That's Radical.

Posted Thursday, August 26, 2010 at 8:36 PM

Janet and I recently read a book that has greatly challenged the indiscernible mediocrity that so often sneaks into our lives as Christians. Radical by David Platt is certainly not just another good book, if that’s what you’re looking for. In fact, in my opinion, it’s not a “good book” at all in the sense that it doesn’t leave you feeling good about yourself, your church, or the general state of Christianity in this 21st Century America. But it does, however, point us to easily forgotten or abandoned truths about the life of commitment that the Jesus Christ of the Bible demanded of those who would follow Him.

Platt writes, “We are starting to redefine Christianity. We are giving in to the dangerous temptation to take the Jesus of the Bible and twist Him into a version of Jesus we are more comfortable with. A nice, middle-class, American Jesus… a Jesus who doesn’t mind materialism and who would never call us to give away everything we have. A Jesus who would not expect us to forsake our closest relationships so that He receives all our affection. A Jesus who is fine with nominal devotion that does not infringe on our comforts, because, after all, He loves us just the way we are. A Jesus who wants us to be balanced, who wants us to avoid dangerous extremes, and who, for that matter, wants us to avoid danger altogether. A Jesus who brings us comfort and prosperity as we live out our spin on the American dream. But do you and I realize what we are doing at this point? We are molding Jesus into our image. He is beginning to look a lot like us because, after all, that is whom we are most comfortable with.”

I wish I could put a comedic spin on the book, or leave you with some humorous observations but in all truthfulness, it’s not that kind of book. But it’s also not a book you finish, and then move on. Actually, you finish… and then wish you could move on. Admittedly, I love to read and am often asked what books I recommend and in this particular case, my whole-hearted recommendation comes with the sternest of warnings. Beware of the book, Radical. It is a solemn reminder of the life God really wants us to be living, in contrast with the life we have created and imagined as pleasing to God. READ IT AT YOUR OWN RISK!

A Broken Hallelujah

Posted Monday, August 16, 2010 at 9:35 AM

Those who know me well know there is seldom a time I am struck speechless. Yet that is exactly how I felt last night when Jen Clark finished singing a song I had never heard before entitled, A Broken Hallelujah. For those who might not know their story, the Clarks are presently facing their daughter, Cassidy’s, third bone marrow transplant in her fight with leukemia. Jen had come home from St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital in Memphis for just a few days to get their other two girls and then return for the journey ahead.

Having not realized she was going to be singing, I was already surprised, but as she began, a quiet hush fell over the building as the words of worship penetrated our hearts. “With my love and my sadness, I come before You, Lord. My heart’s in a thousand pieces; maybe even more. Yet I trust in this moment You’re with me somehow; You’ve always been faithful, so Lord even now, when all that I can sing is a broken hallelujah, when my only offering is shattered praise, still a song of adoration will rise up from these ruins; I will worship You and give You thanks, even when my only praise is a broken hallelujah.”

My mind raced to the book of Job and I remembered another broken hallelujah, when in the midst of great trial and loss, Job fell to the ground and cried, “Blessed be the name of the Lord.” What a joy to see the same faithfulness of God, recorded in the oldest book of the Bible, yet experienced in our presence still today. Thank you, Jen, for sharing your heart with us, and for reminding us of the goodness of our God. You and Chad are a blessing and we love you!

Please remember the Clark family, and especially little Cassidy in prayer. But also, don’t forget to praise the One who is worthy of all our praise!

95 Candles?

Posted Monday, August 2, 2010 at 7:19 PM

I can honestly say I haven’t partied with too many 95 year olds, but last night we all found out just how much fun it can be. What a joy it was for our church family to host Mrs. Thelma Wood’s 95th birthday celebration and to share the blessings of all God has done through her many years of ministry. Thanks to everyone who attended, and especially to those who helped with decorations and serving.

Our theme for the night was patience (being faithful despite opposition, difficulty, or adversity) and how special it was to have a 95 year old sermon illustration present in the service. What a great example of faithfulness Mrs. Wood has been, and continues to be. I am so thankful that she determined many years ago not to ever quit, and subsequently still serves the Lord every week in Bible Clubs and Junior Church, as her health allows. She has set the “retirement bar” quite high so if you are considering quitting your area of ministry, don’t tell her!

One verse comes to mind as I think about Mrs. Wood (and Scotty): “Therefore my beloved brethren, be ye steadfast, unmovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord…” (I Cor.15:58). May God give all of us the spiritual tenacity to never quit.

I Love Camp!

Posted Thursday, July 29, 2010 at 8:13 AM

It’s camp time again and are we ever having fun! This is certainly one of my favorite weeks of the year and even though the adversity has been great (sweltering heat, random power outages, exhausted air condition units, etc.) the spirit at Breezy Hill Bible Camp is higher than ever.

This year the pond (or lake, if you’re not from the South) is fully operational, offering a swimming area, jumping float, peddle boats, kayaks and canoes, and great fishing (a six pound bass was recently caught). The kids absolutely love their afternoons in the water and it certainly helps keep them cool; but perhaps the adults may be enjoying it even more. There’s an unconfirmed report about a “belly flop” contest that we are still investigating.

As always, the food has been awesome and certainly has to rank as the best camp food in the world. Where else can you go to camp and enjoy things like chopped steak, baked ziti, Paula Dean’s Mac & cheese, or homemade cinnamon rolls. We’re all going to need three weeks of dieting when it’s over.

But this year has been a little different for me since it’s my first time actually preaching to the kids. They have listened well as Bro. Tim and I have preached through the book of Joshua and related it to the various battles we each face in life such as courage, obedience, faith, patience, etc. It has been encouraging to see the Lord work in young hearts and to even see some trust Christ for salvation. Unfortunately when I get around kids, the inner kid in me tends to come out so I take no responsibility for any strange rumors you may have heard about my antics while preaching.

I walked around the camp yesterday and simply marveled at all God has done for Breezy Hill Bible Camp over the past ten years. What a great opportunity and ministry lies before us to reach another generation for the cause of Christ.

Did Somebody Say, Cake?

Posted Thursday, July 22, 2010 at 5:51 PM

I ate a piece of cake today… while that certainly doesn’t seem like a blog-worthy occasion, there’s quite a story involved that began a few days ago when I heard about a Throwdown with Bobby Flay episode recently filmed in Augusta, Georgia. If you’re not familiar with it, Throwdown is a Food Network show where the host (a celebrity chef) challenges everyday people to cooking competitions.

The show that aired last night featured Chef Bobby Flay in a baking throw-down with a local Augusta caterer named Vera Stewart, who is known for her delectable desserts. Janet and I watched in delight as our home-town hero soundly defeated the Food Network star in a carrot cake competition. Although I had never heard of VeryVera, the café and catering business on Washington Road run by Stewart, we set out to find it and purchase a piece of the infamous carrot cake that defeated Bobby Flay on national television.

Apparently everyone else in town had the same idea because they were nearly out of carrot cake, but we did manage to get some and it was indeed, wonderful. We also had the opportunity to meet Vera Stewart and congratulate her for the victory. (Side-note: Janet is looking for some ladies who would like to go back and try the café. It was entirely too girly of a menu for me since I really work hard to avoid things like quiche, and such.)

But what I really learned today is how completely spoiled we are at Breezy Hill Baptist Church. Every time we have a church fellowship, some of the best desserts in the world are showcased right there in our Family Life Center. Sorry Bobby Flay but you couldn’t hold a candle to Mrs. Margie Berry’s infamous Red Velvet Cake or Mrs. Carolyn Reeves exquisite Caramel Cake. But Mr. Flay, in case you happen to read this blog (it could happen, you know), what Breezy Hill really challenges you to is a hot dog throw-down. I’d like to see that!  

Me? A Hypochondriac?

Posted Thursday, July 15, 2010 at 2:00 PM

I received a good laugh this week from an article in USA Today about a new book by Reader’s Digest author, Ian Landau entitled, The Hypochondriac’s Handbook. Although I have not yet read the book, I couldn’t help chuckle at the various diseases, syndromes, and ailments that the author states, “probably should have killed you by now.” I certainly have never thought of myself as a hypochondriac (although my wife would probably disagree), but after reading the article, I’m worried.

I most definitely have had Cotard’s Syndrome (believing you are dead or a walking corpse) as well as Stone Man Syndrome (the fusing together of the body’s bones). In fact, I suffer from both every morning. I also occasionally experience Electric Human Syndrome (constantly shocking other people or metal objects). I just always thought it was from walking across carpet in my socks.

Alien Hand Syndrome (involuntary actions of the hand) is also a constant problem for me, especially when anyone asks, “Who wants ice cream?” I also frequently suffer from Alice in Wonderland Syndrome (objects appear larger or smaller than they are) but my Eye Doctor just tells me it’s all part of getting older. I have also been known to randomly start speaking with a foreign accent, especially when craving ethnic food. Little did I know the cause was actually Foreign Accent Syndrome.

Thankfully, there were some things I have not yet experienced such as Guinea Worm Disease (where larvae grow beneath your skin for 6-8 weeks before emerging as large worms) and even Human Werewolf Syndrome (where hair grows excessively all over your body). I also, thankfully, have never become addicted to carrots, which apparently can happen too.

The more I think about it, maybe the last thing I need is a book of the world’s worst diseases, syndromes, and ailments… what I need is a simple reminder from God to be anxious for nothing.

Ireland Bound!

Posted Monday, July 5, 2010 at 6:00 PM

What an awesome day it was yesterday at Breezy Hill! I truly wish the Fourth of July fell on Sunday every year since it was such a joy and privilege to celebrate with our church family. The Fireworks Show last night was so much fun and the weather couldn’t have been better; some folks even had blankets to keep warm. (That’s certainly unheard of in South Carolina in July.)

Please be in prayer this week for our mission’s team (25) leaving Thursday for Ireland. After months of preparation and fundraising, it’s hard to believe the time has now come. They will be working with Missionary Bob Hutton and doing a variety of ministry activities including music, drama, soul-winning evangelism, children’s rallies, testimonies, etc. This is a great opportunity and we pray God uses them mightily, as well as keeps them safe along the journey. Another smaller team (Deb Bowen, Amanda Bennington and Andy Washburn) are presently serving at Camp of the Woods in Canada so remember them in prayer as well.

Also, don’t forget about our new Apologetics Series starting this Sunday morning at 9:30. All Adult Classes will be together in the Main Auditorium during Sunday School for the next seven weeks during the series. There will be refreshments served in the Fellowship Hall for those who come early so make plans to be here. I promise, you won’t want to miss it!

Fireworks on The Hill

Posted Tuesday, June 29, 2010 at 8:00 AM

I must admit, it’s a strange feeling seeing camp begin and not having a part in it. We’re glad to have the kids from Temple Baptist Church in Anderson, SC (Bro. Mike Hawkins’ home church) here at Breezy Hill Bible Camp this week.

They have already proven their resiliency and ability to adapt and overcome. Mid-afternoon Monday it began to rain and progressively worsened for nearly 5 hours. To make matters worse, all the power went out at the camp including the chapel building so they basically spent their first day here trapped inside without lights or air conditioning. It didn’t seem to bother them at all and eventually, an Aiken Electric crew arrived and restored power. Pray with me that God works in the hearts of these young people this week; we are truly delighted to have them here.

I am excited about the Fourth of July being a Sunday this year. This is always one of my favorite holidays and spending it with our church family makes it all the more special. Remember, our evening service (Celebrate America Rally) will begin at 7PM this week. Bring a finger food of some sort because we will adjourn to the Family Life Center for a fellowship time after the service, followed by our annual Fireworks on Breezy Hill. Also, bring a lawn chair (if you like) to enjoy the fireworks show. It’s going to be a great weekend so don’t miss it!

One Dad's Discovery

Posted Thursday, June 17, 2010 at 4:01 PM

Once again, Father’s Day is upon us so don’t miss the services this weekend. We have a special gift for every dad, as well as this year’s theme – Golf Shirt Sunday. (Wear your favorite golf shirt and enter our contest with a variety of categories including Coolest Shirt, Brightest Shirt, Funniest Shirt, etc.) It’s going to be a great day at Breezy Hill so plan to be there.

It seems unimaginable to be entering my twenty-second year of this thing called fatherhood. With one child now having graduated from college, another entering the Air Force and most strangely of all, our “baby” a senior in high school, I cannot help but wonder where the years have gone. Fatherhood has been an immense learning experience and has taught me both simple things (like always check overhead for ceiling fans before raising your baby above your head), and not so simple things (like why my dad thought it was such a big deal when we rolled our eyes at him).

But I must acknowledge the most intriguing thing about fatherhood to me is the concept of our Heavenly Father. In His infinite wisdom God chose the uniqueness of this relationship to reveal Himself to us and to manifest His divine love and care. What an awesome privilege it is to be a dad and to emulate God to our children… but what a humbling prospect! May we never stray from our Father’s influence, guidance, and wisdom and may we never forget the blessings that come from being a dad.

Mother's Day Test

Posted Friday, May 7, 2010 at 11:02 AM

In honor of Mother's Day this weekend, I have a special test for all our moms to determine if they are a “Breezy Hill Mom.” Take it at your own risk.

 

You might be a “Breezy Hill Mom” if…

 

1.      Your children instinctively associate going to church with hot dogs or pizza.

2.      Your child’s three favorite shirts all have the word “camp” or “VBS” on them.

3.      You have frequent nightmares about Bro. Tim coming to your child with a microphone.

4.      You’ve ever tried to sell frozen pizzas to a total stranger (in a Teenlife fund raiser).

5.      You’ve ever gotten funny looks at McDonalds, only to realize your whole family is still wearing Awana uniforms.

6.      Somewhere in your house you have a giant container of pennies marked “VBS.”

7.      You get at least one Christmas gift every year that was purchased in the Awana Store.

8.      You wish the Sunday morning service was 30 minutes shorter and Junior Church was 2 hours longer.

9.      Your kids have ever been to Puerto Rico (or can’t wait to get to go to Puerto Rico).

 

Happy Mother’s Day! May the Lord bless this special day set aside to remember and honor our mothers.