Mark's blog | Christ Community Church

Man among men

American statisticians report that the majority of men say they believe in God and call themselves Christians, but fewer than one in four attend church on a given Sunday. When men look for spiritual sustenance, they go to the wilderness, the workplace, the garage or the corner bar. They watch their heroes on the racetrack or at the stadium. Church is one of the last places men look for God.

This was not so in the first century church. The church was a magnet to men, a place where bold leadership and strong action were the norm. Men were irresistibly drawn to Jesus because He was the model men could aspire to be like, a model of what it is to be a man and to be spiritual.
The tendency of the modern church is to feminize Jesus – to make him meek and mild. We imagine Him skipping along the shores of Capernaum with His twelve buddies all in perfect lockstep, picking Galilean daises and learning to "be nice." We like Jesus to be safe and tame, because then He does not mess with our worlds. “Tame Jesus” does not ask anything, expect anything or inspire anything. We like our religion with padded pews, fake ferns and pious platitudes that only inspire polite golf claps. The religious pews of today are not reflective of the passion of Jesus.

Jesus was a man on a mission. Leaving the throne of Heaven, He stepped onto the footstool of earth. When He got here, He was anything but nice. He tossed tables in the temple. He sharply confronted the authorities. He called people names. His favorite targets were people who were comfortably religious. At the same time, Jesus was a champion for the outcast, the marginalized, the prostitute. He called His disciples to the highest standards of commitment and ethics and He corrected them when they got out of line. He was courageous about His calling to the point of His own death. At any point Jesus could have called it all off and commanded the angel army to come to His rescue, but He never copped out. He knew that His mission required beatings and suffering and death. So He just took it like a man. And the church has never been the same.

Like Jesus did, it is time for the church to rise up. It is time for men to model their lives after the ultimate man. Starting April 11, CCC's message series will teach about the life of Jesus and appeal to men. Don’t miss a week of it. Bring every man you know who has been utterly uninspired by standard religion. Your life will never be the same, and neither will theirs.

Labels: CCC, Sermon

Better Than Happy!

“The Epistle of Joy” – that is what Philippians has been known as – at least in intellectual, academic circles. People who speak to normal audiences might call it “The Joy Box”, “Better than Happy”, “The Ultimate Thank-You”, or “Paul is rockin’, when he should be bummin’.” Here’s why:
Philippians is really a long “Thank-You” letter to a church that Paul has huge affection for. Some time before Philippians was written, there was a famine in Jerusalem and the Macedonian churches (i.e. Philippi) stepped up to be the big givers. Their deep poverty overflowed in radical generosity. (2 Cor. 8-9) So, Paul is writing a letter that is cheerleading them in their faith.
At the time, Paul is in prison – technically under house arrest – in Rome. You might think he would be depressed, sad, or overwhelmed, but he is actually stoked about his situation. He is waiting to appear before Caesar, whom he will certainly witness to for Christ. (Just like he did with Herod in Acts 26) In the mean time, he is witnessing to the entire palace guard and everyone else he can get close to about Jesus and many are coming to faith. He is discipling Christians and sending them off to missionary Journeys on his behalf.
Because of all this, the tone of the letter is Joy. Some have found the theme verse to be “Rejoice in the Lord always, I say it again rejoice!” (4:4). The book is filled with reasons to rejoice. These include: your salvation, grace, partnership in the gospel, spread of the gospel, the work of God in you, life after death, the mission of God, the wonder of God’s family, the humility of Christ, the example and care of Timothy and Epaphroditus, an Anxiety free life, contentment, the strength of God, a transformed mind, and of course, the amazing gift that the Philippians gave.
In this short, 2-1/2 page book, the words ‘joy’ or ‘rejoice’ are mentioned 14 times! Paul rejoices, prays with joy, commands joy, and seems to rejoice over…everything.
So, why am I telling you all this? Well, it is because we are launching a new series. On the backside of "Conquering your Fears" is "Living you Joy". We can be "Better than Happy" and Phillipians will teach us how. Bring a friend for the beginning February 28!

Labels: CCC, Philippians, Sermon

Husker/Creighton Athletes at CCC

On January 24, we'll be joined by some great athletes at our CCC services. Not only are they great athletes, but they will be a great inspiration to live out your faith as well!

Josh Dotzler is a former Creighton All-Star. Wearing the #12 on his jersey, he regularly led the team in assists and steals. His maturity and stability carried the team in tough situations and in finishing games with a win. Josh was raised in North Omaha in a godly family with 13 siblings. After finishing his time at Creighton, he put away his jersey and began investing in his old neighborhood as a pastor. Despite the challenges of violence and poverty, Pastor Josh consistently invests in a youth-driven church called "The Bridge" at the corner of 30th and Lake.

Roy Helu Jr. is a Junior at the University of Nebraska, where he is earning fame as an outstanding halfback. With over 1100 yards on 220 carries, his season has been nothing short of outstanding. Roy would tell you that his life has turned around in major ways in the past three years since leaving his past in a violent city in California. He has come into a relationship with Christ and is as passionate about growing in his faith as he is about football.

Each of these young athletes/men-of-God will be sharing with us on January 24 in our Old Mill services. Sarpy will show the DVD on January 31. They will be a part of our "Fear" series - with a message on "Fear of Violence."

Labels: CCC, Leadership, Racism, Sermon

David -----> Jesus

David was a type, or foreshadowing of Jesus. The King of Israel as a two dimensional shadow of the three dimensional King of Kings. Like the guy in "Fu man chu's China Buffet" offering Princess Chicken on a toothpick as a sample of the entree to come, so David is offered as a sampling of the King to come. Check out the parallels:

David came from humble origins. He was just a shepherd boy born in a nowhereville town called Bethlehem.
Jesus came from humble origins. He was just a carpenter boy born in a nowhereville town called Bethlehem.

David was a shepherd, tending his sheep and keeping them safe from predators.
Jesus is the Good Shepherd, laying down His life for His sheep.

David mystified his family by his anointing, effectiveness and power.
Jesus mystified his family by his remarkable teaching, claims, and resurrection.

David stared death in the face, in the form of a giant Philistine,
Jesus stared death in the face, in the form of a roman execution,
wearing nothing but shepherds clothes,
wearing nothing but a loin cloth,
carrying only a stick and stones.
carrying only two sticks in the form of a cross.

David spoke and led with authority, amazing people as a warrior, writer and musician.
Jesus spoke and led with authority, amazing people as a teacher, healer, and miracle worker.

David spent 10 years in the wilderness.
Jesus spent 40 days in the wilderness.
He was running from Saul,
He was tempted by Satan,
protected by God,
protected by God
and writing God’s word.
and quoting God’s word.

David ruled a mighty political kingdom, expanding Israel’s territory during his 40 year reign.
Jesus rules a mighty spiritual kingdom expanding God’s territory during his eternal reign.

David had his 30 followers, mighty men of strength who fought for him.
Jesus had his 12 disciples, common men used by God to change the world.

David was the anointed one, chosen to be the King of Israel.
Jesus was the anointed one, chosen to be the King of…everything.

David was called the King of the Jews a title that he owned with pride
Jesus was called the King of the Jews, a title that hung over His head on the cross.

David was the savior of Israel, keeping the country free from foreign threats.
Jesus is the savior of the world, giving all men freedom from sin.

The prophet Nathan told David his name would be great, and many knees would bow to him.
At the name of Jesus, every knee will bow in heaven and on earth and under the earth.

David was promised that one of his descendants would rule on his throne forever!
Jesus is the descendant who rules on his throne forever!

David cried out to the Father from the caves, asking “My God, My God, why have you forsaken me?”
Jesus cried out to the Father from the cross, asking “My God, My God, why have you forsaken me?”

David predicted “You will not let your holy one see decay.”
Jesus fulfilled that prediction by dying, and not decaying.

David, while being only human was used mightily by God to change Israel.
Jesus, while divine, became a human and was used mightily by God to change…everything.

Labels: CCC, King David, Kingdom, Leadership, Prophecy

Get out a kleenex

This post was written by a single Mom from last week on the day of the big snowfall. The writing of it is superb. The theology profound, and the content stirs the soul. Check it out. (copied with permission.)

Dear Mark,

As I write this and reflect, the falling snow has hushed our busyness. Even the roads are quiet. The captivating white displays the expected Christmas attire associated with this holiday season. Yet as lovely and nostalgic as the winter wonderland is, it has little relevance to my Christmas contemplation. For on Sunday, the first Sunday of Advent - and the birthday of my middle son - Christmas came.

Just as Love became flesh and dwelt among us, so Love was amazingly demonstrated through the unconditional generosity of those who responded to your alternate "message" at the 9a Access this past Sunday. As one of the overwhelmed single moms who participated as a recipient, it seemed that the world's adaptation of Christmas - malls, obligatory lists, Santa, and anxiety - became remote and obscure as worshippers came forward to give: giving warm embraces, encouraging words, and money, expecting only that we receive their love. Teenagers came up simply to hug me; a woman walked directly to me and told me I was so beautiful, as if she knew I had struggled significantly this past year to recapture my true beauty in Christ. The year also shared financial strain, and as each person pressed money into my hand, God again was telling me to trust Him as the intimate Husband, Lover, Friend and Counselor He had become to me. Indeed, Sunday - in part - represented a culmination of my year's spiritual journey, affirmed in love by the body of CCC. For me, Sunday was a mysterious miracle, much like the first Christmas. Angels and dreams and a pregnant virgin. Gentile wise men kneeling before a Jewish child. An elderly couple having a baby, and lowly shepherds exalted before a King. And love being poured upon a handful of single mothers in Access. My awe and gratitude as I stood in tears in front of the service is easily likened to the wonderment I experience as I ponder the birth of Jesus.

When we arrived home, I called my sons into my bedroom, and re retold the story of what had occurred. As I dumped the money out on my bed, their eyes became moon pies of astonishment. It then struck me that the intended theme of your message - leaving a legacy - had been more powerfully conveyed to my family than perhaps your original script would have accomplished. Sunday provided my sons with a new legacy: I told them that today we celebrate Christmas, that today we would memorialize what happened at CCC - Love came down to us. I explained that we would retell this story on the first Sunday of Advent every year, and that they would tell their children the story of how a very real and present God demonstrated His love through His children, in whom resides the true meaning of Christmas.

The snow outside continues sketching a Christmas card illustration. But the memory of the 12/6/09 Access has painted an authentic and life-changing portrayal of what Christmas truly is. And I whisper in quiet gratitude with Mary:

"And my soul exalts the Lord. And my spirit has rejoiced in God my Savior. For He has had regard for the humble state of his bondslave. For behold, from this time on, the generations of my sons will see His blessing (the legacy!). For the might one has done great things for me. Holy is His name...He has filled the hungry with good things. He has given help to His servant".

Gratefully,

Lisa Curry

Labels: CCC, events, Sermon

Single Mom's Appreciation

Dear Mark,

First I want to apologize for not writing and sending this sooner. But to be honest, I have been thinking a lot about what you did for the single mothers at church last Sunday and I just couldn't figure out the right words to tell you how much I appreciate and admire what you did. I was one of the single moms who went up to the front. The things that you said to us were so thoughtful and true. We all have a story and while our stories are different, they are also similar. But one thing is for sure, our focus is and always will be our children. I heard one of the single moms who was standing by me say that she had just prayed the night before about how she was going to be able to provide gifts for her children at Christmas. What you did was amazing and a "Thank you" isn't enough and that is why I have been struggling with the words to show you what an impression you made on everyone in church that day.

My boys and I are new to Christ Community. We started coming to CCC in May 2009. On our very first visit, it felt like "home". It was awesome how quick I knew that we were in the right place. I completed the PreMembership class and met several people from CCC who I continue to be good friends with. I was then invited to participate in the Point of Hope group for single moms. That has been such a wonderful experience. I can't say enough about the family I feel apart of at CCC. I am excited about how much I have grown spiritually in the last 7 months.

While I would like to give you a lot of credit for last Sunday, I cannot close this without mentioning the members of the audience that morning. The generosity that they showed is overwhelming. I made it a point to hug each and every person that came to support me. I hugged them and told them "Thank You" and I hope they know how much they changed my life.

I wanted to send you a picture of my boys so that you had a face to put with your message that day.

Please feel free to post this email and/or the pictures where ever you would like. And again, Thank you!

Kelly Randels

Labels: CCC, events, Sermon

One single Mom

Here is a note from one of the Moms that was blessed on Sunday. She gave permission to share it with you all!

Hi Mark – my name is Heidi and I am one of the single Moms from the 9:00AM Access service this morning. First of all, I came to church this morning needing something and boy did I get it! What I needed was confirmation from God that I am doing a good job keeping it all together…for my 8 year old son, Nicholas; for my 5 year old triplet nieces (who I am fostering while my brother and his wife get their acts together); and for me… What I got today was unconditional love, support, encouragement and money from complete strangers. I have never felt so moved in my life – well maybe when my son was born. :-) I wish I knew the name of every person who came forward this morning so I could thank them and hug them one more time.

Something happened this morning with the chain of events. There was a reason that I came to church praying for peace, strength and guidance in my life; a reason your message changed; a reason that the Sunday school teacher brought Nick down to Access to me saying he wasn’t feeling well so he could witness the kindness of complete strangers; a reason that I had the courage to acknowledge to the entire congregation that I am a single Mom and walk to the front of the group this morning. What you did this morning touched me more than you will ever know and I wanted to let you know that – I will never forget today.

Labels: CCC, Sermon

This is Church!

This was a cool Sunday. People went out caroling to Seniors at retirement villages. The choir is preparing for a great outreach. The Lee Strobel event was announced. People asked tough questions at gathering. The connections service brought in massive amounts of gifts for Compass. The Access services saw lots of single moms have their financial prayers answered. This is the church. This is what we should be doing.

If you weren't in Access, God prompted me to suspend the message...and invite single moms to come to the front. We prayed for them and then I invited people to come forward to just give them money...cash...no organization, just give some dough to whomever God leads you to. And a few checks came as well. The women faced the crowd and tears welled up in their eyes. You could tell that they needed it and felt a touch from God through the body of Christ.

The givers were blessed too. Lots of tears throughout the gym. God was at work!

Here are some of the cool stories:
* A thirteen year old girl had recieved $100 from grandparents to spend on Christmas presents. At 10:45 she decided to pull it out and give it all to a single mom.
* A mom came up to me after the services with her three daughters. One of the daughters spouted out "one guy gave my mom a check for $1000!
* One single mom was facing legal challenges and immigration issues as well as normal single mom issues. God had provided for her a car and housing already this week and she was praying for $ for legal fees. God took care of her Sunday morning!

Do you have any other stories of praise to share? Feel free to post them anonymously (like the ones I wrote above) in response to this blog!

Labels: CCC, events

Lee Strobel Bio, in case you didn't know

Here is the bio of Lee Strobel for those who may not be as familiar with him...copied from his website www.leestrobel.com. One point below is not quite true, though. Just a few weeks ago, Lee and Leslie moved from So. California to a suburb of Colorado Springs.

Atheist-turned-Christian Lee Strobel, the former award-winning legal editor of The Chicago Tribune, is a New York Times best-selling author of nearly twenty books and has been interviewed on numerous national television programs, including ABC’s 20/20, Fox News, and CNN.

Described by the Washington Post as “one of the evangelical community’s most popular apologists,” Lee shared the prestigious Charles “Kip” Jordon Christian Book of the Year award in 2005 for a curriculum he co-authored about the movie The Passion of the Christ. He also has won awards for his books The Case for Christ, The Case for Faith, The Case for a Creator, and Inside the Mind of Unchurched Harry and Mary.

Lee was educated at the University of Missouri (Bachelor of Journalism degree, 1974) and Yale Law School (Master of Studies in Law degree, 1979). He was a professional journalist for 14 years at The Chicago Tribune and other newspapers, winning Illinois’ top honors for investigative reporting (which he shared with a team he led) and public service journalism from United Press International.

After a nearly two-year investigation of the evidence for Jesus, Lee received Christ as his forgiver and leader in 1981. He joined the staff of Willow Creek Community Church in South Barrington, IL, in 1987, and later became a teaching pastor there. He joined Saddleback Valley Community Church in Lake Forest, CA, as a teaching pastor in 2000. He left Saddleback’s staff in mid-2002 to focus on writing. He is also a contributing editor and columnist for Outreach magazine.

Lee’s other books include God’s Outrageous Claims, The Case for Christmas, The Case for Easter, What Jesus Would Say, Exploring the Da Vinci Code (co-authored with Garry Poole) and Surviving a Spiritual Mismatch in Marriage, which he wrote with his wife, Leslie. For two seasons, Lee was executive producer and host of the weekly national network television program Faith Under Fire.

Lee is also co-author of the Becoming a Contagious Christian training curriculum, which is used around the world, and his articles have been published in a variety of magazines, including Discipleship Journal, Marriage Partnership, The Christian Research Journal, Guideposts, and Decision. He has appeared on such national radio programs as The Bible Answer Man and Focus on the Family. In addition, he has taught First Amendment law at Roosevelt University.

Lee and Leslie have been married for 33 years and live in Southern California. Their daughter, Alison, is novelist whose second book will be published in 2006 by WaterBrook Press, a division of Random House. Their son, Kyle, is currently earning his third master’s degree at the Talbot School of Theology; his first book is forthcoming from Baker Books.
liar with him...

Labels: CCC, events

Bring it Lee!

I always looked forward to hearing Lee. During my seven years at Willow, there was a great lineup of outstanding speakers from around the nation, but I always looked forward to hearing the home-grown, hilarious, intelligent insider - Lee Strobel.

Since his time in the early 80's as an atheist, a skeptic, and the Legal Affairs editor for the Chicago Tribune, Lee has come a long way. First, a communications staff at Willow Creek. Then a teaching pastor. Now a world-renown author, researcher, and teacher. He is among the most sought-after speakers on the planet....and he is coming to Christ Community Church.

I want to plan to be here at Old Mill for a special service on Saturday, December 12, at 6pm or Sunday December 13 at 9 and 10:45. (Sarpy will be on the SAME Sunday schedule as Old Mill that week.)

But when you come, don't come alone. Come with a skeptical/seeking friend.

The bonus of this event is that Lee will be available for Q and A after second service at our 'Gathering' venue - 12:30 in the CCC student center. Bring your tough questions! Nothing out of bounds!

The other day, I was in the locker room at our fitness club and struck up a conversation with a guy I did not know and a guy from CCC. When conversation turned to spiritual things, we invited him to hear Lee Strobel. He said "I know that name...did he write a book?...did he write this book?" and he pulled out a copy of "The Case for Christ" from his gym bag. I don't totally know where he is spiritually, but I know he's coming to hear Lee Strobel on the 13th!

This is an opportunity that does not come around often. Lee's reputation makes invites easy. You can count on the message being excellent. Make the invitation! Lee will be speaking about Jesus in a message entitled "The Case for Christmas." You can pick up invitation cards at the church, or send an evite from our website.

Labels: CCC, events

Census Anger?

In the message on 2 Samuel 24 "A sacrifice that costs nothing", I mentioned that I would blog about the difficult Bible question: "Why was God so mad about the census?" Wasn't David simply counting people? Well, today, I am trying something new...a video blog. The answer to that question can be found in the video below!

Angry at Census? from CCC Omaha on Vimeo.

Labels: Big Questions, CCC, King David, Sermon

Chuck Norris

After the message about David's Mighty Men - 2 Samuel 23 - and the profound parallels between Benaiah and Chuck Norris, I have had some great emails, facebooks and other references to the nearly infinite powers of Chuck Norris. Here are some of my favorites:

* Chuck Norris can divide by zero
* If you are playing scrabble and you spell Chuck Norris, you automatically win...forever
* Chuck Norris does not wear a watch. HE decides what time it is!
* Chuck Norris can kill two stones with one bird.
* Outer space exists because it is afraid of Chuck Norris
* Chuck Norris has already been to Mars. That is why there are no signs of life there.
* Superman owns a pair of Chuck Norris pajamas
* Chuck Norris destroyed the periodic table of the elements because he only recognizes the element of surprise!

And in case you missed the sermon:
* When Chuck Norris does pushups, hes not pushing his body up, he's pushing the earth down
* When the boogeyman goes to bed at night, he checks his closet for Chuck Norris
* Chuck Norris can lead a horse to water AND make him drink
* Chuck Norris is the reason Waldo is hiding.

Oh, and just for fun. Go to Google. Type "Find Chuck Norris" and click "I'm feeling Lucky." You'll crack up!

Labels: CCC, Just for fun

Great response from Message

Here is an email I got from a family that came on Sunday! Great story about a girl who is not ashamed!

Dear Mark,
I wanted to tell you a story regarding your last sermon that I think will warm your heart. My 13 year old daughter, Aleesha was in Access this last Sunday for service. One thing you said during the sermom really spoke to her heart " Sin always costs more than it's worth" She wanted to write it down and lacking paper took the next best thing - her arm - because that's the perfect place to write things down so you won't forget! She left it there, and went to school with short sleeves on Monday. One of her teachers saw the writting on her arm and became very upset that she would write on her arm, not stopping to ask her what it was she sent my daughter to the nurses office to wash it off. Aleesha complied and began to scrub and scrub, till her arm was beat red. The ink would not budge. The nurse finally stopped her out of concern for her arm. My daughter then said to me "it just proved to me that you can't wash away the Truth! It's like it's a part of me forever now!" My daughter is sometimes wise beyond her years. I do believe the ink will fade, but the words now never will.
Thank You!
Shawn Liu

Labels: CCC, King David

What about babies?

One of the most heart-wrenching questions that somebody asks about eternity is the question "What happens to babies that die before they have the chance to make a decision for Jesus?" It was a question that I asked back in my early marriage years when we lost two babies during pregnancy.

As we go through the passages related to David, one of the best narrative passages related to babies emerges. In 2 Samuel 12, immediately after the Bathsheba/Nathan episode, David's son by Bathsheba is born and immediately becomes sick. David pleaded with God for the child and fasted and spent nights prostrate in prayer. Seven days later, the baby died.

When David was told this, he did something very strange. He got up, washed, put on lotions and worshipped God. His befuddled servants asked him about this and David responded by saying this:

"While the child was still alive, I fasted and wept. I thought, 'who knows? The LORD may be gracious to me and let the child live.' But now that he is dead, why should I fast? Can I bring him back again? I will go to him, but he will not return to me." 2 Sam 12:22-23

David models two great things in this. First, when the baby dies he worships God. He rests in the confidence of God's goodness and justice. He knows that God holds the keys to life and death and that He will do the right thing. God will judge everybody - even babies - justly. He knows everything about them, including what they WOULD have done if they HAD lived a full life. (mind-blowing, eh?) David's confidence in God through life and death is remarkable. He does not let the tragedy of life take him on a downward spiral away from God, but allows it to become an excuse to draw him closer to God.

Further, David knows that "I will go to him." There is a cool confidence that the baby's eternity is secure. So is David's. Therefore, he will go to be with the baby in heaven for eternity. Is this a clear doctrinal promise that every baby goes to heaven? No, that would be stretching the narrative too far. However, it does provide comfort for parents that we can rest in the goodness of God. We need not get trapped in a moment of pain forever.

God is merciful and good. David trusted that he would go to his baby on the other side of death. I trust that I will see my two kids on the other side of death. If you are struggling with the pain of a baby's death, I'd suggest that you take the same posture of trust that David had. Worship God and say "I will go to be with him."

Labels: Big Questions, CCC, King David

Extreme Makeover

There is one show on TV that is a guaranteed cry every week. Extrememe Makeover Home Edition. But the emotion is not the only reason to love the show. Ty is an amazing leader, spokesperson, cheerleader, bleeding heart. Lives are totally changed when they encounter the big 'ol bus. It is amazing to see the community come together for a week to be all about the transformation of a single family.

It is also a brilliant picture of redemption. They take a family that is in chaos. From one angle or another, they have been a victim of sin and evil in this world. The stories of diseasses, sickness, tragedy, poverty, fires, economic disaster etc. are heartwrenching. But Ty swoops in with his megaphone and brings hope. Then he brings resources. The generosity of the community pours in and ba-da-bing, 7 days later you have a dream home. Often times you throw in the bonus of an old mortgage being paid, a college education set up, a visit from a celebrity or a really cool three-story doghouse in the backyard. Everybody watching cries - because we know that there is something beautiful and good and life-giving in these moment.

This is what God does with our lives. When we were all a wreck, he swoops in with Jesus and a megaphone giving us words of hope. Then he pours out the resources of the Holy Spirit, and the community of the church, and joy. There is a guarantee of a great big mansion that we will live in for eternity, with the ultimate joy of the knowledge of God himself, community that is pure AND the power of sin and death being eliminated. WOW! And everybody cries...but only for a moment. Because he will wipe every tear from our eyes and there will be no more crying or death or mourning or pain.

Extreme Makeover is coming to Nebraska. You can submit names of worthy families this week at castnebraska@gmail.com. Include name, ages of kids, situation etc. If you know somebody worthy of this redemption, submit names by Friday.

The Kingdom of God is coming to Nebraska too. This week and every week. You are a key player. You bring words of hope, you bring kingdom resources. You bring the perspective of truth. You bring vibrant community. Be the kingdom for somebody... and everyone will cry...but only for a moment.

Labels: CCC, Kingdom

Cool Bible Resource

There are two Bible resources that every Bible Student should not be without. The first is a great Bible Dictionary. I like the New Bible Dictionary, published by IVP. I use it at least weekly. The other is a great study Bible.

For more than ten years I have faithfully used my NIV Study Bible. I love this Bible. The scholarship, integrity, cross references, study notes etc. are phenomenal. However, I always thought that they could take it up a few notches with more maps, color graphics, charts, and better readability.

Well, enter the ESV study Bible. It is the first Study Bible that surpasses the NIV Study Bible in it's helpfulness. When you are separated from a document by thousands of years and thousands of miles, the historical notes, 200 maps, 200 charts and timelines are of immense value. The ESV (English Standard Version) is a highly readable translation done by committees of excellent scholars on the cutting edge of Bible Scholarship.

Not only is the Bible a notch up, but the internet resources that come with it are amazing. You can do searches, keep personal notes, and you can follow all of the maps, charts, and timelines with interactive links. You can double the value of your study time by avoiding page-flipping.

Anyway, this is not a paid endorsement. I even think that the publisher, Crossway, is a non-profit publisher. I just got real excited this week when I got this Bible and wanted y'all to know about it! If you're in Omaha, you can pick one up at parables. More info about the ESV Study Bible can be found at www.esvstudybible.org.

Labels: CCC, Just for fun

accelerate.

Hey gang,

I just had to be sure you knew about Accelerate 2009, this fall's only whole-church developmental seminar designed to help leaders/servants of CCC double their impact.

So what in the world are we accelerating? October 9 - 10 we are accelerating your potential as a leader or servant for Christ. We are accelerating CCC's potential as a church to double the impact. We are accelerating clarity of vision and intensity of community. We are accelerating ownership of the church among the broadest audience.

Friday night at 7 PM, Accelerate will kick off with a double-your-impact story and inspirational message from Rev. Dennis Episcopo, Senior Pastor of the exhilarating Appleton Alliance Church. Appleton Alliance is one of the great up-and-coming churches in the C&MA; God is doing an amazing work there.

Saturday morning, we'll have time to catch the latest at CCC, build up some tools for ministry and participate in some great workshops designed to accelerate your connection to Christ and your ability to serve Him in your gifts. It will all be done by noon, but the effects could last into eternity.

Accelerate has no cost, there's no signup necessary and we'll see you there!

Labels: CCC

Can non-Christians hear from God?

I'll never forget my neighbor Tim asking me this question through the rolled down window of his black pickup truck in front of my house at 441 Candlewood Ct. He was not a Christian, but God was at work in his life in a big way. We had hundreds of spiritual conversations, and Tim always wanted to know what the Bible said about life-issues like this one. So what is the answer? In short, the answer is "Yes". He does it in the 21st century, and he did it in the Bible. Here are some examples:

1) The classic example is that of Saul/Paul in Acts 9 (and 26). Paul was an enemy of Christ and even got knocked off of his horse with a voice from heaven.
2) King Nebuchadnezzar heard from God in dramatic ways throughout the book of Daniel, especially chapter 4.
3) King Belteshazzar literally saw the handwriting on the wall in Daniel 5.
4) All twelve of the disciples were non-Christians when they were called by Christ.
5) Every person who hears the good news of Jesus is hearing God's message (although indirectly) from one of God's messenger
6) You could easily make an argument that every person hears the call of God before he/she turns to God and comes to faith. As a matter of fact, it is impossible to become a Christian unless God is communicating somehow.

God certainly speaks to those who are listening. Somebody who is not a Christian, but has an open heart toward God has a chance of hearing. It is very possible, very real, and can change your life if you listen!

Labels: CCC, King David

Hearing from God

Are you trying to make a hard decision? Trying to discern what God might have for you in your life? Trying to live for him, willing to do anything, but wanting to hear from God to know just what to do? Yesterday, I talked about hearing from God. It was a contrast of Saul's spiritual deafness with David's keen hearing - primarily from 1 Samuel 23 (who ever studies that?) Saul engaged in a downward spiral of deafness - from anointed man of God, to tone deafness, to hard of hearing to stone-deaf. What was the difference between his life and David's in terms of their engagement with God? Here is a bullet-point review for those who were there.If you were not there, you may want to catch the full version at http://vimeo.com/6820617.

How to go Spiritually deaf (like Saul)
1) Disobey God - I Sam 13 & 15
2) Cut off Godly influence - 1 Sam 22
3) Don't even ask God - 1 Sam 23
4) Confuse allies with enemies - 1 Sam 23 and Ephesians 4:30-31
5) Spiritualize Circumstances to your advantage 1 Sam 23
6) Mess with the dark side - 1 Sam 28

How to Hear God (like David)
1) Have a relationship with God - 1 Samuel 16- 2 Samuel (whole book)
2) Cultivate a rich Biblical literacy - Psalm 119, Psalms written by David
3) Seek Godly counsel - 1 Samuel 23: 3 and 16
4) Obey what you know - Bible and Promptings - 1 Samuel 23
5) Practice, Practice, Practice - Throughout 1 and 2 Samuel

A life of hearing from God is way, way better than one where we ask God to justify or bless our plans. He wants us to be integrated with his life and plans for this world. It is not always the safest way. It is never the easiest way. It is a life of risk and danger and adventure. But it is good because God is in control - why not take some time to step away from the computer and listen to him now?

Labels: CCC, King David, Sermon

Logo-fied

This week, I have been on a listening tour- Six major stops so far. The idea is to simply listen to ideas, concerns, and questions of the congregation and build open doors of communication. So far it has been great. Lots of people love our church! One question has come up twice that has surprised me - and it might be of general interest, so I thought i would do a little blog about it. It relates to the CCC logo.

If you have not been around more than five years, you probably don't even remember the old Logo. It is a drawing of our most predominant architectural feature of the building at the old mill campus - our triumphant spire with the cross at the top. One person asked "Why did we feel the need to change the old logo?" There are at least four reasons that I can think of.

1) The logo looks dated to a former era, artistically and graphically.
2) The logo had fallen into general disuse.
3) The logo emphasized the idea that the church is a building. Biblically, the church is the people - as well as the movement and impact of those people.
4) The logo features the Old Mill Campus building. Now that we are a multisite church, we needed a logo that could be used anywhere.

The new logo (really about 6 months old now) features the name of our church and the three "C"s in concentric circles. Someone else wondered "What does this logo mean?"

1) The three C's stand for the three "Cs" of Christ Community Church.
2) The concentric circles simulate a ripple of water representing the flow of impact of one life/one church to broader and broader circles of influence.
3) The circles also remind us of Jesus final command to the church in Acts 1:8. "You will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, Judea and Samaria, and even to the ends of the earth." Those three arenas are the concentric circles of impact that the church is to have - an immediate influence, a strong local influence, and a global influence. The book of Acts follows this pattern (chaper 1-7 in Jerusalem, 8 in Judea and Samaria, 9-28 to the ends of the earth!) Our dream is to have kingdom impact at the local church level, in our city and around the world. (Complicated, I know...but kinda cool I think!)

I am so grateful for the team that created this strong improvement for our church! It is good to be in a church that is full of excellent people of all kinds of gifts, using them for the sake of the kingdom. Yeah!

Labels: CCC

Thirteen Candles

I am so proud of my daughter, Caysie. Yesterday she became a teenager. Her thirteenth birthday fell on Step-Out Sunday. So we asked her a couple of months ago what she wanted to do. She said "there's nothing I'd rather do on my birthday than step out and serve!"

Her reward? The satisfaction of serving, fun with family and friends...and her picture in the Omaha World Herald. Check it out here!

http://www.omaha.com/article/20090817/NEWS01/708179966

Labels: CCC, family

Stepping Out!

Yesterday, I talked to Linda and Tony. They owned the house that our Step Out team (also my journey group...) painted yesterday. Both have medical issues. They could not possible paint their own house. It had not been painted in ten years. It had never been anything but white. Linda said "I never thought our house would get repainted. I certainly never thought it could look this good."

Adam, and a team of singles from our Thursday night Bible Study went out twice before Step-out even happened. Once to scrape...once to prime...and finally with 45 others to paint the house. Neighbors came out to watch. One spent part of his afternoon helping. Another yelled out to us from her porch "tell Linda her house never looked better!"

Some may say it's just a paint job. But it is so much more. It is a living example of how community can come together to make a worthwhile effort happen. It is about how God cares for the least of these. It is about learning to serve with no expectation of payback. It is about becoming more like Jesus. It is about Kingdom impact.

1500 people from CCC on 45 projects. 6000 people from churches around the city on 150 sites. In an era where the government is raising taxes and cutting benefits, the church is still on the move...in full force...serving people for free.

Way to go church! Keep on being the church!

Labels: CCC, step out

Coming Soon...David!

This summer, I have been making a special study of the life of David. We'll be exploring his life, his impact and what we can learn about relating to God from the perspective of a renaissance man in an all-church series called 'Where's God When...".

I always knew of David's extraoridinary giftedness. He is in a unique group of thinkers/leaders that makes him unparalleled in history. Michaelangelo, DaVinci, Beethoven, Napoleon, Tiger Woods...all rolled into one. That's David. Military hero, amazing king, brilliant politician, poet, musician...David did them all and in the top levels of execution.

What struck me this time going through the life of David was just how gritty he was. David was in desperate straits at many junctures in his life. He was a survivor. He spent a decade running from Saul with a renegade band of miscreants, murderers and misfits. He was sometimes found alone against the world. Once, he even sought refuge with a Philistine ruler in Gath. When things were not going well, he faked being crazy just to avoid being killed. He spent months/years in a cave of Judah called Adullam. He one time killed two hundred Philistines and cut off their foreskins just to impress Saul, and pay the bride price for Saul's daughter Michal. Imagine the scene of delivering that bride-price to the king!

David exhibited political savvy that is hard to fathom. He once tricked a Philistine king into believing him to be an ally...and even marched toward battle with this king. David had low military moments...like when his wives and family were kidnapped from Ziklag and all the city was burned. He had massive moments of victory, like when he captured the city of Jebus - unconquored for centuries.

Beyond all this, he made covenants with God that were fulfilled in his time, and in the ultimate King - Jesus who was yet to come. Most famously, he was known as a man after God's heart.

Do you get the idea that David was more than just a shepherd boy with five smooth stones?

Prepare to meet David at a whole new level. The series - messages, small groups and devotionals - will begin on August 23. If you are someone who is growing in your faith and you want to make the most of this series, I would recommend spending the next two weeks doing an overview of the life of David. Crack open the books of 1 Samuel and 2 Samuel. Read the broad timeline of David's life. If you read 20 minutes a day, you'll easily read through both books...maybe twice.

We'll do deep dives into episodes of David's life, but an overview will give you the full context for study. You can look forward to recieving the David devotional guide, notes pages, maps, lineages, timelines and group studies on Sunday, August 23. See you then!

Labels: CCC, King David, Sermon

Omaha Kingdom Map

This morning, I challenged you all to get out of your normal ethnic patterns and get out to places you can SEE God work in other ethnic arenas in Omaha. Some of our great staff (Thanks Nick!) created a great map of places you can go to see parts of Omaha you may not normally see.

You have to check this link out! It will take you to an interactive Google maps site that has the map, addresses, pictures and descriptions. It is fabulous!

Then grab your family, your journey group, or people you are discipling and take them to some great locations! Some of my favorites include: Salem Baptist Church, the Durham Heritage Museum (for Omaha history), Big Mamma's Kitchen, and Compass Ministries in Village One.

Now Jesus HAD to go through Samaria....John 4:4

Jesus left that place and went to the vicinity of Tyre...Mark 7:24

Then Jesus left the vicinity of Tyre and went through Sidon, down to the Sea of Galilee and into the region of the Decapolis...Mark 7:31

"I see people; they look like trees walking around."...Mark 8:24

If these verses don't make sense to you, check out the Kingdom Color 2 message from July 5!

May God open our eyes to see clearly!

Labels: CCC, Omaha, Racism

Insider info

As we tackle the subject of racism head-on in our kingdom-color series, one important component is awareness. We need to become aware of the plight, history, mentality, and challenges of people from different racial backgrounds than us. For CCC, a primarily white church, that means understanding the mentality of other races.

This week, Ron Doetzler, of Abide Network, sent me this interesting albeit old (1996) article on racial reconciliation from a black perspective. It is quite provocative reading. Enjoy!

Been There Done That
By Dr. Barbara Williams-Skinner (Winter 1996)
An old Negro Spiritual says, "Everybody talking about Heaven ain't going there." Well, everybody talking about racial reconciliation today is not doing it. In fact, many African American Christians today have a "been there, done that" attitude every time the subject is raised. When asked about racial reconciliation, they quickly say, "Don't even go there."

The clear but unspoken message from black Christians is, "It's too painful, too much hassle, and I don't plan to be the sacrificial lamb for somebody's We Are the World, multicultural, diversity, African American celebration week, quick-fix project."
These days, white Christians getting inspired to do reconciliation often wonder, "How come black folks aren't showing up?" I believe there are four main reasons why many African American Christians don't get excited about racial reconciliation today. And while there are no excuses for any Christian, black or white, to ignore God's call to reconciliation, there are real obstacles. If true, biblical reconciliation is going to happen, both Blacks and Whites are going to have to understand these obstacles and work to overcome them.

REASON #1 Although there is much talk about diversity, multiculturalism and racial reconciliation, actual understanding between the races is at an all time low. Polarized views of Blacks and Whites about the O.J. Simpson verdict were the latest and clearest symbol of a growing antagonism between the races.

African Americans look out at a society that seems resigned to seeing twice as many black males end up in prison (800,000) than enrolled in college. To them, it is no coincidence that while the prison industry explodes, affirmative action, which most Blacks believe has helped many reach the middle class while hindering very few Whites, is being rolled back. The vast majority of black Christians who identify themselves as Democrats watch as millions of white Christian activists drive their Republican bandwagon head-on against homosexuality and abortion, but jump into reverse when it comes to fighting poverty or racism.

All of this appears as solid proof that the white community-including white Christians-really does not care about the plight of the black community. White Americans look like a single sea of unfriendly faces who would prefer that Blacks were not around. Many have even concluded that a truly reconciled America is Martin Luther King's "never to be fulfilled" pipe dream.

REASON #2 Racial reconciliation sounds a lot like the failed integration of the 60's. For too many African American Christians over age 40, racial reconciliation brings to mind the worst aspects of integration. Under integration, African Americans were required to give up too much of what is rich and beautiful about their own African-American culture, while Whites did not give up anything.

Many Blacks were taught that getting the right education, speaking properly, and mastering all aspects of white American culture would make them more accepted by Whites. They "Europeanized" themselves only to discover a painful reality.
They could change from a super charismatic Pentecostal to a more sedate Presbyterian; from Negro spirituals to Euro American religious anthems; from soul food to artichokes, quiche and asparagus; from Ray Charles and Aretha Franklin to Tony Bennett and Barbra Streisand; and even from an Afro to the straight look hair style. But in the end they were no more socially acceptable to white Americans, and were left alienated from many in the African American community. Blacks have grown tired of always being the ones who have to do the changing in order to make peace, and even then, meeting opposition.

REASON #3 Blacks fear losing the last truly African American institution-their churches. The black Church is one of the few institutions totally owned and controlled by African Americans. An estimated 65,000 churches, reaching 16 million people each week, are some of the few places African Americans can witness strong and dynamic black leadership at all levels, build social and leadership skills, advance their political and public policy interests, improve their communities, and reach inner-city youth and those needing financial help to attend college. At the same time, like nowhere else, they receive spiritual encouragement for the struggles of life. Indeed, the Church is our last and most important refuge of empowerment.

In the face of the serious moral crisis of black family break down, drugs, and crime, "reconciliation" seems like a strange diversion of precious energy and resources to a cause with little chance of success.

Surely reconciliation is a higher calling than separation, but not if that definition of reconciliation sacrifices the empowerment of African Americans. In the name of integration, Blacks lost many of the institutions that addressed their needs: businesses, self-help organizations, and schools. Can they trust the new form of "reconciliation" to address their needs and give room for black leadership? Past experience answers a resounding "NO."

REASON #4 There is as much racial separation inside as outside the church. The black Church that we know today is a result of racism. The phenomenon of Christian racial separation was initiated by Whites during slavery, and continued after slavery when white religious bodies excluded African Americans or, with a few exceptions treated them as second class members. Today, even with the end of "Jim Crow" segregation, and with no legal barriers to working, living, worshipping, or playing together, African Americans and Whites operate in two almost totally and voluntarily separate worlds.

It is as though we worship two different Gods one black and one white, in totally separate worship environments. While Blacks feel they tried the racial harmony game, Whites have not demonstrated a willingness to come onto Blacks' turf. We rarely get to know one another in our family and social settings. Only a handful of the more than 300,000 white American ministers can count a friend among the 65,000 African American ministers. Truly integrated churches, with different races sharing the leadership, worshipping, singing, studying God's Word and praying together, are still a rarity.
In addition, many white Christians believe that a lack of personal prejudice is sufficient for reconciliation. They are unwilling or unmotivated to join with their black brothers and sisters in the fight against institutionalized racism. By remaining silent, they allow injustices in the social, political, economic and criminal justice realms in America to continue.

DESPITE THE OBSTACLES, THERE, IS A NEW BREED OF CHRIST-CENTERED RECONCILERS. It is tempting for Blacks to turn these sentiments into an obstacle course for Whites to pass through before joining them on the road to reconciliation. But understanding why we are not excited about reconciliation should not become the same as excusing our lack of involvement.
Despite the obstacles, there is a new breed of African American reconcilers who have not forgotten that God doesn't say "Obey me, but only if white folks change first." In fact, God's word demands much more. He says, "If you love me, then keep my commandments."

These African American reconcilers are more Christ-centered than Christian. They understand that reconciliation begins with sinful men and women being brought into right relationship with God, and then moves to reconciliation with one another. They reject integration based on the world's standards, but embrace biblical reconciliation based on the Word of God. They recognize the importance of partnering not only with Whites, but also with Latino and Asian believers to build up the body of Christ.

This new breed of Christ-centered African American reconcilers includes men like the late John Staggers, Samuel Hines and Tom Skinner. It includes men like Dr. E. V. Hill, John and Spencer Perkins, Raleigh Washington and Carey Casey. It includes women like Kay James and Dalenita "Vickie" Hines. These Christ-centered African American reconcilers continue to give their lives in building the Acts 4 body of Christ, made up of persons who "break bread, pray and spend time together, have everything in common where no one has a lack."

In addition to this new breed of African American reconcilers, there is a growing new breed of white followers of Jesus Christ. They are partnering with African American brothers and sisters, building covenant relationships, living and working together in urban communities. They include men and women like Wayne Gordon and Glen Kehrein of Chicago; Chris Rice and Lee Paris of Jackson, MS; Patrick Morley of Orlando and Art Erickson of Minneapolis, MN; Bill McCartney of Promise Keepers; Louis and Colleen Evans and ex-Klansman Tom Tarrants of Washington, DC, Dee Dee Rivers of Annapolis, MD; and Rosemary Trible, my white, politically conservative, southern Republican covenant sister and friend.

These sisters and brothers and many others around the country understand that many white Christians have fallen short and many black Christians have a "been there, done that" attitude toward racial reconciliation. However, biblical reconciliation can begin between separated people who are willing to repent and practice true community.

© 1996 The Reconciler. This is a reprint of an article originally featured in The Reconciler. The Reconciler is published quarterly by URBAN FAMILY Magazine, Jackson, MS.

Labels: CCC, Racism

Leadership Summit

It is coming! August 6-7 is the Leadership Summit. For me, the leadership summit, is jet-fuel in my engine. I have gone every year for 10 years now. I never miss because God meets me there. I have leadership challenges to tackle every day, every month, every year. When I go, I am exposed to Godly, brilliant leaders sharing their best life lessons. The Summit makes me a better leader.

About 40-50 staff and leaders from CCC go every year. Kelle is coming. Elders are coming. I have brought hundreds of people over the years and have never heard a person that was disappointed. It is very inexpensive and it is local (Brookside Church). Speakers include Tony Blair, Bill Hybels, David Gergen, Tim Keller and others. Do you want to come?

It does not matter if your leadership is in the home, the business world, the church, or education. You will be a better leader by meeting with God and hearing brilliant leaders at the summit. If you want to sign up with the CCC group rates, call my assistant Jannie at 402-330-3360.

Some clips of this year's speakers

Labels: CCC, Leadership

BOG

Freshly redeemed lives. It makes my day. It makes my month. It makes my year.

I love seeing lives change. I love when someone moves from chains to freedom, from rebellion to worship. I love when someone discovers the awesome power of Jesus to make them new.

Nothing symbolizes this better than baptism. Baptism on the green happens on Sunday, June 28. It is my favorite event of the year because it is all about freshly redeemed lives. The party is at 5 on our soccer field, baptisms start at 6. Hamburgers, jazz band, and lots of freshly redeemed lives!

Whom have you invited to experience freedom and joy in Jesus lately?

Labels: Baptism, CCC, events

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