Sunday, March 19, 2006

Ardent Love for the Savior

One of the most observable qualities in a disciple is their sincere and deep love for God and their all-consuming love for the Lord Jesus Christ. They bow to no-thing or no-one but to the King of Kings. They live out their lives as a passionate expression for their affection for their Savior. They attend to every duty motivated by their ardent desire to please their Master. No words can fully capture the love that fills their hearts, no action can possibly encompass the full feeling of adoration they feel for their God. This love flies high above any devotion to human relationships or duty to any human institution or even culture. It is an essential strand that defines a disciple. Their lives declare very simply, "I love God with all that I am...I am a disciple of the Lord Jesus Christ."

Saturday, March 11, 2006

The Fellowship of Warriors

Jesus prayed that we would be ONE as He and the Father were ONE. Paul also said to be of the "same mind and the same purpose." Jesus even said that the world would identify us as His followers by our ONEness. There is nothing quite like a fellowship of warriors intent on advancing God's Kingdom TOGETHER. When a cadre of spiritual warriors walks in step onto the battlefield filled the Holy Spirit and hearts beating with the heart of God...they are unstoppable. Let's strive for ONEness. Let's unify our fellowships around the truth of God's Word and the clear mission of Jesus Christ, and maintain deep love for one another. Let's stand ready to move as ONE when the Master gives the order.

Friday, March 10, 2006

Tsuchizaki Gloria Chapel - A Dangerous Church

There's no doubt that David (my translator) and I were very blessed by spending a week with the brothers and sisters of Gloria Chapel. We found a church family that loves each other, loves God with enthusiasm, and is led by a great man of God (Matsuyama-Sensei) who filled our time with laughter, encouragement, and a vision for Japan. Be sure to pay them a visit when you are in or near Akita. They filled a room with a great group of servant leaders both young and old.
They have a Gospel Choir program for both children and adults. Their services are a good blend of contemporary and traditional music. The Sr. Pastor is filled with enthusiasm, good humor, and a deep love for God and for Japan. I was especially impressed with his prayerful heart and great vision for revival in his country. He and his family have patiently labored, loved, and endured through every season. Their church facility is one block from the Tsuchizaki station (a 10 minute train ride from town). They will definitely be a church that makes an impact for the Kingdom...that makes them dangerous. Special thanks to Akiko and Tamiko whose risk-taking faith made this conference possible! We'll see you again soon!