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The Twin Creeks Ranch has not seen rain for many months. Even the down pours in Houston have skirted these woods of the Crockett forest. This day would be different.
Two special colleagues and I have planned a retreat. We serve together as the Executive Team of the Dallas Theological Seminary, Houston Campus. Willie is our Executive Director of Church Relations & Chaplain. Ben is our Associate Dean. I have the honor of filling the role as Dean. Together we run the institution.
It has been a fast and furious year. This has also been our first year together. Now, after the commencement season we are going to take a deep collective breath, count our blessings, shore up our mistakes and plan for the future.
A wonderful couple who great friends of the seminary have welcomed us to their ranch. We will stay their in a pristine environment and talk, pray, evaluate and plan. There will be fun times for play too.
We drove to the ranch in the rain. Yes, after a long drought God decided to have us remember our first retreat with the first day of rain for this parched land. We would not be going fishing after all. The firing range would have to wait for another day too. All outdoor activities would be curtailed.
Every item on our program would be ticked off. It made for some outstanding discussion. I could feel our team growing tighter as time passed.
One thing that we did not scrimp on was food. We went out to Denny’s for breakfast before launching our venture. Together we shared what we were currently studying in our personal devotions from the Scriptures. It was a rich time of sharing.
We hit the road and Willie prayed for God’s blessing on our retreat while I drove the route. God was hearing our united souls while on the road. He is the best co-pilot.
Once we arrived at the ranch, our hosts greeted us with warm smiles. They also had laid out a wonderful fare of snacks and beverages that kept us well fed until it was time to head out for dinner.
We are getting very tight as brothers-in-Christ. Our analysis of the past year held nothing back. We rejoiced and puzzled. Our spirits were lifted and burdened as well. Together we experienced something remarkable. This is what team is all about.
photo credit: brucefong cellphone photography
“Do I Hear a Witness?
1 Thess. 2.10-12
It is not infrequent that I receive and email, text or letter from the US Postal Service that contains a request from a past student who needs a reference. Sometimes it is a reference to do further studies. Other times it is a request for a job reference. Once in a while it is for permission to have someone from a search committee to telephone me for a real conversation about the candidate.
Each one of these referrals is an honor for me. If I know the friend or student well, then the task is simple. I remember that person’s reputation as a leader, servant or gifted teacher. Memories of their amazingly skills in some other capacity usually come to mind.
I am not trying to unduly impress the examination board or organization, rather, I trying to speak truth about the candidate. After I write the truth then I let the chips fall where they may.
The inquiring company or ministry always want to know the type of relationship that I have had with the candidate. That is natural since they want to verify that I am an actual witness of that person’s character. Clearly they want to validate whether I have actually seen that person in situations where specific characteristics were observed.
A witness is in fact someone with firsthand experience. No one is interested in what I have heard others say about a candidate that they are considering. Instead, they want to know if I have experienced a person’s character or life skills in actual circumstances.
They want to know if I have witnessed that person under duress, in strained situations or in awkward moments of life. How did they fare? How did they treat others? How did they behave when the situation was challenging.
These are fair assessment directions. I testify to what I have seen and let them draw their own conclusions. Usually, others ask me to serve as a witness because they are hopeful that I will submit a positive recommendation.
In a similar way the Apostle Paul along with his travelling companions call on the Thessalonians to serve as their witnesses. Like a reference for their reputations, Paul asks these believers to give a witness to their lives. Specifically, he asks them to verify that they have lived holy, righteous and blameless lives.
Holy does not mean perfect or flawless. Rather, it is a term pointing out spiritual purpose. Paul did live his Christian life with spiritual purpose. It was a calling that God clearly gave to him and he lived it to the fullest.
Furthermore, Paul lived a life that was righteous. That he made right choices. After time his consistent track record of right choices built up to be a reputation. This pattern of right decisions is what righteousness is.
Finally, Paul asked for a witness validating his blameless life. This term does not mean that he was never accused of wrong activity. Rather, in the objective analysis no accusation would stick to him. Every effective leader has his critics. But, those criticisms are unfounded when examined without bias.
It was not just the testimony of the Christians in this church but it was also the witness of God Himself. The Almighty saw the apostles living faithful lives in their service to the church. All of the apostles’ entourage was confident not just before men but before God.
The heart of these messengers of God was an expression of love. He even chose to describe his care in the form of a metaphor. As a father treats his own children with positive strokes, Paul also cared for these Christians in the same way.
When he had a chance he pressed courage into their souls. If they were hurting he would embrace them with tenderness. Clearly he was their cheerleader to get them to keep on living lives that measured up to God’s standards. That kind of lifestyle would serve them well as they head towards God’s call to enter into His kingdom and glory.
LAPP (Life Application): Live your lives not in silence but as witnesses of what you have seen in the lives of those who serve the Lord. When you have the privilege of being ministered to by God’s pastors, then volunteer to speak well of them, testify to others what you know by firsthand experience what they have done. God will be your witness that you have spoken well.”
The weather was beautiful in Michigan. Temperatures were a perfect mid-60′s with sunny skies broken up with an occasional collection of cumulus clouds floating from horizon to horizon. A gentle breeze caused the leaves in the trees to rustle.
My host, a sharp, creative, wise and devoted young pastor picked me up at the Detroit Wayne Airport. Together we laughed, discussed, reported and caught up after years of being apart. There was a lot of shop talk between ministers.
Interspersed in our conversations about our professional comings and goings were reports on our wives, children and common friends. Periodically, I would glance out of the windows to take in the countryside of a state where I had invested over a decade of my life. It is April and the hillsides were covered with lush green grass, foliage on the trees and crystal clear water babbling through the brooks and streams.
Great dialogue made the miles slip by quickly. Soon we rolled up to Gull Lake Ministries near Battle Creek, Michigan. Nestled among the winding roads lined with private homes, a Christian Conference center had its home. This would be the site of the gathering of men that I would be privileged to address.
A few hours passed. Slowly, steadily and surely men arrived. Some traveled alone. Others jammed into cars and then burst out with loud guffaws much to the entertainment of others.
Those in charge of the retreat directed the men to the first venue. Fifty men, all from one church, gathered in the meeting hall. Their pastor led the first session, making the men laugh, tease and almost deliver the kinds of sounds that you only hear at a gathering of men.
Worship was strong. Prayer was intense. The introduction that was given to me was my signal to preach. I did.
There is a phenomenon that we speakers experience in moments like these. It is a sensation that something much bigger than what the eye can see, the ear hear or the body sense. Instead, it was a spiritual amazement.
The men were attentive. After a long week at work and a long drive to camp, these men gave me their undivided attention. God was customizing the presentation of the Scripture to each of these men where they were, based on what they needed and what our heavenly Father knew was coming in their lives. We all wanted to see our lives in Him make a difference and He is going to make that happen.
photo credit: brucefong cellphone photography
My bride and I are members of Houston’s First Baptist Church. Thousands gather every Sunday to be a part of a this vibrant community. Our pastor, Gregg Matte is a wonderful blessing to us all.
Have you the fresh memory of looking for a new church? Perhaps, like us, you relocated. You said “Good-bye” to your church in the community from which you moved. Now, everything is new. Yet, high on your priority of searches is a new home church.
We went through that arduous search. Farewell to friends who are now thousands of miles away was so hard to do. Yet, they were so excited for our new adventure. We love those wonderful friends so much.
In our newly adopted state of Texas, in the greater Houston metropolitan area we began our search. New friends helped us with their recommendations. We systematically visited church after church.
There are so many good ones here. Yet, we were looking for that subjective “click”. We almost decided then the pastor announced his resignation. Rats!
The search began again. We journeyed from place to place, then everything came together. The pastor reached out to us. We were warmed.
Christmas won us over. It was a spectacular celebration. A few introductions and conversations and the “click” made its presence known.
Before the calendar year concluded, we went forward to join the church. We were blessed to make our commitment. As the weeks roll by we find ourselves trying more and more opportunities to serve.
Sunday we joined hundreds of others for a leadership lunch. There we met more who have stepped forward to join the masses who are serving at our church family. May calendar has two Sundays booked as a substitute Life Bible Study Fellowships.
When I teach, those who oversee the adult program will sit in and see how I do in the teaching realm. The church leadership takes great care when giving a person the responsibility to teach God’s Word to their members. That is a wise precaution.
In the meantime we were all inspired to hear how hundred of volunteer staff can keep our World Mission initiative alive. Pastor Gregg laid out the big picture of how each of us can keep the Mission focus alive with systematic monthly reminders. While the massive room was filled with so many lives, we all could find ownership in this massive endeavor. We are all a part of something special, something big and it is exciting!
photo credit: brucefong cellphone photography
Saturday was a highlight day for my week. I suppose everyday that I rise and draw breath means that any day is a blessing. My point however, is that this Saturday was a day that I was looking forward to with a great deal of anticipation. This was the day that my first class that I have ever taught at Dallas Seminary were coming into our home for lunch.
We had only one free Saturday before the semester ended. This was that day. When only one day would fit into our schedule then, the conclusion was obvious. My bride and I marked it on our calendar and I announced the date in class.
Naturally, there were conflicts. Two students had Saturday classes and had to miss the gathering. Two more had to work and couldn’t adjust their hours. Several others had ministry obligations and could not come. Nevertheless, we were going to have a ball with those who could make it.
The day before our gathering I had a day off. I worked to get the house ready. Hospitality is fun yet it does require some tidying up around the old homestead. My bride was at work so I had the chores listed for my day-off and it was time to work like a Buc-ee Beaver, a Texas Buc-ee Beaver.
Most of the chores were easy. I washed the dishes and put things away that were occupying the counter space in the kitchen. Next, the Living Room needed to have some attention. Finally, the common areas needed some TLC.
Friday afternoon I drove over to the China Cottage Restaurant. Mary, the owner, was there. She invited me to sit with her while she finished some paperwork. Then, she smile, “What may I do for you?”
I laughed when she asked if I was dining alone. ”No,” I returned her smile, “I am having some very special guests over to our home tomorrow for dinner. What would you suggest I serve?”
“Oh, this will be important to select some wonderful items from our menu,” Mary glowed.
“OK,” I joined in on the anticipation, “Let’s have a variety of beef, chicken, pork and seafood.”
“Very good,” Mary chimed in.
“I was thinking of your delicious chicken chow mein. Then, everyone likes your sweet and sour pork tenderloin. We need some vegetables, so how about an order of your green beans with beef?” my suggestions had come from thoughtful preparations.
“Come back tomorrow at 11.15AM and it will be ready, ” Mary assured me. This was going to be a fantastic gathering.
photo credit: brucefong cellphone photography
Thirty-five years ago my bride and I drove away from Texas. I had finished my seminary education and had accepted a call to pastor a small church in Oregon. Texas had won many memories for us after four years of grueling graduate studies.
Now, the beginning of a life in professional ministry lay ahead of us. Our vision was vague and our hopes were naive but we were eager to get started. It seemed like our whole life was ahead of us.
Before we drove away and left Dallas in our rearview mirror, we said our goodbyes to very good friends. We had shared both joys and tears with some amazing people. Tears of joy separated us as we parted company from each other for what would become decades ahead of us.
Two great friends were Danny and Becky. Our friendship was forged in the crucible of youth ministry. Together we had been a part of a volunteer staff to build into the lives of the Jr. High population of Grace Bible Church in Inwood Road.
Some would laugh and agree that any volunteers in a church Jr. High ministry would discover a bond of fellowship. Not only is it a bond of fellowship it may be a something similar to the Stockholm syndrome. Pressure from the threat of bodily danger forms a desperation connection between the innocent and the terrorists.
Actually, the age of a Jr. Higher is ripe for a strong connection with any adult who would venture to begin a mentor relationship with a young person in this season of life. They love a hero. A hero to them is just about any adult who would demonstrate to them the love of Christ to them and their peers.
We on the staff had a ball working with these promising lives. Just as special were our times of building our friendships with each other. These friendships were born out of love for others and devotion to the mission that we all embraced.
The four of us connected. We laughed, cried, hoped, dreamed, teased and made memories that have lasted for a lifetime. Then, after years of Christmas cards and an occasional word from mutual friends we ended up at the same camp ground on the same day 35 years later.
Our smiles and embrace from immediate recognition were joyous. Laughter turned into conversation as we caught up with life. Reunions can never be oversold.
Over the years and through a number of different work situations, I have had the satisfaction of employing an Administrative Assistant. There have been many over the years whom I have trusted, conferred and managed. So many of them displayed an intense work ethic.
Michelle, my most recent AA, came into my office and told me what I already knew. She was leaving. I understood, expected it and accepted the fact that there was nothing I could do to change the circumstances of God’s clear leading in her life.
We chatted for a while and laughed a lot. Our musings allowed us to relive some special adventures together. They were fun days in our past partnership together.
I have never had an assistant who could win the favor of so many people so quickly. She is truly a gift from the Lord. Her impact will linger long after she is gone.
Whenever we had a briefing, she came into my office with eagerness. ”How may I help?” was her standard inquiry. Together we would work out a strategy and lay out a tactical plan.
She had a way of making me feel like I never had to give a project a second thought. Once Michelle set her mind on a task it was as good as done. Not only was it done but it was done with excellence.
God had given her an amazing history of experiences to equip her to make executives have freedom to go about their agenda. The relief that she created with her skills and cheer are amazing. More people complimented me when they interacted with her than any employee I have ever had the privilege of managing.
All of us who receive administrative help talk about the highest commendation of all: a servant-heart. She personifies this quality. Regularly she looked for ways to make my duties easier, run smoother, have the resources to carry out my tasks and to make me and all those around me laugh and smile while we did them.
The day that our team gathered and heard the announcement of her resignation, I could see the sadness, sense the disappointment around the room. Great people have that effect on others. Michelle set the bar high for everyone in the office.
Everyone saw it, felt it and sensed it. She had talent and skill. Add that to her intentional heart to be a servant and the sum is excellence.
photo credit: brucefong cellphone photography
Every student at Dallas Seminary loved their required class with Dr. Howard Hendricks, affectionately called “Prof”. It was there that our lives in ministry would be marked with a lifetime of skills for independent Bible Study. So many of our lives begin the day with Observation, Interpretation and Application.
As a Senior at DTS, I set my sights on an elective class taught by Prof. It was a class on Discipleship. However, the class had a very limited enrollment but the challenging prerequisite was a personal word of approval from Prof himself.
Getting approval from the Prof was going to be tricky. He was always surrounded by students, colleagues and getting an appointment with his office staff would never be in time for the enrollment deadline. My plan was to intercept him at the end of chapel in the hallway where the faculty filed out of the service.
I occupied a seat in chapel near the front, next to the door leading into the faculty hallway. During the closing prayer I slipped out of chapel, exited through that door and waited. Faculty members streamed out of their loft and I tried to be inconspicuous.
Prof’s laugh and voice broke the din of noise. He was in conversation with his colleagues, I followed. There was never a break in Prof’s stride as I followed like a hungry puppy looking for crumbs to pick up.
In a break in his conversation, I called out, “Hi Prof!” He never slowed, cocked his head toward me, “Yeah, Fong, what’s up?” Startled that he knew my name I tripped over my own tongue, stammering out my request, “May I have permission to enroll in your Discipleship class?” ”You got it, Man! See you in class.” I floated out of the chapel.
Years of ministry followed seminary. Then, I was honored to step into the position of President of a seminary. I invited Prof to be my inaugural speaker. He accepted to be a part of that very special day in my life. It was amazing.
Once during the busyness of leading a ministry of God my phone rang. ”Hey, Bruce, this is Prof calling. Don’t need anything, just called to tell you that I love you.” Click I can still hear him speaking those words from that phone call today.
The next time I see Prof will be in heaven. He graduated into the presence of His Savior today. What a blessing to be a part of the amazing legacy that he has left behind. I loved that man.
photo credit: brucefong cellphone photography
Do you remember the feeling of being totally blindsided by the perception that others have had of you? It was particularly unsettling when these were people who should know you well enough that miscommunication would be far from the realm of possibility. Startled we have to quickly reverse our direction and realign our discussion to set the record straight.
Paul was very good at altering his direction. His discernment skills with people were keen. When he was in dialogue with the believers at Corinth, he was teaching forthrightly.
Yet, suddenly he realized that these Christians were misunderstanding his intent. They heard his words and saw his life, but they were interpreting his intentions completely incorrectly. It was time to arrest that thinking with a rhetorical challenge.
A well-formed inquiry sets the context to realize the foolishness of an invalid assumption. Under duress accusations or gossip always seem accurate and necessary. However, once freedom returns, it is clear that ideas taken for granted are plainly foolish.
Paul plainly places all of his words under the scrutiny of God. He is confident that his integrity before Christ is pristine. Furthermore, his objective is not to serve himself but in fact to edify the believers.
Good leaders anticipate the impact of their leadership on the lives of those who follow. Paul’s concern was for the Corinthians, who might not be as spiritual mature as he would like them to be. The potential for disorder makes the apostle nervous.
Eight problems are listed by Paul. The Corinthians could be involved with any or all of these terrible descriptions of human interaction. None of these aspects are novel, they are comprehensive in that they complement each other and share in common lists in various parts of the Bible where these features are often seen together.
Quarreling, jealousy, outbursts of anger, factions, slander, gossip, arrogance and disorder are symptoms of lives that do not submit to the Lordship of Christ. These habits divide people. Expressions of these aspects of life hurt relationships, destroy loyalty and distract from the true Gospel presentation.
There is no question that a pastor feels close to his people. Whether there is outward success or not, a tie is formed among those who spiritually grow together. Spiritual success is not necessarily guaranteed. In fact mourning and even embarrassment might be the description of the day.
If there is no repentance from sin, Paul will be disappointed. Should there be severe sexual sins, Paul will be saddened. Past indulgences should be allowed to have a resurgence.
2 corinthians 12:19-21
News of the Tsunami that devastated Thailand on Boxing Day 2004 reached around the world. One of the worst recorded natural disasters had the good will of nations pouring out their aid and the people of the earth passing on their deepest sympathies to the grieving families. Stories of tragedy, heroism and mercy filled the air waves for weeks.
From the hardships of this cataclysmic event emerged an incredible story of a family of five. They were swept up in the horrific waves of the Tsunami. In a matter of minutes, the five were separated and struggling to survive.
Terror and death surrounded them. Each one narrowly missed fatal wounds from the massive amounts of racing debris, snags under the swift currents that would have sucked out their final breath mounted with each moment. When you think that there was a reprieve, there was only more horror.
Another wave would mount its onslaught on the survivors. More would be swept into eternity. Children would be orphaned and parents would no longer see their children.
Disaster movies must be believable. There are too many features in this genre that make a film corny or phony. This was not either.
Here it wasn’t about heroics. It was about blessing. How incredulous would it be for a family of five to be hit by one of the most devastating giant waves with thousands dying around them, yet each one survived and then discovered each other? Getting back together after the pain and trauma is the story.
Why them? What should they consider about their good fortune? Their lives could never be lived the same no matter how hard they tried.
Some things give life pause. We need to consider our fortune. Comparison to others is often unhealthy, meaningless or detrimental. The story calls on all of us to count our blessings.
I wanted a hero. To add one would have made this an action flick. It was certainly not that.
Family devotion and loyalty was at the heart of this amazing story. Resiliency against pain, impossibilities and hopelessness are at every turn in this stunning account.
Out of great loss there is wonder when a blessing can be counted. Their story is one of those that can be counted. There were enough tears and wailing that followed in the aftermath of this monster of a wave.
Prepare to be exhausted. Start counting your blessings when it is done. Wonder at the power of family.
photo credit: brucefong cellphone photography
