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Tuesday, August 19, 2008

Not much sleep to be had by yours truly during the last two days. After our Leadership Council last night, Cathy and I walked around the building and enjoyed the cool air. We finally went to bed at midnight.

I woke up thinking it must be 6 or 7am. Knowing that Emma and Pastor Matt would be in soon, I got up from the air cushion on the Choir Room floor and made my way to my office.

Hah. It is only 2:45am. Guess I'd better get back to sleep.
At noon today, area pastors are scheduled to gather at Bell Road.

In 'Experiencing God', our group asked if our church ever participates with other churches outside our denomination. I informed my covenant partners of the weekly prayer meeting where certain area ministers seek the Lord for his very best. Here's the most-recent schedule sent to me yesterday:

Aug 19    Bell Road Baptist Church, Auburn, CA
Aug 26    Christian Team Ministries, Meadow Vista,
                 * Sept 1 (Labor Day Monday)
                    Sizzler 49er Canyon
                      Community Walk & Run,
                      8:00 am in Auburn, CA
                      Proceeds benefit Acres of Hope & CTM
                      PDF Bulletin Insert for this Event

Sep 2     Grace Christian Fellowship, Auburn, CA
Sep 9     Celebration Community Fellowship
Sep 16   First Baptist Church, Auburn, CA
Sep 23   Hope, Help, & Healing, Auburn, CA
Sep 30   Sierra Reach Ministries, Applegate, CA

Here are some stories from TIME:

McCain and Obama on Abortion
 

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Monday, August 18, 2008

Click above for "Extreme Makeover" by Lou Robohm. His message asks of us:

"What is the greatest sin in the church?"

Before I introduced Lou, I took the time to reference Saturday night's Saddleback Civic Forum and its historical relevance for Northern California Southern Baptist churches who have invested in the Cooperative Program.

Hey, Auburn's own Fresh Air Media provided the high-definition coverage of the national broadcast. Small world, huh? (Yeah, and thanks to Jim Jupin of Fresh Air Media, we have our entire three projector, three-screen set-up..)

It is a God-thing. From the Auburn Journal:

"Obama, McCain discussion with megachurch minister Warren has Auburn producer-director"

When I find a good link to the broadcast of Saturday's interviews, I will post it. If you find one, please send it to me.

Clyde sent me a link to an audio message for the members of Saddleback that was preparatory for their ministry to the nation on Saturday night.

Click here if you want to download it.

If you cannot download this mp3 file, then perhaps you'll enjoy reading part of the email:

from Rick Warren:

"I've been walking closely with Jesus for almost 50 years, and each step he leads me is always a stretch and often uncomfortable. I've known all the highs and the lows of ministering to others. So in those seasons when the public spotlight is bright, I increase my time alone with God in prayer, (which usually means less sleep!) Below are some of the verses and thoughts from my private quiet times the past couple of weeks.

QUIET TIME THOUGHTS

'To him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever!'
         Ephesians 3:21

Only the Church will last. Long after all politics and business and academics and entertainment have vanished from the earth, God's family will still exist in eternity. God gets glory through his church and Jesus.

'With God's power working in us, God can do much, much more than anything we can ask or think or imagine'            
          Ephesians. 3:20

God sometimes gives me an idea that seems quite small, simple, ordinary and unspectacular. In obedience, I launch the idea in faith and then it mushrooms into something huge and enormous that I never could have imagined! This idea of the Civil Forum is the most recent example. I had no clue that one of the forums would end up being a national event, but God knew long before he put the idea in my mind. Never stop being amazed by God's greatness!

'Know where you are headed, and you will stay on solid ground. Don't make a mistake by leaning to the Right or leaning to the Left.' Proverbs 4:26-27
It's difficult to be balanced. Too many leaders get sidetracked or co-opted by one side or the other.

Right now, many people want me to promote their agenda, but I just want to be a servant of Jesus."

--end quote

Rick is just a few years older than me...but he has been a born-again Christian TWICE as long. I admire this big brother of mine from afar.

Here's a shot of me and my 'big brother', Rick, at the Conversation About Tomorrow when he personally invited 250 pastors to spend a couple days with him at Saddleback (November, 2006). He then offered to let us stick around and hear Senators Brownback and Obama.



That was the first time I ever heard either man speak. Of course, I did not know that Barrack Obama would be the Democratic Candidate for President two years later.

I thank God that Rick tries to do his homework in staying attuned to the pulse of our nation (and most definitely to godly stewardship of his own  peculiar circumstances).

I also thank God that Rick has consistently shared his opportunities to be involved in something greater than ourselves.

May God grant true wisdom to those voters who will take the time in the months ahead to view Rick's interviews with McCain and Obama.

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Saturday, August 16, 2008

I am not preaching tomorrow. An octogenarian will attempt to walk the talk in my stead. Lou Robohm is a long-time member at BellRoad. Months ago I asked him to seek the Lord for a message to share with the Body. The Lord has entrusted this preaching-point to my care and I am hoping for the Spirit to grant the Yea and Amen among His listening people.

Lou's Title: Extreme Makeover
Lou's Text: James 1:22

Cathy and I spent the night at the church. Now we are about to head to the Gym to exercise and shower. I received news that the required work on our house in the Greens has finally been approved by the Seller and is being scheduled. awat

This morning Cathy will attend the Womens Ministry Brunch in Jimmie's home. Then we are scheduled to attend a Mentors' Group fellowship at Curt and Jean's home with a group that has been meeting for a few years.

Someone recently asked me about my hobbies. One is literature and film adaptations of historical novels. This hobby has had residual consequences as I continue to reflect upon what I have read or seen for years.

Of course, the characters and storyline in the Bible are rich in present-day life application but I also like to discover God's truths and discuss current events within the framework of the popular culture.

If this extra-biblical hobby of mine troubles the reader, perhaps you should click here and skip the rest of this entry.

In conversation with my loved ones and trusted friends, I may relate a character-trait that I observe in a scene from a book (or film) to help dissect and interpret current events in my life. (a personal family-aside: Most of life's issues have also been treated in that show about 'nothing', right kids?)

A new film opened yesterday at the Old State Theater, so I took Cathy on a date to see the most recent adaptation of Brideshead Revisited.

I read something during the sixties about the controlling mother-figure at Brideshead. However, I hadn't done any research about this film beforehand. I was surprised to find one of the key characters so heavily-steeped in homosexuality and strong drink. My curiosity about the primary source, the film adaptation, and autorial intent led to some post-viewing research:

First published in 1945, the author (Mr. Evelyn Waugh) wrote that his novel "deals with what is theologically termed 'the operation of Grace', that is to say, the unmerited and unilateral act of love by which God continually calls souls to Himself".

This memorandum (1947) from the author to producers in Hollywood gives further insights to Waugh's story.

Afterwards, I told Cathy that I wanted to drop off a DVD to Patrice (Vanity Fair). Patrice enjoys literature and period-piece films so I told her a bit about this story at Camp. I had purchased it over a month ago on a gas station rack. We watched it at that time but recently watched it again along with the Director's Commentary (and the closed-caption script).

I had never read anything by William Makepeace Thackery (contemporary with Dickens). Late last night I read this article at wikipedia which helped me better understand the real story of these characters.

   "The human weaknesses Thackeray illustrates are  
     mostly to do with greed, idleness, and snobbery, and
     the scheming, deceit and hypocrisy which mask them."

Here is another portal to what may become known by some at BellRoad as a pivotal sermon:
Stewards of Circumstance:
     Lesson 5: Easily Beset?

Apparently I share a purposive interest in pop-culture awareness with the apostle Paul (Acts 17). As you interact with the various philosophies of this current generation, feel free to share with me quoteable quotes from their poets and personalities.

Toward the heavenward goal, however, we all would do well to remember Paul's connective admonition:

"In the past God overlooked such ignorance,
  but now he commands all people everywhere to repent."
 

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Friday, August 15, 2008


Jeremy and Kami Johnson (Fort Collins, CO) have been given a burden to help with the big vision that God entrusted to Pastor Wesley in Liberia. They sponsored a fundraising dinner August 9th that raised $9,000. I pray that someone reading this will also help them reach the worthy goal of building another Children's Home/School (in cooperation with Greater Love Children's Home).

As of this morning, they were
  only $6,999 short of their $55,000 goal.

  click here for an update

It is 2:15pm. Cathy and I just returned from Special Ministries Camp. The Lord has been gracious to speak to me during these days with God's special people.

Last night, our daughter (Mary) sat with me during the final evening Worship Service at Special Ministries Camp. Later that night we went on a long walk, then sat on a bench and talked about our life in saving relationship with Christ Jesus.

This morning I got up at 5:30 so I could drive Mary down the hill for her job watching a newborn baby.I then went to Friday Prayer Meeting with Deacon Rosenau.

"Behold how good and how pleasant it is
           when brethren dwell together in unity."

Mary and I listened to my most recent sermon on the way to the prayer meeting. Mary affirmed the validity of that message before leaving my presence.

I then gave the CD to Wolfgang. I know that he enjoys the opportunity to dig deeper into the mysteries of God's Word and His Ways.

We share a strong commitment to listening for the Spirit's Voice (whether from the pulpit or from wherever God chooses to reveal His Heart). Upon yet another hearing of this particular message, I am convinced that 'thar's gold in them there hills'.

In the final scriptural reference (Genesis 4), the preacher vocalizes the Spirit's question: "Why are you angry?"

Stewards of Circumstance:
     Lesson 5: Easily Beset?

"Why are you angry?" (see for yourself: click here)

Had Cain sincerely answered that question (in a written essay or in an oral examination), he could have found salvific acceptance that had previously been withheld. (That's not in the sermon...only in this director's personal commentary.)

Conjecture? Speculation? Whatever it is, it's worth doing in right standing with the Author and Finisher of this Story.

On the way back to camp, I listened to the CD of another recent message:

Stewards of Circumstance:
      Lesson 4: Digging Deep

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Thursday, August 14, 2008

Last night, Cathy and I led the Worship Service at Camp Alta. After a couple heartfelt songs, I paraphrased this verse:

1 Corinthian 14:26 What then, brothers? When you come together, each one has a hymn, a lesson, a revelation, a tongue, or an interpretation. Let all things be done for building up.

I suggested that I came with some special songs and Bible verses that I felt would encourage everyone. I then welcomed anyone who wanted to share a word of encouragement or a testimony. A great number of hands were raised so I worked in the testimonies of everybody who had the desire. Nobody was turned down!

Our final word was from Eleanor Bailey who has led this Special Ministries Camp for 23 years. She is now 80 years old and told us that her commitment to the Lord is that she is available for as long as she is physically able.

What a witness for Christ she is.

After fulfilling today's skit in our ongoing roles as Coco (Cathy) and Nut (me), we came down to Auburn to keep some appointments.

After the Senior Choir practice, we were invited to the Genesis Class picnic at the Regional Park. That was a sweet time of fellowship with a great group of people.

I had a meeting with the Trustees and am now scheduled to go out on Visitation with Jimmie and Chet. Tonight, we will head back to Camp Alta for our last night of Special Ministries Camp.

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Monday, August 11, 2008

This week Cathy and I will be spending our days and nights at Special Ministries Camp.

I posted yesterday's sermon entitled "Lesson 5: Easily Beset?" This was an unusual occurrence in that there is a recapitulation of material from the previous message.

The week before I had taken an early-morning walk with the Bible and had 'felt led' to extrapolate from Romans 7 to Hebrews 11-12, and to the works of the flesh list in Galatians 5. However, with the Lord's Supper planned for that day, I didn't think it wise to try to cover all that scriptural terrain.

So, the introduction to yesterday's message will always be best understand as a reprise. As well, there was a young couple (David and Trish) who hadn't been there the week before.

Trish told me,
 "I leave here thinking, 'I got it. I understand this...' "

The prior week's message (Sunday, August 3rd), our local church celebrated the remembrance of the night Jesus was betrayed. The Lord's Supper, (the Bread and the Cup) is an important time for the members of the church to examine themselves.

The 'message' before the Lord's Supper included a brief exposition of Romans 7 followed by the walk-in testimony of Macdonald Wreh.

On Friday, I added the audio of the prayers and songs which took place during the Ordinance of the Lord's Supper.

Prayer over the Bread:  Wolfgang Rosenau
Prayer over the Cup:      Brandon Willette

The audio tracks were a bit challenging so I boosted some volume, filtered some noise. I hope you enjoy it.

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Friday, August 7, 2008
 

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Thursday, August 7, 2008

I sat in family court yesterday with one of my new friends.
Of course, I will not share any details but, as always, 'going to court' as pastoral support for one person gives me the opportunity to see the real drama that occurs in the lives of others.

It is sad to watch the results of decisions made when people are not living their lives according to the Lord's commands. This humbles me. It hurts; the alternative is to harden my heart which my calling doesn't allow for.

Last night we read these verses aloud (click here) and asked for members of the prayer circle to share with us what they have done in their lives in order to respond to these commands:

Eph. 5:10   "...and find out what pleases the Lord."

Eph 5:15-20  "Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord's will is. Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery.

Instead, be filled with the Spirit. Speak to one another with psalms, hymns and spiritual songs. Sing and make music in your heart to the Lord, always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ."

One sister shared that she sings many times during any given day. When faced with something really negative she may break into this chorus:

  "Jesus, Jesus, Jesus. Sweetest Name I know.
       Fills my every longing, Keeps me singing as I go."

We acknowledged that the melody lifts the singer. Her husband said that he reflects upon the saints who have gone before. He thinks about characters in the Bible and what they endured to serve the Lord.

Another brother shared that he has daily chats with the Lord of all creation.

An elderly couple read the Bible privately each morning and read the Word together each night. They have done this for years.

Their grown son said that he tries to make the most of every opportunity by listening to people as finding the right moment to discuss eternal plans (if any) that the person has made.

I found all this (and more) to be helpful as building materials for my own sanctification. It helps to rehearse the tender mercies unveiled in the midweek prayer meeting.

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Wednesday, August 6, 2008

Back in Auburn. Lots to do. Not much time to write but much thought, Word, dialogue, and prayer going on between Cathy and me. Will probably share some later tonight.

Yesterday, I spoke with Steve Diaz from Iron Horse Ministries. He is assured me that he and his bride pray for us from afar.

I also called and spoke with Zack R. about his post-service connections in the Body last Sunday.

I thought to clarify that in Macdonald's Journal (click here),
Day 28 was actually recorded Day 1 of his first time in America. It was Day 28 of a 40 Day Journey for our church. It was Day 28 of my personal focus on the church's website. I served as Macdonald's editor during those days.

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Monday-Tuesday, August 4-5, 2008

Cathy and I will be in Galt these 2 days. I don't have software for this webpage with me there. However, I'm sure that there is plenty of unread musings for those who happen by.

We shared testimonies regarding Iron Horse Ministries, Zack's Mission Video , and the  Lord's Supper on Sunday so the sermon "Easily Beset?" didn't get the full treatment. The Spirit brought a first-time visitor to BellRoad during Zack's Video...and so the message moved along differently than I had anticipated during my morning walk.

Here's a 17-minute firstfruits for the message that was intended to become 'Easily Beset?'      
               click here

Director's Commentary: Some important pastoral points were vocalized during earlier portions of the Morning Service. The Sound Department didn't begin recording until immediately after Zack's Mission Video.

1. I mistakenly said that I had carried a portable generator to Liberia. Oops. Actually, I had carried the cash that purchased the generator at half-price. I edited the audio to better reflect the reality.

2. At one point I said,
   "God told Adam, 'Sin is crouching at your door...'"

   Reality: God told Cain, 'Sin is crouching at your door..."

I edited out these words: "God told Adam".
    The statement is made toward the Everyman.

If you'll read the tail end of Hebrews 11 and then the first part of Hebrews 12...all of Romans 7 and all of Galatians 5, you will be ready for how 'Easily Beset?' fits into Stewards of Circumstance: Lesson 5.

I would enjoy the benefit of your feedback after you have listened to this message at least three times. Write to me with your insight (what I nailed...or what I missed completely). Thanks in advance!

   pastorob@bellroad.org

for those interested in the early Macdonald Wreh journal entries: click here

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Saturday, August 2, 2008

Today, exactly 16 months after their Marriage Covenant was first entered into, Joe and Sharon are asking all friends and family in America to witness the renewal of their lifelong vows to one another.

21st Century Marriage

Anyone and Everyone is welcome to join us!

Where: Bell Road Baptist Church
              707 Bell Road   Auburn Exit 123
When:  Saturday, August 2nd  3:00 p.m.

I'm awaiting the Prelude Video to upload at the Auburn Journal. Please click on it and test it for me!

We just finished the Men's Breakfast. There were over twenty men in attendance. The prayer was heartfelt.

Matt Woodin (of Iron Horse Ministries) was our special speaker. He inspired us all to promote the upcoming Motorcycle Run on Saturday, September 8th.

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Thursday, July 30, 2008

Yesterday our staff had a prayer meeting (Matt, Emma, and me). I asked the Lord to bring that day to our remembrance months from now when some time has passed and His Will has been done

Prayer must be at the core of anything we are attempting to do in a local church (preach, teach, outreach). Ideas for ministry are birthed in the prayer meeting. At least, that's how it works for me! This is why I enjoy praying with a few other people. I enjoy hearing the vision as I listen.

At the altar, my decision to follow Jesus is continually affirmed. As our Enemy strategically plans his agenda to steal, kill or destroy, the battle will be won in prayer and in praise to the Living God. I must continually resolve to praise Him in all circumstance. That resolve is strengthened by simple action of slowly arising from the posture of prayer and taking the next step.

During my years at Seminary (GGBTS), I met a guy named Todd and a girl named Timberley. We enjoyed fellowship in classes and during times of worship and prayer together. It was fun to watch them during the early days of their courtship and to learn of their marriage.

They also were called by God to serve as missionaries in Indonesia. Recently, I received news that their daughter, Anna, had been killed in an accident. They will be returning to the States to be with family for a season.

Todd and Timberley have asked for prayer:

Pray for the impact that Anna’s death has had on our community. Pray that God would be glorified and many would come to know the Savior that Anna loved.

Pray for Anna’s little Indonesian friends who found her body after the accident. They are still having dreams about Anna and miss her very much. I have attached a picture so that you can see who you are praying for. My hope is that when we return we can continue the relationship with them and their family.


Today, I also received a note from Karen, a friend from Texas.  I met Karen online during the months that Stonegate was preparing to help Pastor Wesley in Liberia. In today's email, she shared of tragedy that has recently occurred in her life.

On Saturday, July 26, my precious husband had a massive stroke which eventually resulted in his passing on Wednesday, July 30. He was able to communicate with us for a couple of days after the stroke and told me he was not scared. He did not lose his sense of humor and milked it for extra head and neck massages!!

How precious of our Lord to allow me several days to minister to him and prepare my own heart for the possibility of letting him go. My very large and loving family who know so well not only how to live, but how to usher a loved one into heaven were with me and the boys every step of the way. Kyle and I have been married for 41 years.

His funeral is Friday at 11:00 at our church home in Midland, Stonegate Fellowship. I love you all. I thank God for each of you and your love for us. It is well with my soul, actually better than well. Love, Karen

Lord, Jesus, bless these two precious families as they mourn the loss of their loved ones. Glorify Your Name in their lives. Fill them with Your Tender Mercies and let them experience the bittersweet joy of being poured out upon the people groups to whom you have called them to be witnesses.

Later in the day, Bob Knapp sent me a note that Greg and Cathe Laurie lost their son in a car accident last week. He sent me a link to a website where I watched a video of this Dad speaking to the church about the recent loss of his son, Christopher (33)  click here

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Wednesday, July 29, 2008

Back in Auburn from two days in Galt. We were able to visit Joe and Sharon in their new apt. and have lunch with them before his first day on the job at the U.S. Bank in Stockton. The University of the Pacific is directly across the street from their modest dwelling. It is a beautiful campus with Big Trees and Internet Access (Dad is well pleased).

In case you don't have it, my new, local cell number is (530) 366-2924. Give me a call if you would like to share a prayer request or a testimony of God's faithfulness in your current circumstances.

At the close of Sunday's Video at Iglesia Bautista de Bell Road, I asked the Lord to move us along in regards to the house. I prayed aloud that perhaps He was allowing delays and was watching to see if our desire to be on mission in the neighborhood would grow.

Again, the comments on this story of a fire in the neighborhood confirm the need for the Gospel to be lived out in the Greens (click here). It looks like our closing on the house in the Greens might be happening next week.

We will see.
 

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Saturday, July 26, 2008
 

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Thursday, July 24, 2008

Movement on our house has slowed down. That particular circumstance has dampened the fire of personal revival. So, I have prayed this morning for the Lord to give us what we most deeply need. Therefore, I will look back to testify of God's faithfulness to guide our steps no matter what the circumstance.

On Tuesday afternoon, Cathy and I went out for three hours of visitation with Jimmie and Chet. We visited three households and enjoyed the company at each stop. On the first visit, a sister named Minnie testified of Christ's redemption in her life. We were all mutually edified by her testimony.

The visits were important because both occurred as a result of weaving reminder into the prayer at the close of Message 54: Stewards of Circumstance:
Lesson 2-Bells and Whistles

What is the point of trying to go on to Lesson 3 or beyond when we have left things undone which were clearly seen as personal assignments from the Spirit?

My admonition to brothers and sisters everywhere is to go back to one's last altar and judge oneself.

We had a sweet time of prayer last night. I introduced an old hymn that Jimmie shared that she had not seen or heard it before. Elfreide knew it from the old country:

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Tuesday, July 22, 2008

Here is a link to the Centrifuge Blog: click here

hmm: about the area where we are trying to buy a place to live. This story stirred up comments that confirm the mission field called the Greens (click here).
 

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Monday, July 21, 2008

Hot off the editing-block, last Sunday's Message has some fun special effects in the remix. I hope you'll enjoy it.

Stewards of Circumstance:
      Lesson Three--Barnabas Steps Up
      God is about to raise up a leader to take his
      3,000-plus member Mega-Church to the next level.   
      Surprise! Jesus has selected Saul of Tarsus.
      The boys in Jerusalem are afraid of him. Saul might
       never get the chance to go to bat for them unless
       someone first goes to bat for him!

It was challenging to edit this sermon because I seemed to be a bit tongue-tied yesterday. For several weeks, I had to go to Speech Class when I was in the first grade. Some of that impediment still impedes when I speak yet today.

It is 8:30am. Three vehicles filled with young people just left for Jenness Park to attend Centrifuge, 2008. Brandon and Pastor Matt will make sure to keep us updated via the Internet.

I was pleased to look around the circle as we prayed and took note of the precious, beautiful young lives who will be well-fed (spiritually and physically) this week.

Whew! We were at church until 11:00pm. last night. It had been a long day but full of ministry. After the morning service (and movement at the altar), we were graced with a meal at Chevy's. Our new member, Curtis, joined many of us for this luncheon. Then, he came to the Spanish Service with Cathy, Jesse, Elba, Jorge, and me.

The Spanish music time was quite enjoyable but during the sermon (in Spanish), I went into my office to begin preparing the morning message for the Internet. Those who stayed to watch Pastor Francisco Camarena heard about the 7th Commandment (Adultery) and were challenged with application for their lives.

Two other new members, Art and Darcy, joined us for the evening message in the Coffee House. Tim and Brandon Willette are doing a great job in this teaching venue.

I seemed to be a bit tongue-tied yesterday. Someday, I'll tell the church that I had to go to speech class when I was in first grade. Some of that impediment still impedes yet today.

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Saturday, July 19, 2008

Pastor Matt and Justine came by last night. I was quite worn out from the long day (it was only 10:30pm). We had walked around Downtown Auburn from 4:30 - 5:30, then went to see the movie: Journey to the Center of the Earth. It reminded me of the type of movie that I enjoyed as a kid. It is still playing at the Old State Theater.

We can talk about some of the particulars sometime but I don't wanna 'write' it. A face-to-face review would be better. After the movie, Cathy and I went on an adventure drive to Ophir to visit our friends off of Slowdown Road.

Visionary Designer, Wolfgang, gave us a tour behind-the-scenes. Much like the underground and behind-the-walls at Disney World, it is eye-opening and amazing.

If you ever get the chance, you won't wanna miss the Hen House (with automatic water, produce recycling, and 5-6 fresh eggs a day), the 220 pump box, the feeding of the cats (and skunks), Dad's swamp cooler, the DVD collection, and more...

It is nearly 7am. This morning I have scheduled a stagecoach trail hike with Joe, Sharon, and Cathy. I will have the three of them listen to the Word of God for tomorrow's message. There was a 'different' message which became Lesson 2 last Sunday. So, this message with Barnabas has become Lesson 3 in the Series.

Stewards of Circumstance
Lesson 3: "Barnabas Steps Up"

Acts 9:18-31
Romans 7:1-25
Luke 6:27-42

Cathy and I will again stay over with Curt and Jean tonight.

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Friday, July 18, 2008

I just received some great news! Our son, Daniel, has been hired by Dawn Landscaping. I'm thrilled because I know the owner personally and he will be a good boss for this precious son of ours.

I drove to the Deacons' Prayer Meeting this morning and prayed with Wolfgang from 6:30 to 7:30. Jimmie, Chet, and I are now planning to go out on Visitation someday next week.

"This generation of Christians
     is responsible for this generation of souls."
                                                     --Keith Green

Pastor Matt and I worked together yesterday. We continued in the far-reaching process of laying a prayerful foundation for recruiting and equipping young people.

I woke up at 5:00 and started refreshing my memory on video-editing toward that end. BellRoadRadio should soon become what I have envisioned during my earliest days of the AuburnCalling (awat).  The video (above) is a further tweaking of what we made yesterday. Thanks to Grace Earl for video-recording the night of April 11th.

Ryan Schuyler at Gold Country Media replied to a question I asked this morning:

Hey Rob- Video servers changed TODAY!
I love it. So the formats supported are the same,
and the file size is the same, but the quality is much better. Upload a wmv file at under 20 megs and everything will be great!   --Ryan

Bell Road Concert Series

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Thursday, July 17, 2008

"If something is worth doing,
                   its worth doing (bad...)"

On Sunday afternoon, Cathy and Mary both told me that they wish I hadn't used the case of the Kids Camp DVD as an object lesson to affirm my belief in that unusual truth.

You will need to listen to last Sunday's Message (Stewards of Circumstance: Lesson 2) in order to gain the perspective from whence I was attempting to teach.

I was trying to make a point of the video's ultimate value for us (even if five hours of sorting through and editing many clips of raw footage would not meet with whole-hearted approval of a Sunday Morning audience).

The Editor had written me the day before (Saturday) and asked if she could "go for it." She knew that she was working with less-than-desirable equipment but still wanted to do the best she could as a "Steward among the Circumstances."

My mention of the 6-minute video was with the trust that the Editor would understand what I was doing. She is, after all, my dear Sister-in-Christ and I was simply being spontaneous. I was 'acting' the part of the church critic in order to demonstrate the ugliness of unchecked judgmentalism and condemnation when allowed a voice in the church.

The passage being preached was:

"Do not judge, and you will not be judged.
   Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned.
    Forgive,
      and you will be forgiven.

    Give, and it will be given to you.
      A good measure, pressed down,
         shaken together and running over,
               will be poured into your lap.

       For with the measure you use,
                 it will be measured to you."

The Editor points out the irony that some who have come to her defense may have missed the point of the passage.

Cathy knew that I was 'acting' the part of a mean-spirited religionist. She said, "It just doesn't look good on you. The character's bite was too real!"

The girls in my family said,

"Nobody else is going to understand...."

So, I called my Sister-in-Christ on Sunday night. I am thankful that she had not taken offense toward me for my remarks. She said, "Well, I liked it!" She was content with her work. Fortunately, she has enough self-confidence that my remarks had not troubled her.

Still, I took seriously what my girls had warned me about. Others might think I was being mean. That troubles me. Even with my over-the-top personality traits, I would never want to hurt someone's feelings.

On Wednesday night, I received a corrective letter from another sister in the church. It helped me more clearly see that my 'acting role' was too realistic. My sister thought that I was seriously upset with the content of the video. I figure she is isn't the only one.

Therefore, I must apologize. I am sorry that sometimes I unintentionally hurt or embarrass people as I attempt to follow the Spirit in public.

Toward the end of the Message, I introduced three people with whom I had previously shared my heart about covenantal relationships in the Body of Christ.

I trusted that they trusted me. Again, I thought I was simply being spontaneous and making a point with people I felt had come to trust me enough to not take offense.

However, due to concerns expressed by Cathy and Mary, I wrote or called the people that I had put on the spot.

I've been warned before...

People who are watching my public presentation of truth may not understand my heart. They may misinterpret my motives. The fact that they, themselves, are praying Christians causes me to humble myself.

Iron sharpeneth iron; I must not ignore my mistake in judgment. The spiritual opinions and empathetic feelings of innocent onlookers do weigh heavy on my heart as I try to work through the aftermath of this particular body-of-teaching.

If the Editor was going to be in town on Sunday, I would ask her if she would share publicly that we continue to have a solid relationship. She indeed trusts my great respect for her. However, she is going to be out of town, so that will not happen.

It is important to me that anybody who has misunderstood my motive would acknowledge that I suggested we give the Editor a big round of applause for her sacrifice of 5 hours! (I had previously stated that I could do a better job---but it would take 20 hours!) I had thought that sole statement had served sufficiently as a clue to my real support of what she was able to bring to the altar 'under the circumstances'.

I don't know what I'll do to try to make amends. I have started by saying "I'm sorry" to the one person who has thus far written to me. I wanted her to know that I was fairly certain that the Editor and the three believers that I had brought forward didn't really mind serving as a focal point in order to illustrate greater principles.

I suggested that if she would listen to the message a second time then she might better understand the importance of the truths I was trying to illustrate.

I will not ignore her rebuke or correction. There is an important need to do whatever it takes to bring balance in the Body of Christ.

I intend to continue serving as a pastor for all of the people featured in Sunday's unusual message. As far as I know, all of them are moving ahead with the hope of growing to maturity (alongside me) as co-laborers in Christ.

Some people understand the unusual teaching methods that I sometimes employ. However, I'm not as confident now that it is really worth the risk of trying something on the edge with this group of people. Still, I'm leaving the Message online (with only minor editing).

My heart was not at all about 'embarrassing' any of these precious people. I am truly sorry for having embarrassed anyone. I was short-sighted on this one.

I am reminded that sometimes we must suffer "unintended consequences" resulting from our actions.

A gracious individual cares enough about everyone involved to write to me directly with her concerns. I will always respect her for that and hope that God's Perfect Will shall be done in all of our hearts.

The Editor is my friend, Patrice. Last night she encouraged me with these words:

   "Hey, that was last Sunday.
         It's already Wednesday. Let's move on."

I am humbled by this.
   Some 'drill sergeant' I've turned out to be...
 

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Wednesday, July 16, 2008

I searched the keyword church at the Auburn Journal's website and was blessed to be reminded of certain  special events we've sponsored for the good of our community. There are currently  two pages that are linked to the keyword. Most of them are connected with BellRoad:

   church: CLICK HERE

Of course, this was one of my favorite entries:
 

Cathy and I drove back to Auburn late last night after a couple days of work around the house (and yard) in Galt.
Stewards of Circumstance: Lesson 2 is now uploaded. There was a pre-sermon pep talk before the 'sermon'. I also chose to leave the tail end introduction of new member classmates and a testimony from Brandon.

So, the program is 53 minutes long. I hope you enjoy it.

Busy day for me but if you wanna chat call me:

(530) 366-2924

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Saturday, July 12, 2008

The New America Singers performed last night. I thoroughly enjoyed the total experience. I told Pastor Matt that Ted and Betty Campbell are role models to be emulated! I was happy to know that Matt and Justine have now had the opportunity to witness the fruit of a couple's long-range, visionary leadership.

I was running VideoStuff from the balcony so I could see that little Evan was also being exposed to this level of musical competence. Last night granted a gift to me: to watch my girl, Katey Santillan, step up to the plate and sing solo lines and important, strategic harmony. I've been a pastor to Katey since she was three. This cycle of raising and equipping kids for works of ministry is very rewarding. I hope to see 4 year old, Evan, doing something as big sometime during the next ten years of his developing life.

Ha...yes, and then there's the case of Tila (not yet 2) but she defintely will be on stage someday! I can feel it. It was fun to watch her watch the puppets last night.

The primary texts for our current expository (yet topical) sermon series are as follows:

Becoming Stewards of Circumstance
Tomorrow is Part 2: "Barnabas Steps Up"

Acts 9:18-31
Romans 7:1-25
Luke 6:27-42

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Friday, July 11, 2008

I woke up at 4am today. Although I would have liked to sleep more, I couldn't...so I got online, wrote this journal entry, then posted a final invitation at Placeropolis for tonight's program. Soon, I will leave for our Deacons' Prayer Meeting at 6:30am.

A woman named Cathy called in from Roseville last night. She had read a different announcement about the New America Singers on the Placeropolis website. She is coming tonight with her daughter and hopes to get others to come as well. Coincidentally, she had met one of our families at a campground last weekend!

Last night, Joseph and I took a 20 mile drive up the hill to Camp Alta. I wanted to check in with our younger kids during their three-day Kids Camp.

Renee, Christy, Daniel, and Ben are our Camp Counselors for this second camp of the season. It was a blessing to watch as a new generation of children are learning God's Word in this fun setting.

A couple days ago was my father's 79th birthday. It was such a busy day (graveside Veteran's Funeral, Memorial Service at Lasilla, Prayer Meeting-IntenseFellowship) that I wasn't free to call him until 10:45 (Michigan Time).

Dad recounted that all of his living children had stopped by or had called in. As usual Dad wanted to know how things are going out here in California. That night my voice had turned raspy from all the smoke--I didn't have much of a range when we sang hymns earlier.

I have earned a 'free' ticket again this year so I told Pa that I hope to go see him. I have just been very busy with our church calendar and I had hoped that we would have already closed on the house in the Greens by now.

May the Lord bless you and yours today.

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Thursday, July 10, 2008

Here's a story at the Auburn Journal:

Sorry that there hasn't been any entries since Sunday. Geographic proximity to this page's software-based, internet-connection has been the limiting factor.

We had some trouble getting Sunday's Message uploaded this week. However, it is up now so please give it a listen.
Click on the player above.

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Sunday, July 6, 2008

The latest sermon will be uploaded above (asap). Although, we're heading to Galt tonight, I may decide to upload something at this site: CLICK HERE

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Thursday, July 3, 2008

Six in Prayer Meeting last night; Six in Spanish Bible Study, and Youth Group in the Break. A humble yet very important presence in God's House midway through the week.

Yesterday, the Patriarch of one of our newer member families stepped into Eternity. Pastor Matt and I will visit them this morning.

Here are the passages I am considering for this Sunday's Message (and subsequent opportunities to preach God's Holy Word):

Acts 9:18-31
Luke 6:27-42
Romans 7:1-25

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Wednesday, July 2, 2008

Cathy and I went to Galt on Sunday night. I didn't have computer access there.

An important meeting this morning at 10am. Will probably write more later.

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For June, 2008 CLICK HERE
For May, 2008  CLICK HERE
For April, 2008 CLICK HERE