Sunday Reflections - August 5, 2016

HOW IN THE WORLD CAN WE EXPERIENCE JOY IN THE MIDST OF TRIALS?

That is such a great question. And it’s one that is asked so many times on any given day. “Why me?  Why now? Why this?” Questioning is one of the major ingredients that comes with troubles. Part of the reason that the Bible is as thick as it is, is because it includes many verses of scripture that speak specifically about trials, troubles, temptations and life’s unfairness.

I was reading some interesting remarks regarding trials and found them thought provoking and fascinating. Here’s just a few:

            The problem is not that there are problems. The problem is expecting otherwise and thinking that having problems is a problem. – Theadore Rubin

            If you break your neck, if you have nothing to eat, if your house is on fire – then you got a problem. Everything else is an inconvenience. Life is inconvenient. Life is lumpy. Learn to separate the inconveniences from the real problems. You will live longer – Sigmund Wollman

            Pain is inevitable. Suffering is optional – M. Kathleen Casey

           

            A bend in the road is not the end of the road…unless you fail to make the turn.

James says that, “we should consider it pure joy, my friends, when you face trials of many kinds…”  James 1:3   Where did James learn this? How does he know this? Here’s how, and he speaks with authority, JESUS WAS HIS OLDER BROTHER. James had such an encounter with Jesus as his Messiah that he knew in his knower that he knew Jesus would provide the joy in the midst of the journey.

You might not know it, the way we Christians talk. But Jesus Christ says, in essence: “Even in volatile seasons, smile at the future. Laugh at the days to come.”  In John 16:33, he said it this way: “In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.”  Only when we see his words in context do we begin to grasp their force. Jesus wasn’t dismissing or minimizing the hard stuff. He was facing the worst head-on, and announcing beforehand, “I have conquered it”.

Here, then, is the context:

The night before his crucifixion, Christ ate with his 12 apostles in an upper room. Then, as Judas exited to betray him, Jesus walked with the 11 to the Garden of Gethsemane. Along the way, he talked. Every word he spoke prepared his followers for the new, volatile season already careening in.

Before entering the garden where he would be betrayed and arrested, Jesus stopped teaching and started praying. He prayed for all his followers of all time (John 17). The last thing he uttered before he prayed – the capstone of his teachings – was this:

“I have told you these things, so that in Me you may have [perfect] peace and confidence. In the world you have tribulation and trials and distress and frustration; but be of good cheer [take courage; be confident, certain, undaunted]! For I have overcome the world. [I have deprived it of power to harm you and have conquered it for you.]” John 16:33.

Jesus knew what his followers would see as the next three days unfolded. He deeply desired that they also see the greater reality:

•    Because of that pivotal moment in history, God’s kingdom will come. It will arrive in its glorious fullness the day the Lord Jesus returns in glory.

•    Because of that pivotal moment in history, God’s kingdom has come. It’s already here.

With Jesus’ birth in Bethlehem, the unseen world invaded what is seen. Because he died and rose again, ascended to heaven and sent the Holy Spirit, all who confess, “Jesus is Lord,” can also live in two worlds at the same time – the natural world we can see with our eyes, and the supernatural one we can see only by the Spirit.

I can’t wait to tell you more about this on Sunday as we dig deeper into James.

Loving You and Him!

Pastor D

PS:  YOU GUYS DID IT!  YOU ALL STEPPED UP AND HELPED US CLOSE OUT JULY MEETING AND EXCEEDING OUR BUDGET…SO THAT IT MADE UP FOR ALMOST ALL OF THE SHORTFALL OF JUNE!  YEA GOD!  YEA PEOPLE OF DEER FLAT!  I’m spoiled to be able to be the pastor at Deer Flat Church!

Sunday Reflections - July 26, 2016

HEY, HAVE YOU READ A GOOD BOOK LATELY?

Sometimes Summer provides a chance to slow down a bit and catch your breath.  It might even provide you with a chance to pick up a good book. Have you ever spent any time getting acquainted with Jesus’ family?  According to the Gospels, He had some brothers and sisters. We don’t really hear much about them. But, there is actually one of his brothers who penned one of the 66 books in the Bible. His name? James.

James grew up as Jesus' kid brother and went from incredulous skeptic to die-hard believer. He became one of the most influential pastors in the history of the world, proclaiming that his big brother was our sinless Savior right up to the day they killed him - it was the only way to silence him.

The Book of James is one of the most exciting parts of the New Testament. It has a hard-hitting punch and is a handbook for daily living. This sometimes catches readers off guard and at the same time gives them many practical insights for life.

We’re getting ready to begin our next series walking through the chapters of James.  I can’t wait to experience this in-depth look with you.  It starts this Sunday.  By the way, this is one of those perfect times to invite a friend or neighbor to a Bible study that will be both encouraging and adventuresome. We begin this week learning about James – quite an amazing fellow.  He’s written a letter that had you in mind – a follower of the Messiah. 

WARNING: James gets quite personal.  Better wear your steel toed shoes!

Let me wrap up here quickly with 2 things:

#1. An outstanding day at Deer Flat was had on Sunday!  All of us who were able to be at church were deeply touched by the way God used our special guest, Philip Zimmermann.  His challenge for us was to join God where He is at work in the dark valleys of our world.  It was a great chance to renew our zeal to partner with the Master in His work during these challenging days of living in a changing world.  Thank you for being the kind of Christ followers that thrive on making a difference!!

#2. We’re running a bit behind in our finances.  We fell just short of our budget in June and a bit shorter this month.  You guys ALWAYS do a great job when it comes to giving and generosity.  Let’s see if we can close the gap and end the month right on track. 

Have a great week!

Pastor D

Sunday Reflections - July 14, 2016

July 14, 2016

Hello Deer Flat Family,

I wanted to scratch out a note before the end of the week and just tell you how much I appreciate your participation in the VOTE last weekend.  I was reminded again of what a tremendous group of people you are. It was an amazingly strong vote! There was a letter sent out this week from the Church Board with the results of the vote and some next steps.  If you did not get that letter, just click here.  I think you’ll really value their wisdom.

Jer and I, along with 22 others are headed to Washington DC for the Christians United For Israel Summit.  There will be thousands gathering from across the US for this event.  We will receive the latest information on what is happening in Israel and the Middle East, and the current climate between the US and Israel.

As usual, we, along with the host of others, will make our trek up to Capitol Hill and visit the office of every elected official.  We will present to them the most important issues regarding Israel and the persecution of Christians.  I believe this will be a significant year.  As you know, this election will have a definite impact on Israel.  I ask you to pray for us as we appeal for pro-Israel legislation.

Our High School Camp has been taking place this week.  We have a record attendance of students this year.  The investment opportunities in the lives of children and students during these camps is nothing short of amazing.  We get to download the biblical truths in them, provide fellowship and friendship, great activities and a spiritual challenge - doing all that we can to anchor them in the faith.  Each of you help make that possible by your giving and your volunteering.  We have teams of people who serve at each camp and we have groups of people to make up the Work Days during Memorial Day weekend and Labor Day weekend.  We couldn’t do it without you!  You guys are making a difference and our prayer is that a Deer Flat Camp at Camp Cascade will create countless changed lives and tremendous memories.

Next week is the Children’s camp.  If you have any interest in volunteering, please let the office know.  We may have a slot or two left to fill.  Again, this is a great thing to keep in your prayers.

Thank you for your faithfulness during these summer months.  God uses you to be such a blessing to Deer Flat!

Loving You and Him,

Pastor D

Sunday Reflections - July 7, 2016

AN OUTSTANDING AND IMPORTANT SUNDAY AWAITS YOU AT DEER FLAT

It’s already July and I am hoping you’re enjoying the summer as much as me. If you haven’t had a chance to get away, I encourage you to make some time before we get to the end of these amazing summer days!

Thank you for your faithfulness during these summer days. Thank you for standing by the church financially. Thank you for your generosity. We just couldn’t do it without you. Each of you are helping make a difference in the lives of many people. This is what I love about the people of Deer Flat Church.

Well, we are quickly approaching a very important vote that will impact our future in quite a substantial way. Your participation is needed and valued!  So let me help us with a bit of IMPORTANT INFORMATION:

#1. VOTING WILL BE AVAILABLE HERE BEGINNING TOMORROW (FRIDAY) AT 5 PM AND CONTINUING UNTIL SUNDAY AT 3 PM. Voting will also be available by paper ballot Sunday ALL morning so that you can vote in person.

#2. Because any “YES” vote also includes a commitment, here are a variety of ways to commit…

1.      A financial commitment.  Pledges can be made for a length of 36 months

2.      Donating something of value – a boat, vehicle, property, stock, etc.

3.      What might you be able to sell on Craigslist?  Why not sell it and donate the proceeds?

4.      Volunteer – We will need skilled labor of various kinds.  Be a part of the clean-up crew that will prepare the building each week for Sunday services.

The load will be light if we are all committed. It will be exciting to see what we can do together when God adds His difference-making touch. Our time, talents and treasure, put in God’s hand can be huge. Throughout Scripture, God affirms the few, the small, and the insignificant who live by faithfulness rather than forcefulness . . . God is willing to spare Sodom and Gomorrah if only ten righteous people can be found. Christ is present where two or three gather in His Name. The widow’s mite is the largest gift. The boy with a few loaves and fish provides food for thousands. Jesus fed five thousand but only shared the Lord’s Supper with the Twelve and was revealed to the two in Emmaus as they broke bread. The mustard seed, the pearl of great price, the leaven in the loaf, the lost sheep and coin, the sparrows, and the numbered hairs on a person’s head are all powerful signs that small can be amazingly mighty.

I can’t wait to see you Sunday!  Let’s come expecting, praying and ready to exercise our faith.

Loving You and Him,

Pastor D

Sunday Reflections - June 24, 2016

IT’S A GREAT SUMMER AT DEER FLAT!

Hello Deer Flat Family,

I’ll get right to it.  I’ve got a few things worth your consideration…

#1. A Bit of Time For Yourself? I hope you’re going to have a chance to run away for just a bit and catch some rest for your body and soul. I have been enjoying the long days and beautiful sunsets. A bit of vacation is always a plus. I have kept all of our traveling people in my prayers. Get away, and then get back here… because I miss you when you’re gone!

#2. Camps Are Starting – Monday kicks off Middle School Camp. There’s still time to get your kids signed up. These will be life changing experiences for all who attend. Memories will be made that will last forever, and so will the spiritual investment. Please keep these children and students, workers and camps in your prayers. We love seeing our children and youth encounter God!

#3. EXTREMELY IMPORTANT VOTE JULY 10 – As many of you know, we have a very important vote happening in just a couple of weeks. This will determine the direction for our future. I am asking that you prayerfully consider this significant next step for Deer Flat. The relocation of our Children’s Ministry plays a key role in our future with all of those young families we expect will come through our doors. Nothing will be more convenient than for a person to walk into the Church, have the sanctuary on one side, and the children just across the lobby on the other side. This new project will also include doubling the size of the lobby, additional restrooms, a more than adequate kitchen, and an incredible place for the children. Your vote will help us discover God’s will. Your vote will need to include a commitment. We are going to need a 75% positive vote and $2 million in pledged commitments. Cost of the overall project: $3 million.

The entire leadership team of Staff and Board believes that this is the right next step for Deer Flat. It is all driven by need. Each part of this project is so legitimate and it makes such good sense to do this. We are confident that God will provide the need to do this, just like He’s done for 108 years. Thank you for your steadfast faithfulness, generosity, and prayerful partnership in this important decision. And, thanks for helping make this an amazing summer!

Loving You and Him!

Pastor D

Sunday Reflections - June 13, 2016

AND A GREAT DAY WAS HAD BY ALL!

Deer Flat Family,

I can’t begin to tell you how you all blessed me yesterday! Your commitment to be at Deer Flat Church was nothing short of dedication. I was so touched by the turnout of my church family! THANK YOU!

It was an awesome day indeed! What fun I had sharing the breath-taking story of those early pioneering families who birthed the church that you and I have been so blessed by. I learned some wonderful things and had a chance to meet some new people as well.

One of the “down line” of those early pioneers was in church yesterday. He told me about the fact that his mother moved to the area when she was six. He shared how they took their earthly possessions and loaded them in their wagons.  Because those wagons were so full, the majority of those families walked from Nebraska to the sagebrush fields of S. Idaho. Talk about sacrifice and determination.

Because of that pioneering spirit and a heavy dose of daring faith, there was no looking back. These are critical ingredients for us to take into the future as we undertake the next step in God’s unfolding plan for Deer Flat Church. The building of a Children’s Ministry Center, doubling the current lobby, adding restrooms and an amazing kitchen will be no small task. 3 million dollars is no small amount.

But this is where a God who can do the impossible comes in. Nothing is too difficult for Him. How daring is your faith? How much do you trust Him? We have some BIG DECISIONS to make in July. Would you commit to really be praying about what part God would have you play? Would you have purposeful conversation with your spouse, family, or friends about what God could be saying to you? Yesterday’s responsiveness by the congregation was so wonderfully positive. I’m believing God is going to do something GREAT for His church and His people. Thank you for your partnership! I LOVE MY CHURCH!

God and Country is happening in just over two weeks. This is a piece that has been a part of 4^th of July celebrations in the Nampa, Caldwell area for a lot of years. This year is a big task and has a variety of very exciting venues to it. It includes the Louis Palau Evangelistic Association with Andrew Palau speaking.  There will also be a BMX Extreme Sports Exhibition, Concert, Freestyle Motocross Exhibition, food booths, fireworks and more. ENTRANCE TO THE EVENT IS FREE! During that evening of celebration, there will be a very clear and intentional presentation of the Gospel to all attending. At the close, there will be an invitation given. They are asking the churches of the Treasure Valley to provide people who would be glad to pray with anyone wanting to receive Christ.  A training class is planned for those who have an interest in being used during that invitation. Thursday evening the 16^th or 23^rd at 7 pm at City Pointe is when the training takes place. Would you prayerfully consider being a part of this important moment in someone’s life? GOD AND COUNTRY IS HAPPENING THIS YEAR ON JUNE 29^TH. 

People are the only treasures that we can lay up for ourselves in heaven. Your investment in someone’s eternity is HUGE. If you’ve never had a chance to be with someone who is giving their life to Christ, this is your moment to support them, pray with them and love them into the Family.

The Deer Flat Family is the most amazing group of people I know in the Treasure Valley and beyond. The heart to serve, give, share, pray and love is what sets Deer Flat apart from so many others who make a profession, but make no difference. Let’s make our lives count for something greater than ourselves!  See you Sunday!

Pastor D

Sunday Reflections - June 1, 2016

THE KIDS ARE COMING! THE KIDS ARE COMING!

That’s right, the kids are coming. In just over a week, we are going to have hundreds of children spending a week at Deer Flat Church. It’s time for VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL!  Every year we plan BIG. This year is no exception.

Julie and her amazing team have been preparing for a life changing week in the lives of all who come through our doors for this special event. This year’s theme is: SURFIN VBS!

If you haven’t registered your kids, grandkids, neighbor kids or your friends kids, you can do it very easily by just going to deerflat.org and click on the VBS promo.  WE WANT YOUR KIDS!

This is one of the major priorities of Deer Flat. We take investing in the children very seriously. This is one of the greatest things that we will ever do. Partnering with parents as they endeavor to get their children ready for Heaven is a calling for us. If we can introduce people to Christ while they are young, the fruit coming throughout the rest of their life is only measurable in eternity.

Throughout the year, week after week, the Children’s Ministry of Deer Flat plays a critical role. Week after week, children continue to invite their friends, experience life changing moments with Jesus, make new friends, and learn the Bible. They are being consistently equipped for their future. I couldn’t be more proud of the quality of ministry happening in both the Children’s Ministry arena and the Student Ministry arena. Julie and Martin have both developed strong ministry teams who make such great contributions. We are so blessed!

ONE OF THE MOST IMPORTANT SUNDAYS IN THE HISTORY OF DEER FLAT IS HAPPENING JUNE 12^TH. Don’t miss this one. Make it a priority.  Don’t let anything get in the way. ONE SERVICE – 10:30 AM. A full slate will happen for the children, nursery and Middle Schoolers. You’re going to hear the amazing story of Deer Flat, and then take a look 108 years later. This will be a great morning to invite a friend!

Personally, I can’t wait to share with you some very exciting details coming to Deer Flat Church. As we head into summer, let me just say, “THANK YOU” for staying so faithful in your giving and generosity. We closed out May meeting our budget. Summer is always a bit more challenging, but we’ve had almost 3 years of keeping the summer just as strong as the rest of the year.

I say it all the time, I mean it all the time: I LOVE MY CHURCH!  You guys are THE BEST!  See you Sunday!

Pastor D