into the back end of a semi, that will be our own choice.

May God grant us the grace to avoid the back ends of semi's.

Until later.............

On the Bluewater Frontier,

PMike

This Year's Conference with Fellow Wizards

2013-07-22T08:32:00.003-07:00

I spent last week in Fort Wayne, Indiana attending our church's international business meeting. My father used to refer to these meetings as my gatherings with fellow wizards, a description that would concern some fellow wizards. Nonetheless, pastors and leaders from all around the world gather every other year to conduct official business, catch up with one another, and share reports about what God is doing in different corners of the globe. This year's theme was Shift, as you can see from the promotional banner. It was encouraging to spend time with Don Cousins, Francis Chan, and Alan and Deb Hirsch. Their teaching and interaction was a great source of encouragement and insight. Time well spent.

The three areas of SHIFT we discussed were....

Shift from church building to disciplemaking

Shift from program shaping to life shaping

Shift from participation to reproduction

Some thought provoking quotes............

Something happens when we pray that doesn’t happen when we don’t

Without Him we can’t and without us He won’t
Jesus didn’t say go and make “attendees”
God has called us to more than merely managing human activity
When you build a church you seldom get disciples, but when you make disciples you always get a church.

Each one of these represent an hour or two of teaching and conversation. I will be talking more about them for the next few weeks.

On a lighter note, I wore my Alabama shirt when we were relaxing. I received it two weeks ago when my brother visited from Birmingham. I got two SEC! fist bumps, a couple of strange looks from some Florida Gator fans, and one Roll Tide! in the hotel lobby. Seems there are Alabama fans all over the place.

This picture was taken in the 7th inning of a Fort Wayne Tin Caps game, a minor league team there in Fort Wayne. They are in the same league as the Lansing Lug Nuts. It was fun sharing a game with AL, Sue and others. I enjoyed visiting with everyone and we returned home glad to be back in the land of the Maize and Blue.

What are you reading this Summer?

2013-06-14T09:11:00.000-07:00

Summertime is a great time to read. So, I thought I would share with you what I hope to read over the summer, along with some personal notes for the fun of it.......

Reading Tools:

1. On my laptop if I am at home or at a favorite restaurant.

2. On my ipad if I need to travel light and can't bring my laptop. Although, it seems I am
learning to carry my ipad around more and more and my lap top less and less.

3. On my kindle, which is my favorite reading tool. The color is great, there are lots of
interesting resources that are free, it's the easiest to use,and it's the first e-reading device
my wife purchased for me.

4. On plain ole paper, especially if I need to use the book as an on-going interactive resource.
I like to do a lot of high lighting, and writing comments in the margins. This is difficult to do
in the e-readers.

Reading Locations:

1. My study at home. Here is my sanctuary. I think here, journal here, and pray here. It is a
warm inviting place.

2. My boat. Half the time, especially in the summer, I look forward to launching my boat on the
St. Clair river and then floating down as I read the latest good book on my list. It is quiet,
unless a 1000 foot freighter comes by, or another boater, or the Coast
Guard zooms past on their way to help someone in distress.....maybe it's not as quiet..... If I
catch fish that day it is a bonus, but getting more read in my book of the day is the goal.

3. A quiet pull off on Harsen's Island. The island is dotted with these little driveways that
border the canals. They are great places to sit and read and think....until the "sqiutos" come
out.

4. In the car. When Sharon and I go on vacation we usually have one book picked out to read
to each other along the trip. This summer will be no different. It is better than the radio,
which fades in and out as you move along the highway, and we sometimes use the book to
launch into some great discussions.

Reading List:

1. MockingJay. We have read the first two, have seen the movie Hunger Games, and now are
ready to finish the tale with the third and final installment.

2. Chesterton's biography of St. Thomas Aquinas on my Kindle.

3. The Ministry of Intercession by Andrew Murray on my Kindle.

4. Multiplying Missional Leaders and Leading Kingdom Movements by Mike Breen.

5. The Personal Life of David Livingston by Willaim Blaikie on my Kindle.

This was probably more information than you needed about my summer reading list, but it is fun to write about it as I look forward to a great summer. I hope your summer is looking good as well. A great book makes it even better.

Pastor Mike

Every once in awhile......

2013-06-11T08:39:00.000-07:00

Well, here it is.......the Bible study guide from my first every training event with Inter-Varsity. It was the winter of 1976. I went with Wally, Paul, Stretch, and a few others. The main instructor was so hairy he looked like he had just finished an audition as the lion in the Lion King. I forget his name. I forget exactly what he said. But I do remember his encouragement to us about reading the Word of God, studying the gospel of Mark in particular, about following Jesus with passion, and his exhortations about leading a small group study back on our campus.

Every once in awhile..... I pull this study guide out. I look it over. I safeguard it. I thank God for it. I return it to its place of safety, to be retrieved one again the next time I find myself thankful for God's sustaining grace at the feet of leaders with Inter-varsity Christian Fellowship.

Every once in awhile..... I get real nostalgic. I remember younger days on campus as a skinny, scared, lonely kid. The only one on my floor who didn't have a live-in girlfriend or spend Friday nights getting high at the community bong party. I was considered a bit of a misfit.

Every once in a while.....I have a conversation with a parent whose son or daughter is headed off to college. This parent, on this day, was telling me how his son was planning to spend a month this summer training with Inter-Varsity. Thus the walk down memory lane.

This will be some of the best time this young man will ever spend. It is some sort of leadership training. I don't even know what it is, but I do know that it will strengthen his walk with Jesus, sharpen his skills as a leader, and lead to even greater influence on the campus where he regularly leads a discussion group.

Every once in a while.....I am compelled to pray for the young leaders God is raising up to take the reigns of His church. Whether it is the leaders at Oakland, Western, Albion, or U of M, Germany, or Ole Miss......we pray for them all, and the young people from our church who are encouraged by the Inter-Varsity leaders on site, as well as the leaders themselves whom we support.

Every once in awhile.....I return to their website (http://www.intervarsity.org) to see what new resources have been produced for our young followers of Jesus.

Every once in awhile.....I reflect back on 30 years of pastoral ministry and wonder how these young leaders of today will be used by God for His glory because of the preparation and training they experienced in Inter-Varstiy......and I am encouraged. Because I know how I was prepared and trained.......

Schools are wrapping up, winding down, and staffers are preparing for the shift to summer ministries. If you know of someone who is actively working with college students in Inter-Varsity, this is a good time of year to let them know of your prayer support. It is a good time of year to inquire if they have need of any financial support. If you need a name and address, contact me. We support several staff members. Then write them a note, and write them a check. Who knows what God will do with that investment.

A Grateful Soul on the Bluewater Frontier,

Mike Cadrette

Arriving at Peace

2013-06-05T15:07:00.003-07:00

Strange. Peace. Inner peace. Inner peace that flows out of a solid connection with the Prince of peace - Jesus. The above signs of course are what we normally think about when we hear the word peace. I have been struck lately while reading through the gospel of Luke with how many times Jesus says, "Go in peace." I have often asked my self how that is even possible with all the turmoil going on in the world. And yet lately, I find myself in a place of extraordinary peace. That led me to examine how I have arrived here.

Peace - the absence of conflict, but even more than that, an overall sense of well being that flows out of an inner confidence in someone or something. The peace that Jesus offers is not a declaration that turmoil or tragedy no longer exists, but rather in the midst of troubling turmoil or tragedy, we are not troubled as a result. That state of peace can come only when you understand how Jesus is the best source of Peace. He is called the Prince of Peace. Royalty, ultimately ruling over that which leaves us troubled. Well, I could go on about all this, but I looked at how, for the first time in awhile, I am actually at peace. Here are what I think may be the contributing factors.

Physical Health - last summer I was two weeks away from major surgery for what turned out to be a lifelong sinus problem. What a difference a year makes. I was almost totally incapacitated last year at this time, useless to my co-workers, frustrated, and generally distressed by the problem that existed in my head. This Spring has been such a contrast. Thank God for good physicians and the healing grace of God.

Released Some Bitterness - The problem has not gone away, those who caused the bitterness are still exactly where they were, and my solution has been completely ignored. But, through prayer to a sovereign God, supportive friends, and the patient love of a good wife, I have been able to "let it go." What a relief.

Contentment - The apostle Paul says (Philippians 4:12-13) that getting to the place where you are satisfied, without the need to be driven, or compelled to reach for more for the wrong reasons, well, takes awhile to learn. Seems I have at least gotten close to reaching that point. This is not complacency or slothfulness. But contentment. I think the road to contentment is paved partly with a heart of gratitude. Being thankful for what one has rather than focusing on what one doesn't or can't have. Seems that was one of Satan's tactics in the garden. He was successful in getting Adam and Eve to focus on the one thing they couldn't do, eat the fruit of the tree, the one thing they didn't have, the knowledge of good and evil. And so by disobeying God, refusing to believe God and decided to make up their own rules......Ooops. Sorry, started preaching.....

Focusing on Relationships - I am by nature a task oriented person. I have shifted my energy to work more on the people around me rather than the tasks in front of me. Big difference. About eighteen months ago I asked the Lord to teach me how to love people, I mean really love them. Well, let's just say that my learning curve has been pretty steep. Oh, by the way, how good are you at actually loving your enemies? Or your neighbors? School is still in session.

Working in my giftedness -

I say no, a lot. Twice this month I said no to people who wanted me to do what they wanted me to do, instead of what I know God has given me to do. At 55, it is more obvious than ever that I have only so much time left on earth. I am going to be about what I know God wants me to be about.

I act with intentionality. My work week is very focused, has a margin in it for people, and is a direct reflection of what I believe are my God given goals for this year......well, at least more than in the past. Maybe this is practice, skill training, or God's Spirit working through me,
but whatever it is, God is actually using me to help people change and grow. It is quite satisfying.

I know my strengths. My base gifting is teaching. The other four gifts listed in Ephesians 4 are phases I have drifted in and out of over time. See Building A Discipling Culture for a greater explanation of the five fold gifts. Working on your areas of weakness over time actually helps you increase your capacity for influencing others. But by interacting with others, consulting my wife and evaluating failures, one can fine tune activity in a way that leads to strong relationships as well as meaningful accomplishment.

The end result is peace. That is where I am today. And I thank God for it.

A Shining Shipshewana Moment

2013-04-26T13:52:00.000-07:00

The week after Easter is usually a time when Sharon and I spend a few days resting. This time the week ended with a quiet trip to Shipshewana, Indiana. There we ate well, listened to sales pitches about the finest furniture in the world, and had lunch with some old friends. It was a great way to end a week of rest.

As we visited the almost endless supply of souvenir shops, I came across these two simple yet profound statements painted on two simple yet compelling pieces of wood. They now occupy a conspicuous place on my bookshelf.

They caught my attention because of some recent events that had left me bitter and thinking about life somewhere over the rainbow. A week of rest provides some interesting perspective.....

Like, "At the other end of the rainbow there will be just as many trolls trying to steal your pot of gold. They are there, you can be assured of that, just because you can't see them yet, doesn't mean they aren't lurking nearby. So, to mix yet another metaphor, bloom where you are planted is what indeed occurs when you water the grass at your feet rather than dreaming about "smooth turfing" somewhere else.

The other block relates to how fatigue can taint your perspective on relationships, warp your thinking about what "they have done to me," and in general just plain ole steal your joy. I found some interesting encouragement in an unexpected place.........As I was reading Patrick Lencioni's book The Five Temptations of a CEO where in the midst of the fable you find these words, "Sometimes its even OK to get burned, because you realize it's not fatal." Not fatal indeed, and perhaps even instructive. Still hurts, can led to great levels of disappointment, but not fatal. So, maybe the apostle Paul was onto something when he wrote to some friends of his in a town called Philippi when he said,

....but I focus on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Jesus Christ, is calling us. Philippians 3:13b-14 NLT

Sometimes, you just need to take a nap and get over it.

Until next time......

Pastor Mike

Hatred and Bigotry

2013-03-08T09:58:00.000-08:00

I knew it would come eventually. This week I was reading an article about the recent challenge in Michigan to the ban on same sex marriage. I found it helpful and passed it on to the church wide distribution list. It was an article from Michigan American family Association (www.afamichigan.org) dated March 7, 2013. As I expected, I got a reply from someone asking to be removed from our mailing list because they did not want to be associated with a church that was hateful and bigoted.

So, this response prompted me to finish something I have started several times.......so here we go.....

1. Anytime we describe God's best for doing life, in this case as it relates to relationships, it is never hateful or bigoted. Actually Jesus says that if we follow his lead on doing life we end up with a life that is fully lived, abundant life I believe is the term He uses in John 10:10. This comment is in direct contrast to what the thief has come to do - steal, kill, and destroy. Hmmm.

2. If something is legal, that does not mean it is morally right. Let me list some examples.

a. abortion - the murder of innocent, voiceless, helpless children - legal
b. gambling - the raping of resources leaving a person hopeless, broke and suicidal - legal
c. pornography - the demeaning of women, perversion of physical love - legal........etc.

Unless the trend reverses, it is only a matter of time before gay marriage is legal across the country. But that will not make it any more right.

3. Disagreement with someone about an issue does not automatically mean you hate the person you disagree with. This is a cleverly orchestrated marketing strategy that has convinced people to think that anytime someone takes a different view of something they must therefore be your enemy. I am surrounded by people who make sinful choices all the time. Do I hate abortionists, gamblers, drug addicts, thieves, pornographers, rapists, extortioners, etc......? No, the Lord came to save sinners from the effects of sin. And "I is one"........of those who have been saved from sin. How could I possibly adopt a position of superiority in light of what the grace of God has done in my own life?.......But I do hate what happens to those who practice such things. Sin, as John 10 describes for us, ends up stealing from our life experience what it is not entitled to by God's design, to literally dismember, rip our lives to shreds, and render us ineffective. (steal, kill, destroy) Why would I like that?

4. The homosexual lifestyle is defended as a reasonable alternative to a man and a woman. God's pattern for living is between a man and a woman. You can make up your own rules if you want to. As a matter of fact God has designed us to be able to choose to live our own way rather than His way. Read Luke 15:11-31. He even resources our rebellion for a time. But the outcome to making up your own pattern is to say the least, always less than what God has planned for us to enjoy in life. Stating this publicly is apparently what people consider hateful and bigoted. Hardly.

5. The issue is more about "you telling me what to do." Who makes you an authority on how to live? Who gives you the right to say your way of life is better than mine? Jesus comes to show us how to live out God's Word, the Bible. He is the model for doing life. It is nothing I ever came up with. Some suggest that since Jesus doesn't mention homosexuality directly he is not concerned about it. I would suggest that the gay lifestyle is so foreign to the Father's construct he doesn't even mention it, but instead directs his comments to marriage in terms of a husband and wife. See Matthew 19:1-12 for example.

6. I expect more and more pressure to be exerted on me to keep quiet about what God says is the best way to do life. I imagine it will eventually become illegal to call sin what the gay community wants to call normal. But to be involved in proclaiming a lifestyle that rescues others from the effects of sinful choices and opens up a great way to do life is worth the price that may be paid in the process. I suspect the price is about to go up. As Peter and John experienced after they were thrown in jail for preaching Jesus, they did not stop speaking because of pressure to do so.

7. Jesus spent most of his time with those who did life differently from the way he did. Most of his friends, his parties, were with people who did not necessarily agree with his world view. Why did he do that? Because he loved them.....anyway. Most of my family practices, lives, believes quite the opposite of what I do as a pastor and a follower of Jesus. Those who tell me they are gay, have had abortions, divorces, drug problems, prison records............are all people Jesus loves. My job is not to get in their face and convince them there is a better way. Although, unfortunately in some cases, they are being taught that is their job in dealing with me. My job is to love them, to pray for them, to spend time with them when I can, to answer questions when they ask, and to wait for them to hear from Jesus on their own.

If that is being hateful and bigoted.....then guilty as charged.

On the Bluewater Frontier...............

Pastor Mike Cadrette

Note: Here is the cover of one of the best magazines on moral and ethical issues. This particular issue is focused on the subject at hand. Go to www.touchstonemag.com for more information. At my place in life, this is the only magazine besides World (www.worldmag.com) that I read cover to cover - if you can do that on a Kindle:).

What stuff are you learning lately?

2013-02-01T09:45:00.000-08:00

Some growth stuff:

Since my health has gotten back on track, the new year is off to a much better start than last year. I could easily characterize 2012 as the year of defeat, the valley of the shadow of death, or some other depressing description. But each reason for discouragement has been faced, and either conquered or eliminated. That is good news. Special thanks to the staff at Port Huron E.N.T and Dr. Brettschneider.

So in the spirit of Philippians 3:12-14, last year is now just that......last year. So what is going on for this year? How would you answer that question? One of the ways I usually answer that question in broad strokes is in terms of a spiritual growth plan.

Here is what mine looks like for this year...........2013

Growth in my walk with the Lord:
􀂁 Continue Moravian Bible reading plan
􀂁 Prayer appointment with a leader/week
􀂁 Research Spiritual Direction

Growth with other Christians:
􀂁 Have lunch guests at home every third Sunday
􀂁 Lead weekly leadership huddle
􀂁 Attend March biblical counseling conference

Growth with those outside the church:
􀂁 Prayer weekly with Sharon for those we love
􀂁 Develop 2 real friendships with those who have no church connection
􀂁 Read “Speaking of Jesus” by Carl Medearis

I will keep you posted as things progress this year. One thing I am reminded of regularly, is that meaningful change or accomplishment seldom happens without deliberate choices and changes. What is God calling you to do or change?

Some fun stuff:

I am learning to use google+ and its video features as part of a weekly leadership huddle. It is fun interacting with 6 other leaders as we discuss our topic for the week. It has given me some great ideas for other group meetings I have here at church.

I am enjoying the chance to read Buildling a Discipling Culture and Covenant and Kingdom on my Kindle. That little gadget has become my favorite electronic toy. Check out www.weare3DM.com for more info about these resources.

Sharon and I are making plans to spend a couple of nights away in February celebrating our 34th year of marriage. I am fortunate to have such a great wife. I was looking at our wedding pictures last week. Well, let's just say things looked different back then, in more ways than one.

Some stuff that relates to following Jesus:

Perhaps you have heard me talk about how the Lord has challenged me to love my enemies......no, I mean actually love them. Ever find yourself reading a part of Scripture and not being real convinced that it is even possible, let alone necessary? So, first I had to repent of my lack of love for my enemies. Then, I had to go looking for some help in living this out in my life. In my research I came across some resources by Carl Medearis. You can check his material out at www.carlmedearis.com. I am just beginning his book Speaking of Jesus:The Art of Not-Evangelism. I will let you know how it goes.

Some stuff you can ask me about:

How is your exercise plan working out? (Catch the pun there?)

What did you talk about in this week's leadership huddle?

What is the latest lesson you have learned on loving your enemies?

How is your book coming along?

In closing, I want to encourage you to keep growing this year in your walk with the Lord. 2 Peter 1:3-11 tells me that when I commit to growing I am assured of having an effective and productive year.

May it be so for all of us.............

I'm Pastor Mike, and we'll see you Sunday if not before.

What can you learn from your nose? ...an outline

2012-06-29T11:13:00.002-07:00

The Story…..

It has been about a year. I had been experiencing a gradual loss of energy. I found myself having to rest more in general, go home early in the afternoon for a nap, and reduce my evening appointments. And then, as you have noticed, I began losing my voice. I couldn’t preach three services, then two complete ones without great strain on my voice. I adjusted by insuring I had a snack between services and I found that if I stopped singing as much I could preach both messages. So, with snack in hand, I compensated for singing as much as I could by spending more time in the foyer during the worship set greeting latecomers, but things continued to get worse. I thought it was just because I was 54, and this is how one feels as they “get older”.

So, to verify what was going on, I decided to get a physical check-up. After several scans and exams, the doctor asked me if I had ever been a boxer……..a boxer? Turns out the damage in my sinus area was a common result of using your nose for other things than it was intended, like in my case, heading soccer balls for about 30 years of my life. I headed most of them quite well, but once in a while…….I missed.

It turns out my right sinus had been blocked almost completely for years and quite an infection had developed. As a result, this crud filled the right side of my head and was (this is really gross if you think about it) flowing down the back of my throat and over my vocal chords. That is why my voice had lost its endurance and I was losing strength in general. Once I had a clear picture of what was going on, I wanted to fix it as soon as possible…..ya thinkJ.

The Works…….

So, we picked a date. Then, it was postponed because they set me up at the wrong facility. Since I was scheduled for the works, as the nurse described it, the procedure needed to be done at the hospital. It’s kind of humorous actually. When I met with the nurse to go over things, she picked up my paperwork, and then……I watched her eyes get real big as she exclaimed, “My, looks like you’re having the works!” The works it will be. So, I went to Youtube to see what I was getting into. That was fun, but I couldn’t get Sharon to watch. “Too gross,” she said J.

Once it became clear what was needed, many of you came by and described how you too had the same procedure, to one degree or another. Thanks for your reassuring words.

Suffice it to say the procedure was successful.

The Results

It has now been a week from the procedure. My recovery has been a little longer than anticipated. My less than positive response to a different anesthesia than I had been exposed to in the past and the extent of the procedure has posed some extra demands on my recovery. However, the effects of the procedure were noticeable even in the fog of my initial waking moments. My hearing is much more sensitive, my taste is more distinct (everything that has sugar seems much sweeter), and most impressive of all is my wife tells me I have stopped snoring. That has several other implications that will only get better over time. My first post-op exam was passed with flying colors and when I expressed frustration about my recovery I was reminded, ”Remember, you are 54, not 24.” Indeed.

Just sit and heal…..

I had my computer on my lap, the dining room table covered with books and files just waiting for my attention, and all I could do was drop my head back and close my eyes. I was exhausted, working through the fog of pain meds in a body that could actually begin to get stronger without constantly fighting infection. I still had high hopes of accomplishing great things. Mom asked how I was feeling and I answered that despite my best hopes, it seems that all I can do right now is sit here and heal. Here is an excerpt from a recent progress note I sent out to the Executive Leadership Team describing my current situation and plans for the weekend.

I continue to heal, but in what seems to be 2-4 hour cycles of strength and then collapse. I regret I was not prepared to be out of the pulpit for two weeks. Most reports I received told me I should be back on my feet in two days, not two weeks. Oh well. I may not have known, but God is not surprised. Apparently he would like us to celebrate His work in VBS a little more than we had originally planned. Enjoy the celebration and to God be the glory!

So, whether I had planned for it adequately or not, I am stopped and down.

Stopped and Down

Just some thoughts about what one can learn ……

You can’t ignore what needs fixin.’

Being in the house for the last 7 days straight has helped refresh my memory about what needs to be finished or repaired. Things like the bedroom window, the front storm door, the fireplace mantle, the closet racks, and the list goes on. Going at full speed allows me to ignore these things; when you are staring them in the face 24/7, not so much.

Life goes on.

While I have been down two funerals have come and gone that otherwise I would have officiated. These dear souls are gone anyway. The grass has continued to grow. Fortunately, we are in a dry spell, but it is still getting longer. VBS came and went, and I never even got to see one moment of the event. Yet, despite my absence, a staff that made up more than a third of the church led by Pastor Sue and Pastor John shared the good news of Jesus with more than a 100 young souls for 4 straight days. Only time will tell the impact of their efforts. Several people were given news about their physical condition that dwarfs my personal situation. The worship service came off without a hitch, and this weekend will be the same.

It seems that while I have a role in God’s plan, the world and God’s will for this world march ever towards its fulfillment.

Cleansing can be painful but is always fruitful.

This process has been painful and continues to be painful. But, I am grateful for those who know how to go in and clean it out. As a result, I am and will be a healthier more effective steward of this temple. Remember that it’s the hindrance the infection was having on my preaching that got my attention in the first place.

Those who are going above and beyond their normal responsibilities to cover for me will gain helpful experience as a result.

There are the physical outcomes that I already mentioned and also my doctor reminded me that more positive outcomes would keep coming for the next three to six months as I continue to heal.

To be continued………..

Pastor Mike

A 3-D Update

2012-05-17T10:59:00.000-07:00

I have talked about his group before. It’s called 3DM – a discipleship ministry led by a group of Christians from England. They have the predictable British accent, the jovial attitude that seems to always go with the accent, and something more important to me anyway…….a humble spirit.

I have been doing this Pastor Mike thing for a couple of years now (27 to be exact) and you should see my shelves. They are full of huge binders representing seminars led by Sunday School experts, bus ministry gurus, cell group aficionados, church planting incubators, and coaching consultants. I have met leaders who describe themselves as seeker sensitive, others who could care less about how you feel, emergent, traditional, and a group busy growing a healthy church. Their materials explain steps, phases, levels, zones, and ……….uhhhh, ……..I forget, but you get the idea. So when I was first invited to attend a 3DM seminar I was somewhat skeptical. I had read 3DM’s book Building a Discipling Culture. I read it because someone who speaks into my life occasionally steered me in this direction because I had expressed some concern about the 20 somethings in my life.

So we (the staff and one leader) climb in an RV as I described in an earlier post, and off we went. I guess this is sort of an update. As of this post, I am in a huddle, as they call it, a group of 4 others who are processing the above mentioned book and doing some simple homework each week. We are just getting started.

I also purchased a copy of the book for each member of the leadership board. I have been quite encouraged about how quickly the leaders have connected with the material. In my experience, it’s not usually absorbed this quickly. Beyond absorbing, they are also already thinking about what this means for us, already thinking about how different ministry would be if we started to live this out. A good sign I would say.

This week the books arrived for each staff member. They are the ones who also responded to the invitation to attend the 3DM seminar with me. Having the book will provide another opportunity to digest the material and decide if we want to take on the challenge of making disciples.

Help me. Over the summer pick up a copy of the book Building a Discipling Culture. Read it. Think about it. Pray over the challenge that flows out of the book. Examine the Scriptures as Mike Breen explains them. Go to www.weare3DM.com. Mike Breen, the author and leader, has also just released another book along the same line called Multiplying Missional Leaders. I haven’t purchased this one it yet. There is nothing new here, but it’s put together in a way that connects with almost everyone, including some people who are important to me personally.

What’s the worst that can happen? You add a good book on discipling to your already large collection of binders and you contribute to Mike Breen’s boat fund......

You could spend your money in worse ways. Time will tell if this is just another passing seminar or something else.

On the Bluewater Frontier,

Pastor Mike Cadrette

Talk about "Amazing" grace!

2012-04-20T20:18:00.000-07:00

This past week I got up early and headed off to the gym like I have recently learned to do most days of the week. I parked my truck, walked in and emerged 90 minutes later having spent most of the time picking things up and putting them down....as they say. On my way out something unusual happened. I seldom talk to anyone. I have learned through observation that there seems to be two kinds of people in the gym - those who come to exercise and those who come to socialize. (I know, a rabbit trail we can discuss at a later time.) I go to exercise. So imagine my surprise when one of the gym employees stops me and asks me my name followed by another question asking if I had lost my wallet. Turns out I had indeed dropped my wallet in the parking lot now almost two hours ago. A college age young man had noticed it, and turned it into the desk. It was completely untouched, including the five one dollar bills clinging to the outside money clip. On my way out I made it a point to introduce myself and thank the young man. He greeted me as I expressed my gratitude and as we parted he said, "Have a nice day." Indeed.....then the Lord said,

"See, not everyone is out to get you."

Just in case you need to hear this too. There are those days.......

Keeping Jesus at the Center of Life,

Pastor Mike

Spiritual Triage

2012-04-14T06:49:00.005-07:00

I have recently become connected to a Christian brother from South Africa through the church's webcasting activities. He asked me some questions about overcoming spiritual discouragement. My response is the heart of this blogpost. As I completed my quick notes to him, I looked at what I had said, and thought, that is worth hanging on to. So, for what it's worth......my spiritual triage.

1. Is there something physically wrong? As my body increases in age, I have been encouraged to pay more attention to my "temple time." Turns out due to some mileage issues, I was feeling emotionally depressed and physically tired - all the time it seemed. A quick blood test and the answer was in the numbers. So, I am making adjustments and being much more diligent about my temple time.

2. Is my relationship with my wife OK? I have learned that I am not worth much if there is something amiss in my relationship with my bride off 33 years.

3. Am I bitter or angry about anything or anyone? I ask myself the question that God asked Cain in Genesis 4:6.....Why are you angry? Why are you downcast? Usually related to disobedience before the Lord of some kind.

4. Is my time with the Lord what it should be? This is not a legalistic "have you put your time in" type question, but a quality question. Are the rhythms that feed your spiritual life all that they should be? Things like Bible time, prayer time, meditation time......etc.

5. How is my attitude in general – thankful and positive? frustrated and negative? Depending on the answer, this has to do with what I am dwelling on usually. Are there some new verses I need to write down and carry with me, memorize, meditate on….Joshua 1:8 sort of stuff.

6. Is my temple time what it should be? (diet/exercise/weight) Covered this already somewhat, but am I measuring up correctly in terms of what I eat, what I weigh, and my exercise time.

7. Could it be spiritual warfare of some sort? Satan is real, and his opposition is real. Sometimes it has nothing to do with my efforts or feelings, but with spiritual opposition.

8. Is there a broken relationship I am responsible for, that needs repair? For relationships to remain healthy they need constant attention. Recently I found myself wondering about a comment someone had made, and after further investigation learned about what was behind the comment, and could actually provide some suggestions that led to real solutions. While it is not possible for me to live at peace with everyone, (Romans 12:18) am I doing all I can to insure that relational brokenness is not behind my discouragement.

"On the Bluewater Frontier"

Pastor Mike

How's your reading been "shaping up?"

2012-04-02T10:52:00.000-07:00

Some new reminders that God enjoys using images to teach us truth. When I think of the Garden of Eden for example, I think of the set on LOST; the valley of dry bones in Ezekiel 37 and I think of the heat visibly rising off the salt flats covered with dry baked bones.......What do you see when you picture the throne room in Isaiah 6, the handwriting on the wall in Daniel?

I also see lots of pictures in the definitions of words in the Bible. Take the word persevere. "Remaining under".......is like carrying a hundred pound ruck for 3 days, and instead of getting that rest you were hoping for someone just told you.....4 more hours......To get the full meaning of persevere, it helps to remember what it felt like to have those straps dig into your shoulders, have your arms go numb from the weight, and your legs wearing out to the point where you just focus on counting out one more step....... in the midst of that scenario, to then have the mental battle when just on the brink of some relief, instead of hitting that quick release button, you re-adjust your shoulders...."ruck it up" .....and keep counting out the steps.......that's my imagination at work.

This past week I spent some time with some leaders who tweaked my imagination by using shapes to illustrate the basic truths of the Christian life. A semi-circle (reminds me of a protractor) to illustrate the balance between rest and work, a circle to describe a small group meeting, a triangle to show how Jesus did ministry, a square to describe leadership development, a pentagon to show the importance of using our gifts, a hexagon to explain the elements of prayer, and a 7 sided heptagon to teach the cycle of spiritual life. Hmmmm.......interesting.

These methods flowed out of working among those who had no written language, a non-literate culture that operated not on the basis of words, but on the basis of images. Apparently, these Brits have found a home among the American church, hungry for new ways to compete with a world dominated by an ever growing list of distractions. The value of this approach is its transferability. For example, in 10 minutes I can teach you the three components of Jesus life in a way that is clear, memorable, and easy to explain to someone else.

I am still processing all this, and there is a good chance I haven't got it all right just yet.......It is a new vocabulary, new methodology, new way of communicating.....but is seems to click with the younger thinkers in my ministry ......and if so.....I'm in. But listen, don't take my word for it, check it out for yourself at weare3dm.com.

On the Bluewater Frontier,

Pastor Mike

New Ranching Opportunity

2011-09-24T21:07:00.000-07:00

The adventure continues. We had a great time going through the Verde Valley on our first train ride since we lived in Germany in 1982......been awhile.....

and attending a crazy, silly, country western show at the Blazin' M Ranch. We had several recommendations about this show and when we first arrived we were skepitcal, to say the least. But it turned out great! Here is Sharon and I putting our best face forward,

And then Sharon got arrested until supper time........

Today we visited Sedona, a beautiful place known for its new age approach to explaining life. As we walked around town, I was constantly reminded of the alternatives being offered in handling the issues of life......things like what the future holds, relationships, handling stress, and processing how we got here in the first place and where we are supposed to be heading.........all things God has given us insights about at the least and straight directives at best........as I watched a lady make an appointment to meet with a psychic reader and pay 50 dollars for the chance.......I was reminded about how often we hear that what God has to offer us is somehow inferior and should be viewed that way.......in these areas and more, and how often we believe it........

Then I thought of James 1:5 where James encourages us - If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him........He has already paid the price for access to the answers of life, life that is abundant now and everlasting as later unfolds.....
May we be people who ask the Lord........

The Grand Canyon

2011-09-23T05:26:00.002-07:00

I saw the Grand Canyon for the first time today.......and I thought about a few things....

I am a small player in the scheme of things, easy to feel insignificant, yet God knows all about me, my name, my family, my calling in life....a world that wants me to believe I am just a dot in time......Yet in God's eyes I am someone worth dying for.....

The world around me works so hard at alternatively explaining what God has tried to make so clear...as Romans 1 reminds us that the creative hand of God is one way he tried to reveal himself to us......all the rocks, the vortexes, the "spiritual" places, .....attempts at creating things to worship...

..............since what may be known about God is plain to them, because God has made it plain to them. For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made............excerpt from Romans 1:19-21

God has created some amazing things for me to enjoy, like friendship, marriage, and creation

Humanity has the same social needs, the same family structure (as God explains it) the same sin problem, the same physical needs......etc.....but regions differ so, climates, geography, cultures........part of what makes travel and discovery so much of an adventure. For example on the tour bus today Ireland, England, New Your City, Hawaii, and St Clair Michigan were all represented...

Discovery is fun.......and unwinding is necessary.....made history again today, and found some more in several forms....like the Grand Canyon...and two great antique bookstores...

On the Rim .................

The journey begins

2011-09-18T16:48:00.000-07:00

Well, today marks the beginning of our fall adventure. Here I will keep you posted about what we are up to. Since it is the cyberworld, I will try to be as specific as I can be. Watch for some great pictures and commentary along the way.

Things got off to a rather interesting start. As I was standing in the parking lot talking with a few of the men long after most folks had gone home, I started having severe abdominal pain. I thought it would stop in a few minutes, and went off to lunch. Had to leave lunch early and rush home. After about an hour and a half we decided load the car for the ER. Fortunately it stopped. Thankfully. Took a nap, and woke up to some fresh homemade soup - and my heart was strangely warmed......as they say....

I will be in the office tomorrow to make some more history as I spend a couple of hours helping our new office manager get her bearings. Our seasoned office leader is moving on to a higher calling - mother hood - We will miss her in the office, but it will be fun to encourage her as she grows into her new role. I announced it in both services today. I kept putting it off but needed to make a decision from some great options.

So far.........got Gary's winter home finished, although it seems too small - he actually follows us around when we walk by looking for some more food.....I got the Kindle loaded with some great quiet time reading and will be spending tomorrow wrapping up preparations. See you on the road!

Urban versus Rural

2011-04-15T21:14:00.000-07:00

I have been carrying this material around with me since last fall......I have been thinking about what I learned and waiting for the right time to put some thoughts down about what happened. I had the privilege of attending an event in New York City called Movement Day. It was designed to acquaint those in my network of churches with leaders involved in inner city ministry. Since most of my colleagues are in rural or suburban settings, this was to be quite an eye opening opportunity.

First, just walking around was an experience. Most people had their heads buried in their smartphone or ipad, diligently texting, talking or watching something of apparently great importance, while simultaneously walking through consruction sites, dodging speeding taxis (literally), and seemingly unconcerned about the potential to get mugged or robbed at any moment.

Second my hotel was in an area of the city that took me back to my days in southern Iraq. It was damp, the air was heavy, debris was everywhere, and there was the all too familiar smell of a sand and oil mix. The store where I bought my evening banana was run by a recently arrived Arab family, around the corner I ate supper at a mexican restaraunt that felt like Tampico, and I could have easily had desert with an Indian merchant in the next storefront. This is all one city block mind you. About a half a mile away, seems like someone drew this line in the road and we entered an area that felt more like my current reality. Here we had breakfast at a Greek owned Coney Island type eatery that was to become our main source of meals in the next two days. Keep in mind that my current community not 4%, but .4% minorities. Here there were at least 5 nationalities in one city block.

View from my hotel room

Third, we were graciously led around by some of our network's more adventurous members of our urban church planting team. Some of them had been in the city for up to nine years by this time. They took us to supper, showed us the town, and provided tips on how to use the subway effectively. They also provided some great interaction time in one of their apartments, sharing their vision for ministry, the challenges of city life, and the important steps invovled in a country boy successfully transitioning into an urban church planter/pastor. I found myself growing impatient with these think tank members, wondering when we were going to see some "results" of all their work. They assured me they were making progress and that inroads into urban settings takes a long time. For example, they told me that if someone like me (53 year old white male, die hard Red Sox fan, having a conservative political construct, love for his pick up....etc......) was to decide on planting a church in NYC, the first requirement was that I had to come here, find a job, and live in the city for two whole years before doing anything other than learning to live in the city. Right. I thought, well, ........let's say I wasn't exactly convinced. Hmmm, the next morning, I was to learn how right they were.

But this post is long enough. It's also getting late.

Some holiday humble pie.....

2011-01-07T20:19:00.000-08:00

This is a picture of a fishing trip I took last summer to a place in Canada called Rice Lake. I spent a week there catching walleye, bluegill and small mouth bass. It was a great trip with good friends, good weather, and a great boat - my little 16 foot fishing boat. We caught a lot of fish, released all the smallmouth, ate a few along the way, and took some great naps.  You know those kind of naps - the deep, restorative kind of naps that leave you feeling strong enough you feel ready to take on the world.

It's those naps I took on the edge of Rice lake that I was longing for throughout this year's Christmas season. I caught a cold around December 9th and just recently began regaining my strength. I lost my voice mid way thorugh one message, got locked in my office by other staff members twice to get a nap in between services, met virtually none of the visitors that visited us during the season because I was so sick, and can't remember much about all the activity of which I was at least physcially a part.

Just now coming out of the fog ( Hopefully I have my final follow up appointment on Monday) I realize how grateful I am to be a part of a team of leaders who are capable of making good decisions on weekends, able to greet people graciously in my stead, and stand in for me to wrap up when my collapsed voice could simply no longer function. It is indeed a humbling experience to watch in silence as people you have invested in for years step up to handle things with grace and ease. And turn the tables and invest in you when you are too weak to carry your own weight.

Now that I am through the worst of it, I believe, I look forward to re-engaging the world around me.  It is that engagement of the world around me that I hope to tell you about in this blogsite. Thanks for joining me here as 2011 begins. I hope to provide you regular updates about all sorts of things and thoughts and adventures. You can look forward to hearing about everything from my ongoing struggle with weight loss, to relaying how those around me are putting off the old sinful habits and replacing them with godly life giving activities.  I will be updating my spiritual growth plan and encouraging you to do the same, finalizing my counseling certification, leading us in the development of our new mall location, processing life's challenges together, preparing for a Guatemala missions trip, and trying not to re-preach my messages to you every week. You can listen to them at http://www.crossroadscco.com/ by the following Tuesday of each week anyway. There will be a lot to talk about this year.

As I close, I am about half way through a book my wife Sharon got me for Christmas by David Platt titled, Taking Back Your Faith from the American Dream, where he shares a subtitle I have been thinking about:  Enjoy His grace and Extend His glory. One supernaturally flows out of another. I will keep you posted.

Pastor Mike Cadrette