Great, great worship service this morning. KP's response to the message, the praise and worship during the message, the moving of the Holy Spirit was AWESOME! Next week, part II of the Bema will be a great service as well. Be sure to come and bring someone with you. I am anxious to see what God is going to do next Sunday!
Tonight's service and farewell for the Brumfields was great. Thanks to everyone who came and participated. Please keep Ken and Karen and the boys in your prayers.
Everyone have a wonderful week. Please keep the Church of God General Assembly this week in your prayers. Decisions will be made the will affect KP. Please pray for God's leading and His direction.
Blessing!
-Pastor
Sunday, July 25, 2010
Thursday, July 22, 2010
Overcoming Hindrances to our Growth
by David Wilkerson
In Ephesians 4:31, Paul lists things we must remove from our lives if we are to grow in the grace of Christ: "Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice."
We dare not skip over these issues on Paul's list. The apostle says we absolutely must face these things if we are to grow in grace. If you ignore the heart issues Paul mentions here, you will grieve the Holy Spirit. Your growth will be stunted, and you'll end up a spiritual zombie.
The first three items on Paul's list—bitterness, wrath and anger—are self-explanatory. Bitterness is a refusal to let go of an old wound or forgive a past wrong. Wrath is a stronghold of resentment coupled with a hope to gain revenge. Anger is exasperation—either a quick explosive outburst or a slow burn of indignation toward someone. Evil speaking are words that tear down—it is the opposite of edifying someone or speaking words of edification; evil speaking is malicious, hurtful.
Clamor is a sudden outburst over nothing—an unnecessary hubbub, a loud noise made for no purpose. We cause a clamor when we make a big issue out of something insignificant, or cause a scene rather than trying to help or heal.
The final item on Paul's list is malice. Malice is the desire to see someone else suffer. For many Christians malice means hoping God will punish someone who wounded them. It's a devilish spirit, and it's usually hidden deep within the heart.
When Paul says "Put away all these evils from you," he's not talking about a quick fix. He's describing a process—a matter of growth that takes time. At times, we may fail at ridding ourselves of these evils. But if we will quickly repent, and commit to making things right with the person, over time these issues will fade away.
In Ephesians 4:31, Paul lists things we must remove from our lives if we are to grow in the grace of Christ: "Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice."
We dare not skip over these issues on Paul's list. The apostle says we absolutely must face these things if we are to grow in grace. If you ignore the heart issues Paul mentions here, you will grieve the Holy Spirit. Your growth will be stunted, and you'll end up a spiritual zombie.
The first three items on Paul's list—bitterness, wrath and anger—are self-explanatory. Bitterness is a refusal to let go of an old wound or forgive a past wrong. Wrath is a stronghold of resentment coupled with a hope to gain revenge. Anger is exasperation—either a quick explosive outburst or a slow burn of indignation toward someone. Evil speaking are words that tear down—it is the opposite of edifying someone or speaking words of edification; evil speaking is malicious, hurtful.
Clamor is a sudden outburst over nothing—an unnecessary hubbub, a loud noise made for no purpose. We cause a clamor when we make a big issue out of something insignificant, or cause a scene rather than trying to help or heal.
The final item on Paul's list is malice. Malice is the desire to see someone else suffer. For many Christians malice means hoping God will punish someone who wounded them. It's a devilish spirit, and it's usually hidden deep within the heart.
When Paul says "Put away all these evils from you," he's not talking about a quick fix. He's describing a process—a matter of growth that takes time. At times, we may fail at ridding ourselves of these evils. But if we will quickly repent, and commit to making things right with the person, over time these issues will fade away.
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
Stay Awake!
Okay, the day is over. For the first time today, I got a chance to look at my computer and catch up on some e-mails. Adam Johnson and I went to visit baby Warren today. We got a chance to see him and pray with him and his mom and dad, Tonya and Charles. Little Warren is hanging in there. Please continue to lift him up in your prayers. He's not out of the woods yet. We need intercessors to keep interceding.
Also, please remember Brother Clyde Green. He had a stint put in today. He needs our prayers. Clyde is the brother of Lola Barker and Hazel Dye.
Today, I meditated on a portion of scripture from I Thessalonians 5 that says "We are sons of the light and sons of the day; we are not of the night nor of the darkness. Therefore, we do not sleep as others do, but be sober and alert..." I know I may not have quoted it perfect. But this scripture warns to not let the world rock us into a sleepy or apathetic state. Most of do that at night. We get sleepy and doze off. But the Apostle Paul reminds us we are not of the night, but sons of the light and day. During the day, we are awake, alert, and active. Most of us are busy at work or doing something. We don't sit down long enough and even if we do its in a lighted room. Its not conducive to sleeping.
If you read I Thessalonians 5, you know that Paul is warning Christians that Jesus is coming like a thief in the night. Be ready. Be watchful. Be alert. Amen! Amen! Amen!
Have a wonderful Wednesday!
-Pastor
Also, please remember Brother Clyde Green. He had a stint put in today. He needs our prayers. Clyde is the brother of Lola Barker and Hazel Dye.
Today, I meditated on a portion of scripture from I Thessalonians 5 that says "We are sons of the light and sons of the day; we are not of the night nor of the darkness. Therefore, we do not sleep as others do, but be sober and alert..." I know I may not have quoted it perfect. But this scripture warns to not let the world rock us into a sleepy or apathetic state. Most of do that at night. We get sleepy and doze off. But the Apostle Paul reminds us we are not of the night, but sons of the light and day. During the day, we are awake, alert, and active. Most of us are busy at work or doing something. We don't sit down long enough and even if we do its in a lighted room. Its not conducive to sleeping.
If you read I Thessalonians 5, you know that Paul is warning Christians that Jesus is coming like a thief in the night. Be ready. Be watchful. Be alert. Amen! Amen! Amen!
Have a wonderful Wednesday!
-Pastor
Sunday, July 18, 2010
Sunday Wrap Up
Thanks to everyone at KP for the wonderful Pastor's Appreciation Day. Annette, Gabe, and I are very blessed to be called of God to serve and to minister to you. We look forward to many more years to come as the Lord's coming tarries.
Thanks to everyone today who remembered my 50th birthday. Ken's song was amazing. I don't know who blew up all of those balloons, but may God bless your heart and your lungs too. And special thanks to all of the Debbie Jett, the children, and all the ministry leaders for taking us around the world. That was fun!
I really enjoyed Pastor Tim Minks ministry today. Tim is an anointed preacher of the Gospel. Tim and Sheryl are being used of God to raise up a powerful witness of the gospel there in Terre Haute. Please join with me and remember them in your prayers.
Wow, the KP worship band sounded great this morning. God has put together some talented and anointed musicians at KP but also Gerry, Wes, and Alan have done great job in improving our sound. They are not done yet. We hope to be adding some decorative sound boards which will improve the quality of the sound even more.
Go out and let your light shine for Christ this week. Remember, we are sons and children of the light, not of darkness. If Jesus raptures His church this week, it should take us by surpise. We are watching, expecting, and praying!
I love you!
-Pastor
Thanks to everyone today who remembered my 50th birthday. Ken's song was amazing. I don't know who blew up all of those balloons, but may God bless your heart and your lungs too. And special thanks to all of the Debbie Jett, the children, and all the ministry leaders for taking us around the world. That was fun!
I really enjoyed Pastor Tim Minks ministry today. Tim is an anointed preacher of the Gospel. Tim and Sheryl are being used of God to raise up a powerful witness of the gospel there in Terre Haute. Please join with me and remember them in your prayers.
Wow, the KP worship band sounded great this morning. God has put together some talented and anointed musicians at KP but also Gerry, Wes, and Alan have done great job in improving our sound. They are not done yet. We hope to be adding some decorative sound boards which will improve the quality of the sound even more.
Go out and let your light shine for Christ this week. Remember, we are sons and children of the light, not of darkness. If Jesus raptures His church this week, it should take us by surpise. We are watching, expecting, and praying!
I love you!
-Pastor
Saturday, July 17, 2010
Countdown to Sunday
Numbers 2:31 "So the total of all the troops on Dan's side of the camp is 157,600. These three tribes will be last, marching under their banners whenever the Israelites travel." NLT
"They shall go hindmost with their standards." KJV
The camp of Dan brought up the rear when the armies of Israel were on the march. The Danites occupied the last place. They followed the same fiery cloudy pillar, they ate of the same manna, drank of the same spiritual rock, and journeyed to the same inheritance.
Someone must be last. Someone must do the cleanup. Someone in honour and esteem, must do menial work for Jesus, and why should that not be you and I? Whether its in a poor village, among an ignorant, poor, or diseased; or in a back street, among degraded sinners, God calls us as His followers to work on, and "go hindmost with my standard."[KJV]
The Danites position in the march was a very valuable one. Stragglers had to be picked up upon the march, and lost property has to be gathered from the field. Fiery, zealous soldiers may preach fresh and powerful truth and win more souls to Christ; but the quiet and the more conservative believers remind the church of her ancient faith, and restoring the weak and the backslidden. Every position in the army has its effective and important duties, and the slowly moving ones are a great blessing to the whole.
The rear guard is a place of danger. There are enemies behind us as well as before us. Attacks may come from any place. We read that Amalek fell upon Israel, and slew some of the back (hindmost)of the march. The experienced Christian will find much work for his weapons in aiding those poor doubting, desponding, wavering, souls, who are lacking in faith, knowledge, and joy. These must not be neglected, and therefore be it the business of veteran believers to bear their standards among those in the "hindmost."
"My soul, do thou tenderly watch to help the hindmost this day."
Have a great weekend!
-Pastor
"They shall go hindmost with their standards." KJV
The camp of Dan brought up the rear when the armies of Israel were on the march. The Danites occupied the last place. They followed the same fiery cloudy pillar, they ate of the same manna, drank of the same spiritual rock, and journeyed to the same inheritance.
Someone must be last. Someone must do the cleanup. Someone in honour and esteem, must do menial work for Jesus, and why should that not be you and I? Whether its in a poor village, among an ignorant, poor, or diseased; or in a back street, among degraded sinners, God calls us as His followers to work on, and "go hindmost with my standard."[KJV]
The Danites position in the march was a very valuable one. Stragglers had to be picked up upon the march, and lost property has to be gathered from the field. Fiery, zealous soldiers may preach fresh and powerful truth and win more souls to Christ; but the quiet and the more conservative believers remind the church of her ancient faith, and restoring the weak and the backslidden. Every position in the army has its effective and important duties, and the slowly moving ones are a great blessing to the whole.
The rear guard is a place of danger. There are enemies behind us as well as before us. Attacks may come from any place. We read that Amalek fell upon Israel, and slew some of the back (hindmost)of the march. The experienced Christian will find much work for his weapons in aiding those poor doubting, desponding, wavering, souls, who are lacking in faith, knowledge, and joy. These must not be neglected, and therefore be it the business of veteran believers to bear their standards among those in the "hindmost."
"My soul, do thou tenderly watch to help the hindmost this day."
Have a great weekend!
-Pastor
Thursday, July 15, 2010
Helping Pastors
I got back today from our Pastoral Covenant Group Facilitators training retreat. There are over one thousand Church of God all over the country that are members of a pastoral covenant group. PCGs are probably the greatest thing the Church of God has done in years. Eight years ago before pastoral covenant groups were started, statistics showed that Church of God pastors were in trouble. The majority of pastors were stressed, and very negative toward the denomination and ministry in general. Pastors admitted to be stuggling in many areas of their personal lives. Many of our pastors at that time were leaving their churches for jobs outside of the ministry. Overall, the picture did not look good.
Recently, pastors were polled in those same areas and the results were much more positive. The difference, many of the pastors reported that being involved in a pastoral covenant group where they could be involved in open and transparent relationships with other pastors was changing the lives of pastors. Pastors are reporting to be much healthier in body and in spirit as well.
I will be starting my third different pastoral covenant group this fall. I believe that my investment in pastors is well worth my time and plays a great part in building the kingdom of God. I will be targeting Church of God pastors in our area that are not presently in pcgs. Please pray for me and other pastors. I am not ashamed to ask you to do that. I need your prayers and covet them everyday. Even the Apostle Paul said in I Thessalonians 5:25, "Brethern, pray for us."
Have a great day!
-Pastor
Recently, pastors were polled in those same areas and the results were much more positive. The difference, many of the pastors reported that being involved in a pastoral covenant group where they could be involved in open and transparent relationships with other pastors was changing the lives of pastors. Pastors are reporting to be much healthier in body and in spirit as well.
I will be starting my third different pastoral covenant group this fall. I believe that my investment in pastors is well worth my time and plays a great part in building the kingdom of God. I will be targeting Church of God pastors in our area that are not presently in pcgs. Please pray for me and other pastors. I am not ashamed to ask you to do that. I need your prayers and covet them everyday. Even the Apostle Paul said in I Thessalonians 5:25, "Brethern, pray for us."
Have a great day!
-Pastor
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
Praying in Tongues (or in the Spirit)
Good morning everyone! Its going to be a hot week. I hope everyone stays cool. Sunday morning I preached a message that God's Spirit especially gave me for "such a time as this." The message that is now posted on our sermons page was "The Power of Speaking in Tongues." In the message, I simply talk about the importance of praying in tongues (or in the Spirit), especially in these trying days for believers. Why is tongues so important? The bible says speaking in tongues edifies (builds up) the believer before God. He speaks to God and his soul or spirit man is edified or built up.
This is not happening for the most part in Christianity in America for two reasons. First of all, most Christians in our churches today have never heard good, consistent, biblical teaching regarding the subject of tongues. Many of America's churches don't believe in the practice of tongues and so their pastors never teach or preach on the subject. Many of our spiritual leaders have bought into the false teaching that it was for those times (New Testament days) and not for modern times. Thats too bad, because the church body suffers for our ignorance of God's Word. Secondly, many churches (Pentecostal and Charasmatic churches) do believe it and some preach and teach on it, but unfortunately some believers have a poor prayer life and are too busy to pray in English or in the spirit. So they also suffer because they do not pray in tongues.
The Apostle Paul said in 1 Corinthians 14, that 'I pray in tongues more than you all'or basically more than everyone in the Corinthian church put together. Paul was not proud or was he bragging but just stating a fact. He found it necessary for him as a individual believer to pray daily in tongues. If Paul did, how much more should we?
Have a wonderful week!
-Pastor
This is not happening for the most part in Christianity in America for two reasons. First of all, most Christians in our churches today have never heard good, consistent, biblical teaching regarding the subject of tongues. Many of America's churches don't believe in the practice of tongues and so their pastors never teach or preach on the subject. Many of our spiritual leaders have bought into the false teaching that it was for those times (New Testament days) and not for modern times. Thats too bad, because the church body suffers for our ignorance of God's Word. Secondly, many churches (Pentecostal and Charasmatic churches) do believe it and some preach and teach on it, but unfortunately some believers have a poor prayer life and are too busy to pray in English or in the spirit. So they also suffer because they do not pray in tongues.
The Apostle Paul said in 1 Corinthians 14, that 'I pray in tongues more than you all'or basically more than everyone in the Corinthian church put together. Paul was not proud or was he bragging but just stating a fact. He found it necessary for him as a individual believer to pray daily in tongues. If Paul did, how much more should we?
Have a wonderful week!
-Pastor
Sunday, July 11, 2010
Sunday Wrap Up
okay...wonderful service this morning. God really ministered to his people around the altars before the message and afterwards as well. Tonight's communion service was a beautiful time of worship. Thanks so much for signing up for VBS to help us and also giving in the offering. Joyce Dayton informed me tonight that we had enough people sign up today to cover everything. But I am sure if you want to help, we can find a place for you.
Hope you have a great week. Please keep baby Warren in your prayers.
Blessings,
Pastor
Hope you have a great week. Please keep baby Warren in your prayers.
Blessings,
Pastor
Friday, July 9, 2010
Countdown to Sunday
Hey, its Friday night and its been a great day. I took a day away from the church. Went this morning and got a haircut and took Gabe's car to be worked on. Then, I went and picked it up in the afternoon. The auto shop replaced a a driver's side window motor and clips. The cost $3,248.00. Wow! The actual cost was 324.00 which was high enough. But the man made a mistake and charged me the greater amount. Anyway, I think we got it taken corrected.
Later, I went and got a work-out in. Gabe and I went out and hit some golf balls at a driving range. I hadn't hit a golf ball in 3 or 4 months (boy, was it humid!). Then came home and fixed some meat on the grill for Annette and I. Now, I'm doing some prep work for ministry this weekend.
I hope you are anxious to get to God's house this weekend. I know I am. I got to go to church while we were on vacation and have to be honest when I say that our worship time on Sundays was a highlight of our vacation. I know some people don't go to church on vacation. But I think its good to go to another church and just go in and totally close everything out (all those thoughts that your new and everyone is looking at you, etc) and just totally focus on worshipping Christ. Matter of fact, I think thats what we also have to do when we worship in our own church. Determine not to be distracted by anything or anyone. Give your complete attention to worshipping Christ. Get in His presence!
Well, have a wonderful weekend!
-Pastor
Later, I went and got a work-out in. Gabe and I went out and hit some golf balls at a driving range. I hadn't hit a golf ball in 3 or 4 months (boy, was it humid!). Then came home and fixed some meat on the grill for Annette and I. Now, I'm doing some prep work for ministry this weekend.
I hope you are anxious to get to God's house this weekend. I know I am. I got to go to church while we were on vacation and have to be honest when I say that our worship time on Sundays was a highlight of our vacation. I know some people don't go to church on vacation. But I think its good to go to another church and just go in and totally close everything out (all those thoughts that your new and everyone is looking at you, etc) and just totally focus on worshipping Christ. Matter of fact, I think thats what we also have to do when we worship in our own church. Determine not to be distracted by anything or anyone. Give your complete attention to worshipping Christ. Get in His presence!
Well, have a wonderful weekend!
-Pastor
Wednesday, July 7, 2010
What Are You Feeding Your Faith?
I thought this was a great devotional by Spurgeon. I love the truth "The strength of your faith lies in the food it feeds on." Wow! How true! Please read and receive.
-Pastor
"Tell me I pray thee wherein thy great strength lieth."
Judges 16:6
Where lies the secret strength of faith? It lies in the food it feeds on; for faith studies what the promise is--an emanation of divine grace, an overflowing of the great heart of God; and faith says, "My God could not have given this promise, except from love and grace; therefore it is quite certain His Word will be fulfilled." Then faith thinketh, "Who gave this promise?" It considereth not so much its greatness, as, "Who is the author of it?" She remembers that it is God who cannot lie--God omnipotent, God immutable; and therefore concludeth that the promise must be fulfilled; and forward she advances in this firm conviction. She remembereth, why the promise was given,-- namely, for God's glory, and she feels perfectly sure that God's glory is safe, that He will never stain His own escutcheon, nor mar the lustre of His own crown; and therefore the promise must and will stand. Then faith also considereth the amazing work of Christ as being a clear proof of the Father's intention to fulfil His word. "He that spared not His own Son, but freely delivered Him up for us all, how shall He not with Him also freely give us all things?" Moreover faith looks back upon the past, for her battles have strengthened her, and her victories have given her courage. She remembers that God never has failed her; nay, that He never did once fail any of His children. She recollecteth times of great peril, when deliverance came; hours of awful need, when as her day her strength was found, and she cries, "No, I never will be led to think that He can change and leave His servant now. Hitherto the Lord hath helped me, and He will help me still." Thus faith views each promise in its connection with the promise-giver, and, because she does so, can with assurance say, "Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life!"
-Pastor
"Tell me I pray thee wherein thy great strength lieth."
Judges 16:6
Where lies the secret strength of faith? It lies in the food it feeds on; for faith studies what the promise is--an emanation of divine grace, an overflowing of the great heart of God; and faith says, "My God could not have given this promise, except from love and grace; therefore it is quite certain His Word will be fulfilled." Then faith thinketh, "Who gave this promise?" It considereth not so much its greatness, as, "Who is the author of it?" She remembers that it is God who cannot lie--God omnipotent, God immutable; and therefore concludeth that the promise must be fulfilled; and forward she advances in this firm conviction. She remembereth, why the promise was given,-- namely, for God's glory, and she feels perfectly sure that God's glory is safe, that He will never stain His own escutcheon, nor mar the lustre of His own crown; and therefore the promise must and will stand. Then faith also considereth the amazing work of Christ as being a clear proof of the Father's intention to fulfil His word. "He that spared not His own Son, but freely delivered Him up for us all, how shall He not with Him also freely give us all things?" Moreover faith looks back upon the past, for her battles have strengthened her, and her victories have given her courage. She remembers that God never has failed her; nay, that He never did once fail any of His children. She recollecteth times of great peril, when deliverance came; hours of awful need, when as her day her strength was found, and she cries, "No, I never will be led to think that He can change and leave His servant now. Hitherto the Lord hath helped me, and He will help me still." Thus faith views each promise in its connection with the promise-giver, and, because she does so, can with assurance say, "Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life!"
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
Are You Grieving for America?
I spent yesterday, July 5th, with Annette getting a little rest and doing a lot of reading. To be honest, my reading led to a day of grieving in my spirit for America. It began by reading about the gay parade in the paper that morning. As you might have heard, there were many other cities across America that held gay parades this weekend. With everything else we are facing as a nation, the very last thing we need is to parade before God and the world our pride in our wickedness and rebellion. God help us!
The books I read was John Hagee's "Can America Survive?" and Perry Stone "Nightmare Along Pennsylvania Avenue." Both of these books paint a grave picture of America's present and future if we don't repent. I know much of the rapture believing American church has been taught to believe that the rapture will occur before the Great Tribulation period begins...and I still believe that. But it does not mean we won't have to go through tribulations up until that time. Acts 14:21,22 reads "They preached the good news in that city and won a large number of disciples. Then they returned to Lystra, Iconium and Antioch,strengthening the disciples and encouraging them to remain true to the faith. 'We must go through many hardships to enter the kingdom of God,' they said."
We may think what we are going through hardships now but our nation's rebellion and wickedness along with the American church's lukewarmness and passivity will ensure more and even greater hardships before the rapture takes place. As believers, this is a time for prayer and fasting. I encourage you to WAKE UP. Set aside a time to pray and fast and seek God's face. We have very little time left. His Spirit will lead us and prepare us from there.
-Pastor
The books I read was John Hagee's "Can America Survive?" and Perry Stone "Nightmare Along Pennsylvania Avenue." Both of these books paint a grave picture of America's present and future if we don't repent. I know much of the rapture believing American church has been taught to believe that the rapture will occur before the Great Tribulation period begins...and I still believe that. But it does not mean we won't have to go through tribulations up until that time. Acts 14:21,22 reads "They preached the good news in that city and won a large number of disciples. Then they returned to Lystra, Iconium and Antioch,strengthening the disciples and encouraging them to remain true to the faith. 'We must go through many hardships to enter the kingdom of God,' they said."
We may think what we are going through hardships now but our nation's rebellion and wickedness along with the American church's lukewarmness and passivity will ensure more and even greater hardships before the rapture takes place. As believers, this is a time for prayer and fasting. I encourage you to WAKE UP. Set aside a time to pray and fast and seek God's face. We have very little time left. His Spirit will lead us and prepare us from there.
-Pastor
Monday, July 5, 2010
A Sad, Sad Day in Cincinnati
Rom 1:18-32 But God shows his anger from heaven against all sinful, wicked people who suppress the truth by their wickedness. 19 They know the truth about God because he has made it obvious to them. 20 For ever since the world was created, people have seen the earth and sky. Through everything God made, they can clearly see his invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature. So they have no excuse for not knowing God.21 Yes, they knew God, but they wouldn't worship him as God or even give him thanks. And they began to think up foolish ideas of what God was like. As a result, their minds became dark and confused. 22 Claiming to be wise, they instead became utter fools. 23 And instead of worshiping the glorious, ever-living God, they worshiped idols made to look like mere people and birds and animals and reptiles.
24 So God abandoned them to do whatever shameful things their hearts desired. As a result, they did vile and degrading things with each other's bodies. 25 They traded the truth about God for a lie. So they worshiped and served the things God created instead of the Creator himself, who is worthy of eternal praise! Amen. 26 That is why God abandoned them to their shameful desires. Even the women turned against the natural way to have sex and instead indulged in sex with each other. 27 And the men, instead of having normal sexual relations with women, burned with lust for each other. Men did shameful things with other men, and as a result of this sin, they suffered within themselves the penalty they deserved.28 Since they thought it foolish to acknowledge God, he abandoned them to their foolish thinking and let them do things that should never be done. 29 Their lives became full of every kind of wickedness, sin, greed, hate, envy, murder, quarreling, deception, malicious behavior, and gossip. 30 They are backstabbers, haters of God, insolent, proud, and boastful. They invent new ways of sinning, and they disobey their parents. 31 They refuse to understand, break their promises, are heartless, and have no mercy. 32 They know God's justice requires that those who do these things deserve to die, yet they do them anyway. Worse yet, they encourage others to do them, too.
Equinox Cincinnati gay pride parade's move Downtown draws positive reviews
By Kimball Perry • kperry@enquirer.com • July 4, 2010
There were floats and scooters, skateboards and balloons - and drag queens.
Sunday's Equinox Cincinnati Pride 2010 parade ended at Fountain Square, the Queen City's symbolic meeting place, in a move several observers believe signaled a greater acceptance for the gay community.
Before this year, the parade was held in Northside, a Cincinnati neighborhood with a significant gay population.
"I think this was a larger turnout," said Danny Coscia, 45, of Richmond, Ky., who lived in this area for years and is a longtime parade attendee.
He applauded the parade move Downtown to accommodate the larger crowd - and for the message it sends.
"Things change. Back then, it was a dirty little secret they hid in Northside," Coscia said of the gay pride parade.
Adam Theele, 31, of Hamilton also has been to several parades and prefers the Downtown event.
"In Northside, it was like we were hiding," Theele said. "I always wondered why they had it in Northside. All the other (community) events are Downtown."
Under a blazing sun, an estimated 3,000 people lined the six blocks of Fifth Street from Sentinel to Race Street. They came to celebrate freedom and independence, for their country and their lifestyle.
"This was something fun to do to support the cause," said Marcia Yager, 54, of Sycamore Township. "We're such a conservative town, we need to do something to come together."
Katie Ambrogi, 31, of Blue Ash watched the 40-minute parade with her husband and three children.
"We just like equality for everybody. Let the kids see that there are differences. People are the same," Ambrogi said.
How did the kids respond to seeing men in huge hair, high heels and flamboyant dresses or the shirtless elves on a Christmas float in 90-degree temperature with an elf singing "Walking in a Winter Wonderland"?
"They're beautiful people and kids should see that," Ambrogi said with a smile.
The crowd made a lot of noise, blowing whistles, clapping and cheering for their favorite float or participant.
Lesbian Moms and Allies drew a particularly loud cheer when they zoomed by with kids in tow - in strollers, on bikes, scooters and skateboards.
The parade was kicked off by the first participant, Cincinnati Mayor Mark Mallory, and included several other politicians.
"It needed more music, crowd, fuss - lively," said Rob Thompson, 49. "There were great drag queens and pretty good floats."
The parade was the highlight of the festival that kicked off Friday. After the parade, there was music, beer and food on Fountain Square, which also was the venue for the event's closing fireworks show Sunday night.
24 So God abandoned them to do whatever shameful things their hearts desired. As a result, they did vile and degrading things with each other's bodies. 25 They traded the truth about God for a lie. So they worshiped and served the things God created instead of the Creator himself, who is worthy of eternal praise! Amen. 26 That is why God abandoned them to their shameful desires. Even the women turned against the natural way to have sex and instead indulged in sex with each other. 27 And the men, instead of having normal sexual relations with women, burned with lust for each other. Men did shameful things with other men, and as a result of this sin, they suffered within themselves the penalty they deserved.28 Since they thought it foolish to acknowledge God, he abandoned them to their foolish thinking and let them do things that should never be done. 29 Their lives became full of every kind of wickedness, sin, greed, hate, envy, murder, quarreling, deception, malicious behavior, and gossip. 30 They are backstabbers, haters of God, insolent, proud, and boastful. They invent new ways of sinning, and they disobey their parents. 31 They refuse to understand, break their promises, are heartless, and have no mercy. 32 They know God's justice requires that those who do these things deserve to die, yet they do them anyway. Worse yet, they encourage others to do them, too.
Equinox Cincinnati gay pride parade's move Downtown draws positive reviews
By Kimball Perry • kperry@enquirer.com • July 4, 2010
There were floats and scooters, skateboards and balloons - and drag queens.
Sunday's Equinox Cincinnati Pride 2010 parade ended at Fountain Square, the Queen City's symbolic meeting place, in a move several observers believe signaled a greater acceptance for the gay community.
Before this year, the parade was held in Northside, a Cincinnati neighborhood with a significant gay population.
"I think this was a larger turnout," said Danny Coscia, 45, of Richmond, Ky., who lived in this area for years and is a longtime parade attendee.
He applauded the parade move Downtown to accommodate the larger crowd - and for the message it sends.
"Things change. Back then, it was a dirty little secret they hid in Northside," Coscia said of the gay pride parade.
Adam Theele, 31, of Hamilton also has been to several parades and prefers the Downtown event.
"In Northside, it was like we were hiding," Theele said. "I always wondered why they had it in Northside. All the other (community) events are Downtown."
Under a blazing sun, an estimated 3,000 people lined the six blocks of Fifth Street from Sentinel to Race Street. They came to celebrate freedom and independence, for their country and their lifestyle.
"This was something fun to do to support the cause," said Marcia Yager, 54, of Sycamore Township. "We're such a conservative town, we need to do something to come together."
Katie Ambrogi, 31, of Blue Ash watched the 40-minute parade with her husband and three children.
"We just like equality for everybody. Let the kids see that there are differences. People are the same," Ambrogi said.
How did the kids respond to seeing men in huge hair, high heels and flamboyant dresses or the shirtless elves on a Christmas float in 90-degree temperature with an elf singing "Walking in a Winter Wonderland"?
"They're beautiful people and kids should see that," Ambrogi said with a smile.
The crowd made a lot of noise, blowing whistles, clapping and cheering for their favorite float or participant.
Lesbian Moms and Allies drew a particularly loud cheer when they zoomed by with kids in tow - in strollers, on bikes, scooters and skateboards.
The parade was kicked off by the first participant, Cincinnati Mayor Mark Mallory, and included several other politicians.
"It needed more music, crowd, fuss - lively," said Rob Thompson, 49. "There were great drag queens and pretty good floats."
The parade was the highlight of the festival that kicked off Friday. After the parade, there was music, beer and food on Fountain Square, which also was the venue for the event's closing fireworks show Sunday night.
Sunday, July 4, 2010
Sunday Wrap Up
Awesome service today! I think most of us including myself was surprised at the words of the "Battle Hymn of the Republic." What an awesome, anointed and powerful song. Just studying and then reading the words really blessed me. Its sad that most people, especially our younger generation doesn't know of the great Christian heritage we have in America. We've let our school system, media, and government cover it up preventing an entire generation or two from really understanding how America's foundation was built on biblical values.
What did you do today? Annette, Gabe, and I changed into casual clothes after church and went out to eat. Then, we did something I don't think we have ever done on a Sunday afternoon...we went shopping at the outlet mall in Monroe. Man, I didn't realize so many people shop on Sundays. I guess I need to get out more...on Sundays -not really!
Anyway, we came home and I took my Sunday power nap. I love power naps. I try to get at least one a day. Then Annette and I went on about a three mile walk...now I'm ready for power nap #2.
Hey, have a great holiday tomorrow. I guess most people will be off tomorrow to celebrate Independence Day. Lets say a word of prayer for those men and women fighting overseas to make sure we America remains free.
Blessings,
-Pastor
What did you do today? Annette, Gabe, and I changed into casual clothes after church and went out to eat. Then, we did something I don't think we have ever done on a Sunday afternoon...we went shopping at the outlet mall in Monroe. Man, I didn't realize so many people shop on Sundays. I guess I need to get out more...on Sundays -not really!
Anyway, we came home and I took my Sunday power nap. I love power naps. I try to get at least one a day. Then Annette and I went on about a three mile walk...now I'm ready for power nap #2.
Hey, have a great holiday tomorrow. I guess most people will be off tomorrow to celebrate Independence Day. Lets say a word of prayer for those men and women fighting overseas to make sure we America remains free.
Blessings,
-Pastor
Friday, July 2, 2010
An Encounter Success Story!
I missed yesterday. I had a pretty busy day at the Indiana Camp Meeting. Pastor Tim Oldfield from Potter's House is preaching the night services and Dr. Oliver McMahan, from the Church of God Seminary is doing the morning bible study. The services have been wonderful. Both Pastor Oldfield and Dr. McMahan are anointed and being used of greatly of the Lord. If you would like to hear and see for yourself, go to the Indiana Church of God website.
Of course, I seen and talked with a lot of people at the Indiana camp meeting. One pastor that really blessed me pastors the Warsaw Church of God. His name is Fred. Fred came to our Men's Encounter a few years ago with the Southlake church. At the encounter, God got a hold of Fred. He turned his life upside down. So much so that Fred quit his job, packed up, and moved he and hiswife and six children to Florida to do ministry. Well as the story was told to me, things didn't work out so good so he came back to Indiana where he went through MIP (Ministerial Internship Program) and graduated ready to pastor a church. The state office in Indiana sent Fred to Warsaw. Wow! I have grown up in Indiana and as far as I can remember the Warsaw church has had an attendance of about eight people. My father used to be the District Overseer there and did everything he could to help the pastor who will remain nameless. The pastor was a great Christian man, but legalistic. So he retired and stayed in the church and here comes Fred and his family. Now Fred is as different from this pastor as night is to day. Fred told me that he is writing a book on just the first service alone. I guess it was a circus. Anyway, Fred and his family are still there. Everyone that was there at the beginning including the pastor chose to leave. But Fred is reaching the community and has 65 to 70 people in attendance on Sunday morning. Wow!
I could probably take a whole month or more and tell you more encounter success stories. They are everywhere! In early August, I will go to Chattanooga to help conduct an encounter for the Nepal Indians. In the nineties, the U.N and the U.S. government imported nearly 60,000 refugees from Nepal. They now have populations spread throughout the eastern and southern parts of the U.S. with a big population in the Atlanta area.
The plan is that nearly two hundred NePal pastors will attend this encounter. They will learn about the power of deliverance, the Holy Spirit, and the vision to to make disciples at this encounter. They will then go back to their churches and do encounters. From what I have been told, there are Nepal Indians congregations right here in Cincinnati. Praise the Lord...here we go again!
Please help us pray for this encounter. It will take place August 6 and 7. God is doing great things on the earth today! This isn't time for the church to set back and play it safe. But to enter in and reach out into waters never ventured before. Kings Point too will be doing this in the days ahead!
I pray you have a wonderful weekend!
-Pastor
Of course, I seen and talked with a lot of people at the Indiana camp meeting. One pastor that really blessed me pastors the Warsaw Church of God. His name is Fred. Fred came to our Men's Encounter a few years ago with the Southlake church. At the encounter, God got a hold of Fred. He turned his life upside down. So much so that Fred quit his job, packed up, and moved he and hiswife and six children to Florida to do ministry. Well as the story was told to me, things didn't work out so good so he came back to Indiana where he went through MIP (Ministerial Internship Program) and graduated ready to pastor a church. The state office in Indiana sent Fred to Warsaw. Wow! I have grown up in Indiana and as far as I can remember the Warsaw church has had an attendance of about eight people. My father used to be the District Overseer there and did everything he could to help the pastor who will remain nameless. The pastor was a great Christian man, but legalistic. So he retired and stayed in the church and here comes Fred and his family. Now Fred is as different from this pastor as night is to day. Fred told me that he is writing a book on just the first service alone. I guess it was a circus. Anyway, Fred and his family are still there. Everyone that was there at the beginning including the pastor chose to leave. But Fred is reaching the community and has 65 to 70 people in attendance on Sunday morning. Wow!
I could probably take a whole month or more and tell you more encounter success stories. They are everywhere! In early August, I will go to Chattanooga to help conduct an encounter for the Nepal Indians. In the nineties, the U.N and the U.S. government imported nearly 60,000 refugees from Nepal. They now have populations spread throughout the eastern and southern parts of the U.S. with a big population in the Atlanta area.
The plan is that nearly two hundred NePal pastors will attend this encounter. They will learn about the power of deliverance, the Holy Spirit, and the vision to to make disciples at this encounter. They will then go back to their churches and do encounters. From what I have been told, there are Nepal Indians congregations right here in Cincinnati. Praise the Lord...here we go again!
Please help us pray for this encounter. It will take place August 6 and 7. God is doing great things on the earth today! This isn't time for the church to set back and play it safe. But to enter in and reach out into waters never ventured before. Kings Point too will be doing this in the days ahead!
I pray you have a wonderful weekend!
-Pastor
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