McDermot Ave Baptist Church

Worship at the MTS Centre!

2012-01-05T10:44:00.004-06:00

This Sunday....January 8th at 11am....our church community is joining with about 60 other church communities for a ONE HEART WORSHIP CELEBRATION at the MTS Centre in downtown Winnipeg. As in the past two years, the event will be worth attending and being a part of something that reminds all of us that we are part of something much bigger than our localized worship centres. Plan on coming early and bringing a toonie (optional) for an offering that will be used for assisting a project in Winnipeg.
Four things I ask that you do this weekend:
1. Pray - that our gathering would be completely honouring to God and a beautiful witness to everyone who observe how the followers of Jesus live out their lives.
2. Prepare - to be involved in the singing, in the communion, in the "being kind to one another" in such a large setting.
3. Participate - don't stay at home and miss out on this event. There are times in all our lives where we must choose to participate in an event, and it may not even be for "our" benefit, but for the encouragement of someone you will see or someone who will see you and be encouraged by the fact that you are a follower of Jesus Christ.
4. Praise - Use your voice, your attitude, your facial expression and your mind to attribute praise to the only One worthy of Praise.
I'll see you at the MTS Centre this Sunday.
Blessings,
Pastor Brian

Starting Right!

2011-12-28T09:15:00.004-06:00

When it comes to racing, it seems like it's important to start with a surge of power and be completely focused on the goal. 2012 could be an opportunity for you to personally start great and more importantly.....finish well. Each year I look forward to January 1st.....I think it's because it feels like it's a new start on a year that stretches out in front of me. It contains that same number of days and months as last year. Well almost....2012 is a leap year and we have an additional 24 hours more than we had last year. I know..you're already thinking...what can I do with that extra 24 hours.....but more importantly...what are you going to do with the other 365 days of 2012? If you are really trying to make every moment count...it's 8,784 hours or 527,040 minutes, or 31,622,400 seconds...at least according to the convert units website. I'm going to take their word on it and not waste the precious seconds I have left in 2011.
At McDermot we starting the year with a 42 day focus on God's Word. According to our statement of belief...God's Word is important to us: We believe the Bible is God’s Word given by divine inspiration, the record of God’s revelation of Himself to humanity. (2 Timothy 3:16) It is trustworthy, sufficient, without error—the supreme authority and guide for all doctrine and conduct.(1 Peter 1:23-25; John 17:17; 2 Timothy 3:16-17) It is the truth by which God brings people into a saving relationship with Himself and leads them to Christian maturity. (John 20:31, I John 5:9-12; Matthew 4:4; I Peter 2:2)
So we thought the best way to start the new year was to focus on reminding ourselves or discovering the benefits of reading, studying, even memorizing God's Word as we begin 2012. We begin the adventure this coming Sunday, January 1, 2012...sounds strange to be saying 2012 already....but we're beginning at 11am and I know that if you are interested in getting a great start to 2012, you'll want to come with your Bible and discover again the value of God's Word.
Blessings on the final days of 2011,
Pastor Brian

Christmas Eve Worship Celebration!

2011-12-24T15:13:00.002-06:00

Tonight at 6:30pm we are gathering together for a time of worship and singing and celebrating the Birth of Jesus Christ.
Everyone is welcome to attend. We have a prelude filled with young musicians that begins at 6pm while the actual service will start at 6:30pm and it usually last just one hour.
We look forward to seeing you here tonight and enjoying an evening of worship.
Christmas Blessings,
Pastor Brian

Christmas Dreamin'

2011-12-07T10:04:00.004-06:00

We have all heard of dreams so much recently that it should come as no surprise that I would mention dreams at Christmas. That first Christmas there were many dreams.....some used to communicate the actions of the Holy Spirit to individuals so that they could respond to the generous love of God demonstrated toward mankind with appropriate actions......some were dreaming of the deliverance of Israel....for a Saviour....for some form of Redeemer.....some were dreaming of a new life.

I've asked several friends over this advent season what they are dreamin' of this Christmas? What are they dreamin' for their personal life, their family, their church, their community, their city, their country and the world! Most of them have come up with responses that reflect on their family and their community. Under all the advertising of the largest and clearest flat screen ever invented....stands a man who desires that his own children, maybe even his wife or himself, would experience Christmas with the Awesomeness of viewing it on a large screen, or with the clarity that only Sharp Aquos Quattron can give.

I'm dreamin' that each person in my family, my church, my community, my city, my province, my country, my world......would in some way clearly see that Christmas is an act of God....an act of love, that makes all our dreams come true.

Luke 11:28-29

Christmas Blessings,

Pastor Brian

Second Advent Sunday - The Waiting!

2011-12-06T10:19:00.004-06:00

I know you've been waiting for this second one....so enjoy.

Isaiah 40:1-11; Psalm 85:1-2, 8-13; 2 Peter 3:8-15a; Mark 1:1-8
I’m a child of the 1980’s. Every year at Advent, I’m reminded of Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers singing, “The waiting is the hardest part.” Yet, that is exactly what we are called to do at Advent—WAIT. We are bombarded by Christmas music in the stores and, perhaps, even pressured by parishioners to hurry, to put away the Advent carols, to stop waiting, and to begin singing the Christmas hymns, now! We wait in line to spend more money on more things for more people who already have all that they need while theirs wait for their next meal or clean drink of water, not knowing when or if it will appear. We do not like to wait.
Just as the world had to wait for the Incarnation, so now we must wait for the return of Jesus. Just as the world had to wait for the Kingdom to come, so now we must wait for it to come in its fullness. This holy season of Advent is a time of waiting, a time of discipleship, a time of preparing and training us for the waiting that still lies before us. And the Psalmist reminds us of that promised day for which we wait:
“Steadfast love and faithfulness will meet; righteousness and peace will kiss each other. Faithfulness will spring up from the ground, and righteousness will look down from the sky” (Psalm 85:10-11).
The echoes of Psalm 85 are unmistakably reverberant in John’s revelation, too. The day is surely coming when God will bring to fruition his saving plans for all of creation. The new heaven and the new earth shall be one, meeting in a kiss from our grace-empowered faithfulness and God’s almighty righteousness.
Let us join together, as the body of Christ, as we wait for the day to arrive when we remember the birth of a tiny, helpless child, and let us join together as we anticipate and wait for the day when he returns.
Prayer: Merciful God, who sent your messengers the prophets to preach repentance and prepare the way for our salvation: Give us grace to heed their warnings and forsake our sins, that we may greet with joy the coming of Jesus Christ our Redeemer; who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

Andrew Bartel, Master of Divinity, 2010, is the director of the Wesley Acres Camp and Retreat Center in Dazey, North Dakota.
Prayer taken from: Book of Common Prayer, Collect for the Second Sunday of Advent.

I am so glad for the first coming of Christ and I look forward with even more joy toward his second coming. My goal is to see how many can be ready when he comes. The next time you are waiting in line behind someone .....anyone....anywhere.....take that time to pray for them.

Christmas Blessings,

Pastor Brian

First Advent Sunday - Restore Us, O God!

2011-12-06T09:49:00.010-06:00

This year I have decided to pass on to everyone the writings offered from Sioux Falls Seminary located in Sioux Falls South Dakota with an extension site in Omaha, Nebraska. I will include one a week on Sunday so I will have to give you two immediately to get caught up.

"Restore Us, O God" by Wayne Jorstad
Isaiah 64:1-9; Psalm 80:1-7, 17-19; 1 Corinthians 1:3-9; Mark 13:24-37
In the city where I reside there is a well-known museum that many come to visit. It houses an enormous collection of beautifully-restored antique cars. One of my favorite exhibits is near the main entrance. It shows half of an antique car in the condition it was found—rusty, dirty and dented. The other half shows the car in its new condition—beautifully restored. What a contrast! It always amazes me how something old and ugly can be restored and transformed into something everybody wishes they could take home.
Psalm 80:1-7 reminds us that God is our Shepherd who can restore us and bring us into a right relationship again. Many of us make sinful choices that can make us feel battered and beaten up. As a result, we feel guilty and God seems far away. Be encouraged. Christmas proclaims the truth of the extent to which God went to provide salvation and restore us so that we can experience the spiritual riches found in Jesus Christ. God can and will restore us to a point where our salvation seems fresh and meaningful once again. The theme “restore” is often found on the lips of God’s people.
Lamentations 5:21, “Restore us to yourself, O LORD, that we may be restored; renew our days as of old . . . ”
Psalm 51:12, “Restore to me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing
spirit, to sustain me.”
Psalm 71:20, “Though you have made me see troubles, many and bitter,
you will restore my life again; from the depths of the earth you will again
bring me up.”
Perhaps we should pray a simple prayer as the Psalmist recorded, “Restore
us, O God make your face shine upon us . . . ”
Prayer: God, we come before you today recognizing that we have made
choices that have affected our relationship with you and perhaps with others.
Restore us, O God, make your face shine upon us. Enable us to walk
in the steps of the spirit so we may walk in the light of your presence. Amen.
Wayne Jorstad, Master of Divinity, 1983, is the pastor of
Calvary Baptist Church in Wetaskiwin, Alberta.

http://www.sfseminary.edu/

Restoration is vital for each of us have the kind of Christmas that we are all Dreamin' about.

Take a few minutes today and read the scripture listed above, and talk to God about the things that have come between you and others and because of that....Christmas.

Christmas Blessings,

Pastor Brian

Living an Externally Focused Life!

2011-10-10T21:14:00.005-05:00

It started yesterday, Sunday October 9th for our church! A church-wide effort to take the next few weeks to understand and apply the concept of Living an Externally Focused Life into each of our lives. We looked at Ecclesiastes 3:1-11 where the writer talks about a time for everything....a time for the things that God wants us to be involved in as we live our lives for him.

We considered the thoughts of Ephesians 2:8-10. "We are his workmanship,created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them." ESV

I concluded by showing a video designed by "The Skit Guys". You can see it on their website as it is titled....God's Chisel. Well worth your 11 minutes that it takes to view it.

This weekend we have the co-author of "The Externally Focused Life" as our guest speaker. On Friday evening at 7pm he is speaking in an open worship service, and then again on Sunday Morning at 11am.

If you are in the city of Winnipeg and are reading this blog.....you are invited to come and see what God will say through Eric Swanson to your life.

Blessings and I hope you enjoyed this great Thanksgiving day.

Pastor Brian

Earl Cook....Thank You!

2011-09-20T13:29:00.003-05:00

There are times in life when God allows a person to intersect your life and leave an impression. This was the case with Earl Cook. As you likely know by now, Earl passed away on Sunday morning, September 18th. Know in many circles, he was know in our circle as a strong supporter of Camp Nutimik and a friend to many in our congregation.
I strongly urge you to read the article that is attached to this link and watch the videos. Earl made a difference in the lives of the Detroit Red Wings....in the lives of doctors and nurses, in many friends.......... just because he was Earl.
May his life be an encouragement to you today as you watch his story and give thanks to God for one young man who took what was given and made the most with it. At 23 years of age some would say, it was far too soon....but I believe that God has the days numbered for each of us and for Earl, God said, "that is enough.....it's time!"
May we find the same determination to live our lives with all our challenges with the same degree of courage that Earl displayed.
Blessings,
Pastor Brian
(Fitting that the team he cheered for has Wings in their name and on their jersey! May God give him his own wings.)
http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/manitoba/story/2011/09/18/winnipeg-earl-cook-hockey-obit.html

Time Change for September 11, 2011

2011-09-10T23:36:00.003-05:00

I know that our web site says that our Morning Worship starts at 10:30am but for September 11 and after for 2011 it will start at 11am. Sometimes there are little things that get missed during the course of life and this was one of them. If you happen to read this before the Service.....you are welcome....if you read it after the service and had to drag yourself out of bed a 1/2 hour early....you are welcome. There is nothing like arriving a bit early for a worship service at a church. You will find a parking spot much easier......You get to choose where you want to sit instead of finding the last seat....usually in the front row.......... and have a chance to settle in and read over the brochure before the service begins.....and, because most of us are rushing all week long...these few minutes prior to the service starting gives you a moment to slow down, catch your breath, talk to a few friends and basically get ready for an hour with people just like you.....seeking a fresh encounter with God.

I think being on time or early for a fresh encounter with God is something that most of us would say is a good thing....so, with this little mistake about time, come early even if you read this before you left home and join others who like you....are just early and eager to experience a fresh contact with the Almighty.

Blessings, see you at 10:30am so you can be ready to participate when the service starts at 11am.

Pastor Brian

Under the Influence of Technology???

2011-07-14T12:30:00.004-05:00

It has become a common occurrence in the fine city of Winnipeg. People are living life under the influence of technology! I don't think they mean to ......it just happens. A friend calls while you are driving and since we are under the influence....we feel obligated to pick up....no we feel like we have the right to pick up our cell phones an talk even while we are driving. How bad can it be....I always talk when I'm in the car anyways....to other people and especially to the other crazy drivers on the street around me....what's the difference?

Or lol, someone returns a text that just must be answered...even if I'm walking across a street with 75 other people......45 of them coming from the other direction! Once again...we are navigating life under the influence of technology, but wait, it doesn't just happen outside our homes.....it happens inside our homes as well.

There is that text during dinner and OMGoodness, I must respond right now or the texter will think I don't care about them....our relationship is hanging by the latest and quickest text response.........actually???

I'm not going to talk about the t.v. or running with buds stuck in our ears, but don't we just want to turn it all off some days and listen to the world around us? In a spiritual sense....it's no wonder we don't hear God speak to us anymore.....our ears and thumbs and eyes are full of other types of communication that from my "old school" approach to life, is so shallow compared to the truth and wisdom of God and his methods of communication with us.

Is it not possible that we have become victim to our own devices and in doing so have crowed God out of our lives even more? As we are studying the book of Acts, I've been impressed more and more with the fact that we are to be under the influence of the Holy Spirit....not technology! I just read some words from Charles Stanley that say it so well, "If we don't need any help, why send a Helper? The promise of a Helper presupposes that we need help. The promise of a Helper was Jesus' way of tipping us off to one of the most profound truths concerning the Christian life - it's impossible! The quality of life Jesus expects from His followers is unattainable apart from outside intervention.(From The Wonderful Spirit-Filled Life by Charles Stanley)

No wonder Jesus told his followers to stay in Jerusalem until the promised Holy Spirit would come to them...they couldn't live the life Jesus intended apart from the power and presence of the Holy Spirit. Christians are to be under the influence of the Holy Spirit every day, every moment so that they can be involved in doing the will of their Heavenly Father.....just like Jesus did.

There are many people that subject themselves to being under the influence of other things or other people......it is so important that you and I realize that as we follow Jesus Christ, it is essential to be in step with His Holy Spirit. So the next time you are tempted to pick up your cell phone or return a text while you are driving......remember that one of the worst places to be is under the influence of technology.....especially when you are driving.

Blessings as you navigate through this summer remembering to listen for God's voice in what you are doing......and his instruction, correction or encouragement.

Pastor Brian

Centered on Jesus!

2011-07-08T12:17:00.003-05:00

Acts 4:12 reads....And there is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved."
It seems straightforward enough....Jesus is at the centre of salvation and life. We are looking at the book of Acts this summer at McDermot and specifically at the following four aspects found in this book. 1) Christ Centered 2) Prayer Focused 3) Spirit Empowered 4) People Embodied. It all begins with Christ and his centrality in our faith and life. If Jesus is at the centre of our lives, then we are able to live out our lives from that position of surrender and submission to Him.
I have found myself thinking more and more about how I live this truth out in my life. I came to understand a long time ago that my central self is filled with selfishness....so to live with Jesus at the centre means that I daily....sometimes...moment by moment....invite Jesus to rule and lead my life. The presence of the Holy Spirit in the life of every believer provides for us the spiritual and moral compass that we operate from, but it's even more than just guidelines...it's that understanding of compete surrender to Jesus Christ as Lord of our life.
There is a simple song written by Michael Frye titled, "Be the Center"

Jesus be the center, Be my source be my light Jesus

Jesus be the center, Be my song Jesus

Be the fire in my heart, Be the wind in my sails

Be the reason that I live, Jesus, Jesus.

Jesus be my vision, Be my help, Be my guide Jesus

That is a statement of inviting Jesus to be the centre of everything in a person's life.....maybe your life. Take that step today and allow Jesus to BE the centre of everything for you.
This summer as you enjoy the sunny days and loads of activities to participate in.....keep Jesus at the centre of your life....your everything.
Blessings,
Pastor Brian

Vision 2011!

2011-05-26T22:23:00.003-05:00

You might look at this image and say..."aren't you a bit late for 2011 Vision? The answer to that is "Yes" and "No!" Our Ministry year begins in July and ends in June so we are now just coming to the end of our Ministry year and are celebrating "What God has Done!" while at the same time setting the vision for the next step of our journey.
Vision can be referred to as "something seen in the imagination or in the supernatural". I like the thought of imagination because I think that it's one of God's greatest gifts to mankind. Even the word "Imagine" brings to mind things that currently "are not"....so there is a sense that it's out in front of us yet to be realized or grasped. Vision to me says that there is a direction or a place where we are intentionally headed and when we vision cast...we are shining light on the next part of a journey. I recently attended and participated in a Seminary Convocation....and let me tell you it was much better than that face you are making right now thinking of sitting through a Seminary Convocation! One of the speakers...a student whom I'll call Sarah....because that is her name....spoke about the journey that the class has been on. The statement that caught my attention was about the car headlights...she was using a family vacation road trip illustration....the light up the night just far enough in front of the car so that they would arrive safely a their destination. The car lights don't have to shine all the way to "gramma's house" they just need to shine right in front of the car, and as they keep doing that .....the journey is travelled.
As a church, sometimes we are trying to get God's headlights for our church to shine all the way to the finish line...or heaven...or at least the end of the next calendar year...and yet we only need light for what's in front of us. I have found by looking right in front of me that usually there are people in need who need someone to assist or serve them, opportunities to demonstrate God's incredible Love, and time to connect with God. All I need for the journey is right in front of me.....power, provisions, people and possibilities...or should I say "imagine the possibilities?" I like how Eugene Peterson puts it in plain English with the Message paraphrase...God can do anything, you know—far more than you could ever imagine or guess or request in your wildest dreams! He does it not by pushing us around but by working within us, his Spirit deeply and gently within us. Ephesians 3:20 The Message
Why not come this Sunday and catch a new Vision....Imagine!
Blessings,
Pastor Brian

Don't Let The Water Dictate Your Faith!

2011-05-14T08:52:00.005-05:00

(Bert Savard/CBC)

Manitoba is in a state of anxiety as the flood waters seem to dominate conversations, media coverage, and incalculable hours of sore muscles as people place sandbags to save their homes. What is going to happen next in our fight against the rising waters in Manitoba? Good question with a good answer...we'll do what Manitobians do very well, persevere. It's not like it's the first flood that has hit the area or the last. Next year we'll face similar conditions, and although they might not be as severe, we'll still have water to deal with as the cycle repeats itself. For those of us who believe and trust the Almighty God, it is also a time to be engaged in two different and equal activities.

The first activity is to pray. Pray for God's hand of blessing on all aspects of fighting the flood......Wisdom to use the incredible wisdom and intelligence of those who live in Manitoba and can provide assistance to the areas most directly....for safety of everyone working so close to raging waters.....for volunteers to help those who are unable at this point to help themselves....for peaceful thinkers on both sides of the planned breech....for winnipegers who still suffer from "perimeteritis" .....and not lastly....pray for the waters to recede.

The second activity is to do whatever you can. Apathy is still one of the most dominant genes in many people's lives. They will gladly stand by and watch as others drive to Brandon and Portage to help sandbag or lend a hand where needed. Yet it takes time and money but it's the right thing to do. I recently "put my back out" helping a river's edge resident put us their wall of defence. Did I pay for it later....oh yes...but I did something about helping others. I loved what one woman said yesterday on the newscast, "I just drove out here and thought I"d find someone throwing sandbags where I could help" she said.

Wherever we look, there are people who could use some help. Take that in context or apply it to all areas of our lives and we'll never lack for things or people pray for and do whatever we can to lighten their load.

Seek out a group of worshippers or workers tomorrow and lend a hand in praying or serving...they both are required and appreciated.

Praying for a miracle again in Manitoba.

Pastor Brian

Easter Celebration!

2011-04-23T17:49:00.005-05:00

Sunday Morning begins at 9:30am with a light breakfast and a time to connect with other people here to worship on Easter Sunday. Our Worship Celebration begins at 10am and will be filled with singing, drama, a choir presentation, relevant teaching and a special feature for children. There is also a free gift of a book for everyone who attends. You will want to come early and stay after 11:30 to interact with those you know.

Looking forward to seeing you here at 821 McDermot Ave.

Blessings,

Pastor Brian

Pracitcal Christianity!

2011-04-08T11:56:00.003-05:00

I hear it all the time....What we need is Practical Christianity!! I don't disagree, but I think using the words "Practical and Christianity" is redundant. Everything about Christianity is practical...from the receiving of God's love, grace, truth and forgiveness, to the sharing of that same life with others......it's all practical and logical.

We disobeyed God's directions and violated His standard...so we need forgiveness.

God the Father loved us so much that He sent His Son, Jesus, to correct the separation that was caused by our sin.

We receive His forgiveness and he gives us a new life in Christ, a new purpose, and a new eternity. (All Practical)

We are so moved by that experience of Practical Life that we share that same kind of love with the people around us by serving the world the best way as directed by God. Love God, Love Others...Serve the World!

Practical Christianity!!

Blessings,

Pastor Brian

God's Top Ten! Really!

2011-02-25T12:42:00.002-06:00

What a beautiful day in Winnipeg....temperature is sitting nicely at -11C and it is really sunny! We've been looking at the Ten Commandments as found in Exodus 20 and I've been rediscovering the practical aspects of these top ten. Instead of boiling them down to two....we're looking at the 10 so that the two make more sense to us as the people who want to connect with God and connect with people. The first 4 commands give us clear direction on how to connect with God in a personal relationship and understand that the entire basis for the commandments is a relationship with God. Not god as one of many things or relationships that occupy our time and attention, but God as the giver of life...here and eternal...the designer of our gene pool....and source of our creativity.....made in His image and situated to understand and deepen our relationship with Him and be a living illustration of how that relationship effects our lives.

As I don't want to keep you very long from enjoying the warm sunny weather outside...let me say this...take a few minutes to read Exodus 20 verses 1-17 with a view of God loving us and desiring to protect us and nurture that relationship with us personally......the Top Ten really are a top ten list of relating and behaving that will give us a life filled with genuine relationships and great fulfillment.

Looking forward to worshipping with you again this Sunday,

Blessings,

Pastor Brian

A Suggested Pattern!

2011-02-10T07:32:00.004-06:00

When it comes to Generous Living from a Biblical perspective there are many suggestions as to how to give and how to use the income that God gives to us. One pastor, Andy Stanley, has suggested to his church the following guide for the use of income. Simply put...Give...Save...Live off the rest. There is an order in these words for a reason....if you don't give first and save second...the living will eat up the other two before you have a chance to put them where they need to go....so Give, Save, then Live off the rest. He suggests that we use the Give 10% to the church or if you are not a follower of Jesus Christ, to charity, Save 10% and then live off the remaining 80%.
With the debt load most North Americans carry...this is a great idea. What can take place after some time using this method...especially combined with living below your means....your financial resources available for you grow and you are in a position financially to respond to the promptings of God. This also enables you to plan on how to give effectively to organizations ahead of time and not be reactive givers but proactive givers. These organizations are worthy of being supported because they are capable of going and doing what you would love to do if there was time available or you were qualified to go and do what they are doing.
Don't give up on this change in your life! The desire to be a Generous Giver enables you to position yourself to be experience Generous Living.
This is a life journey....take a step toward Generous Living today.
Blessings,
Pastor Brian

The "Means" to Live!

2011-02-01T10:35:00.003-06:00

We've just taken two Sunday Mornings to look a little at "Living Generously" and one of the main thoughts that I think we need to consider deeply is what we do with our income. Most of us have a good idea of what amount of money comes into our homes each month....but, many people are not as aware of where they spend their income. We have all hard the phrase "living within your means!" I think that there are actually three ways that we choose to live according to our means.

The first is Living Within Our Means.
Basically what you earn you use to live. No debt, not any real savings…you spend what you earn. Interestingly enough…when you receive a raise…this portion usually goes up..you earn more so you spend more.

The second method is Living Above Our Means.

You spend more than you earn. This is typically the vast majority of the western world. Our governments tend to do it, people tend to do it…thus you have a world filled with people in debt. Owing someone something.

The third method is Living Below Your Means.

You could live spending more because you have it to spend, but you have decided that a certain level is enough for your needs and have decided to live there and the extra that you receive on a monthly basis grows each time you receive a raise. So there is a portion that is indeed excess.
I believe that followers of Jesus Christ who understand Generous Living, will choose to live below their means so that they will have much more money to give away…to give to Kingdom items…to support those who have much less…to provide homes and food and education for people that have much less.

I also think that this type of living and thinking starts with making Jesus Lord of your life....your finances included.

Consider your "means" today and see if Jesus would want you to begin to live differently.

Blessings,

Pastor Brian

McDermot Church is Meeting at the MTS Centre

2011-01-05T07:16:00.007-06:00

This Sunday McDermot Church is joining 49 other churches in Winnipeg for a One Heart Worship Celebration at the MTS Centre at 11am. If you were planning to come to worship at McDermot this Sunday meet us at the Centre for a great time with Worship, Puppet Ministry, Teaching from Brian Stiller(pictured here) and the encouragement of others who are devoted followers of Jesus Christ.
There will be NO worship Services at McDermot Church 821 McDermot Ave, on January 9th.
The One Heart Celebration is at 11am so come early and be a part of the celebration of the unity believers have in Winnipeg. There is free parking on the streets because it is Sunday, and there will be paid parking available at the lots surrounding the MTS Centre.
I look forward to the celebration on Sunday as our church gathers with many other churches to celebrate the Head of the Church...Jesus Christ.

Blessings,
Pastor Brian

Christmas is....

2010-11-24T17:11:00.006-06:00

....the birthday of Life.
"In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things came into being through Him, and apart from Him nothing came into being that has come into being. In Him was life, and the life was the Light of men." "And the Word became flesh, and dwelt among us, and we saw His glory, glory as of the only begotten from the Father, full of grace and truth. (John 1:1-4,14 NASB) As you begin to look around and things begin to look alot like Christmas....think about this celebration as A Celebration of the Birthday of Life! In Him....Jesus...was life! The Bible is clear that without a personal admittance of wrong and the acceptance of the sacrifice of Jesus in our place to free us from that wrong, people don't have life as God intended. Life that turns into light, it seems, comes from a connectedness with God through Jesus Christ. One of the greatest things about Jesus coming to earth is that He came just for you. “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Saviour has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord." Luke 2:10-11
You know how we sometimes say....Don't say I didn't give you anything!...well...Jesus could easily say that because he brought something for everyone ....for all the people.... it reads! For you!
Today as you think about Christmas....think about it as a Celebration of the Birthday of Life delivered especially from heaven for you.
Blessings,
Pastor Brian

Life Lessons are Hard!

2010-11-09T16:27:00.002-06:00

I just saw something that made me think that another lesson has just been taught regarding figure skating. I know a little about figure skating because for the past 25 years I've been married to a figure skating coach and have watched as she has guided our two daughters through the paces of learning how to skate.
Just now, in front of me, a beginner skater just caught a toe pick when she was just skating along enjoying the scenery...that is the little piece of evil metal that sticks down the front of a figure skating blade. Is is designed to assist those who know how to use it to stick it in the ice and launch you off into level of altitude in order to spin like mad and then land on that little blade after it's all over. It struck me as a bit funny because as soon as she fell she started crying and holding her knee to the point that her mother came and took her off the ice. She is back on now but I think she learned a lesson...in fact...a hard lesson. Falling down usually results in getting hurt....but it's important to fall down because you can learn a lot about life by falling. Three things I've learn by falling down.
1. Everyone does it!Step on ice....you'll fall sooner or later. Take your first breath of life....you'll fall sooner or later. Face it! You and I mess up, we fall short of God's standard and we are not alone...so we are in good company.
2. Pain is a necessary re-enforcer of the crash.When the ice comes up and hits you as a result of falling on it...the pain helps to enforce the fact that falling hurts...a lot! So does really messing up in life. Wrong choices, wrong decisions, just wrong stuff can end up with pain associated with it. Friendships, family, employment, reputations...all can be effected by our fall. The pain of destroyed relationships can be a positive motivator to act with wisdom next time....to value people over things...over promotions...over lesser valuable relationships.
3. No one has to stay down. The little girl got up, with a little help and is back skating. Will she have a story to tell? Oh yes! Will she have a bruise to show? I'm sure she will! Did she just lay on the ice until the Zamboni came out to take her away? No! She got up and kept going.

Where ever you are today in your life of slip ups and hard falls....turn to Jesus. Seek out a friend or pastor who knows Jesus personally and can help you turn the falls of life into a life lesson.
Blessings,
Pastor Brian

The Beautiful Thing about Time!

2010-11-07T05:16:00.003-06:00

Everyone in Winnipeg secretly rejoiced a bit this weekend as they realized that it was the time to set our clocks back one hour as our end the Daylight Savings Time. It felt like we were given a pause button if only for an hour...if only for this day. That might be telling us something...like we are trying to pack too much into our schedules and life if we rejoice over one hour added to our days. I have to wonder what you will do with that hour.....will you use it wisely? will you squander it away? will you just take a hot cup of tea or coffee or cold juice and read or pray? Talk to your neighbour or phone an old friend or brother? If you feel like you've been given an extra hour....could I suggest that you use that hour that provides the greatest return in your life? Use that extra hour today for good not harm...for helping not hurting....for praising not discouraging.
Blessings,
Pastor Brian

Unplugging the Info-Tech god

2010-11-04T11:32:00.003-05:00

Wow...what a post to find just after we launch our new website. Well actually, I found it before and have been considering these thoughts for several days now. Included below is a post from Joe Carter...no not the former Blue Jays Player...a different Joe, who blogs on First Things. I discovered this post through FaithShare and thought it was worth a read by me and by others. So enjoy.

Sep 1, 2010 - Joe Carter
I never find the time to be alone with God during the week, so I’ve dedicated this Sunday afternoon to prayer. But before I do I should check my e-mail so I won’t be distracted. It won’t take long before. . . Thirty-two new messages, including one from the boss? I better reply right now. They might be important.

Some invitations from Facebook. Those are easy to clear out so let me accept them and I’m . . . hmm, I didn’t realize I had more notifications. Looks like Stacy finally launched a blog; I’ll just click through really quickly to check it out. Some great stuff. I really should add her blog to my RSS reader before I forget. What, “More than 100+ items”? Didn’t I just check this yesterday? I should really whittle these down a bit before it gets worse.

Wow, here I was about to focus on prayer and Bible study and my favorite theology-blogger has an excellent post on spiritual disciples. I have to share that with my own blog readers. That’s a topic that’s really on my heart today, and it won’t take long.

Hmm, looks like some comments are hung up in our spam filter again. Better fix that, or people will be discouraged from commenting. Oh man, does this guy misrepresent what I wrote. I can’t let that go unchallenged. Readers might be led astray. It won’t take long.

OK, now I need to buckle down and pray. Let me check the time on my iPhone—no way, it’s been four hours?—and who are these voicemails from?

I better check them in case my boss is calling to see why I didn’t answer that email, which would be really rude of him since this is Sunday, and I told everyone that I now devote Sunday to church and prayer and Bible Study and—no, not him, it’s my buddy asking if I got his e-mail. All right, that’s it. I really need to spend some quality time with the Lord.

But before I get started I should check my e-mail. It’s been four hours . . .

We consider it peculiar that Muslims stop five times a day to offer prayers to Allah, yet we stop what we do five times an hour to pay homage to our e-mail. “One of the most basic biblical insights,” says theologian J.I. Packer, “is that whatever controls and shapes one’s life is in effect the god one worships.” For many of us, the one true god to whom we give our devotion is the deity known as IT: information technology.

My work (my career revolves around the web), my schedule (everything carefully structured on my Google Calendar), my habits (checking my e-mail is both the first and last thing I do every day), are all defined by my relationship with the god of IT. Am I alone? Am I the only one who has sung a hymn about spending eternity worshipping God and secretly believed that heaven must be an incredible bore? (No e-mail? No YouTube? No First Things Online?)

When I look at how I spend my time it becomes obvious where my true devotion lies. And like Jehovah, Technology is a jealous god.

But an ancient practice has helped me dethrone this idol: Sabbath-keeping. In Surviving Information Overload, Keith Miller recommends taking an “info-techno Sabbath,” a 24-hour period when we turn off the cell phone, leave the iPad in the drawer, and stay away from the computer.

The Sabbath . . . had two purposes: rest and remembrance of God. An info-techno Sabbath, as I dub it, has the same goals: rest for our minds and over stimulated senses and remembrance that life is bigger than the news stories, stock quotes, and sports scores. It’s bigger than our selves. There is, in fact, a God. And we are not it.

After putting Miller’s idea into practice for several months I quickly came to two realizations: Sabbath-keeping is very difficult, and it pays dividends I could never have imagined.

The benefits everyone has to discover for himself. I don’t have the words to describe how God filled this new quiet space in my life. And unexpectedly, this rest from information has also helped me understand and process all the information I receive. Reflection and rest is the only way to sift through the huge stockpiles of data to find the kernels of wisdom.

As for the difficulty, though, I’ve learned certain lessons worth passing along to those willing to give this a try:

• Choose your own Sabbath. An info-techno Sabbath does not have to overlap with normal Sabbath observance. Choose a 24-hour period that works best for you. Following the example of Judaism, where the day runs from sunset to sunset, I’ve found that sundown on Saturday to sundown on Sunday works best for me. The break allows me time to rest before preparing for the week ahead.

• Begin and end with prayer. Take time to pray and dedicate the time to God. End it with a spiritual discipline of solitude, Bible study, and more prayer.

• Let people know you are unplugging. Friends and family know that they won’t be able to reach me on my cell phone during my Sabbath, since it is dedicated to personal, face-to-face connections. Once people know that you are “off the info grid” they’ll be less likely to bother you with minor interruptions.

• Avoid legalism. A few weeks into the experiment I found myself lost on the way to a friend’s house. I had my cell phone (turned off) but didn’t want to “break my Sabbath” by using it to get direction. After stressing over what to do, I realized that I was developing legalistic rules that negated the purpose of my Sabbath. As Jesus said, “The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath” (Mark 2:27).

Why not take an info-techno Sabbath this weekend? It won't be pleasant for your synapses will scream from the perceived dehydration. After drinking from the firehose of information, a day without info tech will seem like a year-long drought. But by unplugging the God of Technology you might just find something new: a still small voice sharing the information that truly matters.

Joe Carter is web editor of First Things.

New Web Site!

2010-11-03T07:22:00.002-05:00

Yes it's true....McDermot Avenue Baptist Church has a new website which Google will soon have up and reachable. Until then....click on the tab to the right and it will connect you to our site. (www.mcdermotchurch.ca)
We hope it will assist people as they seek God's direction for their lives.
Blessings,
Pastor Brian

Practical Purity!

2010-11-02T07:33:00.003-05:00

Information is great because it provides us the necessary truth to make changes....but information might not be enough when it comes to purity! Let me explain......If there are areas of your life that are less than pure....thought life...attitudes....imagination...even actions.....when a call is given to change your life and let Christ provide you with the power to be pure and stay pure.....there is a place for people in this process.
When there are addictions in a persons life, especially when it comes to things that are impure, it is very difficult to break free from them without someone close by to walk forward to wholeness. After last Sunday's message, I was reminded that one thing I forgot to communicate was the importance of a friend to listen to you and keep you accountable as you move toward purity.At our church, we want to be part of the solution for those who are caught in activities or addictions that are very destructive to practical purity. We are here to listen without judgement on a person. We know how hard it is to break free and yet we are committed to loving a person where they are and trusting Jesus to provide a person with the power to live differently.
Practical purity comes from a community of friends committed to purity assisting though listening, encouraging, accountability and tons of acceptance, everyone who desires to experienced the happiness of being pure.May this week be one where your mind is filled with "Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things." Philippians 4:8(New International Version © 2010)
Still learning to listen and care,
Blessings,
Pastor Brian

Jesus on Purity!

2010-10-30T14:25:00.004-05:00

When it comes to water....most of us think that the purer it can be.....the better! If that is the sentiment for water....think how much more important purity is for the rest of our lives!
In Matthew 5:8 we read "Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God." THERE is nothing in which mankind more generally imagine happiness to consist than in the uncontrolled indulgence of their passions.(Charles Simeon) If what Charles says is true...which I think it is....What Jesus says about where you will find happiness is a bit against the flow of today's thinking. Imagine...being pure and happy! When everyone around you is turning to a life with very few guidelines, happy are the pure seems like a raised standard. The result of those who decide to allow Jesus to purify their lives are given the reward of seeing God. In this context being “pure in heart” means to have no double allegiance. One heart that is focused on God and allegiance only to him. That is pure in heart.

I liked what Charles Spurgeon wrote In Faith's Checkbook. It is a devotional entitled "Purity of Heart and Life"...

Purity, even purity of heart, is the main thing to be aimed at. We need to be made clean within through the Spirit and the Word, and then we shall be clean without by consecration and obedience. There is a close connection between the affections and the understanding: if we love evil we cannot understand that which is good. If the heart is foul, the eye will be dim. How can those men see a holy God who love unholy things? What a privilege it is to see God here! A glimpse of Him is heaven below! In Christ Jesus the pure in heart behold the Father. We see Him, His truth, His love, His purpose, His sovereignty, His covenant character, yea, we see Himself in Christ. But this is only apprehended as sin is kept out of the heart. Only those who aim at godliness can cry, "Mine eyes are ever towards the LORD." The desire of Moses, "I beseech thee, show me thy glory," can only be fulfilled in us as we purify ourselves from all iniquity. We shall "see him as he is," and "every one that hath this hope in him purifieth himself." The enjoyment of present fellowship and the hope of the beatific vision are urgent motives for purity of heart and life. LORD, make us pure in heart that we may see Thee!
Today...right where you are.....make the decision to focus your heart on purity.....pure thinking...pure actions....pure motives....growing from a relationship with God...the source of your purity.
Pick a Bible believing and teaching group of worshippers tomorrow and see what God wants to do in your life to make it possible for you to see God.
Blessings,
Pastor Brian

A Ride in the Country!

2010-10-13T17:35:00.004-05:00

Today I took a ride out into the countryside just east of our fair city of Winnipeg. It was just what the renewal doctor ordered. I've been going a bit too fast these last few weeks and needed a break from the scheduling that I have put on myself......So, I took my old truck and drove east, listening to scripture on a C.D. I have.....the books of James and 1st and 2nd Peter were listened to as I allowed the sunshine and cool breeze to clear my mind. I stopped at a farmers home and removed some parts from an old truck that I had purchased from him. Parts from his old truck for my old truck. Kind of like exchanging my old rusted or broken parts for ones that work just perfectly. I even removed the seat and put it in the box of my truck! It will need to be redone but I can see the possibilities in it already. I'm sure that there are times when God just wants to do the same thing in our lives....take the old broken...not working properly anymore...parts and replace them with ones that work. Will we still be the same person....oh yes....but in better working order. Spiritually speaking...God wants to do a complete overhaul on our lives. There used to be a show on The Learning Channel called "OverHaulin!" On the show they would take a persons vehicle and give it to Chip Foose and along with his crew, they would overhaul the vehicle to make it a thing of beauty. Many times it would come with a new motor, running gear and for sure...Foose wheels and an incredible paint job. At the end of the show, the person who's vehicle had been overhauled would say those famous words...."I've just been overhauled!"
I can say those words today after driving in the country and having some very important time with God! I'm very confident that if you take time with God and let him do His thing in your life...I'm sure you too will be able to say..."I've just been overhauled by God." It's an awesome feeling! Enjoy the beauty of the Lord around you today as you look at his handiwork in nature and in your life.

Blessings,
Pastor Brian

Detoured in Life!

2010-09-30T20:34:00.003-05:00

If you live in Winnipeg, you are very familiar with the term "detour!" They are everywhere as the street repair crews do their thing before the snow flys. Orange signs direct you where you didn't really want to go but have to because of circumstances.
I took time the other day to read the daily devotional from "My Utmost for His Highest", dated September 21. It was challenging as usual, but it was the last phrase that caught my attention....all it said was..."Beware lest you forget God’s purpose for your life." I thought that was a great reminder for me and now for all of us to do a bit of a spiritual map check.
Where are you? Spiritually speaking? Are you caught in some detour away from God's will and purpose? Have you driven off the original road and changed directions away from God's course? I have recently talked with several people who claim to be "Christians" who have somehow allowed themselves to get detoured from God's design of "being like Jesus!" They are choosing to disobey His Word, His Commands, His Rules of Life.
Call me old fashioned, old school, or maybe just old...but I think a person who calls themself a Christian needs to be acutely aware of God's purpose for their life. No detours, no diversions, no wandering away. Get back on course! Remember God's Purpose for your life! The entire human race was created to glorify God and to enjoy Him forever.
It's called OBEDIENCE! Let me say it again....Get back on course! Stay on course! Remember God's purpose for your life.
Blessings,
Pastor Brian

Happy are the Sad!

2010-09-25T19:00:00.003-05:00

Matthew chapter 5 verse 4 tells us that if we mourn, we will be blessed! Really? What was Jesus talking about when he sat and spoke with his disciples? He was describing a life that is lived out as the Holy Spirit transforms them from the inside out. They are not commands or required standards as if to gain God's approval, but they are like guidelines for the kind of life God desire within those who claim him as their God. Now back to the "Happy are the Sad!"
The poor in Spirit are those who realize that they desperately need God's help. The don't have the resources to make it on their own. Physical poverty is not a good thing but poverty of spirit can lead a person to seek God. When we're at the end of our rope we're more open to God. In contrast, when we are "rich" and in lack of nothing, we can be come overly content and satisfied with our own progress.Those who mourn understand that there are many things in life that can break our heart and cause us to grieve. Yet, in the kingdom, Jesus promises us comfort and joy, even in the middle of difficult circumstances. We do not mourn like those with no hope. The spiritual, emotional, or financial loss resulting from sin should lead to mourning and a longing for God's forgiveness and healing.
As you seek to live your life today, consider what it is that you are in mourning for? Is it something that is keeping you from a closer relationship with God..or is it something that is driving you to seek Him? Determine what it is and make a wise choice! Make Jesus happy with your desire to be blessed by Him.
This is Saturday evening and I know if you are reading this....God is nudging you to attend a place tomorrow where people worship Him. Whether it's McDermot or not....choose a place and use your life's challenges to motivate you to praise Him.
Blessings,
Pastor Brian

Here we Go!!

2010-09-18T18:11:00.003-05:00

This Sunday marks the beginning of our Ministry Year. Life Groups for all ages begin at 9:30am and our Morning Worship Celebration begins at 11am. As always, our focus is on connecting with God and connecting with others in order to properly serve the world. Like these rugby players, we are much stronger when we link arms together to accomplish some adventure. We believe that "We're better together" and this applies definitely to our spiritual walk and our journey. One day, Jesus sat down and taught his disciples about the life he brought to them...and even today those words are powerful and relevant to your life. We'll be looking at Matthew 5 for the next several weeks and hearing what Jesus said on topics like, justice, compassion, mercy, and many others. You will enjoy our study as we begin a new year of adventure in discovering God's life for you. This year we are offering the added benefit of message notes and then what we call "Expedition Notes" for you to continue your study throughout the week.
Blessings,
See you tomorrow,
Pastor Brian

New Time This Sunday!

2010-09-10T07:54:00.005-05:00

I really don't like being late, but sometimes I find myself walking into a meeting, or an appointment a few minutes late. To avoid the looks of friends wondering why we are late, I want to give you a heads up this Sunday. All summer we have been starting our worship on Sunday Mornings at 10:30am......but this Sunday....we are starting at 10am.....so you'll have to arrive at the church at 9:45 so you can find a place to park, walk in, connect with a few people, find your place, and be ready to participate in our Worship time.
So....I'll be looking for you at 9:45am on Sunday to begin the Great Adventure together.
Blessings today on this rainy day in Winnipeg. Remember..."Today is the Day the Lord has Made, we will rejoice and be glad in it!"
Pastor Brian

Welcome Back To Church Sunday!

2010-09-09T00:49:00.003-05:00

This Sunday we are welcoming everyone "Back to Church"! Some have been on holidays....some at the lake most weekends....and some have just not been to church in a while. Everyone is invited back to church this Sunday. Some people would come to church if they were invited...some would come if they had food....some would come if the people were friendly....some would come if the music was interesting! Church has changed some these past few years...since you were there....but some things haven't! The truth hasn't changed, God's love hasn't changed, Jesus being the only way to have your sins forgiven and a relationship with God the Father hasn't changed, but the dress code has! Come as you are and connect with God and others who have a great desire to live an Adventure......a Great Adventure.
Blessings,
Pastor Brian

Something Old, Something New, Something Borrowed, Something Blue!

2010-09-03T07:55:00.003-05:00

Summer has come and is almost gone and during these past few weeks, many have taken the walk down the aisle and have pledged themselves to God and each other. I was thinking about the transitions that take place during this time and remembered that familiar saying that has become our title for today. Something Old, something new, something borrowed, something blue. As we enter into September of 2010 it might be helpful for us to apply some of that same thinking.
Something Old is meant to represent the link with the bride's own family and the past particularly mother or grandmother or even most distant relations. Something old is symbolic of continuity.
This week we will continue on with life as students return to school, as mothers and fathers return to work, as all of us return to the flow of life. I encourage you to continue on with the walk of faith and the pursuit of the things of God.
Something New represents good luck and success and the brides hopes for a bright future in her new married life.
These next few weeks will be filled with New. New clothes, new books, new things for school and work. New schedules, new responsibilities, new expenses. As we begin another school and ministry year, we all hope for something better. It's not that the past was bad, we just hope that the future will be better....it's what we do...hope for something better. As you walk with God, understand that God's better is rooted in relationship with Him and not in things. People is what God is focused on.
Something Borrowed is to represent to the bride that friends and family will be there for her on the special day and in the future when help is needed. We all "need a little help from our friends" and this is a great reminder that we are in this life together and we are not alone. God has planned for us to be connected with others in community and through the Church has provided for that to be a part of our life. So....go back to church, or find a church you can attend and become a part of that community life. We all need family and friends to help....today...and in the future.
Something Blue in ancient times is the symbol of faithfulness, purity and loyalty. Where would we be without a reminder of these three? As we move forward in life, in September, let's make wise choices regarding how we are going to live. You and I have the choice to live a life of purity, a life of faith, a life of loyalty.
So as we enter a new phase of our lives and of this year, I want to encourage you today to connect with Jesus Christ and partner with him in your walk of life and faith.
Looking forward to the great adventure ahead.
Blessings,
Pastor Brian

Lifting a Burden!

2010-08-16T08:04:00.003-05:00

Close to our church there is a major project taking place where they are adding another level to a parking structure. The reason it caught my attention is because of the size of the crane that is being used to lift the pieces into place. As soon as I saw the size of this massive crane and the weight that it effortlessly carried, I thought about my own burdens. Like you, I have burdens that I try to carry that weight me down and some days I would like to have a spiritual crane like this one to lift my burdens. However, I also know that there is no crane large enough or delicate enough to take care of my issues. They are Heart issues that come up from time to time and weigh me down. Sometimes it's my behaviour or my language or my thoughts or even my actions, and they don't line up with God's best for me so they become burdensome. I have tried in the past to take care of this myself, but it have been far less than successful. What I needed was someone to life the burden who knows me and knows how best to lift the weight and give me freedom. The apostle Paul spoke a lot about freedom in his letter to the Galatians and he says that it can and should be a part of our everyday Christian life.....and there is a solution. You have heard it said before but I'm going to say it again...."No one cares for you like Jesus!" His love is so great and his mercy is so endless that no matter what your burden....he is able to lift it and provide you with spiritual, intellectual, physical and emotional freedom. Whatever weight there is that is keeping you pinned down today, take it to Jesus and ask Him to rule your life! As owner of your life....He then has the right and authority to provide the very best for your life in Him. Trust Him, ask Him, allow Him to remove the difficult weight that is holding you back from His very best.
Looking skyward to see your burden lifted.
Blessings,
Pastor Brian

A Fresh Look At Prayer!

2010-07-22T11:46:00.007-05:00

Yesterday was a day when God illustrated the difference prayer makes in life.....it went this way. We have a small courtyard in the centre of our church complex. It has some nice tables and umbrella's and trees and potted plants and one hanging plant in a basket. It's been hot and dry for the past few days and the person who normally takes care of the plants went on holidays...you're already beginning to see the picture. The plants were dry and needing water, but the hanging plant.....well it looked like it had heat stroke. The leaves were wilted, the flowers were wilted, I looked twice at the plastic hanger, because it looked wilted too! I quickly got out the hose and watered it and all the other vegetation in the courtyard hoping to save it all. I took down the hanging plant and placed it in the shade on a stool.
Last night, we met for our Prayer Life Group in the same courtyard and as I sat down at the table with my prayer warriors, I was shocked by the look of this hanging plant. Now it was vibrant again! I could hardly stop talking about what had happened earlier in the day and then it was as if God spoke to me.....not audibly...more like in my mind or spirit. This is the thought I had....That is the difference Prayer makes to the ministries that we are involved in.......that is the difference Prayer makes in life.
So guess what my focus in for today......you guessed it....prayer. If water can make that much difference to that plant, then I'm going to try watering everything I do in my life and ministry with prayer.
Give it a try for your dry life.
Blessings,
Pastor Brian

What really matters?

2010-07-14T06:43:00.005-05:00

These past few days I've been struck again with how simple life can be and how complex we as human beings have a tendency to make it! Jesus was asked by a group of men what was the great command.....or in other words, "what really matters?", and we see Jesus responding with these words...."You shall Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the first and great commandment." So that's it then! Love God with everything you possess.....heart, soul, and mind!
I wonder this summer how that is going for you? Are you daily keeping "what really matters" in front of your workload, in front of your eyes, in front of your planning, in front of everything else you may think matters? They sound like loaded questions, but really they are just coming from a man that is finding that "what really matters" can be crowded out by "what is really pressing!"
So I want to encourage myself, and you as a person that wants to keep your compass pointed in the right direction.....today, focus on what really matters. Loving God!
May God lead you today as you seek to live your life in a way that is connected to the God who loves you.
Blessings,
Pastor Brian

Living at the Speed of Life!

2010-06-28T09:37:00.005-05:00

"I need some time to slow down!" I have heard that statement several times in the past few days. Summer comes....we go crazy trying to fit in everything we can because you never know when it will rain again....and school is ending and we have to open the cottage, or go to the lake or celebrate another birthday....and on it goes. We are being consumed by the speed of life. Summer is really a season when we are given the opportunity to breathe. One definition of "breathe" is to "pause and rest before continuing." I have to do that when I'm climbing a mountain in B.C. or Colorado. Stop to catch my breath...sometimes because the air is too thin and at the speed I'm travelling, it's not enough. I want to give you some encouragement this day....take time this summer to breathe. Put the over active schedule down, pick up a book, or go for a walk, or listen to some music that you haven't listened to for a long time...and breathe. Pause and rest before continuing. God actually tried to help us with that little thing by giving us a day that the Jewish people called the "sabbath." In the Hebrew shabbāth, literally meaning ...rest! It is one of God's 10 commandments found in Deuteronomy chapter 5 verses 12-15. It's called a "sabbath to the Lord your God." One person stated the perfect world would have one day a week where everyone has it off...no exceptions. What a novel idea...one day off a week for everyone. Sounds a lot like a sabbath. So just for fun, or for your spiritual life....try taking one day off this summer...no working...no exceptions...and breathe. You just might find God is waiting to give you the breath of life.
Blessings,
Pastor Brian

Caring for Each Other!

2010-06-26T09:49:00.004-05:00

I heard a quote this morning that went something like this...."When the human race stops caring for each other, it is then that we cease to be human." I don't know if that is exact or not but you get the idea. Caring for each other is something that means more than making sure that we are feed, clothed and have some shelter...it means caring for the deeper needs within each of us. Tomorrow at our worship celebration, we are looking at what it really means and taking practical steps to put that knowledge to use. We're in the gym this summer so it will be perfect temperature and a great setting. The services start at 10:30am so you'd better come a bit early, get a nice coffee from the Oasis Cafe and connect with God and others.
See you tomorrow,
Pastor Brian

Great news for Men!

2010-06-18T17:21:00.004-05:00

It's a day to celebrate Father's again this Sunday and we are going to bring some good news for all the guys. Church is for YOU! It's not just for the women and children....it really is a guy thing! We're going to look at what is still going right for Men today. We still have a purpose and work to do! I'll see you at church on Sunday at 10:30a.m. We'll make it worth your time and make it enjoyable for the guys.
Blessings Warriors for Jesus,
Pastor Brian
p.s. - We're collecting money and items for Osborne House too. Bring what you've got.

The Touchable God!

2010-06-08T05:58:00.002-05:00

Jesus was a hands on person. Throughout the Bible you and I can read about the various times Jesus was in contact with people....hands on contact. From a blind man to a leper...from the old to the young....he was a high contact God. Compared to the other religious figures of the day...Jesus was different in so many ways....but in the area of touch.....He was radically different. John recorded these words in what we have as John 1:14..."The Word became flesh and blood, and moved into the neighborhood. We saw the glory with our own eyes, the one-of-a-kind glory, like Father, like Son, Generous inside and out, true from start to finish."(The Message paraphrase) The New American Standard Bible translation says it this way....And the Word became flesh, and dwelt among us, and we saw His glory, glory as of the only begotten from the Father, full of grace and truth." "Moved into the neighborhood.....dwelt among us".....both convey that Jesus was a hands on God.

So...why all this talk about a touchable God?.....because those who claim to be followers of Jesus Christ are to be like the Father God and Jesus...hands on people. That has recently been expressed in the Love Winnipeg Campaign. Hands on loving of the city of Winnipeg...the People of Winnipeg...everyone in Winnipeg. Lives have been in contact with touchable Christians because their God is a touchable God. Remember back to the birth of Jesus........when Mary was holding God in her hands....He was breaking all the rules about the belief in God. He came and dwelt in the neighbourhood of people like you and I...and he has called believers in Jesus to do the same. Hands on people because our God is a Hands on God.

This week, if you are a follower of Jesus Christ, look for a way to be like the touchable Father God in the lives of people around you. James said it so well in chapter 2 verse 17..."faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead."

Lets make our faith alive this week by representing our Touchable God by being a hands on people of action.

Blessings,

Pastor Brian

Be Diligent.....see progress!

2010-05-26T14:33:00.003-05:00

I admit it....sometimes I give up far too soon. I start something, get a bit discouraged or distracted and before I know it....I"m not seeing any progress in the project. I find the same in my spiritual life sometimes as well. Progress....growth....maturity....seem to be far too slow in coming. Maybe this is all working so that I develop patience????? or not!

1 Timothy 4:15 reads this way, "Be diligent in these matters; give yourself wholly to them, so that everyone may see your progress."

I find it fascinating that your spiritual life of growth is obvious to everyone around you! The opposite is true as well...your lack of spiritual growth is obvious. Diligence will produce growth! Growth will be evidenced by faith and works! Faith and works can only be experienced through diligence.

Followers of Jesus sometimes think that they can give a part of their day or their life to Jesus and everything will be just fine. But that isn't the case! "Give yourself wholly" is the instruction that Paul gives to Timothy and "watch your life and doctrine closely."

I want my life to be one of growth! One of health! One of progress! One of maturity! All things that require diligence to attain....diligence and surrender to the Only One who can take my weaknesses and give me strength.

Today as you read your Bible, consider that God is speaking to you personally about your own issues.....and make a choice to live differently. Choose diligence and others will be able to see your progress.

Blessings,

Pastor Brian

Life is a Team Event!

2010-05-14T22:16:00.004-05:00

If you are a fan of NHL Hockey, then these past few days have likely been awesome for you. Game 7 heroics! Underdogs succeeding! Mr. Bettman couldn't have written a script that would bring so much attention to a great game.

Many have said that the reason these underdog teams are winning is because they are playing as a team. That is exactly what they are supposed to do....play as a team....because they are a Hockey TEAM. There seems to be success when everyone does their part to help a group of individuals achieve greater results than they could achieve by themselves.

Life is like that....if everyone does their part to work together with their neighbours, their co-workers, their friends, their family.....to achieve the greatest level of success they can...they win!As a team and as an individual. What is your level of success in all manner of success....personally? Couldn't it be better? Isn't there a better you that could be doing what he or she loves to do at a higher level, if only you had a team around you to help you achieve your goals.

Family...and a good church....are the best two groups to see you win in life, and in eternity.

If you are interested in discovering how an underdog can be the champion....come this Sunday and participate as we travel down that road to victory.

Blessings,

Pastor Brian (p.s. - the worship service begins at 11am...we even go into overtime once in a while:)

A Day for Mothers at McDermot!

2010-05-06T23:38:00.004-05:00

We all have one thing in common....we wouldn't be here if it weren't for Mom. This Sunday we will once again direct our attention to a God who in his great wisdom gave us a mother to demonstrate the care that God has designed for each one of us. I read through the list of top 10 things that moms hate on mothers day and had to laugh at some of them and almost cry at the others. Things like.....it's not a day off for them. They still have to cook and clean and get almost everyone ready for whatever and so it's not really a day where they can say, "we really got a break." Breakfast in bed may be a nice thought, but how many of us really want breakfast in bed???I'd just as soon have mine on the deck with the shining down and my Bible open with a steaming mug of something right beside my freshly squeezed Orange Juice....but that's just me. The one that caught my attention was where the husband wasn't making a big deal about his wife's role as mother and even made the comment... "she's not my mother!" Like that excuses him from loving and demonstrating to their children the value of their mother....guys....this is a day to step up and demonstrate to your family, your wife, and all the other guys standing around at the card shop, that you are a man who loves the mother of his children....on Mothers Day...and every day. Make it something special....try this....surprise her with something she would want....I mean really want! No....not the larger lawn tractor! There are many times during the year where I know your mother feels appreciated and loved, but make this Sunday one that she will remember.

Our focus this Sunday is on "The Invisible Woman!" We're looking at God's Word and discovering how that makes such a difference to Moms everywhere. A special gift is being revealed for the Moms at Osborne House again this year and we are excited by the support of the church for this great place of peace for moms and their children. It's just a temporary home, but we want to do our part in helping make it a place that will help the Moms and children know that there is Love in the World around them.

Bring your Mother and celebrate the woman that God knows intimately.

Blessings,

Pastor Brian

Facing Illness with Faith

2010-04-22T15:12:00.002-05:00

We are getting closer to the end of our series on "The Foundation for Fearless Living!" It has been a powerful experience as we've looked at how faith makes a difference in so many areas of life. This coming Sunday, April 25, we're looking at the fear that accompanies illness and what is faith's answer to this very common element to life.

If you, or someone you know, is facing the challenges of illness, then I invite you to come and see what the Bible, and a great community of believers in Jesus, have to say about the topic.

Worship and Celebration begin at 11:00am.

Blessings,

Pastor Brian

Unshakable Faith!

2010-04-06T17:59:00.002-05:00

Easter is a time to re-examine the foundation upon which the Christian faith is based. The understanding of who God is and his character is fundamental to living with Unshakable Faith. Faith that is unshakable is one that knows that God is in control and is all powerful and is always holy....which means he will always do the right thing and never do anything that is not just. Faith in the resurrected Jesus is the foundation that allows anyone to go through life without fear but with a faith that enable them to face whatever comes their way. There are many examples of people throughout history that took their foundation as Jesus and were unshakable. Men and women who understood that if God rules your life, everything else is secondary. Jesus told his followers to "seek first the kingdom of God and all these other things in life would be added to you."(My paraphrase of Matthew 6:33) It seems to me that Jesus is saying that the best foundation in life is to place your trust in Him.....no doubting....just trust. Trust that he knows the best plan for your life and is desiring for you to experience it as you walk with him.
There is much to learn about growing into Unshakable Faith, but we have all been given the invitation to place our trust in Him.
Take a moment now and evaluate your foundation for your life and check to see if it is Unshakable......if it's not on Jesus....it is shaky ground.
Blessings as you walk with the Resurrected Lord,
Pastor Brian

Easter Celebrations in Winnipeg

2010-03-29T18:59:00.009-05:00

This Easter weekend, we will begin the celebration of Jesus with a Communion worship service starting at 10:30am on Good Friday. We will have a great time of singing which will include the choir, congregational worship and individual songs. Bible reading is always a part of our worship experience and we will be looking at "Fearless living facing Death"! Jesus will be celebrated and lifted up through our celebration.....and I mean....celebration, of Communion. We look back on the death of Jesus but we don't act as if that was the end of it. Communion was to be celebrated as an act of remembering what Jesus accomplished and what he now provides.....to hold a communion service that is as solemn as a funeral would be disrespectful to what has transpired since his death and resurrection. The lives that he has rescued....the marriages saved....the healing provided.....are all reason to celebrate.

Easter Morning will be a connecting event as we eat breakfast together at 8:45am and then join together in the Sanctuary for our Worship Celebration at 10:30am. We'll enjoy the choir again and a young women's group plus inspirational worship in singing. The focus will be on "Unshakable Faith" that we all can have based on what Jesus accomplished on the cross and rising from the grave.

There is hope for all of us.......so come this weekend and celebrate Easter with us.

Blessings,

Pastor Brian

Thinking about Prayer as Communication in a Close Relationship!

2010-03-16T18:24:00.002-05:00

This Sunday as a Church we will look at prayer once again. Sometimes when familiar topics are presented the challenge is to take something familiar and present it so that it is faithful to scripture and connecting to our lives. So....we are going to look at prayer as communicating in relationship. These past two weeks I've spent every hour with a group of awesome high school students from Victoria British Columbia. We travelled down the west coast to Mexico to construct three homes for some under-resourced people in Col. Vicente Guerrero. Every day there was conversations taking place between the students, leaders and the new friends we found in Mexico. In those relationships I noticed that there is a huge range of communicating between friends. Speaking to each other is the most direct, but other methods of communicating were also visible. People hugging people, words of encouragement, laughter, corrections, adjustments, lots of laughter and in come cases...face to face confrontations...but all of it communication. I was wondering if just maybe we have been taught too seriously about prayer and not ventured into the relational aspect of prayer. I remember a quote from many years ago from Francois Fenelon. I will leave it for you to consider your relationship with God through prayer.

“Tell God all that is in your heart, as one unloads one's heart, it's pleasures, and it's pains, to a dear friend. Tell him your troubles, that he may comfort you; tell him your joys, that he may sober them; tell him your longings, that he may purify them; tell him your dislikes, that he may help you conquer them; talk to him of your temptations, that he may shield you from them; show him the wounds of your heart, that he may heal them; lay bare your indifference to good, your depraved tastes for evil, your instability. Tell him how self-love makes you unjust to others, how vanity tempts you to be insincere, how pride disguises you to yourself and others. If you thus pour out your weaknesses, needs, troubles, there will be no lack of what to say. You will never exhaust the subject. It is continually being renewed. People who have no secrets from each other never want for subject of conversation. They do not weigh their words, for there is nothing to be held back, neither do they seek for something to say. They talk out of the abundance of their heart, without consideration they say just what they think. Blessed are they who attain to such familiar, unreserved intercourse with God.”

Blessings as you converse with God in relationship.

Pastor Brian

Believing in the Power of You and I.

2010-02-27T20:44:00.003-06:00

It has been coming over the airwaves now for weeks....the last few words of the Official Olympic song....those words are.... "I believe in the power of you and I". When it comes to those who are followers of Jesus Christ and the work that we are called to do....there must be a belief in the power of people connected together for success. Success in life depends on the support and encouragement of many people that surround us each day. We may call them friends, we may call them associates, but in the church we refer to these people as brothers and sisters. People from all over the planet that have been adopted into a family that is called "God's own". Loving God, Loving Others and Serving the world is done effectively when those who are connected to Jesus Christ and connected to each other, have a connection with the world around them so that they can contribute to the society and relationships that God has placed around these very people. There is not one person who stood on the podium these past several days that did it all alone. As you watched and listened, each one thanked someone....some thanked everyone....but they were all verifying the truth that we are better together. I too....believe in the power of you and I as we are connected for God's glory.

Blessings,

Enjoy the final days of the 2010 Olympics....go to a truthful church tomorrow...connect with some friends....and pray for the people of this world.

Pastor Brian

Enjoying the Abundant LIfe

2010-02-08T14:42:00.003-06:00

When you or I draw close to God.....take a few moments, or minutes, or hours, to be still and listen for Him...determine to obey the instruction of God...and then live life out with our personality linked to the Almighty.....it is joy. You were made to live a life of connection with God through a relationship with Jesus the forgiver of sins and leader of our lives...and in that connection there is life. Your life will flourish as you make choices today to be and do what God wants of you. A life of purity and Spirit living is attractive to those around you. Maybe for today....stop trying to be the witness to the world and simply love Jesus, love others and serve some around you. You might be amazed at how attractive that is in a world that loves themselves, serves themselves and keep trying to carve idols out of earthly things.

2 Corinthians 5:20 NIV "Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were making an appeal through us; we beg you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God." Your cup can be overflowing as you reconcile to God and allow Him to reach the people around you as you live an abundant life.

Blessings,

Pastor Brian

Keeping it Real!

2010-02-05T06:40:00.006-06:00

I received a picture the other day from my brother in law which was taken when I was having some fun at Christmas back in 2007. The picture was not flattering, that is all I'm going to say, but it was the caption that he put with it that caught my attention....Keeping it real!

I knew what he meant, this goofy looking picture of myself having some fun was the real me.

We are coming to our worship service this Sunday and will celebrate Communion. This is a time to keep it real. A time to take off the masks (as if God doesn't see us as we are anyway) and participate in something that has become familiar, maybe too familiar, in our worship experience. We will focus on our theme (Connecting for Community) and have a look at the You God created you to be. It will be a good time to Keep it Real, so today as you go through life may I suggest that you slow it down a bit? Take a few moments to be real, face who you are, compare that to who God says you are, give thanks to God for His grace and love and see what you can do for someone else around you. As ambassadors of Jesus Christ...we need to Keep it Real!

Blessings,

Pastor Brian

Job Description for a Follower of Jesus Christ

2010-02-02T18:35:00.002-06:00

Job Descriptions are so important in the marketplace we live in each day. This document gives a person several necessary tools with which to achieve the company's goals and objectives as they work as a team toward success. As a follower of Jesus Christ, our job description is found in 2 Corinthians 5:20 where a term is used that describes our calling........We are Ambassadors! It reads like this in the New Living Translation..... "So we are Christ's ambassadors; God is making his appeal through us. We speak for Christ when we plead, "Come back to God!"

Websters Dictionary describes it like this..... An ambassador is the official representative of one state to another. or from the Bible "This is the name used by the apostle as designating those who are appointed by God to declare his will (2 Cor. 5:20; Eph. 6:20)."

That is what the apostle Paul is saying here......we are to represent all that God is, all that God provides, and be active participants in His purpose.

As Christians, sometimes it is easy to forget what our job is by getting distracted by so many good things. Clearly it is to be an ambassador for Jesus. All that we do is to fulfill His Mission, His purpose, His desire.

All that to say, somehow by the power of God's Holy Spirit, live today in such a way that people would know you are an ambassador for Jesus Christ. Job Well Done!

Blessings,

Pastor Brian

weConnect - We were Made for This!

2010-01-30T13:03:00.004-06:00

The next thing after connecting with God is to realize that we are designed to be connected with others who are connected with God. It's not an option.....like the rest of Canada is saying this Olympics....we were made for this! We were.....made to be in relationship with each other so that we can go through life together....connected and stronger than we ever could be by ourselves. I know there is some tough person out there reading this saying...."I could make it by myself...I'm not weak!".....but that's not the point.....the point is, if you are that strong, then you will only be stronger if there is someone to encourage you to use your strength to it's maximum potential. Paul the Apostle wrote to the believers in Corinth these words.... "The body is a unit, though it is made up of many parts; and though all its parts are many, they form one body. So it is with Christ." You can go on and read more but the idea here is that we are all to be connected together in the body of Christ - the Church - just like the individual parts of our bodies are connected together. You and I are designed to go through life with others, stronger because we are together.

In the world around us right now there are many common denominators that we all have in common. Fear seems to be the biggest one right now...fear of our financial future...fear of possible illness....fear of death....fear of abandonment...fear of failure....fear of what the next world crisis will be....fear itself.

So here's my suggestion....let's not do this alone. Let's do life together....like tomorrow....go to a church that you know believes and teaches the Word of God and take a step toward connecting. If the people in that church are not interested in connecting with you.....try another one. There is one out there that is trying to be what God called them to be....a loving community of people connected to God and others.....and they will, I repeat, they will want to connect with you. We were made for this!

Blessings,

Pastor Brian

iConnect

2010-01-26T12:56:00.003-06:00

On this past Sunday, we looked at Connecting with God and I titled the teaching, iConnect. I found a great introduction to an "iConnect" Bible produced by Tyndale House Publishers where Ashley Herring writes "I WANT a Lot of things...." She then goes on to beautifully describe the desires of mankind. I've included it here for those of you who requested it on Sunday, and for those of you who truly desire to Connect with God.(It is a long quote, but well worth the read)

I spend my days thinking about what I want and my hours trying to get what I want. That may sound completely self-involved, but think about your own days and hours. We want food and we go get it. We want coffee and there's a Starbucks every 1.2 miles. We want sleep, we take a nap. We want to talk, we flip open our cell phones or hop on the computer. We want to express ourselves, so we laugh and cry and get angry and become sad.
What about need?
What exactly is the line between our need and our want?
Fortunately, there isn't always a line. We need food, we need sleep, we need to talk and hang out, we need to express ourselves. We may not need those $60 jeans, but we do need clothes in some form. Still we are mostly a desire-driven generation, and many of our desires spring out of a desperateness to connect with something, anything-for the connection that will stop the ache.
This can lead us down some dangerous paths. Yet the question rears its head, how are we to view our desire-driven, thirsty selves?
Is it all just selfishness and greed locked in a perpetual and fruitless chase, or is it possible that we were made like this by a Creator who is also driven by desire? I'm inclined to believe the latter. I cannot fathom that all my needs and wants have everything to do with little ole me. Surely my desire to connect with something greater is rooted and founded in God. Despite all of the stuff I try to obtain to fill myself up, I really just want one thing:
TO CONNECT.
I need connection with people, and this is such an integral part of living, but underneath all other connections lies that for which we were made:

to know God and be known by Him.
That's the longing that nothing else seems to satisfy. I want to connect with something outside of myself, something that is bigger and better than any other human being.
We all do. I spend a great deal of energy making my life revolve around me, but I really don't want the world to exist for me. Chasing myself around never satisfies and it is exhausting. In tracing the path of my pursuit through brambles and thorns, I find the roots of my desire:
***God***
At the beginning, in the middle, and at the end, there He is. I want connection; therefore, what I really want is God. All of my desires are shadows and types of my desire for Him. All the hunger pangs I experience that stubbornly refuse to be filled with the world serve to show me that God alone is all-satisfying. He wants to use all of my desire and thirsting to push me toward Him, to lead me to the One Who alone satisfies.
Here's where the story gets a little crazy-
God wants connection too.
Since the beginning of time and before, God has desired connection He desired a creation and so He created one. He desired a relationship with His creatures and so He forged one. He desired to be with us forever and so He sent Christ. The Psalms tell us He does as He pleases in the heavens and earth and in all deeps and it pleases Him to be connected with us. Because we are made in His image, we too are creatures of desire who long to connect. Connections of all sorts and shapes exist. We were ultimately made to connect with God Himself, the Holy One-the profane and the sacred become one in His economy.
I often wonder why a sovereign God wants a connection to such ones as you and me. The answer is so simple but so stupefying that it sends my mind spinning.
He Loves Us!
This reality is difficult for us to accept. Even as I type it out, I am shaking my head and thinking, You must be joking! That's just preposterous. I am a flawed, finite being trying to embrace a perfect, infinite Love. Thankful, even though I struggle to believe it, that doesn't change the truth: He loves me just as I am. It is the outrageous, unmatchable love of God that loves creatures such as me. I can't even begin to comprehend the love He has toward us-but I've experienced it, and I'm changed forever. It's perplexing. He loves because He loves. It pleases Him to love me. This is the foundation of connection-He loves us; therefore He stops at nothing, not the cross not death not even our own humanity, to connect with us forever.
This longing for connection is divinely natural.
Is is the cry of the eternity in our heart that Solomon speaks about in Ecclesiastes. So what's my problem? Why do I run to everything and everyone and not to Him? Well the fact is , I am human and I am driven by (controlled by and obsessed with is more accurate) my five senses. I ignore the "Divine Whisper" because it's just too mysterious, too unknown. So I try to be fulfilled with things I can see and hear and taste here and now.
Daily, my flesh proves to be my worst enemy! Despite my willing acknowledgement that my desires can and will only be met and fulfilled through intimacy and connectedness with Christ, sin has left a stain upon me that is hard to fight. The tale of running after other things to satiate us is as old as Adam and Eve. My desires take me on many paths-some seemingly harmless, some not-so-seemingly harmless. Some are benign and even good in and of themselves, but I often use them to fill up what only He can fill up and that leads me further and further from the divine connection I need.
If you dig deeper, past any undesirable behavior, you can see the longing-you can even hear it. Looking past my own efforts and strivings, I recognize the root. These behaviors aren't really the problem; they are only a result and a ramification of the problem. The problem is the fount from which they spring; a famished heart. Me desires are crying out for satisfaction and I convince myself that these other things will fill. We all do it. Shouldn't we know better by now? You'd think so, but I never cease to become a completely forgetful imbecile at least a few times a day. While wrestling with a certain temptation or a besetting sin, taking a step back for some perspective reveals the same thing every time.
Why do I want to run to this thing, this idol" Because I'm hungry for connection. I'm desperate and starving. So what do I do? There is a feast fit for a princess spread on the table above me, and here I am licking up the dirt on the floor! I'm hugging the toilet because I can't imagine He wants to set me upon a throne of jewels! Call the dirt and the toilet what you will. I can glamorize it and make it pretty by adding a little pink bow, but is is still the same thing as it always was: a cheap substitute for immeasurable riches. Each moment is a wrestling match between my flesh and spirit: to connect with stuff in the world or to connect with God.
Some times are easier than others, as we can all attest. But in the dark moments, I will let the howling of my heart show me the pieces of eternity that He has placed within me.
I will let it teach me that I was made for another world and for a connection that surpasses any earthly experience.
He has been pursuing me through my desires since before I was born. He has loved me forever and He is drawing me, with every bit of my humanity, with His unfailing love, to connection-to an intimate relationship with Him.
As I listen to the groaning of creation for its Creator, heard in every alley and every bar and every church and every home and every heart, I will hope. For every human cry, there is an answer. Hunger was not created for the sake of being hungry, but for the sake of the experience of being filled with what is good. I don't know much, but I do know this; those who hunger and thirst will be satisfied.
Ashley Herring

I am praying that as you read and absorb the thoughts that she offers, that you take the steps to connect with God today. Thank you Ashley...you said it better than I could.

Blessings,

Pastor Brian

A Time to Pray!

2010-01-20T11:13:00.002-06:00

When everything around you is shaking....where do you find solid footing? Answer....in speaking to the God of the Universe. When times are going well it seems that the typical thing is to thing we are in control, we are the masters of our fate, we are the captains of our souls...and then a crisis happens. All of a sudden we realize our source of strength and trust is not what we thought it was....but it is these times that people seem to call out to God. The terrible situation in Haiti has politicians, newscasters and ministers calling for people to pray. So...how have you been doing in accepting the challenge of praying for people that you don't know, far away in great need? I hope you've been praying daily for those people in Haiti....the workers assisting them......the military trying to reset order and law....the churches as they do what they do best....love God and love others. Keep praying....to my knowledge there is still a great need. Keep praying for the people who are close to you in this city....this city of Winnipeg who have great needs as well. Keep praying! This is indeed "A Time To Pray!"

Blessings in Prayer,

Pastor Brian

Connected for Community!

2010-01-17T10:06:00.003-06:00

We are back at 821 McDermot for Worship this Sunday, January 17th. As we begin the new year, we are focusing on being the body of Christ and the important aspect of being connected. Many times in life we participate in something where there are many people in attendance, but after the event we have not really connected with anyone on a deeper level. When we meet together, our desire is to connect with God, connect with each other, and to connect with the world around us.

It is going to be a great series, so if you happen to check this site before church starts today.....come on down and discover where you fit in God's Great Relational Kingdom.

Blessings,

Pastor Brian

McDermot Church is Meeting at the MTS Centre

2010-01-09T09:31:00.007-06:00

This Sunday McDermot Church is joining 24 other churches in Winnipeg for a One Heart Worship Celebration at the MTS Centre at 11am. If you were planning to come to worship at McDermot this Sunday(there will be no services at 821 McDermot), meet us at the Centre for a great time with Worship, Puppet Ministry, Teaching from David Macfarlane(pictured here) and the encouragement of others who are devoted followers of Jesus Christ.
The One Heart Celebration is at 11am so come early and be a part of history as we celebrate the unity believers have in Winnipeg. There is free parking on the streets because it is Sunday, and there will be paid parking available at the lots surrounding the MTS Centre.
Blessings,
Pastor Brian

Looking Back to Look Ahead!

2009-12-31T09:42:00.002-06:00

As 2009 comes to an end and we look forward to 2010, it is always a great time to look back and make adjustments for 2010. There are many areas of our lives that we can look at to evaluate and make decisions regarding what kind of life you want to live this next year. There is your spiritual area: Actually this entails every part of your life, but making adjustments here will effect every area of your life. So this is a great place to start.
You might want to consider some of the following ideas. 1. Make a covenant with God to engage in His Word every day. It's not so important the time involved or the amount you read, it's just an agreement that each and every day you are going to allow His Word to enter your mind and be used to transform your thinking. 2. Prayer - make it a day long conversation with God instead of short bursts here and there. Engage in praying continually making it a conversation with the God who is with you every hour of every day. 3. Read more about how to love God and how that would be observed in your life and make some changes to allow that loving of God to take place in your life. Usually this means that you open your life more and more to the Leadership of Jesus and the Holy Spirit.
I'll talk to morrow about some more possibilities. Right now, I've got to get back on a bus headed north in California.
Blessings,
Pastor Brian

End of Build Day Three!

2009-12-28T09:45:00.007-06:00

It is amazing what can be done by a group of people who are committed to the same goal and agree to work together in community. Our group is very diverse and yet we have been able to work together very well in this build. Different people with different gifts using their talents and abilities to the betterment of the whole....it really is enjoyable to be a part of this type of group. Everyone is agreeable when asked to do a job whether it will receive any notice from others or not. I found that some of the most enjoyable jobs were ones that I knew that no one else would even know about, but I did, and I figured that our God in heaven would know about it too.
As you can tell from the picture of my daughter and her friend here on site, even though the wood and nails and paint are making a new home for some people, it is still about loving others. The children played soccer together (Thanks to themissionball.org) and enjoyed building some new relationships.
I hope that your Christmas was one of old and new relationships being nurtured in the best way possible. You never know how long we'll have with each other here on earth so it is important to keep the relationships strong and open.
This is Dec. 28 and we only have to get some furniture and turn the keys over and our house is finished. We have planned a block party this afternoon for about 28 children around our compound, so we were busy last night getting all the treat, or should I say, fruit bags ready. Enjoy the day that God has given you, and be glad in it.
Blessings,
Pastor Brian

Build Day Two - Christmas Day!

2009-12-25T21:28:00.005-06:00

Christmas Day started with making breakfast and listening to Kenny G on the computer. It was not a typical beginning to Christmas for us but the day progressed well with clear skys and a good build day.
As you can see from the pictures, we progressed from building the walls and roof sections, to putting it together. The painting was a great time, except the type of siding we are using is very thirsty. We have already used 5 gallons of paint and do not even have the three sides painted. Back to the hardware store for more paint and brushes to make it easier. We are right on schedule and have planned a block party for the children in our area for Monday. It was a great day to give to others in a very different way that we usually do. We must say we missed some aspects of lazying around on Christmas and eating Christmas Dinner with friends, but, we are here with family and friends and that is important too.
We hope your Christmas was a day of thanksgiving and worship of Jesus.
Blessings to you all,
Pastor Brian

It all started on Christmas Eve!

2009-12-24T23:51:00.003-06:00

Long ago in a far away place it all began....Christmas that is. And on this Christmas eve, I'm here in Mexico celebrating His birth with family and friends. From the picture you can see that we have started the build. It starts as a pad and then we build on that with the material you see in this picture. Our crew is a mix of family and friends and it is going very well. I'll post a pic tomorrow for those of you that are following along.
Tonight we attended a small worship service and although it was very different I did learn something by attending. Some of the songs we sing at Christmas are entirely songs of celebration and I noticed tonight that we were singing them in a celebration style....different that I'm used to. Yes I know this is Mexico but believers can celebrate the birth where ever they are and what ever their background.
So next year....we're planning on doing Christmas eve differently...it will be wildly celebrative and enjoyable for everyone.
Enough for now. Have a great Christmas tomorrow.
Love to all of you.
Blessing,
Pastor Brian

Still Travelling?

2009-12-23T10:59:00.002-06:00

Sometimes the phrase "are we there yet" is appropriate. In travelling and in life, sometimes we must ask the question...are we there yet? Most of the time the answer is "No!" but we are closer. That is where I find myself today....not in Mexico yet....but closer. We are just a few hours outside of L.A. where we'll pick up the rest of my family. Hopefully they will be able to take off on schedule from Minni. as I heard this morning that they are in a snowstorm today. It won't be snowing in Mexico.
I have also realized that as a person, I am still in process as well. I know, it's hard to believe.....even for myself...O.K. not so much, but it is always humbling to once again realize that there is more growth to go. I believe that God is still doing His work in my life. So I'm happy that he is not finished yet either. We are travelling together, God and I and others, and the adventure is still just that....an adventure. It's awesome to be involved in something like this at Christmas. Keep praying that we have a safe trip and easy passage through the borders.
Blessings,
Pastor Brian

Christmas Travel!

2009-12-22T09:04:00.003-06:00

Since we can remember hearing about the story of Christmas, we have heard about Christmas Travel. Joseph and Mary, the shepherds, wise men.....families, relatives....friends. It seems like everyone is travelling somewhere at Christmas. It might be just across the street or around the world, people want to connect with people at Christmas. My family (Pastor Brian) has joined with some of his relatives (Brother and Sister in Law and family & a few friends) and right now I'm travelling down the West Coast of The United States. We're heading to Mexico, Vicente Guerrero, to be exact, to build a home for the under resourced. This is our Christmas gift to them. In Proverbs 22:2 it reads, "Rich and poor have this in common: The Lord is the Maker of them all." To me this says that they matter to God, both rich and poor, so all we're doing is letting this one family know that they matter to our Great God.
At our church this week there are many activities...Yesterday there was a funeral remembering a long time member of our church, this Thursday there another funeral for a long time family member of the church in the morning and then our Christmas eve Candlelight service at 6:30pm. People have asked, "how can you have a funeral on the same day you have your candlelight service celebrating the birth of Christ?" I have replied, we don't plan these things, God does and He loves us more than we completely understand, so we'll celebrate the life of this saint and celebrate the birth of the Saviour who saved her, later in the day. To me, it seems fitting. So as you plan your Christmas activities, I'll keep you posted (no pun intended) through these postings about our progress and work in Mexico.
Oh, and we're travelling today...only 920kl so it might be another late night.
Blessings,
Pastor Brian

A Foundation that cannot Shake!

2009-12-19T21:23:00.004-06:00

This week has been one that has seen unexpected events take place as recorded in our newspapers and tabulated in our personal lives. Tiger Woods still dominates the tabloids and now our own Bomber coach finds himself without a job and in trouble with the law and some of his relationships. It seems that once again we are in need of a Saviour. But wait....He has already come. You and I both know, that the situation we find ourselves in these days is not because a Saviour hasn't come...it's because we don't embrace Him or His life, every day.
We all make mistakes and need forgiveness...that's why Jesus came. We have difficult days in this life....that's why Jesus came. We need someone that is consistent, truthful, reliable....that would be Jesus.
Tomorrow I will stand in front of a group of friends and try to communicate the Gift of Peace that God provided in Jesus. It is a gift that we all need...it is a gift that would make a huge difference in our lives, our community, our city, our nation. Jesus is a foundation that cannot be shaken. Not with unexpected deaths, unexpected affairs, unexpected disappointments. He is a Solid Rock of Hope, Love, Joy and Peace.
Blessings,
Pastor Brian

2009-12-16T20:55:00.003-06:00

Peace....I do not believe that most people understand this word in relation to Jesus. This Sunday we are looking at the gift of peace that God offers to each of us. The situation was this....God and man were together in a close relationship...they walked and talked together it says in the Bible....then man sinned and were separated from the tree of life. Death came into their world and a separation between God and man came into existence. The Holy all powerful God on one side and sinful man on the other side....no longer in the relationship man was created for with God. Something needed to be done....A bridge builder...between God and man....the God-man Jesus. Peace was established....not on that one night in Bethlehem but on that afternoon just outside of Jerusalem and three days later when at the open grave. Peace was established between God and man...we now have a gift of peace offered to each of us...just like hope, love and joy.....but the question is....will you accept and use the gifts? A git from God is a terrible thing to waste...why don't you talk to God and accept his offer of hope, love, joy and peace this Christmas.
Peace, among other things, is the ability to be calm when circumstances around you are in a whirlwind.
Today I attended a funeral of a Friends' Mother and Brother who died in a house fire last week. My friend gave the Eulogys and did a wonderful job. It is the first time I felt inspired to applaud at the conclusion of the two recaps of the lives of those he loved. I didn't but I should have...it was awesome. I saw Peace in the presence of conflict, I witnessed Joy in the presence of Sorrow, I observed Hope in the presence of despair, I heard Love in the presence of death. Today I witnessed a man of God show the world that he has received the gifts of Christmas from His heavenly Father and nothing...not even family deaths....will take that away because He has given his life to the giver of the gifts. Why not you? Today if you humble yourself and invite Jesus to forgive you and surrender your life to Him, the gifts will come...just as surely as Christmas.
Blessings my brother Fred...I applaud your faith, your courage, your joy, your hope, and your love for God and others.
Pastor Brian

For Your Information - An Opportunity to Pray and Care!

2009-12-14T13:25:00.004-06:00

This past week brought with it opportunities to join our church community together in prayer.

The passing of Etta Amman and Harry Amman, mother and brother to our friend, Fred Amman of Winnipeg.

Their funerals will be held at Grace Baptist Church in Ochre River Manitoba on Wednesday, December 16th at 1pm.

Also passing last week was Egon Maertins, long time member of our church. Our support and prayer is extended to his wife Agnes and their family at this time.

His funeral will be Monday, December 21st, 12 noon at McDermot Avenue Baptist Church, 821 McDermot Ave, Winnipeg.

As a church body, we will lift up our friends and their families in prayer.

May each of you experience the presence of Emmanuel..God with Us!

In Prayer,

Pastor Brian

2009-12-11T21:56:00.003-06:00

As you plan your Christmas activities...you will want to include our Christmas Eve Candlelight Festival of Carols Worship Service. Everyone is welcome to come for the service filled with your favourite Christmas Carols and the story of Christmas. Our Christmas choir will bring some selections and other groups will lead us through the celebration of the birth of Jesus.

The Festival of Carols is at 6:30pm. Bring your family and friends and allow the warmth and light of Christmas to enter your life.

Blessings,

Pastor Brian

The gift of Joy!

2009-12-07T06:28:00.002-06:00

We heard it first from the Angel in Luke 2! The truth about Joy...the truth about our source of Joy....read it again.... “I bring you good news that will bring great joy to all people."(vs.10) Then we hear it again from the wise men in Matthew 2:10... "When they saw the star, they were filled with joy!" Joy is a common word that we like to use at Christmas. There is nothing like a group of people who are followers of Jesus singing...Joy to the World, the Lord as come. Like we looked at briefly yesterday....the receiving of the gift of Love is more than accepting it...the real test to whether the gift is received is if we USE it. The Gift of Love sent from God the Father is to be opened and His love used first in our lives and then given freely to the lives of everyone around us. When Joy has truly come to our lives, He moves in and changes our directional compass. Jesus makes changes so that Joy is not some fickle emotion based on external circumstances but on an inward reality of the presence of God in our lives.

If my hunch is right...your joy will be tested his week and you have the chance....the opportunity, to allow God to be the source of your joy or to let your gift of Joy remain unopened during this season of celebration. I know that this past week I was Joy-challenged at times and yet I have found that the more I keep my mind focused on staying connected to Jesus...the more Joy seems to just naturally spring up in my life.

May this week be one where you open the Gift of Joy and step inside and allow the Joy of the Lord to be your strength. (Neh.8:10)

Blessings,

Pastor Brian

The Gift of Hope!

2009-11-27T06:53:00.002-06:00

As you and I approach this holiday season, I want to take a closer look at four aspects of the same gift this Christmas. Our celebration of Jesus is the KEY to any observances that we involve ourselves in during this time. We look around and are all aware that we could use some Hope! The Apostle Paul wrote in Romans 15:13 the following words. "May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit." (New International Version of the Bible)

There are some days when Hope doesn't seem to be the first word people are using to describe the world or local reality. I hear more references to "No Hope!" than "we're filled with hope!" It has caused me to consider our source of Hope! I find that it is easy to put hope in many things that give us some illusion of hope. I have also found that when the difficult times of life come, the Hope that is found in the God of Love found in the Bible is unshakable. It appears from Paul's comments that the roots of Hope are found in trust in God. People like you and me are filled with Joy and Peace as we trust in God and a result of that trust is an overflow of Hope. I see that as critical in our thinking these days.

This Christmas season, if you want to experience the gift of Hope....look no farther than God Himself. Sounds so simple....but this has been the scene for all of time. The power to live each day with Hope is as a result of the relationship available to you from Jesus.

See the giver of the Gift and experience Hope!

Blessings,

Pastor Brian

Old School Playground Equipment Can Teach Us a Valuable Lesson!

2009-11-03T11:31:00.005-06:00

This whole idea of abiding in Jesus is one that is making a difference in the lives of my friends. I remember when I was just little, like grade one. In our school playground we had a merry-go-round that taught the basics of physics. The faster you go the harder it is to hang on. I googled "old school playground equipment" and came up with this picture. I know, really old dangerous playground equipment, but honestly, it was tons of fun. I remember that if you went to the centre, no matter how fast it went, it was easy to hang on because you rotated with the centre.....but if you moved away from the centre toward the edge....the speed picked up. I find the same in my walk with Jesus...if I remain in the centre of his will...the centre of his life....the centre of his purposes...the pace is doable, even enjoyable! However.....if I move away from Jesus as the centre of my life....the pace picks up, the difficulty of holding on is increased and the potential for a major wipe out seems inevitable. The solution....stay at the centre of His will, His purpose, His strength, His plan. I've gotten dizzy from hanging on the edge for too long.....I'm deciding again today to move back to the centre....join me as we continue connected, or should I say "abiding" in Jesus.

Bessings,

Pastor Brian

p.s. - sorry for the long distance between postings....I found it difficult to write hanging on at the edge:)

It's All About Relationships....Again!

2009-10-14T10:49:00.002-05:00

Life seems to be moving very fast for the people that interact with me. It's already past Thanksgiving and we're looking down the calendar at the few weeks we have left in 2009. In all our hurry to get through this year, I want to remind you (and by doing so, remind myself) that life lived to it's fullest is in the circle of relationships you have in your life. At McDermot we have been focusing on Abiding in Jesus and letting that action work through our souls so that the people around us are able to see the fruit of the Holy Spirit. That first and most important relationship is the source of all the other ones in your life as a follower of Jesus. It is in the abiding that love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control can be produced in our life. With that inner strength from God and the relationship you and I have with Him that we can then move into relationship with others. As you pause today in your fast paced life....consider being thankful again...I know Thanksgiving was Monday....for the relationships you have with others. They matter to God and because of your connection with Jesus and your abiding in Him...they matter to you. I know they do......but do they? Let them know by giving them the most important thing in your life...your time. Stop, Look and Listen....you just might be surprised what God and others are trying to communicate with you.

Because I believe in Relationships with God first and then others...

Blessings,

Pastor Brian

Love Your Wife, Hug You Children, Trust God!

2009-09-30T14:21:00.002-05:00

I just emailed a colleague of mine a few minutes ago and in the closing thoughts wanted to remind him of the important things today. To give him an opportunity to stay connected to Jesus and to live out that connection in practical ways. It struck me as something very good so I wanted to pass it on to you...the guys that read this blog. All two of you! The others who read this blog can adjust it to fit their life but it's all about what is Important!

Love Your Wife - That is a high calling to a man who follows Jesus. Today....try to communicate your appreciation and love for her in a very meaningful manner. Surprise her...surprise yourself...be romantic.

Hug Your Children - Every day your child needs to know that they are special and that you love them unconditionally. Good or bad, obedient or disobedient....love them! Tell them that! Show them that they matter to you and that you see them as very special people. Let the Love of Jesus Christ pour out of your heart to them, Let the Joy of the Lord be evident to everyone around you, and let His peace calm you and give to your children what they require most....your love and acceptance.

Trust God - I'm not kidding on this one. If you really want to be successful as a servant of the Most High God...you've got to trust him. Trust him with your life first.....really trust him. Let His Holy Spirit guide you, encourage you, correct you, and most of all....transform you. Then....trust your wife to Him, your children, your employment, your health, your day to day items. He know you! Take a moment right now to say out loud....Jesus...I love you and I trust you.

Men...today is your best day! Embrace it....love your wife...hug your children...trust God!

Blessings

Pastor Brian

Joy!

2009-09-30T13:55:00.002-05:00

Understanding God to be the source of Joy in our lives is not something that we seem to dwell on every day. Joy is the discovery of a life style that daily embraces this simple truth - "this is the day the Lord has make, let us rejoice and be glad in it." One of the best sayings I've heard lately was an encouragement to look at each day as "your best day!" Yesterday is gone, tomorrow is not here yet....all we've got is today and so this day...today is the best day of your life! Abiding in the vine means that you do not have to fabricate joy or intentionally try to be happier around people....the Joy of God is something that celebrates and dances more.....appreciates all that God has given to us....the best gift of all...Life eternal!

So today....let the Joy of God spill out of your life....to everyone...as you abide in Jesus.

Blessings,

Pastor Brian

Abiding!

2009-09-17T20:39:00.003-05:00

The fruit of the Spirit is......and you know the rest! Love, Joy, Peace, Patience.....and the other five characteristics of God. The key to this fruit being realized in your life is found in one word that is recorded over and over in John 15. That word is ABIDE! Jesus told us through His Word that if we abide in him we will see the fruit of the Holy Spirit evidenced in our lives. This is the key to experiencing these in your everyday life. It has never been about trying to love more, or experience more joy, or developing our own peace.....it's about letting Jesus be the source of our Love, Joy, Peace, etc. Now I don't want to make it seem like the list is not important....but for shortness of an article...I will just list some of the characteristics of this fruit. As you are well aware, there is only one fruit. It's not "fruits of the Spirit", it is "fruit of the Spirit", which means that we cannot do a buffet style of character development. It is all of Jesus, all of the Holy Spirit, all of God the Father. Each moment of each day....he is asking us, you and me, to abide in him. This means that everywhere you go....think of it like Jesus is right there beside you and you are desirous to have him displayed in all you do. Moment by moment...you have a God who wants to display his life through you. Let him and stay connected to him in all you do. Abide! Every day, every moment.

God is Love! God is Joy! God is Peace! God is Patience! God is Kindness! God is Goodness! God is Faithfulness! God is Gentleness! God is Self-Control!

See you Sunday,

Blessings,

Pastor Brian

Start Fresh!

2009-09-10T07:26:00.002-05:00

Fresh Fruit is awesome! Just ask anyone who recently made a journey through the B.C. Okanagan where the results of a summer of sun are everywhere. This September we are inviting you....the blog readers....to start fresh....bite into a community of Christians that are not going to just do church....we are the church.

Listen today to the people around you and see if they are needing to start fresh on their attitude toward life....Jesus has the answer for each of us.

For the next several weeks at McDermot...we are looking at Living the Supernatural Life....Yes that's right....the Supernatural Life. Every Sunday we are going to take a look at the Fruit of the Spirit and how that is evident in those who are followers of Jesus.

See you Sunday....at 11am for Corporate Worship....9:30am for those who want to Start Fresh and experience all God has for you.

Blessings,

Pastor Brian

Transformation takes Time!

2009-08-23T17:24:00.004-05:00

Transformers has become one of the distinctive movies lately. The idea of taking ordinary vehicles of everyday life and transforming them into these autobots is novel and interesting. In just a few seconds....the Camaro transforms into a completely new Being complete with personality and attitude. The results are amazing.

I'm currently working on a basement bathroom project right now and I wish that transformations took less time....but I'm finding out that in "real life" things take longer to transform that we'd like...be it a bathroom or the spiritual life within us.

As I look forward to September and many new initiatives starting up at McDermot.....I'm also looking forward to the transformation that will take place in our lives...however long that takes.

Jesus is looking for those few who will willingly give themselves to the transformation power of the Holy Spirit. The results are amazing.

Look ahead on your calendar and mark September 13 as the day to be at McDermot Church for the beginning of a new transformation....in your life.

Blessings,

Pastor Brian

Ducks in the Yard!

2009-07-30T10:24:00.005-05:00

Well....what do you expect when we've had the kind of summer we've had in Winnipeg. Below normal....whatever that is....temperatures and more rain in Manitoba than we actually needed, especially in the south where the flood covered most of the land......we have ducks in our back yard. Lovely little fuzz-balls of life. The mother was a bit protective, but we were able to get close and see the beauty of God's creation of life without going on some long vacation to some hot exotic country. I know you are likely thinking....yes....but I would love to be in a place right now that is hot and dry and sunny....but we're not! We're here in Winnipeg! So this is what I purpose to you on July 30th, 2009.....I'll even quote the Bible....."I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through him who gives me strength." Philippians 4:11-12 NIV Focus on giving thanks for what you have today...not what you don't have. Today is the day the Lord has made...The Psalmist once wrote this.... we will rejoice and be glad in it.(my paraphrase from Psalm 118:24) It's a choice! It's a decision! There will be few who make the decision to rejoice and be glad in this day....be one of the few.

Blessings with Ducks in my backyard,

Pastor Brian

Appreciating the Small Things in Life!

2009-07-28T14:28:00.002-05:00

Summer is a great time of year to take a look around and be aware of the beauty of God's Wonderful creation. I have growing in my backyard the best flowers. We are not flower freaks but these ones are awesome. They are called Tiger Lilies and are most often noticed because of their bright orange colour and eye catching arrangement of petals. Recently as I've watched the Tiger Lilies grow and then display their beauty, I have honestly been reminded of how those who follow Jesus are to be very similar. We are to grow and display the beauty that God created us with. Each one of us different and yet as a follower of Jesus.....there is so much of us that is to be the same. We are preparing for a great Baptismal service this Sunday where 10 individuals are going to share their story of how God has rescued them, make them new and how they are growing to display God's beauty in their everyday live.

Today as you stop to view a beautiful flower....remember that your life also displays the hand of the creator....Jesus Christ...and what a wonder that is!

Blessings,

Pastor Brian

The Work has Begun!

2009-07-21T15:37:00.002-05:00

The scene above is taken from my office window.

I know you thought that this would be a statement about ministry and the future this September....but it's really about the work on our church facility. Today the scaffolding went up so the workers could begin their work on our ailing roof. We need new shingles and some other work up there so that the building will be strong and usable...many years from now. We have found here at McDermot that it is much easier to keep the water out than to have to deal with it when it works its way in. So we are putting on a new roof.

In my life right now, I find this same principle applying to my walk with God. It is much easier to keep the sin out than to try to deal with it once I let it enter my thoughts. So, today as a habit, I intentionally put on the Armour of God in order to stand firm. (Ephesians 6:10-20) It's sort of like a shield over my head or the helmet on my noggin...it protects me from the things trying to get inside my head. I have chosen today to only allow the thought of God to rule my head, and my hands.

Living by the Book...armed for Battle.

Blessings,

Pastor Brian

The Conference is Over....Now What?

2009-07-19T19:30:00.003-05:00

It's Done! The last Amen has been said and the final chair has been put away. The delegates and Missionaries that came from all over the world, are now headed on their way. Those of us in Winnipeg have returned to our homes and are determining what to do now....in that moment of pause....can I offer a few suggestions?

I suggest that tomorrow we made a decision to live differently! To take what we heard this week through the messages, the breakout groups, and the discussions over a beverage with old and new friends....and put it into action. This truly is a new day for the NAB and I'm glad that we at McDermot are a part of something that is focused on changing the world we live in. It would be sooooooooo easy to just resume where we left off before Triennial. But with the communication from God this week, we can't! We just can't! We have to choose to live differently. If we don't.....our days are numbered. The Death Certificate is on the front door of our churches with the only thing missing being the date of death! But if we do make the choice to live differently.........then God will pour out His blessing on our efforts and there will be Kingdom advances.

I also suggest that we simplify things in our own personal walk. It is very easy to get caught up in all the opportunities that surround us for teaching and experiencing and reading and listening.....but let's take it down a notch. From what I heard this week...this is what I suggest! Read the Word of God more! Just more than you are currently doing! Pray on more occasions. Throughout the day....find yourself in conversations with God for the things He wants. Focus on Love. Love for God and Love for People and get busy with discipleship. I like to use these terms for that direction. I call it....... A Heart for God! A Heart for People! Making Disciples! You can call it whatever you want, but let us all live differently on Monday, July 20th than we did prior to July 15th.

Blessings,

Pastor Brian

A Part of Something Much Larger!

2009-07-17T08:52:00.001-05:00

We are currently right in the middle of our Denominational Conference. The North American Baptists have gathered in Winnipeg to do the required business that will assist our churches around the world in growth and the successful accomplishment of our goals. It is a time for each of us to visually connect with the concept of being part of a much larger Kingdom. We all have our own places to attend for worship and instruction and community, but those are only a small part of the bigger picture......we are part of something much bigger....more powerful....more productive...and more creative than any one of us. This is a good reminder that even the NAB is only a part of something much bigger. The work of the North American Baptists around the world is only a part of the bigger Kingdom of God that exists with all those who Love him and serve him daily. NAB has part in the Kingdom of God and is focusing on doing it's part with excellence in the years ahead, but it's not THE Kingdom. The work of God goes far beyond the NAB and we celebrate all the others who are involved in Kingdom work. Together we are making a difference in every area of our world. Let's take this time to celebrate together the part we play as the NAB in the work of God's Great Kingdom.

See you Sunday at the Winnipeg Convention Centre,

Blessings,

Pastor Brian

Where Would The Devil Go for A Holiday?

2009-07-07T12:06:00.002-05:00

Strange Title...but we are studying Ephesians and the Devil is the focus of some verses specifically in chapter 6 and verse 11-13. To answer the question...I would say that the Devil would go to work. His work is to deceive people and keep they away from the truth of who they are, who God created them to be, who God really is, and to keep them caught in the lies he feeds to them. He is after people who Love God and those who don't. For those who love God, the Devil does his best through all the possibly schemes he can think of, to trip them up....to keep them distracted from God's plan...to confuse them with ideas and prompt thoughts that are close to the truth but are indeed a lie.

The Apostle Paul instructs his readers to be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might...and...to put on the full armor of God. Those who love Jesus are not fighting against physical foes, but against the rulers, the powers, the world forces of this darkness and the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places. Paul has spoken about the heavenlies before and how the church of Jesus Christ is to be an ultimate display to those in the heavenlies the manifold wisdom of God. If you are a follower of Jesus Christ then you will never have a day when the Devil is on holidays from trying to mess up your life. If you are not a follower of Jesus Christ, today is a good day to consider if you want the Devil to influence your life or if you want freedom from that cage? Whether you are on holidays or not...you can be certain that the Devil is not! Keep your spiritual armour on, no matter where you go or who you are with. Walk with Jesus and keep your armour on! Paul says if you and I do that...we'll stand firm. So stand firm today and take God's Word and let it direct your life.

Blessings,

Pastor Brian

Calling all saints!

2009-06-27T17:58:00.002-05:00

The Bible describes those who submit themselves to Jesus Christ...those who believe Jesus is the Son of God and the one who died for our sins...those who seek direction from the Holy Spirit as Saints. The apostle Paul begins his letter to the church in Ephesus with these words..."Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, To the saints in Ephesus, the faithful in Christ Jesus:" This past week as we see the world holding up individuals who have lived in direct contradiction to God's Word as people to be idolized, I have found it disheartening to be reminded that saints...those who love Jesus and live their lives for His glory...are settling for much less than sainthood. Paul tells us that we are to live lives that would bring attention to the goodness of God in our lives, a life that would be noticeable to those around as a life that has character, a life that embraces truth, a life that has integrity. Whether it is U.S. Go" v. officials having affairs, or people like you and me stepping out of God's will and allowing disobedience to win in our lives, even if for a moment, I want to call all of us again to a description that captures the essence of those who are Christians...... those who have been called saints. I was reminded of Micah's writings this week as a friend spoke of how helpful those instructions from Micah really are. Micah 6:8 reads like this from the New Living Translation.... No, O people, the Lord has told you what is good, and this is what he requires of you: to do what is right, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God." For ease of use we broke it down to these phrases... "Do the right thing, love mercy, and walk humbly with God." If you and I, as people who love Jesus and desire to do the right thing, to love mercy and to walk humbly with God.....then we will live as saints. Living life in complete dependence upon our Almighty God. Go to church tomorrow, ask for forgiveness for the things you messed up with this week, and allow God to empower you to live the life of a saint. It's Biblical.

Blessings,

Pastor Brian

Fathers Who Dare to Dream!

2009-06-23T18:19:00.002-05:00

When a father first holds his little bundle of Joy....every one of us has a dream for that child. Some dads dream of sporting accomplishments, others of degrees and high positions in prominent companies, still others dream of health-joy-personal success. I wanted to post an encouragement to all you dads out there. I know Fathers Day has come and gone and many of us already forget the gifts we received....but the challenge of being a great dad who dreams of the best for their offspring never ends. Each day is an opportunity to support your children in their dreams, their vision, their goals. So how much has your dream faded? How have you personally settled for less than the dream? Less than the best of modelling? Less than the best of investing time with your children and settled for a much smaller dream....that of living for yourself? Take a few moments tonight and intentionally do something with one or all of your children. If they live at a distance....call them just to see how they are doing and tell them that you love them and still desire the best for their life. Tell them how you were thinking about them as a baby and how you had dreams for them. How they have surpassed those dreams and how you want to encourage them to keep dreaming of the adventure that God has planned for them. And then....just before you say good-bye, offer a short prayer and re-dedicate them to the Lord.

Enjoy your everyday, fathers day.

Blessings,

Pastor Brian

A Call to Prayer and Fasting!

2009-06-17T07:23:00.003-05:00

"If my people...." Many of us know that famous phrase as it begins a call to prayer from the mouth of God to Solomon just after he completed the building of the temple. The remainder of the section goes like this.... "....who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land." I have always found it very direct that God begins his instruction with the word...if! That is always the telling word in any of our lives.....if. It is not enough to know that we are God's people who have even been called...but it comes back to us....you and me...and our decision to do something or just sit there. It would seem to me that as you read the verse from 2 Chronicles 7:14, you were likely surprised again by the conditions on the prayer and the great rewards. Direction like...humble themselves, pray, seek my face, turn from their wicked ways...are all the things we are supposed to do and then he states the rewards....forgiven of our sins, healing of the land. These are all good but it still rests on....If. Today we have called a day of fasting and prayer at McDermot. I have been praying since I got up that many people, including you, would respond to the invitation with a Yes! Yes I will step up and participate in this great invitation to connect with the Living God. Yes! I will follow the directions and humble myself and seek God and make an intentional decision to turn from the wicked things in my life and follow Jesus. Yes! Today I will be included in the few who do something with the invitation from God. Do it! Any my prayer for you is that you would encounter God in all His fullness and even if there is no great revelation of flash of lightening...you would be confident that he sees you, understands the intention of your heart, and delights in meeting your needs today. Physically, emotionally, intellectually, and spiritually.

Blessings,

Pastor Brian

Pleasing God!

2009-06-06T18:32:00.002-05:00

It sounds like it would be impossible.....to please God....but that it not so. It is possible to please God and the writers of the New Testament make sure that they let the readers know how to do that. Throughout the letter to the church in Ephesus, Paul tells the readers what the expectations of God are and then how it's possible.......Only as a person lets Jesus live out His life through them. He tells his readers and us to put off the old things from the way we used to live...he says...in darkness...in ignorance...in sin. So...step away he says from those life choices and choose Jesus. The prophet Micah seems to sum it up so well in chapter 6 verse 8...do the right thing...love mercy...and walk humbly with God. That is what God is looking for in your life! Each day....each hour...each minute. So...how is it going....the pleasing God thing I mean? Try it...you and Him can do it.

See you at church tomorrow.

Blessing,
Pastor Brian

Loving Like God!

2009-06-01T22:25:00.002-05:00

Paul says it very clearly....followers of Jesus Christ live a life of imitation...imitation of God. Eugene Peterson in his paraphrase of the Bible titled...The Message...says it this way..."Watch what God does, and then you do it, like children who learn proper behavior from their parents. Mostly what God does is love you." When you surrender your life to the leadership direction and forgiveness of God Himself...it means that Jesus leads your life through the power provided by the Holy Spirit. All three persons of the trinity are involved in a life of a Christian. Loving like God is taking a close look...personally at the Love of God and then living in the same way. These weeks around Winnipeg many churches are involved in the Love Winnipeg Campaign. It really is a year long theme but we focus on these two weeks of the year to bring a broader awareness to this call by God. God willingly gave himself for others...so Love Winnipegers are giving themselves for others. Mowing lawns, trimming trees, building fences and decks, helping remove old unused items, giving away free clothing, and giving away tons of food. Loving the People of Winnipeg is what the Church...those have surrendered their lives to Jesus....are doing each and every day...right where we live! Church....keep going....keep loving...keep giving...for His Glory.

Blessings,

Pastor Brian

Love that is not easy!

2009-05-28T18:43:00.003-05:00

Have you ever had a day when you come in contact with people that really....and I mean really...rub you the wrong way? I find that it happens to me every once in a while, and I have become very aware of my attitude to these people! Sometimes I must admit...the first thing to come to mind is not..."this is a person made in the image of God and really matters to Him..." it's more like "this person irritates me and I don't care!" That is the part that has really started to smack me....I mean, get my attention that something needs to be brought to my attention. So today...when another one of those people came into my life I took a big breath, thought about what God would want me to do and instead of thinking rude thoughts, and I thought about how I could actually demonstrate love to them. If I want Jesus to live through my life....I have to move aside and let him shine out.

Hope your life is being challenging and you are stepping up to the challenge!

Blessings,

Pastor Brian

Living on a Different Level!

2009-05-22T10:19:00.004-05:00

This is a call to everyone reading this blog....this is an encouragement....an exhortation.....to take the necessary steps....the mental decision, the act of the will, the self-declaration of change...and move up to a different level of excellence. That in itself sounds contradictory, but each of us operates at a comfort level that is below our level of excellence. It takes courage and determination and passion to live differently....to change habits that have formed over the years, to re-calibrate our compass to a new setting. Think about your own life for a second....now what is it that you can change to make yourself more effective in living the way you have always dreamed? I'm not talking about running away from difficult situations, I'm talking about sticking in there and living differently. Most people think the grass is greener on the other side of the fence...the grass is greener where you water it! So, dig in...make some small changes today...maybe start with your attitude and get going!!!! What are you waiting for? Someone else to change you? They've got their hands full with their own lives....with God at your centre...live at a different level.
Do it now! No Excuses!
Blessings,
Pastor Brian

Not afraid to be different!

2009-05-17T18:01:00.003-05:00

Once again I have been reminded this week that the life of a follower of Jesus Christ is supposed to be different from those who do not love Jesus. In Ephesians we find again that although there is a constant tendency to display to the world that we are just like the world....and yet we are not to be seeking the approval of the world. As a follower of Jesus Christ, I should be different from the world. In fact...I need to be concerned if I'm not different. Inside each follower of Jesus Christ lives the best Christian that ever lived......Yes...inside of you as a follower of Jesus Christ. Jesus lives in you and is eagerly desiring to live out his life through you. It comes from the renewal of your mind and you think differently and therefore live differently.
I encourage you, as a follower of Jesus, to not be afraid to live differently! Remember....the greatest Christian in all the world lives inside of you. Identify with Him.....Think about the things that are pleasing to him...and do those things. Those things might, will likely be different than the rest of the people living around you. Don't be afraid of doing that and allowing Jesus to live out in your life each day, each moment.
Let Jesus live in your life from the inside out.
Blessings,
Pastor Brian

Gifts That Really Do Keep On Giving!

2009-05-13T11:08:00.002-05:00

You would have loved to be here on Mother's Day this past Sunday....we gave gifts to some under-resourced Moms so they could have it just a bit easier. Instead of giving gifts to our church Moms, we took that money and purchased some gifts for Osborne House here in Winnipeg. There are a few things that they could use so we assisted them in making life a bit more enjoyable during difficult times for Moms and their children. If you are not familiar with Osborne House, you need to take some time to learn about them. They provide a safe place for mothers and their children as they move away from abuse toward health, for themselves and their children.

It was a great reminder that although some of us celebrate the great moms and homes that we were raised in, there are many, many people who did not have that same gift growing up.

Thanks Mom for the gift of a safe home when we were growing up....it too is a gift that keeps on giving.

Blessings,

Pastor Brian

Spring Cleaning In May!

2009-05-05T09:02:00.002-05:00

We're talking about Summer here in Winnipeg....but what happened to spring. It was all about being frozen and then the flood...but there was little discussion about flowers! Spring cleaning has always been a time to get the remains of winter out of our system! Now it's almost summer...it's supposed to be 21 degrees C today.....and we've still got gravel from the street sander on our front lawn. There is no better time than now to get the Christmas lights and candy canes off your house and lawn. There is no better time to think about doing a house cleaning in your heart. Stuff happens! Dirt collects where we don't want it and spring is a great time to do a heart cleaning. Easter around here focused on the fact that Easter Changes Everything! It can change your past, change your present and change your future. I'd encourage you to take some time today to engage in some spring cleaning. Spring cleaning of the heart.....each day is a day God has designed for you to live and to live it to the fullest...He needs to be the one decorating and designing your inner life.

Enjoy the great day and engage in some Spring Cleaning.

Blessings,

Pastor Brian

Prepared for Change!

2009-04-07T07:01:00.002-05:00

Everyone living in Southern Manitoba is getting used to the comments about preparation....be prepared for change. Either in the next level of the Red River, the sandbags all stacked and ready to be used, the newly discovered pothole, the ever fluctuating price of gasoline, or in the weather....change is something that we are prepared for in Manitoba. When it comes to celebrating Easter....I don't think that people living in Manitoba, southern or northern, are really prepared for! We prepare for Christmas for weeks on end, we prepare for summer....O.K. since last summer, but for Easter?????? it seems like Easter gets cheated down to one week. Palm Sunday is the official signal that Easter is coming and then.....bam.....it's here. I want everyone to be as prepared for Easter as Winnipeg and Southern Manitoba is prepared for the rising waters....here's what I suggest.

Change your schedule. We are all really busy this time of year.....trying to rush winter away and hurry spring in....and with the overlap, we are very busy. Take control of your time each day. Plan out what you need to do and have the energy to do and change things up so you have some opportunity to prepare for Easter.

Pick up a book. Not just any book, but the Bible in a translation that assists you in understanding the events leading up to and including the resurrection of Jesus from the grave. Read through the accounts of his last week in Jerusalem and all the events before his death. Then read ahead and re-discover the end of the story. Read on into the book of Acts where they changes are felt in those who followed Jesus. Pick up the book and be prepared for change.

Take a personal Inventory. I know....it seems like no one likes personal inventories....but there are huge advantages! For you to get to where you want to go, physically, emotionally, intellectually, spiritually....you need to know where you are and the steps that need to be taken to change. There are several personal inventories that are available online that will nudge you in the right direction of change. Make a list of actions points and then follow along as you set out for change.

Take the action steps and begin to put them into.....you got it....action. A good plan is only good when it's put into action. For you to change your preparation for Easter and for that matter, life....there has to be an engagement in the action plan. Just a suggestion here....make them attainable....so many times I've missed out on change because I tried to make too much change too fast. Take it a shade at a time, one step at a time...but take some action toward healthy, strengthening changes.

Call a friend. It's not like a last resort that is used when you don't know the answer, it is something that we must do to achieve the changes you are looking for in your life. Call a friend and tell them your plan, the action steps and that you want to be kept accountable for doing this. Be open, honest and give them full authority to hold you to it. This is one way change will take place.

Find a place to rediscover Easter. There are places all over this city, province and nation that are perfect for you to rediscover Easter. We call them community worship centres, but many call them "a church"....that's o.k....but don't let the name trip you up. You have a few days left before Easter, do a bit of research and find a place that you think will be truthful with the facts of Easter and Jesus, and fit your expectations of how you would like to connect with God.

I know this post is very long, but if you've read this far, you are perfect for experiencing change this Easter because you already have a desire. The desire to change is the start of something great for your life....follow that desire to know more about the changes Easter can make in your life.

Blessings,

Pastor Brian

I can't open docx. Can you send it in a different format.

2009-03-27T06:37:00.003-05:00

I can't tell you how many times that I've received this return email because I'm using a newer version of a Microsoft program. It caught my attention this morning as I opened my emails as I was thinking about Easter and the difference it makes in my life. Jesus hanging on a cross was God's answer to the Prophets and People of Israel as they didn't seem to be able to understand and apply the communication of God from previous days. The apostle Paul says in Ephesians that he was the one chosen by God to communicate to the Gentiles (those not of Jewish descent), the message of a God who makes those who return to Him into a new group of people. God chose to send Jesus Christ so that we could open the docx of His love and discover for ourselves the incredible truth of His love. "For God so loved...."

In the next few weeks we will all be in varying stages of preparation for Easter....my prayer is that the format that God chose to communicate to us....through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, would be clear to you and make a huge difference in your life.

Blessings,

Pastor Brian

Raising the Roof!

2009-03-18T09:35:00.002-05:00

We have been able to raise the roof in Mexico on all but one of our build homes. The third home should have the roof up today and as it was the brick house....it has taken a bit longer to get the sides up to the point of being able to accept the wooden roof. So today....Wednesday, March 18....we will be able to bring our two wooden homes right up to the edge of completion. God has been very good as we've had only a few slight wounds and that was mostly from climbing a mountain and then doing our own version of "how much air time can we make" and still land on our feet. We have had great worship times with the Mexician church here and I don't think I'll have to say that it's a bit more lively than we might have at McDermot.
I have stated many times that Life is best lived in the centre of God's Will. It is the safest place to live and it is the place where we will experience the greatest blessing and peace from the Father of us all. During our trip, we are all aware of our unique opportunity to be in Mexico and the great joy it is to serve others with a new home. The lady where we are building, came into the structure yesterday and you should have seen her face as she was looking around and showing the rest of her family the new home. I know when we turn over the keys....it will be a great adventure.
Thank you for praying church, and I look forward to sharing the joy of this experience with you.
Blessings amigos,
Pastor Brian

A place where you see God everywhere!

2009-03-15T01:11:00.002-05:00

It's not often that you find yourself in a place where everywhere you look you see God.....but that's where I am this week. It's all around us here in Mexico.....the face of God! You can see him in the team that I've travelled with and find myself working with a great group of students from Pacific Christian School in Victoria. You can see God in the faces of the Mexician children and in the smiles of the parents who we are building homes for....we can see it all around in the opportunities to live out our faith each day.
The beautiful scenery and the bright blue sky continue to speak of the greatness and closeness of God and the clear starry sky seems to scream of His personal touch in creation and the placement of each star.
His care in placeing the stars is always an indicator of the care he gives to his creation.....like you and I. I know that he has placed within you the ability to let His person...His character...His Son shine through...no matter what the situation....no matter what the challenge...no matter what the Joy.
So today...as you read this short note...I'm lookin around and seeing the face of God as I look closely at what He has placed in front of me.
Miss you church...have a great time of worship tomorrow...keep praying...God's hands are at work in Winnipeg and in Mexico.
Blessed be the Name of the Lord,
Pastor Brian

Headed for Mexico!

2009-03-09T23:09:00.003-05:00

You read it right. I'm off to Mexico for 2 weeks with a group of High School students from Victoria British Columbia. We will be building three homes for people there and holding Children's Ministry activities with the children in the area.

Many people have contributed in so many ways....financially....through prayer support...through donations of items to take and give away. Followers of Jesus are truly generous people.

Just over a year ago I preached a message titled...Few Do! (If you look back in the archives...you can find a blog referring to similar thoughts.) I want to be one of the "few who do" when it comes to putting my faith into action. I was invited to join this group and believe that it was exactly what God wants me to be involved in at this time. In three days I'll lead the devotional for the group and ....you guessed it...I'm planning to talk about Caleb and Joshua....the original two who did something outstanding. God has blessed you with abilities and gifts to be used in extraordinary ways to help others, to share God's love, and to direct people to an abundant life in Jesus. Whatever you put you head and heart to this week....be some of the few who do!

Make a difference in this world by loving the people around you. And if you get a chance to pray....pray for safety as we travel through the area where the drug lords are fighting the government in Mexico, and for God Almighty to teach the group something about trust, faith and living outside out comfort zones for His glory.

Blessings,

Pastor Brian

Everyone Loves a Mystery!

2009-03-03T12:22:00.002-06:00

Murder Mystery.....this term is synonymous with captivating movies that keeps the viewer on the edge of their seat as the dreadful plot is disclosed and the crime solved. In the case of the Apostle Paul....the mystery he is referring to in Ephesians chapter 3 is not about death but about life. It is of greater importance than just finding out "who done it!" It is the revelation of what God has provided for the entire human race. This "mystery" that Paul is writing about is the inclusion of the Gentiles into a new classification which included them as "fellow heirs, fellow members of the body and participating in the promises of Christ Jesus."

It means that you don't have to be born a Jew to receive all the great things that are promised to those who are in God's family.

Today....right now...you can be included into the Family of God through the love, grace and forgiveness of Jesus Christ. He is the one who brings life and according to the Bible...it is life now for everyone...Jew or Gentile....slave or free.

Take time today to allow God to uncover the mystery in your own life and reveal the true you he created you to be.

Blessings,

Pastor Brian

We are God's Masterpiece!

2009-02-19T18:23:00.004-06:00

When you or I think of a masterpiece we usually thing of some extremely high priced artwork that sells for millions or a beautiful winter evening where the aurora borealis are in full bloom(we are in Winnipeg you know). But according to the Apostle Paul as recorded for us in Ephesians 2:10....those who are fully surrendered to Jesus, who have experienced his grace in their lives and are responding with a life that of obedience to His plan and purpose, they are the real Masterpieces. Imagine....you and I referred to as a Masterpiece. That's what God thinks about you and how you look to him because of all that he has done for us. A masterpiece knows that it had nothing to do with the final product, just as what God has done for us had nothing to do with us. Grace, eternal life, forgiveness.....all as a result of God's love for us....and not as a result of things we did. I like to think about my life as a trophy of God's grace. A living illustration of how God invites us to come to him and receive forgiveness and life itself from Jesus. It seems like so many of us what to try to work our way to heaven or do something to earn our forgiveness....but that's not how God works. I think that because God knew our tendency he designed our rescue so that we couldn't walk around and tell anyone that "we did it!" Rather, we can go around and tell others that "God can do the same for your life" and instead of being arrogant and proud, we can simply tell others what God has done for us and what he says he will do for them.

Masterpiece....I like the sound of that...in a humble sort of way.

Blessings,

Pastor Brian

But God.....!

2009-02-16T12:10:00.002-06:00

Two words can make such a difference in Your Life! But God! Ephesians 2:1-3 lays out how desperate the situation is for everyone. Dead, Disobedient,Depraved and Doomed. You! Me! Everyone! And then in verse 4 we read those two words....But God....and the entire story changes. Our Hero rides in on a white horse...the prison is opened and we are set free...the chains are released and we walk in a new way of life. It's important to read it for what it's worth. It's not "but someone" who is capable of only releasing a few captives! It's not "but someone" who has only a limited amount of power, or limited amount of wisdom, or limited amount of love. It is God himself intervening with mercy, grace and love. Read again Ephesians 2:1-10 and see if it doesn't amaze you the difference that those two words make....or should I say...the difference that is made because of the second word....God.

He wants to make a difference today in your life. Go ahead....let him.

Blessings,

Pastor Brian

Smothered With Grace!

2009-02-07T06:48:00.004-06:00

"So we praise God for the glorious grace he has poured out on us who belong to his dear Son. He is so rich in kindness and grace that he purchased our freedom wit the blood of his Son and forgave our sins. He has showered his kindness on us, along with all wisdom and understanding." Ephesians 1:6-8 NLT

I, because of my sin, ongoing ignorant thoughts, my poor choices and my rebellion don’t deserve it but I have and will continue to be forgiven!
How? Though the death of the “One he(God the Father) loves” …and that is grace.
I deserve shame – I get glorious grace
I have earned punishment – yet I am set free by grace
I ought to be rejected but instead he lavishes me with grace.

Grace is so counter cultural in a world that is good at shaming.
Parents sometimes do it. The press does it. Politicians do it. Teachers do it. You do it! But God does not shame!
…in this world that wields shame like a weapon, you and I have a God who smothers us with grace…because someone took the shame you and I deserved.

You get that one thing today and maybe all that you are about will begin to be transformed!

Paul writes those words listed above with others in Chapter 1 of Ephesians to remind us of who a person is as a follower of Jesus Christ.

You are a "special one" who has been set apart by God.

You have a home "in Jesus Christ".

You have been blessed in ways you cannot even see.

You were in God's thoughts long before you existed.

You were chosen by God.

You have been smothered by grace.

You are secure.

In the following verses of Ephesians 1, the apostle Paul continues to write about a hope that endures, resources in Jesus, and the power to live through the challenges of life.

That knowledge, if taken and applied to our hearts will change how you live...it's no wonder that Paul prayed for his friends so deeply.

Keep reading and understanding and surrendering,

Blessings,

Pastor Brian