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2008-12-16T13:06:00.001-06:00

I will be posting now directly to the Church blog since we are officially starting in January 2009. Please visit West Bay Community Church web site and blog if you want to read more...

Did you ever think you would see the day?

2008-11-25T16:17:00.004-06:00

2008-10-27T13:40:00.003-05:00

Great article by Ed Stetzer and Eric Geiger on page 84 on the relationship between "Missional" Churches and "Simple" Churches...This paints a very good picture of my thoughts on new Church starts...

Get your own - Open publication

Grand Isle Mission Trip...

2008-10-02T19:03:00.000-05:00

1st Century model or a model of today?...hmmm

2008-09-16T09:18:00.002-05:00

http://jeremypryor.wordpress.com/2008/09/08/exploring-explosive-growth-in-church-history/

Wazzuppp....

2008-09-11T11:38:00.004-05:00

Well, we are back in New Orleans, no major damage here. No major damage in Waveland. The Church building sustained a hole in one window - Thank You Lord.

I have talked recently (via email) with the local association and we are still on track to use the building - but it may take us a little longer than expected to launch. This we shall see. We are praying for immediate ministry oppurtunities and continuing to pray for a job so we can get to the area...

Thanks again for keeping up with us.

Blessings,

Brian

The biggest loss of life so far is...http://www.sunherald.com/218/story/802277.html

This is what one looks like...http://www.nutria.com

A BIG - SWIMMING - RAT

We are here...

2008-08-31T07:49:00.003-05:00

We are in Atlanta and we have gotten most of the NOBTS servers back up (classes will continue). Thanks for the prayers. More updates soon...

Brian, Karen, Holly, and Joni

Immense anxiety among the people...

2008-08-28T11:32:00.003-05:00

I fully acknowledge the sovereignty and purpose of God's will (whatever it may be at this point in regards to multiple hurricanes pointed towards the Gulf...)

However, you could say a prayer for our family, the cities of New Orleans, Waveland, MS and Bay St. Louis, MS. Specifically, my girls have gotten very anxious, and quite frankly so have I, because packing stuff to evacuate brings back some very haunting memories. Also, we would be derelict to forget about the people of the whole Gulf area that are still rebuilding there lives and families and now have the proposition of dealing with 2 or even 3 more storms coming our way. We can handle a small storm but we do not need a large hurricane.

Thanks so much friends and family! We will keep you updated as events change.

Blessings, Grace, and Peace!
Brian

Update from the Gulf...

2008-08-21T13:38:00.005-05:00

These last couple of weeks have been a real thrust of activity for West Bay Community Church. So much is starting to happen, we are excited and we are getting busy.

Our home Church (FBC Richland) ordained me on the 10th of August. It was a very special night and we are deeply moved by so many offers of items to fill the Church, musicians, and so forth that will surely help us in starting out and reaching the people of Waveland/Bay St. Louis, Mississippi that do not have a relationship with God . Thank FBCR!

We are watching God work things out in His timing. This week Karen and I were literally floored and brought to tears as we were blessed with a donation from an unlikely source. We have friends in ministry (in another country altogether) who rely on God's provision just as we are now. Their note to us says it all "freely we have received, freely we give" Matthew 10:8. It is really amazing how you feel when God allows you to be a part of one of those "working things out for His Glory" moments. Thank you Lord!

We are trying to meet and talk with families in the community to join us as part of our core-group. We are also talking with the City of Waveland about cutting overgrown, empty home lots that affects the current residents and children by harboring rodents and animals. We hope the community will see West Bay Community Church as a real asset in the City. We want this community, who has suffered so much since hurricane Katrina, to feel God's love. Our goal is for WBCC to be a safe place to come and learn God's Word as well as ask serious questions about God.

Thanks!

Blessings,
Brian, Karen, Holly & JoniBeth Bridges
www.westbaycc.org

Not much more to say on this...

2008-08-11T12:07:00.001-05:00

Take about 3 minutes and read this post...

http://gospeldrivenchurch.blogspot.com/2008/08/osteen-esque-entitlement-and-knowing.html

Reflection from J.I. Packer

2008-07-30T13:09:00.021-05:00

As I read this journal entry from Mark Driscoll I expected (just as he did) that Mr Packer would expound some profound deep theological aspects of scripture...he does note several areas including "regeneration", "God-centered theology", and the "Trinity".

However, look at the other aspect he perceives as being one of the "theological issues he would commend young Christian leaders to study in order to be prepared for the next fifty years." (This includes Driscoll's comment as well)

Godliness Begins at Home — This point was both surprising and refreshing. I was expecting only weighty and complicated theological admonition from such a theological giant. However, his wise counsel on this point is well needed. Packer said that most Christians do not take seriously the biblical teaching that true Christian living begins first at home with one’s spouse, children, and grandchildren. Therefore, he implored young Christian leaders to begin their quest for maturity and holiness at home in relationship with their family.

You know what, I think this really is profound. It is profound because it contrast the other areas mentioned like the doctrines of the Trinity or Regeneration. It is also profound because it brings to light how the world sees families not as a foundational aspect of life or living but really as an after-thought. Why does God call himself Father? Why is Christ the groom and will one day take away his "bride" (the Church)? Why are we considered "children" of God when we accept by faith Christ as the substitution for sin.

Packer is right in saying this because today - Christians (not just Pastors or "leaders" in the Church) should strive to have a peaceful home, teach each other, and seek God TOGETHER. Even God-called singles are a part of an extended family somewhere down the line (mother, father, aunt, uncle, etc..). Of course, I believe fathers are the scriptural leaders of their home. Fathers are expected to be the first to lead their families in seeking God and following His will for the home. I also believe that scripture reveals situations where a woman will be the spiritual leader of a "household" (which most likely included workers and may or may not have included children as in Acts 16:14). Today, however, there are many convoluted forms in existence. Yet in the model that God has laid out it is the family structure that is key to teaching each other and learning more about God. I have no problem integrating single parents, singles, divorced parents, or the like in a Church environment and teaching them to be "spiritual" leaders of their home. The point is for you (a believer), the parent and the family unit to be responsible for teaching your children, and even others outside your family about God, growing in knowledge and being an integral part of that process. The structure established in most Churches today works well (for the most part) but some families rely too much on the "sunday school teacher" to be the one that has the ultimate responsibility in teaching their children about God and biblical principles. I think it should be different...

Just as scripture tells us (Deut 6:5-9)"You shall teach them diligently to your sons and shall talk of them when you sit in your house and when you walk by the way and when you lie down and when you rise up." and as Packer suggest we should strive to make our home a place of learning, teaching, growing, and understanding God and letting that permeate the whole household (and I would suggest right in to your community).

Read the short entry here:
http://theresurgence.com/node/1091

words that melt your heart...

2008-07-09T14:10:00.011-05:00

Well it has been several months since JoniBeth first asked us to "babitize" her. Whatever the situation was, if she saw another person being baptized or if she heard scripture or just a simple VBS - "ABC" presentation she would come home and say...I want to be babitized.

Of course we would ask her questions like "why?" or "have you sinned today?"

And her usual responses would be "I don't know why" or "so I can be a Christian" or "nope I haven't sinned" which are like anyone who is not sure of the Gospel and who has not had the stirring of God's spirit in their heart. We would always pray for her to understand sin and for God to bring her to that place of understanding.

Last Wednesday night we were talking and once again Joni asked me to baptize her and once again I asked her why...this time Joni looked at us and said something I knew was from her heart. My 7 year-old walked over to my backpack and while touching it she said..."my heart is black like your bag daddy"...then she walked over to our curtains and said..."and I want it to be white like this." I was speechless...then she rounded it out by saying "I want God to be King of my life". Wow...

So I told her to pray exactly what she told me...but to God...and she did. Then she asked me to "babitize" her in the ocean...which we did on the 4th of July. To see her simple way of understanding OUR position is incredible and humbles me. We have darkness in our hearts and Christ can make it pure. For her it took some time for God to work and her to understand that we all have sin and darkness in us.

Do you want light in your life?

John 1:4 NASB In Him (Jesus) was life, and the life was the Light of men.

John 3:20 NASB For everyone who does evil hates the Light, and does not come to the Light for fear that his deeds will be exposed.

John 8:12 NASB Then Jesus again spoke to them, saying, "I am the Light of the world; he who follows Me will not walk in the darkness, but will have the Light of life."

Watch it...

Flypaper, Stories That Stick. Get it here Free!

how are you...good...how are you?

2008-06-30T10:27:00.002-05:00

A lot of that goes on in Church (especially in the South)..."how are you doing? oh I am fine how bout you?" Yep...did a lot of that this weekend and a lot of "wow, she sure has grown" and then I would say..."well we are little people we won't get much bigger..." :-)

Seriously, it was really good to be back at our "home" Church of FBC Richland. I preached in the evening service and everything went very well. We had many opportunities to speak with friends and family about West Bay Community Church. We had many offers of support and we will surely need the prayers, volunteers and financial support.

We are keeping up with the Gulf Coast Baptist Association on our strategy and the progress so far as we get the word out. We have actually had a person call recently wanting to know more about our "family" approach to discipling. God is already working in the community and we will continue to meet our neighbors in the area as I look for a job.

If you have any questions please contact me or Karen, we would love for you to partner with us and see how God grows a new Church in the West Bay...blessings!

Brian

WOW, a must read from Russell Moore...

2008-06-23T10:16:00.002-05:00

Dr Russell Moore is Dean of the School of Theology and Senior Vice President for Academic Administration at The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, he also serves as executive director of the Henry Institute....

You must read the entire commentary but I will capture the essence here:

A Kingdom warfare worldview--articulated in our pulpits, our Sunday school rooms, our dining room tables--would mean that Southern Baptists should walk away from a belligerent "culture warrior" tone when addressing the outside culture. If we remember--even in debates over the family--that "we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness" (Eph 6:12), then we are less likely to see those on the other side of "family values" debates as enemies to be vaporized.

We will see that the enemy is not Hillary Clinton or Hugh Hefner, but a much less easily tracked foe. We will not mock with derision--even just among ourselves--the transvestites marching in the parade on Main Street of our community, nor will we sit silently as our sons don lingerie. We will be able, as the apostle instructs us, to be "kind to everyone" in order that "God may perhaps grant them repentance leading to a knowledge of the truth, and they may escape from the snare of the devil, after being captured by him to do his will" (2 Tim 2:22, 24-26).

This compassion does not mean that we back down one iota from declaring the whole counsel of God on the family--or anything else. To the contrary, it means that we do so with vigor, but with tears in our eyes as we see our fellow image-bearers in the clutches of this era's dragon-king. It does mean, though, that our public discourse will lack the "You kids get off my lawn" type of ethos that it far too often carries.

AMEN Dr Moore...

Link: http://www.henryinstitute.org/commentary_read.php?cid=470

NEWS FLASH...

2008-06-05T08:26:00.005-05:00

It's official, we are going to plant a Church in the west bay areas of Waveland/Bay St. Louis, Mississippi.

I have made the initial application request to the MS Baptist Convention and made contact with the local Association (please pray for this process). Whether we get any support through or from these gracious entities our plans are firm on moving to this community and starting a new Church as soon as possible. We will be spending the next few months looking for a home, job, meeting with the local association and a "rebuilding" ministry and some strategic Churches to unify our plans.

Thanks for your prayers and friendship. We are very excited about some potential places to meet (already) and the huge need for ministry in this area.

Keep up with our plans and needs here. Pray for us or even come along side us in taking the Gospel to this community.

Blessings to you!
Brian, Karen, Holly, and Joni

What to say?

2008-05-30T09:05:00.008-05:00

In the news and blog world there is everything to written about – especially politics and such. So it goes in the religious/SBC world. I really don't like commenting on politics at all. I really don't think it does any good (I do have my own opinions on politics and candidates and church leaders involved in politics, but I would rather keep them to myself or in closed company – like conversations my wife). The church, SBC, associations, etc... will always have some form of "politics" but I do not want to delve into that foray in a place (this blog) where I would rather talk about more dutiful things like discipling others and the treasure of God's word.

There is a war of words in the world today. What to say? I am certainly no master of speech and I am certainly no better than anyone in our stance before a Holy God. I am just saddened and left wondering sometimes at the comments and rhetoric of those in the world today.

May my words be productive, simple, fair, and God honoring! It makes me think of Bunyan and his desire to describe the inexpressible, desire the incomparable, and obtain the unsurpassable.

(Luke 6:45 NIV) The good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart, and the evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in his heart. For out of the overflow of his heart his mouth speaks.

Peace, Brian

Mercy and me...

2008-05-06T15:36:00.004-05:00

I have heard it said that, simply put, repentance means "to turn"...turn away from the world and the things we put before God so that we turn to Him and seek His will (which is intense). Mercy is hard to come by in today's world. Financial, family, and some Churches (yes Churches are not perfect) today are void of mercy. Even though...God is just in Judgment he is also magnificent in mercy.

Blessings, B

What positive mercies have we had! Firstly, in supplying mercy. God has been a bountiful benefactor: 'the God which fed me all my life long unto this day' (Gen. 48.15). What man will spread a table for his enemy? We have been enemies, yet God has fed us. He has given us the horn of oil. He has made the honeycomb of mercy drop on us. God has been as kind to us as if we had been his best servants. And will not this supplying mercy lead us to repentance? Secondly, in delivering mercy. When we have been at the gates of the grave, God has miraculously spun out our lives. He has turned the shadow of death into morning and has put a song of deliverance into our mouth. And will not delivering mercy lead us to repentance? The Lord has laboured to break our hearts with his mercies. In Judges, chapter 2, we read that when the angel (which was a prophet) had preached a sermon of mercy, 'the people lifted up their voice, and wept' (v. 4). If anything will move tears, it should be the mercy of God. He is an obstinate sinner indeed whom these great cable-ropes of God's mercy will not draw to repentance.

Thomas Watson, Doctrine of Repentance, p116

Don't turn back...

2008-04-18T07:47:00.004-05:00

If you are at the point of hearing the good news of Jesus Christ don't turn back. If you are at the point where the Spirit of God has brought you to an understanding of grace, mercy, and the passion of Christ to take away our sin...don't turn back. When you fully understand the depth of your sin against a Holy God...don't turn back...this is where you need to be.

It is a vain thing for me, says the sinner, to set upon repentance; my sins are of that magnitude that there is no hope for me. 'Return ye now every one from his evil way . . . And they said, There is no hope' (Jer. 18.11,12). Our sins are mountains, and how shall these ever be cast into the sea? Where unbelief represents sin in its bloody colours and God in his judge's robes, the soul would sooner fly from him than to him. This is dangerous. Other sins need mercy, but despair rejects mercy. It throws the cordial of Christ's blood on the ground. Judas was not damned only for his treason and murder, but it was his distrust of God's mercy that destroyed him. Why should we entertain such hard thoughts of God? He has bowels of love to repenting sinners (Joel 2.13). Mercy rejoices over justice. God's anger is not so hot but mercy can cool it, nor so sharp but mercy can sweeten it. God counts his mercy his glory (Exod. 33.18,19). We have some drops of mercy ourselves, but God is 'the Father of mercies' (Cor. 1.3), who begets all the mercies that are in us. He is the God of tenderness and compassion. No sooner do we mourn than God's heart melts. No sooner do our tears fall than God's repentings kindle (Hos.11.8). Do not say then that there is no hope. Disband the army of your sins, and God will sound a retreat to his judgments. Remember, great sins have been swallowed up in the sea of God's infinite compassions. Manasseh made the streets run with blood, yet when his head was a fountain of tears, God grew propitious.

Doctrine of Repentance, Thomas Watson, p.103

Don't forget the point....

2008-04-04T09:38:00.008-05:00

Repentance is refreshing for the one who loves what Christ has done for the soul. If we were to ever fully understand our status as redeemed, sometimes I think I do understand and then sometimes I don't know why I am given that place of honor - even though we are stained with sin, filthy, worthy of not saving because of God's holiness, yet scripture is clear that we are justified only by His blood.

Blessings,
Brian

Doctrine of Repentance, Thomas Watson, p.96

Such as have solemnly repented of their sins, let me speak to them by way of caution. Though repentance be so necessary and excellent, as you have heard, yet take heed that you do not ascribe too much to repentance. The papists are guilty of a double error: They make repentance a sacrament. Christ never made it so. And who may institute sacraments but he who can give virtue to them? Repentance can be no sacrament because it lacks an outward sign. A sacrament cannot properly be without a sign. The papists make repentance meritorious. They say it does ex congruo (altogether fittingly) merit pardon. This is a gross error. Indeed repentance fits us for mercy. As the plough, when it breaks up the ground, fits it for the seed, so when the heart is broken up by repentance, it is fitted for remission, but it does not merit it. God will not save us without repentance, nor yet for it. Repentance is a qualification, not a cause. I grant repenting tears are precious. They are, as Gregory said, the fat of the sacrifice; as Basil said, the medicine of the soul; and as Bernard,1 the wine of angels. But yet, tears are not satisfactory for sin. We drop sin with our tears, therefore they cannot satisfy. Augustine said well: I have read of Peter's tears, but no man ever read of Peter's satisfaction. Christ's blood only can merit pardon. We please God by repentance but we do not satisfy him by it. To trust to our repentance is to make it a saviour. Though repentance helps to purge out the filth of sin, yet it is Christ's blood that washes away the guilt of sin. Therefore do not idolize repentance. Do not rest upon this, that your heart has been wounded for sin, but rather that your Saviour has been wounded for sin. When you have wept, say with him: Lord Jesus, wash my tears in thy blood.

My Easter reflection on Luke 24...

2008-03-27T13:19:00.010-05:00

3 things to reflect on what Easter is all about.

1. Death: Jesus death had/has a purpose!

Justice: The penalty for sin was paid on the cross. Jesus was the sacrifice that took the wrath of God on himself, the wrath due us (this is justice). Romans 3:25-26
Love: He gave so we live. John 3:16

2. The 3 days. Interesting aspects/emotions of his disciples and family.

Perplexed or puzzled Luke 24:4 (what had happened to Jesus, where was he?)
Wondering or marveled Luke 24:12 (Peter saw the burial clothe and this left him wondering)
Lonely or sad Luke 24:17 ( the yet to be recognized Jesus asked the Emmaus travelers about their discussion topic and this evidently brings back the thought of Jesus before his death and the sadness of him not being among them anymore and the thought - could this Jesus not be the Redeemer, the promised Messiah?)
Troubled, doubting and disbelief Luke 24:38-41 (this has to be the most intriguing of them all. Jesus was right in front of them, proof positive, yet doubt and disbelief).

Are these not the same emotions and things we struggle with as well? Even though we see the changed lives of others and we feel God's Spirit and have His power and give testimony in word and live changed lives in full view of others. But, have doubt and disbelief in what Jesus can accomplish for us...

3. Resurrection. New life and hope.

Foundational to believing...Romans 10:9
We are assured of new life...1 Cor 15:20
With Jesus we have Peace...Luke 24:36

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Mo leverett is always able to put forth the right words and I would like to snip some from a recent article, you can read the whole article here.

The glories and the benefits of the incarnation of Christ on our behalf cannot be understated...It inaugurates the end of death, the end of sin, the end of shame, the end of darkness and the rebirth of life, holiness, and hope for the downtrodden. Those in the darkness of their own shame are enlightened by the incomparable radiance of the Easter story.

No matter where you come from, the resurrection brings hope. If a pauper in this life, the resurrection assures for you that you will be so no more! You will be crowned and robed as royalty as an adopted son of the King who rejoices over you with singing!

Easter has serious import and real profit to those who are rich as well. Not only are the benefits of Easter afforded to you, but now you have something real and lasting to invest in. A portfolio with permanence!

Easter makes the possibility of change available to all who believe in its power. The bum and prostitute prosper from Easter or even those bums who prostitute themselves for the powers and prestige of this inferior and fallen world.

If you are bleeding in the streets from oppression or inwardly hemorrhaging from abuse or neglect, Easter is for you! If you have never received the affirmation and love your soul craves then Easter is for you! If you have stumbled or faltered in all of the many ways in which all of us have, then Easter is for you!

If we are united with Christ in his death, we are also united with Him in His resurrection, and are eternally exalted!

Blessings from The Bridges Family

Do you stand on your morality?

2008-03-27T13:00:00.000-05:00

Indeed a Christian believer should be a moral person. You can be a worldly moral person but godly morality comes by obedience and faith in Christ. Morality is not the foundation of being made right with a just God and does not bring salvation.

Repentance is necessary for civil persons. These have no visible spots on them. They are free from gross sin, and one would think they had nothing to do with the business of repentance. They are so good that they scorn a psalm of mercy. Indeed these are often in the worst condition: these are they who need no repentance (Luke 15.7). Their civility undoes them. They make a Christ of it, and so on this shelf they suffer shipwreck. Morality shoots short of heaven. It is only nature refined. A moral man is but old Adam dressed in fine clothes. The king's image counterfeited and stamped upon brass will not go current. The civil person seems to have the image of God, but he is only brass metal, which will never pass for current. Civility is insufficient for salvation. Though the life be moralized, the lust may be unmortified. The heart may be full of pride and atheism. Under the fair leaves of a tree there may be a worm. I am not saying, repent that you are civil, but that you are no more than civil. Satan entered into the house that had just been swept and garnished (Luke 11.26). This is the emblem of a moral man, I who is swept by civility and garnished with he endure thus to have his name and glory trampled upon? The Lord has usually been more swift in the process of his justice against the sins of a professing people. God may reprieve this land a while by prerogative, but if ever he save it without repentance, he must go out of his ordinary road.

Thomas Watson, ch 5, Doctrine of Repentance

Consider this...

2008-03-11T13:00:00.000-05:00

Here again, Bunyan gives a piercing review of "what could be" for the person who can't or won't accept the saving grace and power of Jesus. This truly gives a dismal outlook...but on the reverse it is only joy! The joy of a free gift and safety beyond this life where the joys are few and not everlasting. Moreover, the joy of knowing that we have no value or worth to give for our own salvation - only Christ.

-Brian

The second thing I told you was this, that all the ungodly that live and die in their sins, so soon as ever they depart this life, do descend into hell. This is also verified by the words in this parable, where Christ said, He 'died and was buried, and in hell he lifted up his eyes.' As the tree falls, so it shall be, whether it be to heaven or hell (Eccl 11:3). And as Christ said to the thief on the cross, 'Today thou shalt be with me in paradise.' Even so the devil in the like manner may say unto thy soul, To-morrow shalt thou be with me in hell. See then what a miserable case he that dies in an unregenerate state is in; he departs from a long sickness to a longer hell; from the gripings of death, to the everlasting torments of hell. 'And in hell he lifted up his eyes.' Ah friends! If you were but yourselves, you would have a care of your souls; if you did but regard, you would see how mad they are that slight the salvation of their souls. O what will it profit thy soul to have pleasure in this life, and torments in hell? (Mark 8:36). Thou hadst better part with all thy sins, and pleasures, and companions, or whatsoever thou delightest in, than to have soul and body to be cast into hell. O then do not now neglect our Lord Jesus Christ, lest thou drop down to hell (Heb 2:3). Consider, would it not wound thee to thine heart to come upon thy death-bed, and instead of having the comfort of a well spent life, and the merits of the Lord Jesus Christ, together with the comforts of his glorious Spirit: to have, first, the sight of an ill-spent life, thy sins flying in thy face, thy conscience uttering itself with thunder-claps against thee, the thoughts of God terrifying of thee, death with his merciless paw seizing upon thee, the devils standing ready to scramble for thy soul, and hell enlarging herself, and ready to swallow thee up; and an eternity of misery and torment attending upon thee, from which there will be no release.

John Bunyan, A Few Sighs from Hell, verse 23

Words of Watson...

2008-03-05T08:35:00.007-06:00

I find myself some days forgetting the price paid. Don't we all, as soon as a debt is paid the feeling is wonderful, joyful for getting past the worry and the feeling of being overpowered by a balance due. Our liability to Christ should never end though. He should be due our gratitude forever.

Blessings, Brian

Thomas Watson, Doctrine of Repentance, Chapter Six

Let me in the next place persuade you to this great duty of repentance. Sorrow is good for nothing but sin. If you shed tears for outward losses, it will not advantage you. Water for the garden, if poured in the sink, does no good. Powder for the eye, if applied to the arm, is of no benefit. Sorrow is medicinable for the soul, but if you apply it to worldly things it does no good. Oh that our tears may run in the right channel and our hearts burst with sorrow for sin!

It is not so much to endear us to Christ as to endear Christ to us. Till sin be bitter, Christ will not be sweet.

Spurgeon has a way with words...

2008-02-27T07:34:00.002-06:00

“Yet,” says Moses, “though we are always changing, Lord, thou hast been our dwelling-place throughout all generations.” The Christian knows no change with regard to God. He may be rich to-day and poor to-morrow; he may be sickly to-day and well to-morrow; he may be in happiness to-day, to-morrow he may be distressed-but there is no change with regard to his relationship to God. If he loved me yesterday, he loves me to-day. My unmoving mansion of rest is my blessed Lord. Let prospects be blighted; let hopes be blasted; let joy be withered; let mildews destroy everything; I have lost nothing of what I have in God. He is “my strong habitation whereunto I can continually resort.” I am a pilgrim in the world, but at home in my God. In the earth I wander, but in God I dwell in a quiet habitation.

Morning by Morning, Charles Spurgeon

Are you a betting man?

2008-02-25T08:18:00.009-06:00

Pretentousness is not the source of my post. But reading Bunyan I stop to think about something. As strange at it sounds, if the unbeliever would just look at what COULD be in their future as it is described in God's word, and then look at the alternative...would he think it to have better odds with accepting the Gospel of Christ?

John Bunyan: "A Few Sighs from Hell"

Why friend, it may be, nay twenty to one, but thou hast been, ever since thou didst come into the world, with thy back towards heaven, and thy face towards hell; and thou, it may be, either through ignorance or carelessness, which is as bad, if not worse, hast been running full hastily that way ever since. Why friend? I beseech thee put a little stop to thy earnest race, and take a view of what entertainment thou art like to have, if thou do in deed and in truth persist in this thy course. Friend, thy way leads 'down to death,' and thy 'steps take hold on hell' (Pro_5:5). It may be the path indeed is pleasant to the flesh, but the end thereof will be bitter to thy soul. Hark, dost thou not hear the bitter cries of them that are but newly gone before, saying, Let him 'dip the tip of his finger in water, and cool my tongue; for I am tormented in this flame?' (Luk_16:24). Dost thou not hear them say, Send out from the dead, to prevent my father, my brother, and my father's house, from coming 'into this place of torment?' Shall not then these mournful groans pierce thy flinty heart? Wilt thou stop thine ears, and shut thy eyes? And wilt thou not regard?

Take warning and stop thy journey before it be too late. Wilt thou be like the silly fly, that is not quiet unless she be either entangled in the spider's web, or burned in the candle? Wilt thou be like the bird that hasteth to the snare of the fowler? Wilt thou be like that simple one named in the seventh of Proverbs, that will be drawn to the slaughter by the cord of a silly lust? O sinner, sinner, there are better things than hell to be had, and at a cheaper rate by the thousandth part! O! there is no comparison, there is heaven, there is God, there is Christ, there is communion with an innumerable company of saints and angels. Hear the message then that God doth send, that Christ doth send, that saints do bring, nay, that the dead do send unto thee: 'I pray thee, therefore, that thou wouldst send him to my father's house'; 'if one went unto them from the dead they would repent.'

Quietness and Majesty...

2008-02-16T19:55:00.008-06:00

The picture above (the header image) is from a place where we have camped out twice. It is Tickfaw State Park in Springfield, Louisiana. The path is from one of a few places in the park that you can walk and experience bayous, swamps, and river areas. Here is another...yeah I know who wants to camp in a swamp. Actually, it is quite serene. There is wildlife, swamps, beautiful Oak, and Cypress trees.

Our most recent visit we camped in our new tent. It was supposed to be high 40's for the overnight low but ended up being 40 and possibly high 30's. We were cold. The girls love to think about how the early pioneers did it and that night they really felt it.

The next day we spent some time riding and I explored the trails again and found a great spot to just sit and be quiet. I really felt like I needed to be "alone" with God. I spend time alone at home and other places but this was unique. In the middle of the swamp I found the Majesty of God. Just a few minutes praying and soaking up the quietness I felt so much closer to the Majesty of God by experiencing his creation. As I sat on the rock path with my bike I could see the radiance and feel the warmness of the sun come through the forest.

Romans 1:20 NIV For since the creation of the world God's invisible qualities-his eternal power and divine nature-have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that men are without excuse.

The point is...spend time alone with your creator, moreover spend it in a place that exalts his Majesty. Find a place where you can get quiet and pray. Find a place where the complexity of things (such as nature) brings out His Majesty. Oh yes, even in the swamps there is beauty.

James 4:8 NIV Come near to God and he will come near to you...

Grace versus...

2008-02-07T07:11:00.000-06:00

Have you seen the story yet about an american woman being arrested in Saudi Arabia for going to a Starbucks with co-workers after a power outage in her building? See FOX story here...

A couple of things come to mind:

1. I am glad for religious liberty in this great country and for Grace.

Eph 2:8-9 NASB For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not as a result of works, so that no one may boast.

2. God works through me - by His Word and Spirit to change me - there is no need for "religious police".

Heb 4:12 NASB For the word of God is living and active and sharper than any two-edged sword, and piercing as far as the division of soul and spirit, of both joints and marrow, and able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart.

What do you think about when you see this?

Blessings,
Brian

What is important?

2008-02-04T09:07:00.000-06:00

I want to comment after reading an interview between Dr Al Mohler and Les Puryear. Dr Mohler is a very articulate man and he is always able to get me thinking. The interview has many expected questions about Theology and denominational issues. However, the last question stuck with me the most.

Question: Is there anything that I haven't asked you that you would like to say to the people of the SBC and to small church leaders as well?

Dr. Mohler's Response: I would just hope, Les, that as we think about our convention we'd remember that it is a convention of churches. The most important thing is not what happens in the denomination's agencies and entities, it's what happens in local churches. If we do not have faithful, vibrant, scriptural, evangelistic, missions passionate local churches, then the denomination won't matter. If we do have those healthy churches, everything else will fall into place. That's what I hope to see and encouraged for the future. See full interview here

Dr Mohler is well known for being a supporter of the family. He is a council member on the Center for Biblical Manhood and Womanhood. I am sure he would agree when I say that it goes even further. Just beyond the Church I think the most important place is the home.

Where do we spend a majority of our time? Where do our kids get their personal theology from? My suggestion is if we can't have a "faithful, vibrant, scriptural, evangelistic, missions passionate HOME then how are we going to get it into the Church?

I think every believer should create an environment in their home that fosters these aspects of a Christian life. Here are a few things to think about.

The Sufficiency of Scripture:

When I speak of the sufficiency of scripture, I refer to the fact that the Bible is the final authority in all matters of faith and practice. (Deuteronomy 4:2; 12:32; Proverbs 30:6; 2 Timothy 3:16-17; Hebrews 1:1-2; 2 Peter 1:20-21; Revelation 22:19).

Family Discipleship:

While the church is called to make disciples, it is clear that God has given the family as the primary discipling agent. Children are entrusted to parents for their spiritual nurture (Genesis 12:8; Deuteronomy 6:4-9; Psalm 78:5-8; Psalm 113:3; Ephesians 6:1-4; II Tim. 3:14-15). God has given clearly defined roles to men and women in the home and in the church. While these roles have come under attack in our culture, God has not changed. Christians should embrace, teach, and celebrate these roles. (I Corinthians 16:13-14; I Kings 2:1-3; Proverbs 31, 12:4; Titus 2:3-5; I Tim 5:14).

A Biblical View of Conversion:

We should desire to see true conversion. We constantly proclaim and explain the gospel, and take our time with people struggling to understand what it means to follow Christ (Romans 3:23; 5:8; 10:9-14; Ephesians 2:1-10; Matthew 7:21-23; Luke 6:46; 2 Corinthians 13:5, etc).

Christ Exalting Worship:

One thing is sure, we are to engage in Christ exalting worship through praying, preaching, Scripture reading, singing, giving, honoring and obeying God (John 4:23-24; Romans 12:1-2; 1 Corinthians 14:15; Ephesians 5:18-20; Philippians 2:9-11; Colossians 3:16).

Biblical Worldview:

Christianity is not merely a religion, it is also a lifestyle, a philosophy; a worldview. We are to think biblically about every aspect of our lives (Romans 12:1-2; II Corinthians 10:5-6; Colossians 2:8; 1 Peter 1:14-16).

Biblical Community:

The Church is not a building, but a community of believers. As such, we are to live in fellowship and community with one another. We must do more than just occupy pews near each other on a weekly basis to call ourselves a church.(Matthew 18:15-18; Romans 12:3-18; Acts 2:41-47; 4:32-35; 6:1-7; Hebrews 13:17)

Missional Calling:

We must intentionally reach out to the lost in our community, our country and around the world by investing our lives and resources in missions and ministry as well as planting new churches (Matthew 28:19-20; John 20:21; Acts 1:8; Acts 17; 1 Peter 2:9).

Blessings,
Brian

A wonderful day...

2008-02-01T09:36:00.000-06:00

Yesterday we celebrated a birthday. Our oldest daughter - Holly. She turned 12 and is on her way to being a young lady.

Karen, JoniBeth and I sneeked in to her room early in the morning and softly sang her a happy birthday song. It was wonderful to see her open her eyes to a new day. I thought of the day I first held her and she opened her eyes for the first time. I remember as I tried to hold back the tears but for some reason I could not. I was not used to crying but it was one of the most memorable moments of my life. Last night we read a Psalm and prayed with tears, for her growth and for God giving her to us. Not just for growth as a young lady (which her Mother does a super God honoring job of) but also as a young Christ follower. She is truly a blessing. She has a heart for missions. She can meet someone from the poorest neighborhood to the richest and they are the same to her. She loves God and is not afraid to tell you...God thank you for Holly.

Deu 6:5-7 NASB "(5)You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might. (6) "These words, which I am commanding you today, shall be on your heart. (7) "You shall teach them diligently to your sons and shall talk of them when you sit in your house and when you walk by the way and when you lie down and when you rise up.

For the survival of families today we need to be diligent in teaching God's word to our families. I pray that you will spend some time at the dinner table or before bed and read God's word aloud and let it sink in to the hearts of your children.

Blessings, Brian

Birth and Rebirth...

2008-01-24T09:06:00.000-06:00

Today I am reflecting on two Churches that are on my heart. Please pray for authentic revival, worship, and the work of His Spirit.

First - LifeTree Church in Hiram, GA. This is a new church "plant" that Karen and I have been a part of since February 2007. We have spent a lot of time praying for this community and getting to know several wonderful friends in the birth of this awesome new body of believers. I recently traveled to Dallas, GA to help with the launch of LifeTree during the very first practice service.

(You can see the images here).

The birth of LifeTree actually happened a while back when we began meeting in our homes and studying God's word together. However, the unveiling of LifeTree in a meeting place was wonderful in itself as well. We came together as believers with a mission. A mission to teach our families and spread the Gospel message. We started with the bare minimums - used sound equipment, borrowed chairs, school gymnasium, and self-printed brochures. Yet, the best thing we had was the power of an awesome God. In Acts, just as the "Church" is birthed God sent HIS Spirit to clothe the Apostles and missionaries with HIS power. I believe that this same power was working during this service and is available for us today. We were expecting little results since this was just a practice service and we had not promoted it in any way except by word of mouth. However, several families from the community came including a man (with wife and child) who is a professed Buddhist. LifeTree was birthed giving God glory for his work in the Paulding County area. Isn't it wonderful to be surprised by the work of God? (a fringe benefit)

Second - First Baptist Church of Saint Rose, LA. I recently spoke with the current Pastor (via email) who is helping this church to be "rebirthed". The church lost members due to the effects of Katrina. Mainly, the children and youth ministries of the Church have slid off because of lack of interest. The interim pastor is looking for a "team" of ministers to come in and help revive the small church - a real rebirth.

I do not doubt a revival. Believe it or not there are hints of revival happening right now (yes only hints, just the surface layer of conversation with Church leaders) I have talked with at least 3 other Pastors in the southern Louisiana/NOLA area about what seems to be happening in their Churches. What I do know is:

New believers are coming to the Churches in great numbers since the storm
The legacy membership of Churches are begging for change and have a "do whatever it takes to stay alive" kind of attitude.

No doubt that the effects of losing everything you have and seeing friends and others leave has had an effect on the body of Christ. Forsaking all for the Glory of God is much easier when you seem to have nothing to forsake. When you are down to the bare minimum in family, friends, sustenance, and leadership. Why does it have to be this way?

The lesson here is to forsake it all now. Should we not as Christians? As believers - if you see the power of God move in your life, your Church, or your family should you not forsake it all? Did they not forsake all they had at the birth of the Church in Acts?

Act 2:41-45 NASB So then, those who had received his word were baptized; and that day there were added about three thousand souls. (42) They were continually devoting themselves to the apostles' teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. (43) Everyone kept feeling a sense of awe; and many wonders and signs were taking place through the apostles. (44) And all those who had believed were together and had all things in common; (45) and they began selling their property and possessions and were sharing them with all, as anyone might have need.

I am not asking you to go out and sell all your worldly belongings. What I am saying is that just as these believers saw the awesome POWER of GOD moving and changing lives the worldly things just didn't seem as important anymore. That's what has happened in this area of Southern LA. Take away those things that were once important, a house, a car, a neighbor, a job, a friend, and where do you end up? Right now, there are a lot people realizing again that God does matter and when everything is stripped away - we find ourselves right where God wants us - seeking HIM.

Blessings,
Brian

What is your discipleship mindset?

2008-01-15T07:54:00.000-06:00

The person who wrote this piece below is unknown to me. His name is Jeremy Pryor. I found his blog recently and noticed he has some very intriguing thoughts on the way Churches and ministries today "do business". The analogy to the military is great! It certainly makes me think about my methods and purpose. A clip is below but you can read the whole thing here.

...if discipleship is the mission, then is it appropriate to build ministries that are detached from that central mission? Feeding the poor with no strategy to disciple them. Building Christian community apart from a clear discipleship process. Launching a worship service as the primary goal of the church instead of making disciples. Isn’t this the problem?
Isn’t this the reason the country with the most ministries, the most churches, the most seminaries is having a decreasing impact on the lives of professing Christians? What if 100% of people involved in ministry in the United States only continued if their ministry was structured and driven by the goal of making disciples. I believe 95% of them would cease to exist. And then what would happen? Those gifted people would be forced to reconstitute their ministries in alignment with our mission. The food kitchen worker would only continue if they worked hand in glove with those willing to pour time into these souls not just food into stomachs. Imagine the worship leaders, prayer warriors and mercy ministers all coordinating their efforts in line with an intentional discipleship process that actually transformed people’s lives. Imagine the massive change this would create and the Kingdom fruit that would result.
But who wants to design a coordinated focussed attack around a clear mission when we can all simply group up with people who share a like-minded passion for a mini-mission? It would be like in war where all the pilots went to one battlefield, the mechanics to another, and the fuel supply to a third. When they begin to fail at their mission and the general tries to bring them into alignment or orders them to disband they might cry out “But what we’re doing is so important.”. Yes, but it’s not as important as the mission and you’ve been given gifts and training for the purpose of the mission.

Thoughts on change of mission...

2008-01-04T08:02:00.000-06:00

Reading of the relationship of Paul, John-Mark, and Barnabas I am intrigued by the events that transpired between them (disagreements) but mainly by the plain fact that both teams of Paul/Barnabas and Paul/Silas were going in one direction with unity and passion - then for certain reasons the mission changes.

First, the events in Acts have Paul and Barnabas going out to plant churches in unity and suddenly they get to a point of disagreement (Acts 15:36). Barnabas wants to bring John-Mark along and Paul does not. At this time, due to this disagreement, they are split and Paul proceeds on with Silas. This seems like a very harsh thing on the surface but it results in the planting of other churches (a multiplication event). In Timothy (2 Tim 4:11), we see that Paul has been reconciled with Mark and considers him a capable and useful worker.

Secondly, as Paul and Silas start out on their mission they seem to have great momentum and then the Holy Spirit stops them from going where they evidently fully believe they should have been going.

Why would God have us for the past nine months get prepared to plant, pray for a community of people, envision dreams of ministry and a new Church, spend almost $2000 in preparation for moving and buying a home and in the end not grant us the ability to integrate in this venture (unable to purchase 2 homes and applied for over 100 jobs)? We do not have any disagreements or issues with anyone from LifeTree Church.

Once again, looking at the scripture I can only see that as a result of this process the planting momentum is being multiplied. Could it be that we should be taking this vision of "Family discipling" and planting this vision here as well? Not sure yet but it is worth seeking more guidance as we seek to stay in God's will. As I read a recent post from Mo Leverett, I could only feel a closeness to him as he talked of broken and shattered dreams. I think this says it all...it is through pain that God purges the yielded of inferior affections and shows Himself the only deserving object of our primary passion. For that purging, that pruning...I am thankful - yes thankful even for shattered dreams. (Full Post here)

Any thoughts?

Please pray for our family,
In His service
Brian

Christmas Update...

2007-12-10T10:15:00.000-06:00

Well...the house purchase has collapsed. Changes to VA requirements won't allow us to close until we are in GA and are able to show that I have a current job. Which is another concern...I have put in well over 100 applications and have not had any serious requests. Actually, I have had only 3 calls and only 1 fit my experience - not very good percentages.

We are having some confusion right now so please continue to pray for us. I will be continuing with my Masters Degree (MDiv in Urban Missions) and continue to work on campus for the time being. Just pray for unity in the call - whether it's to Georgia or Louisiana.

Otherwise, we have finally set out a tree and our decorations for Christmas. We are trying to keep the Joy in this time of celebrating the birth of a savior to the world! We hope and pray you are able to have real Joy as well - in the only person that can bring true peace and joy!

Blessings to you!
Brian and Karen

Update...

2007-11-21T08:53:00.000-06:00

Well I am finished writing my papers, we are preparing for graduation, and waiting on the final approval to close on our new home in Dallas, Georgia. Karen and I are very excited about another move and even more excited about finally getting to a place where we will be "settling in".

This week I am thankful for grace and new mercies every day for a terrible "self-driven" man like myself. I am thankful that God continues to work with me even though I don't put Him first in everything I do...I pray that my life will reflect His glory and not my worthless thoughts.

We are thankful for the resources God gives us. We are thankful for His guidance. We are thankful for Him being a proactive and engaging God. We are thankful for how He rescues the poor. We are thankful for Him giving and sending Jesus the Christ.

Please pray for us as we transition once again and may God bless you as you search for Him with all your heart, soul, and mind...

The Bridges

Family Theme...

2007-10-26T07:47:00.000-05:00

What is a Family Integrated Church?

To be honest...about 8 months ago I was not sure either what this meant. Karen and I were more accustomed to a more "traditional" model of church where there are "ministries" for each age group which includes children, youth, adults and then each may have sub-minsitries also.

Well, a church based on a "family" model is typically called a "Family Integrated Church". One of the major aspects of a FIC is that you will not find any "age segregated" ministries. Some FIC's you might find will typically lean towards a "primitive baptist" background (with others mixed in) and a majority will not use music as a part of the worship service (they will sing hymns, etc...).

However, other churches (like us) use modern musical instruments in a more "typical" worship service - except that children will be in the service (families with little babies have the option of going to a feeding room during the service). The sermons will also be created and preached with children and families in mind. Preaching will be expository by book mainly (verse by verse) but there will be some themed sermons. Moreover, another important focus of a FIC is that all discipleship is done through the family and mainly we would place this responsibility on the family leader. This would typically be a father but we are sure there will be other families that have, for example, only mothers leading the home spiritually - this was not uncommon in biblical times either. (1)

So, this might help you in understanding where LifeTree is headed in being a Family Integrated Church. Now, we have a lot of documents that our lead planter has created with complex theological aspects that you are more than welcome to read - but this is just a simple overview of our heart towards the importance of "family" in the Church and moreover the whole idea of discipling one another through the family (mentoring, wives helping wives, men helping men, married men teaching single men, etc...).

Thanks for visiting...blessings!

Brian

(1) Lydia in Acts 16:13-15 was the leader of her household and one of the first churches planted was through her family being saved.

What do I do now?

2007-10-02T13:52:00.001-05:00

Reflecting back on the 1st Century Church - do we struggle to understand what the "Church" is apart from Sunday and Wednesday services like they struggled with what a Church was outside the temple building?

I think the answer is YES!

I believe programs become the identity of the church and thus it doesn't portray the real Church or body of Christ. Some have called the Church "a shallow place of sound-bite greetings"..."where pride separates us from the real issue of confessing and weeping over the sin in our lives."(1)

Discipleship is a life-engrossing process not just something that happens Sunday at 10:00 and Wednesday at 7:00. I can offer to you that this is what Karen and I long for at LifeTree. We don't want the life-changing message of the Gospel to be reduced to some hypocrisy because others don't see us the same way - because we won't "walk the talk".

A few weeks ago we had a staff and family meeting at the home of Steve and Missy Perry (part of the core group and staff). We had a great time eating, rolling down Steven's awesome front lawn (the kids mainly did this - see picture above), but also had a great time meeting the neighbors. The purpose of LifeTree is not to segregate ourselves from our children in fellowship but to integrate them and others whether they are single, divorced, or whatever. We will not have age segregated activities - the family will be the basis for everything we do - teaching, learning scripture, and most of all discipleship. Sounds strange huh?

Well, I plan to write more on this subject as the time draws near to our launch date on Easter of 2008. Please continue to pray for us, the core group, and the community of Paulding County, GA.

Blessings,
Brian

(1) Uniting Church and Home, Eric Wallace

Sometimes I wonder...

2007-09-19T07:31:00.000-05:00

I ask myself do my kids really understand what the Gospel means?

My youngest who is six, can say things back to us just like we teach her. Every so often she says something "from the heart" and it helps us to know she is starting to understand who Jesus is. However, about a week ago my oldest daughter (who is almost 12 and accepted Christ about a year ago) came in to the Kitchen one evening to help with some cleanup.

While working she started singing an old familiar tune - to me at least - Amazing Grace! Now, remember I said she is 12. We generally listen to more upbeat Christian music like TobyMac, SuperChick, David Crowder and even some HipHop. When we are having devotion or Church at home we will play something like Hillsong. I know she has heard the song before but I asked her - Why are you singing that song?

Her response: I don't know I just like it. Yep - typical response from a 12 year old...maybe.

I hope the words really do mean something to her. I hope that now as she sings Amazing Grace she understands and is reminded how amazing GRACE really is...

Blessings
Brian

Need a laugh?

2007-09-07T08:54:00.000-05:00

Ok here it is. This is where I always find a pretty good laugh. Watch some of the awesome videos here...Will It Blend?

Peace - B

NOLA in black and white...

2007-08-28T15:01:00.001-05:00

There is an article that has come across the news and it is about a terrible subject. Yes there are problems in New Orleans and there will probably always be problems in New Orleans. The article really paints a picture of dispair and hopelessness. Another negative for NOLA. It is about race relations in the city now that we are at the 2 year mark of Katrina. You can read the article here. What makes me write is a statement like this:

"This is a wholly preventable crisis. It does not have to happen,"..."If the federal government, which is the only entity that has the resources we need to fix the problems that we have - if they swiftly and effectively begin to address the issues of housing and joblessness and lack of health care, it would pull the rug out from under racial resentment". [Lance Hill, executive director of the Southern Institute for Education and Research at Tulane University]

1. The government is not going to solve race issues in this city.

2. The Gospel will solve this issue.

Want proof?

I have worked for several organizations over the last 3 years that spread the Gospel throughout this city and it does so in the worst drug ridden, murder stricken parts of the city. You know what - every one of these ministries are run by and with all sorts of races.

a. Desire Street Ministries, started by Mo Leverett 16+ years ago (a white guy and Presbyterian too) which ministers to teenagers and families in the 9th ward of New Orleans. The school is now based in Baton Rouge (since Katrina) but the ministry is now in the process of starting other ministries which will be building homes and apartments so that families can return and repopulate the empty 9th ward. Mo has started another faith based ministry that is replicating the original model of volunteer coaching, tutoring in the New Orleans public schools, having Bible study with the students and giving them an option over the 9th ward legacy. It is listed below as ReBirth. Guess who is running this multi million annual ministry now? Heisman Trophy winner Danny Wuerffel - another white guy who has the passion for telling others about his radical change through the Gospel. Young black kids look up to Danny and moreover look up to a Jewish man whose radical teachings changed their lives. That's what the Gospel can do!

b. CURE NOLA, (Churches United for Revitilazation and Evengelism) Local pastors in the 9th ward banding together with a vision for a new community based on the Gospel. That is what the Gospel can do!

c. ReBirth International, Mo Leverett founded this ministry after Katrina. Mo now works with some of the original students he ministered to that accepted Christ back in the early days of Desire Street. These men have families and businesses and they live daily with Christ leading them - not the 9th ward culture. One man now owns a prominant sandwich franchise and he is able to give scholarships to youth for education. Another man dedicates his time to coaching in the local public school, Bible studies, and having real mentoring relationships with the kids. That's what the Gospel can do!

d. CDC 58:12, A community building project. Ben McLiesh, Executive Director of Desire Street, and also a white guy - runs this non-profit and works directly with local families and the pastors of CURENOLA. They have a vision to build or rebuild homes and apartments in the devastated 9th ward. That is what the Gospel can do!

e. Lastly St Roch Community Church, a multicultural community church taking the Gospel to the streets.

*******UPDATE*******

f. Not to leave out any SBC involvement - I have to note that First Baptist Church New Orleans and Franklin Avenue Baptist Church have been meeting together since shortly after KATRINA. Franklin Avenue is a multicultural majority black SBC church and FBC New Orleans is a multicultural majority white SBC church. Additionally, the Church Karen and I attend (Gentilly Baptist) - when I am not preaching or we are doing home or "in the city" Bible study - is a multicultural church that was formed from two churches affected by the hurricane.

*******UPDATE********

I encourage you to check out the links and see what the Gospel can do for real race relations.

From my perspective, race relations is not bad at all. Black, white, latino, whatever...they are all working under one banner. What is the difference? The Gospel!

Peace, B

Must read about Faith and Mother Theresa

2007-08-23T16:24:00.000-05:00

Whatever your background, there is a article written about a new book which is based on the private writings of Mother Theresa. Read the full article, I left this breathless and ready to read the book. I don't normally read TIME or go to their web site but it splashed across DRUDGE REPORT I think...it is very thought provoking and I think really shows the profound humbleness, faith driven, Christocentric life she lived and also shows that the giants of faith have sometimes serious questions and issues with their daily walk. What do you think?

http://www.time.com/time/world/article/0,8599,1655415,00.html

Peace - Brian

Soft dirt...

2007-08-14T16:31:00.000-05:00

If you are not aware, here in New Orleans the city is pretty much built on a big 'ol marsh pit. As a matter of fact when you drive in from the east or west side of New Orleans you drive over bayous beside the Lake Ponchatrain. As you are driving you can see all the swampy aspects of the bayous and then all of a sudden you are in the city. It's like water, water, water - wham - dirt, streets, buildings, City of New Orleans!

Now, this should give you a small picture of what lies beneath the dirt we do have. Which brings me to the subject of the post. Walking across campus today I can see across the street a pile-driver. Most of the time they drive in pipes or girders, but in this case they are using basically telephone poles. They have to do this in NOLA to create some structure for laying a slab foundation.

The amazing thing is that within about 1 minute (I stood and counted) they drive this telephone pole into the ground. You can feel the ground pound on each whack. We got some soft dirt here. Of course in my mind I can't help but to think about the analogy of how the people of New Orleans and the world are living on "soft dirt", shaky ground, sinking sand, anything except the Solid Rock of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. It amazes me to look around at all the buildings, the cars, the people and how we are able to live out our daily lives walking and riding on this soft dirt. I mean they are putting telephone poles into the ground like it's quicksand.

This is such amazing imagery of how we live our lives. Without sure footing, or a solid foundation we are all on soft dirt. The best built, most beautiful structures will crumble if it's not on a solid base. We can go every day believing that we are safe, believing that we will have what the world offers us. It comforts me to know that I can walk on this soft dirt every day and even though I fear some things of this world I know I am anchored on the Rock of the Ages.

Peace! -B

My devotion time with Psalm 4...

2007-08-08T07:45:00.000-05:00

I am spending time in the Psalms. As a way to help me express my thoughts on paper I am reading my devotion and re-writing it out as a paraphrase or summary. This is not meant to be exegetical work or commentary. It is meant to help me soak up God's word and enhance my devotion time. Blessings! -Brian

Say something father when I shout for you, when I pray at night in distress. My Lord, you have already found me clean and pure, yet I continue to ask myself about those who evidently don't believe there is a God. How long will the people continue to mock me as a believer in a Holy God? How long will the poeple make terribly false and ridiculous comments about me as a believer in a Holy God. How long will the people continue to chase lies? I see, hear, and deal with things daily that hurt me and make me think about my worldly status.

However, the poeple can be certain of a few things! This Holy God has set apart the obediant believers in Him, the godly people, for himself. This Holy God will answer my shouts for distress. Don't let evil take control over you by getting angry. I should take this advice to heart myself. Ponder the thoughts through the night and stay guiet.

Sacrifice some time to a Holy God as praise and simply trust in Him that he holds the whole world in his hands. Some poeple say, "isn't there something better than that?" God's word says just smile and let God's work in your life show them the answer is NO. If you want, tell them that this transformation by knowing a Holy God has given you more happiness than a big paycheck and lots of possessions. Tell them how you lay down at night and sleep like a baby. Why? Because the one and only Holy God, my Lord, keeps me safe!

Church in the Park...

2007-07-31T13:38:00.000-05:00

Recently, we have been a part of something new (for us at least). I mean, people meeting for church in small groups wherever they can find a place happens all over the world. However, for us this is a new occurence. Karen and I are used to "having church" in a steepled building, classrooms, music, etc... For the past month though, we have been meeting together with others in our home and this last week we had a time of worship in the Peristyle on the grounds of New Orleans City Park (which by the way at 1300 acres is bigger than New York's Central Park at 840+).

It was awesome!

It actually gave me the feeling of a real 1st Century Church event. A friend and Pastor who works as a zone manager for NAMB's Operation NOAH, brought the Word, we prayed, all the kids were settled enough to stay repsectful during the time of worship. It was hot, the city park tour train whistled by and there were people walking around the building and before it was over we had a neighborhood community association setting up barbecue grills about 30 feet from us during our prayer time. They invited us to stay but we declined, maybe next time. There is a great need for rebirth in New Orleans. We will be back though, our plan is to continue on this path until we feel God leading us back to a local church or until December (I will graduate then and we have accepted a position with a new church plant called LifeTree Church).

This "style" is what we will be building on in Georgia. Worship and study times will be family oriented and include all family members. Our girls have really likened up to this "model" especially when we keep it going through the week. There again, this "model" has been going on since the early church and even before that. Nonetheless, little things like devotional Bible studies or watching a season of episodes of Little House on the Prarie and discussing any scriptural teaching that arises have helped us and them out tremendously when we do fellowship with other families like this.

More later. Thanks to all of you who keep up with us. Please continue to pray for us as I start my last semester and we start to look for homes and a job in Paulding County.

Blessings,
Brian

LifeTree update...

2007-07-09T09:42:00.000-05:00

This last weekend we met with a person (Kent Caperton) regarding coming to lead worship at LifeTree. It was awesome and I would like to ask that you pray for this person and his wife.

Kent and his wife Jessica are preparing to have their first child. She will be born with a rare heart condition that is called Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome (HLHS) - (the left side of the heart is not forming). Basically, the baby will go through 2 surgerys before it's 6 months old and then another at age 3. Because of the seriousness of this condition, the Capertons will be in Boston in late August and will stay there till at least the first of October. It may even be longer depending on the surgery.

Pray that Kent and Jessica will have safe travel to Boston from New Orleans.
Pray that Julianne’s birth is safe and without complications.
Pray that Julianne’s heart is miraculously healed by God.
Pray for the surgeons, doctors, nurses, and other care givers that they will perfectly provide the care the Caperton’s need.
Pray for the Caperton family, that they will receive God’s comfort; that they will find a support network in a strange city; that God will be glorified by the birth of Julianne; and finally, that they will discern God’s call to ministry (Kent recently graduated from New Orleans Baptist Seminary and is praying for God’s direction in ministry).

-------------------------------------------------------

Additionally, we had an official meeting of the elders of LifeTree Church. This too went well. We spent about 3 hours going over milestone checklist and tasking each other with future event items.

We have the "blueprint" online now which gives everyone an overview of the community, the needs, and where we are going.

We need partners!

We need prayer partners kneeling before God for the building of His Kingdom through the formation of LifeTree Church.
We need servant partners. Review our blueprint and consider coming to Dallas, GA to help in the community.
We need financial partners. Consider giving towards the purchase of equipment or being a monthly supporter.

Thanks for keeping up with us...we love you all!

LifeTree Church - Where Strong Families are Grown

Summer is no fun....

2007-06-27T07:26:00.000-05:00

Rather, I am not getting to have fun this summer.

I just finished a research paper for my first summer class (Theological issues in the NT). Now, I am off to read let's see, 280, 330, 250...oh lets just say between 800-900 pages for my next 2 classes in July. I know, I can hear it now...stop your whinin...yeah I will when this is all over.

Please continue to pray for us as we prepare for Georgia. We have made one trip already looking at homes. We are excited but the tasks are already picking up for the church. We are making final preps for preview services beginning in Sep/Oct. We have made the final prospectus for distribution to partners. We will begin looking at equipment as God provides the funds and we all are settling in to our positions well as we sense more on how God wants us to reach the community of Dallas, GA. I will post again when our Prospectus is available online (it will be linked from our main page: http://www.lifetreechurch.org).

Blessings to everyone that spends time keeping up with us, we love you all, thanks for praying, oh and love you neighbor today.

Brian, Karen, Holly, and Joni

School is out...

2007-05-17T10:31:00.000-05:00

Not much more to say. Karen and the kids are wrapping up school and I am done for the semester. We will have a few weeks to relax (together) then I will have a workshop May 28 - June 1 and then I have a double workshop July 16-20. We will be traveling some during the summer to Paulding County, Georgia to pray, see communities, homes and get prepared for the move after graduation in December.

We will also be in Mississippi speaking at our home Church about our plans and possibly being a partner with us. During the past month we have had several (at least 3) Churches decide to partner with us - supporting us with prayer and financially.

Thanks for you prayers, love and encouragement!

Brian, Karen, Holly, and Joni...

My idea of Church...

2007-05-16T10:41:00.000-05:00

Here are some thoughts on what my idea (and mine only) of what LifeTree Church is about...

You will probably notice that LifeTree has a focus on being a Family friendly Church. **ATTENTION** Please be advised that our primary and only goal is to be a God glorifying Church that preaches the Gospel of Jesus Christ. However, I want to just throw out some points of discussion on my convictions of what a "Family Church" is...

Children (toddlers, youth, whatever...) need to be incorporated into the "service" (because to them initially that is what it is) without disrupting the worship, but ultimately bring them to the point of knowing what "worship" is. Therefore, a basic goal is for a child to not merely confess "I want to be baptized," but to have a faith that is based on a genuine experience with the Spirit of God. Parents (single, married, together, etc...) should be active worshippers and be able to "live and breathe" a lifestyle of worship so that our children can see it all the time not just at 10:00 on Sundays. Prayer, devotions, teachable moments (outside the Church) are very important. A college professor taught us that to learn something we have to get it from our "Heads" to our "Hearts" and then our "Hands". It's going from seeing and thinking to believing and doing. A true experience with God, seeing it lived out with family on a daily basis is our goal!

Additionally, I do not believe in isolating children from the parents responsibility to "raise them in the ways of the Lord". This can apply to anyone, the homeschooler who is separated from others in the community (we homeschool and love it, but we are not against our children being in public school), the public-schooler (is this a word?) that is not assisted in their studies and left to learn everything they can by just being in school for that period of time from 9-3, or even a private christian-shooler that is not allowed to do other secular activities (etc...).

I am suggesting there is a balance. Being "on-mission" means I have to be a part of this culture. I remember a pastor once saying "your boat has to be in the water just don't let the water in the boat".

As a matter of fact, I think this should apply for anyone who attends LifeTree, we want everyone to have a real experience in knowing Jesus Christ.

Blessings...

Some parts adapted from "Children and the House Church" by Herb Drake

Can I get a witness?

2007-05-03T12:14:00.000-05:00

Last Sunday, while worshipping at Gentilly Baptist (http://www.gentillychurch.org). I had one of the most memorable times so far since returning to NOLA.

Let me just proclaim...I believe in the power of testimony! I was humbled and overjoyed, I laughed and cried. The power of testimony is a great thing. It is God Glorifying and church edifying.

Two older ladies got up, spoke of the love and joy they have experienced in the worst disaster of their life. I don't know about you, but when I see a person, crying, giving testimony to the power of Christ in her life based on the deeds of other believers, I am amazed. I think scripture will affirm that we should be bold with our testimony, don't be afraid, proclaim the Gospel through your testimony, yet guard the message in you heart.

It is a proof, an evidence of the power and transforming capability of the Holy Spirit and Jesus Christ in the lives of mission workers and those that come here from all over the world. We should not be afraid to tell others of our testimony and of course the Gospel of Christ.

Even as our testimony changes and grows with suffering and joy while we are "on mission", the Gospel does not! It is for God's Glory that we should be bold with our testimony - do not be ashamed of it!

John 4:39-42 NLT Many Samaritans from the village believed in Jesus because the woman had said, "He told me everything I ever did!" (40) When they came out to see him, they begged him to stay at their village. So he stayed for two days, (41) long enough for many of them to hear his message and believe. (42) Then they said to the woman, "Now we believe because we have heard him ourselves, not just because of what you told us. He is indeed the Savior of the world."

The Mission....impossible?

2007-05-03T10:49:00.000-05:00

Before the storm (you know the one), the ministry I worked for (Desire Street Ministries - http://www.desirestreet.org) was starting a relational fund raising program called the "Neighborhood". I thought about how it would fit so well with the goals of ministry I am seeing today from those who are planting churches here in the 9th and 8th wards of New Orleans (Gentilly and Marigny/Bywater).

Luke 10:27 says (first) we are to love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind; and (then) thy neighbor as thyself.

This theme is present throughout the Bible (Lev 19, the Gospels, Acts 13, 1 Cor 10, Gal 5, and Heb 2) Being a "neighbor" is "fulfilling" of the law, in fact some translations say it is the "greatest law of all".

Will we be able to grasp what is being said here? Is the mission really impossible? In Luke Jesus talks to the lawyer about being a neighbor. The true neighbor was "the one who had mercy" on the person who "fell among the robbers" or "came into the hands of thieves". The true neighbor had "compassion" on the beaten up, left for dead person that no one else would help. How much do you love yourself? What did you give yourself last birthday or Christmas?

Put compassion to work in your life and build a relationship with someone that emulates Christ?

Ahhh...the life of a street preacher

2007-05-03T09:50:00.000-05:00

Being that I have not had a lot of preaching experience, I recently decided to venture out in to the world of supply preaching. I preached last week in Lafitte, Louisiana at Barataria Baptist Church. Great community about 15-20 miles south of New Orleans. Honestly, every time I get the chance to preach I am usually very anxious and not very excited about it. I wonder why?

I wonder why - because every time I get going and every time I am through and do it again, I get so excited! There is an unexplainable joy I feel AFTER each time I do "preach". It sounds like the things I have heard from others and I never really believed it. I am so inadequate to do this, but everytime (so far) I trudge up to a podium I somehow am given strength to start talking and deliver a simple sermon. Let me say this too, I am NOT the best speaker by far. Yet, I am able to get up and do it better each time (at least my wife tells me so).The main thing is...God desires his Word to be preached and testimonies of itto be told. I am a testimony that as I stand up to give witness to the power of God through Jesus Christ, He provides clarity and strength to me. Thank you Lord.

1Co 2:2-5 (NLT) For I decided to concentrate only on Jesus Christ and his death on the cross. I came to you in weakness--timid and trembling. And my messageand my preaching were very plain. I did not use wise and persuasive speeches, but the Holy Spirit was powerful among you. I did this so that you might trust the power of God rather than human wisdom.

The church is LifeTree Church. The communities are Hiram and Dallas, Georgia in the county of Paulding.The start date will be in January of 2008. Please continue to pray for all that are involved.

Who are you?

2007-04-02T10:07:00.000-05:00

In the mirror, the reflection you see. Is that the real you?

I was reading a post by a friendMo Leverett (see full post here) and I just envy (forgive me) how Mo can put to words, creatively, how we are in Christ. It is a good read...

"Choosing a mostly uneducated, rough and unimpressive group of working class men as the ambassadors of your newly launched international movement...makes no sense. Choosing to offend the powerful and empower the weak...makes no sense. Choosing to avoid the elite and yet invite the bum...makes no sense. Choosing to embrace the leper and confront the lawyer...makes no sense. Choosing your greatest persecutor as the leader of your missionary movement...makes no sense. At every turn he surprises us. At every turn he confounds us. At every turn he offends us."

"This is partly why followers of Jesus, when we really are following Jesus, are called fools. When we launch something in the name of Jesus, not only should it look different from every other human initiative, it should naturally offend our innate sense of conventional wisdom and better judgment. His ways are clearly not ours."

And then a song...

That'd be Jesus
by Mo Leverett
November 7, 2006

Who from lofty sacred throne
Came as humble and alone
To the poor to give increase
To the slave to grant release?

Where to seek when all we crave
is an escort from the grave
Who gives life when death consumes
who gives rebirth in the tomb?

That'd be Jesus

Who has shared his holy seat
With the orphan from the street
Who has made deliverance free
And offers it eternally?

Who makes homeless sons a place
wounded children sacred space
Who puts rebels in a trance
Granting them their second chance?

That'd be Jesus

Who can satisfy the thirst
Of beggars then and make them first
Who can take the child recoiled
And give him bread that never spoils?

Who was here before the winds
and to broken souls attends
Who for pleasure does pursue
The likes of those like me and you?

That'd be Jesus!

First Church Meeting...

2007-03-03T09:13:00.000-06:00

The first meeting of a Church - I want to think back to New Testament times and try to imagine how the Church metin those days. It was not like that, but in ways it was. We came together as new members of a new Church with a passion forglorifying God, seeing Christ lifted up and praying for the communities of Dallas and Hiram, GA. We had our first communion with each father serving each other and their families. You see, this church is based on the family. It will be a "Family Integrated Church".We are going to focus on the biblical aspects of raising your children and discipling each other as a family unit.Don't get me wrong, this does not in any way leave out the single person nor the single parent. It actually helps them bygiving them models and mentors which is not happening in the culture today. You can read more about this model at the church web site below. The three families are theFarmers (Jeff, Karen, Paige and Brooke), the Perrys (Steven, Missi, Caleb and Isabelle), and the Bridges (Brian, Karen, Holly and Joni Beth).

The church is LifeTree Church. The community is Dallas, Georgia in the county of Paulding.The start date will be in January of 2008. Please continue to pray for us and the other planters involved. We will post more about the church as it happens.

P.S. - By US Census Beureu statistics it is the 8th fastest growing county IN THE US, WOW!

Vision unfolding...

2007-02-05T09:15:00.000-06:00

Great news for the Bridges family!

We have spent the last 2 months praying for a community where God would place us to be part of planting a new church (we thought it would be in New Orleans, but guess what?)

Recently, through a series of God controlled events and meetings we feel blessed to be joining with lead planter Jeff Farmer and co-planter Steve Perry in starting LifeTree Church. The community is Dallas, Georgia in the county of Paulding. The start date will be in January of 2008. Please continue to pray for us and the other planters involved. We will post more about the church as it happens.

Where are the Saints?

2007-01-05T09:34:00.000-06:00

What were you thinking?

I know I was thinking that this could be the best thing for New Orleans. I was thinking Lord this could pull this city together we could have unity and something to rally around. However, we all know what happened. The Saints lost to Chicago. No Superbowl. And then on the way home I realized, what was I thinking?! Why was I praying for this happen? The only thing this city needs is revival. The "Saints" of the Church need to rally around the Gospel! We need to be as excited about planting and watering the glorious seed and message God has given us so that growth can take place (1 Cor 3:7).

Where are the SAINTS of the Church?

Commit in 2007 to pray for revival and for the Gospel seed that has been planted to bring growth and glory to God.

Pain in the city...

2007-01-03T09:43:00.000-06:00

The story is not uncommon. A murder happened, and a young life was taken. Whether or not you think someone in this neighborhood deserved it or not think if it were your son or daughter.

I saw this on the news one night and it really, really hit me hard. Just like everyone else I see the same story way too often and I just brush it aside. However, for some reason this mother said somethin that just hit me. She is totally right...

"(The police) can't stop it. They can't stop it. They would have to have a police officer almost on every corner to stop this violence," [the mother] said. "It's really up to the people. And we can't do nothing to stop it because people are scared to come forward on a lot of things, and this is the result."

she also says (paraphrased), kids only care about drugs and violence these days.

Yes, she is right, no reasonable amount of officers are going to do any good until the people of the community realize that violence can't be thwarted until a majority come together under ONE banner (not multiple ideologies or political platforms). The ONE banner I am speaking of is the Church and the Gospel (The good news of Jesus Christ dying on the cross, being buried, and rising again).

There is no doubt that the God I serve has social justice as a key objective. It is clear in many places in scripture (Old Testament specifically minor prophets)....Additionally, I do not place this as the only thing the Church should be tasked with either. The Church is tasked with many things including (I think) bringing community together, justice (among other things), planting and watering the Gospel seed, discipling, and bringing Glory to God (our ultimate goal as Christians).

The question is how can this happen? I am sure there are churches in this area but what are they doing about it? I am confident in the fact that God alone can resolve the issue of murder and violence in this city. Yet, how does it start. What do we do?

I suggest it can only start by prayer, believing in scripture, and taking a part in this culture. We need to be interceding for this community no matter who the Mayor, President is, or who happens to be our next door neighbor.

Blessings
Brian

see full story and sobering video here...
http://www.wwltv.com/local/stories/wwl011707khmdr.4b9badb3.html

God, Weather, and the World....

2007-01-03T09:17:00.000-06:00

Read the following article (http://www.jamesspann.com/blog.htm) from an Alabama weatherman and I think you will agree he hits it right on...I believe God made this world to withstand anything we can do to it...to put it simply we won't thwart God's plan with global warming, nuclear results, or fill in the blank. The world will be able to withstand whatever it needs to until HE decides it's over...not man.

Job 19:25 For I know that my Redeemer lives, and at the last he will stand upon the earth.

Psa 95:4 In his hand are the depths of the earth; the heights of the mountains are his also.

Additionally, let me say there is no doubt that we are responsible for our actions and we should honor God's creation because it glorifies the creator (Psalm 8:3-9). If you are a believer then you should decide for yourself if what we all hear in the media today is something that is true or not. I think if you look at scripture and if you believe that scripture is without error, you will affirm that Gods plan will prevail, not mans.

Blessings,
Brian

ABC-TV Alabama affiliate weatherman James Spann

Brotherly Love...?

2007-01-01T09:22:00.000-06:00

President Clinton and Carter may have been raised Baptist and are a part of a new "Baptist" entity. But what they stand for is not what I call Baptist or certainly in line with Christian brotherhood. Both Presidents have turned severely away from traditional Baptist theology basically creating their own version. First of all, they are not theologians and second they are letting secular influences erase any form of theological basis they operate under. I am not a great or even good theologian but I know how to do basic interpretation of scripture and how a secular worldview stands against a Christian worlview. What is Mr.Clinton's worldview in saying this?

"I describe my brief foray into the world of voodoo because I've always been fascinated by the way different cultures try to make sense of life, nature, and the virtually universal belief that there is a nonphysical spirit force at work in the world that existed before humanity and will be here when we all are long gone. Haitians' understanding of how God is manifest in our lives is very different from that of most Christians, Jews, or Muslims, but their documented experiences certainly prove the old adage that the Lord works in mysterious ways."

See Dr Russell Moore perspective here: http://www.henryinstitute.org/commentary_read.php?cid=364

How do you equate a "foray into the world of voodoo" with "the Lord works in mysterious ways"? Do you want to have someone like that as your spokesman? Bill Underwood, president of Baptist-related Mercer University in Atlanta (but not affiliated or supported by GA Baptist Convention because they are breaking away from conservative Georgia Baptist control) who is a co-creator of the project also said things like:

"The only image most North Americans have of Baptists", he said,"comes from right-wing leaders who frequently appear on television news shows or other media, representing some of the most negative rhetoric, most conservative political views and most fundamentalist theology."

I don't think conservative viewpoints are "negative rhetoric". Also, who likes the connotation "right-wing"? It sounds so militant. Most everyone would agree that he is speaking of Southern Baptist leaders like certain seminary presidents (http://www.almohler.com) and leaders in the SBC (http://www.erlc.com) who have conservative theological views based on scripture and who are asked to present their views in public forums.

Look at the ABP article because it mentions the SBC...http://www.abpnews.com/1603.article

Hello out there Bill and Jimmy...

Larry King, CNN, FOX, etc...want these guys because they ARE conservative and they represent certain viewpoints. Let's be honest you guys fall more in line with liberal viewpoints. (Do you not realize that or what?) Therefore... they can get that from just about anybody these days.

Ok, who are we trying to glorify here...man or God? enough said for now...Blessings, B

More thoughts on NOLA...

2006-12-30T09:53:00.000-06:00

Another thought today on what I like about New Orleans...the sounds and smells.

First the sounds. Most of the day you can hear the sounds of industry. Early in the morning I love hearing the distant sound of the train whistle and most of all the ships goig up and down the industrial canal. For some reason, it is soothing. It creates the ambiance I have come to love for my New Orleans home. It wouldn't be the same without the horns blowing throughout the day, the passenger trains of AMTrak rushing by without a destination seemingly close. The freight trains stop and go, when it is time to move again you can hear the cascading "whuuump-ump-ump-ump" energy of the cars starting to move after being still on the tracks (just next to the campus). Downtown you can hear the unique whistle of the paddle wheel river boats along with the pipe organs on them. Oh and just this Wednesday we were coming from the WalMart on Tchopatoulas (chop-a-too-las) Street and we usually come back home down St Peter/Joseph and then right by the French Market area.I love driving slow down in front of the cathedral and listening to the street players. That day we heard a percussionist and a saxophonist. That is the sound of New Orleans.

Now the smells. You might be thinking, I bet it is pretty bad, well maybe. Really I haven't smelled a rank whif since we have been back. But I most likely will. I am able to savor a few. During each week at about 5 pm we usually will smell the very unique aroma of what we think is the Luzianne plant (just across the canal) roasting (possibly) the teas and coffees. Pre-Katrina it took Karen and I several months to get used to this smell. But, once again for some reason it is very delightful.

2006-12-15T10:21:00.000-06:00

On the edge of New Orleans east, in the Gentilly community, where it seems the current status of homes here are either back to normal or gone forever and within 1 mile from our house (literally across the railroad tracks) there is still utter destruction.You will still see piles of debris and houses unchanged since probably the days after the storm.

What can we look forward to here? What are the goals and visions of ministry for New Orleans?

It is so easy to come home since within our gates everything is new. It is so easy to see New Orleans as rebounding since we now live in a 4 BR 2 BA apartment with reasonable rent and great neighbors.In the evening at sunset on a clear day it is beautiful to look out our breezway into the western sky to see the gorgeous orange and blue mixture come together.

What is our goal for ministry in New Orleans? Well, currently it is very basic. We are praying for a community where God will want us to live and to plant or replant a church. We are praying that God will soften our hearts for this community where our family and others will be able to come together and we can be biblical neighbors with the intention on creating new thriving churches that will eventually have believers and leaders grow from within the church itself.

First Thoughts...

2006-12-05T10:23:00.000-06:00

My first impressions of the NEW New Orleans.

Today I viewed my first de-struction. While outside with my children and the neighbors I heard underneath the normal sound of children playing what I thought was con-struction. However, after finally reaching our 3rd floor home I looked out beyond the 8-foot fence that surrounds NOBTS property and saw a track-hoe (link-belt bucket type tractor) ripping apart someones home. The sound was very gripping. I can only describe it as like a pallet full of lumber unbound and dropped from about 10-15 feet. The ripping apart of wood and metal was now destructive in tone and I was very saddened all of a sudden. It was most definitely one of many I will see. But I am reminded of the view coming in to Louisiana the day we drove from Kentucky. For about 10-20 miles just outside of Pearl River, LA the highway forest had been decimated by the winds of Katrina. The median had been replanted with grass and it was the most beautiful lush, thick, green grass. On that clear sunny day it was very refreshing.

This is what we hope to do here in the midst of destruction. Plant the seeds of the Gospel in so that God may grow that seed in to strong growing Christians in an area of disaster.

We just want to be obedient planters. 1 Cor 3:7

2005-12-01T10:31:00.000-06:00

Hello to all... We just wanted to share some photos of our apartment with you all. We were able to go to New Orleans on Friday October 3rd to view our loss. As you can see by the photos, it was pretty overwhelming. We had expected the worse but, still were not prepared for what we saw. The destruction of our belongings and the way the water just re-arranged everything was amazing. We had already come to terms with the fact that we had lost everything but had prayed for a few special things to still be there. We were unable to go into Holly and JoniBeth's room because it was blocked by their bunk bed and dresser which had fallen over. We could not get to the kitchen either due to our refrigerator, freezer and table that had also fallen. We had very few things stored up high because as you can imagine, we could not reach them. Our bedroom was re-arranged also. Our king size sleigh bed was missing the sleigh on the foot board and the sleigh on the head board was bent the wrong way. One of our dressers was leaning back against the wall and the other one could not be seen. We found it lying at the foot of our bed and one of our bed side tables was sitting on top of it. We have prayed specifically for a few sentimental things to be spared. The most amazing part was we actually found Karen's jewelry box sitting on top of the bed side table, which was on top of the dresser that was lying on the floor at the foot of our bed!!! WOW The jewelry box looked untouched, it was as if God had put his hands over it and kept it safe and shinny just for us to find it. Of course, it did fall apart when we tried to pick it up but, all the jewelry was there so we scooped it all up and put it in a trash bag to clean later. Karen was climbing over the furniture to take the jewelry to the car and spotted one of the other things that we had specifically ask God to spare, our “Ministry journal.” Since we surrendered to ministry in November 2004, we have been documenting all the amazing things God is doing in our lives so this journal was important to us. The journal was completely dry and can be seen in the photos just as we found it as well as the jewelry box. By the way, the journal was sitting on top of a table in the living room and the piece of cloth that was on the table was so wet it had almost melted into the table but the journal was not wet at all...WOW again...
God had already given us peace about losing our "things" and the fact that HE allowed these two special things to be saved made it even easier not to rummage through all that mess..... Now more than ever, we truly feel God's words in Jeremiah 29:11-14 "For I know the plans I have for you," says the Lord. "They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope. In those days when you pray, I will listen. If you look for me in earnest, you will find me when you seek me. I will be found by you," says the Lord. " I will end your captivity and restore your fortunes. I will gather you out of the nations where I sent you and bring you home again to your own land." God has really made our loss seem so insignificant through many things... Once again, He has shown us how much HE is in control. Our world as we knew it seemed to be turning upside down but, we clung to God's promise in Jeremiah 29 and trusted that because we were seeking HIM, we would find HIM... God laid out our path to Kentucky so clearly, we knew that if we didn't go then, we would NOT be in God's will..... HE has replaced all that we need and most of what we want through many loving people. Most importantly to us, HE reminds us that we did not give up anything, we are actually gaining more ... More understanding of who God is, more Faith and more love for our LORD... We can’t help but to think about how little we all deserve this kind of treatment and how much HE freely gives it to those who truly seek HIM with our heart and soul... In HIS Hands, Brian, Karen Holly & JoniBeth