Wednesday, September 29, 2010

Message from Donn Start, Principal West Valley Campus

Yes, You Can Have It All

What is the most important human element to possess in life? Surely confidence, happiness, contentment, love, hope, and courage all rank high. But all of these come from a single source.

Confidence is faith in God and yourself. “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” (Philippians 4:13).

Happiness and contentment arise from faith that God’s hand is in everything that happens. “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him.” Romans 8:28

Love is faith and trust in another. “The only thing that counts is faith expressing itself through love” (Galatians 5:6).

Hope is faith for the future. “Put your hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment” (1 Timothy 6:17).

Courage is faith that you can win. The Bible’s heroes “through faith conquered kingdoms…shut the mouths of lions…escaped the edge of the sword… (Hebrews 11:33-39).

My hope is that you experience each of these traits as a gift given to you by God the Father. Blessings to you on a Christ-filled Wednesday.

Message from Alicia Galindo, Human Resources Manager

Psalm 61:1-2

“Hear my cry, O God; Attend to my prayer. 2 From the end of the earth I will cry to You, When my heart is overwhelmed; Lead me to the rock that is higher than I.”

I have cried this prayer many times in my life. This verse has been a favorite of mine for some time now. When I feel alone or overwhelmed this is the verse I turn to. I learned a long time ago that when life hits us with the unexpected or unwelcome, we have only two choices to run from God or to run to God. I admit I have taken some detours in thinking I can handle things on my own and later realize I could have avoided heartache by going to God first.

King David cried out to God when he felt alone and overwhelmed, because he realized only God had the ability to help. When we are in the midst of a flood we surely need to get to higher ground. When our hearts are overwhelmed we need to rest in someone that is stronger than we are. That of course is the ALMIGHTY GOD, our ROCK and our FORTRESS!!

Tuesday, September 28, 2010

Message from Laura Furedy, Preschool Director

Take off the Limits

I have seen that everything [human] has its limits and end [no matter how extensive, noble, and excellent]; but Your commandment is exceedingly broad and extends without limits [into eternity]”
(Psalm 119:96, AMP)


Did you know you can limit your life by dwelling on the wrong things? So often, wrong thinking keeps people stuck right where they are. If you think you’ll never accomplish your dreams, those thoughts will hold you back. If you think you don’t have the talent, the connections or the funds, then you are limiting yourself. You are blocking what God can do in your life.

It’s time to take the limits off and trust God. He isn’t limited to this earthly realm; His ways are higher than ours. We serve a supernatural God. Just because you don’t see a way doesn’t mean that God doesn’t have a way. God can bring one opportunity across your path that will thrust you to a whole new level. He has explosive blessings in store that can blast you out of where you are and into a place of abundance. If you’ll shift your focus from this earthly realm and start looking with your eyes of faith, you’ll see His unlimited possibilities for your future. Take the limits off by setting your thoughts on what God Almighty can do in your life!

Prayer for Today

Father in heaven, today I lift my eyes to You. You alone are the source of my strength, peace, and provision. I choose to delight myself in You knowing that You will give me the desires of my heart. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Joel & Victoria Osteen

Monday, September 27, 2010

Message from Irma Flores, Second Grade Teacher

What a blessing it is to teach Bible each day. My desire is for students to learn more about a loving God and to see the Bible as a treasure to be explored and claimed. As teachers, God holds us accountable for what we teach and he also uses each lesson for our spiritual growth. I may catch myself exhorting my students on a truth and the Spirit quietly speaks to me at that moment and asks, “Are you doing that?” or “Have you done that?” I am thankful He is still working on me and that I can still hear His loving voice.

Joshua has been our Bible Hero for the past 3 weeks. I love to read about Joshua, Moses’ faithful assistant and God’s leader for Israel. The following is from the Teacher’s Edition Devotion:

Joshua no doubt learned much from Moses about loving God’s Word and serving Him. You are the model and mentor God has placed in the lives of your students. Allow them to see you loving God’s Word. John Calvin stated, “Let us, therefore, labor diligently to learn the contents of the Book of God, and never forget it is the only writing in which the Creator of Heaven and earth condescends to converse with mankind.” Think carefully about the things you value. Students want to emulate leaders. Ask God to help you be the kind of example that will draw children to the Lordship of Jesus Christ. Esteem God’s Word by making time in your class this year for reading the Bible together.

Message from Jim Koan, Superintendent

“Let the little children come to Me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these.” Luke 18:16

As a PC parent relayed the following story to me, for some reason I thought of this verse. Tell me if you see the connection. This EL parent mentioned in a prayer meeting that her daughter recently asked her “Mom, what do you think about abortion?” This mom’s response was initially (internally) “Oh, you are too young to talk about this; I want to keep you a little girl longer.” But when she realized her daughter had indeed been introduced to the word abortion, if not the concept, she realized she needed to answer her straight up in age appropriate language.

As she reflected on what her teacher had said to the students about this delicate issue when the kids asked for her opinion, this mom realized she was grateful her daughter had the seeds of truth planted in her about God’s view of the sanctity of life right from the start. How grateful she was that the seed of truth and of a biblical worldview was planted graciously but firmly by her teacher.

You, each one of you, graciously and firmly plant God’s truth and nurture into fruition a biblical worldview every day. From PS to Senior you are cultivating an orchard of Godly living.

Friday, September 24, 2010

Message from Angie Dickerson, Assistant to Principal Phil Adams

In Franklin Graham’s autobiography, “Rebel With A Cause”, Franklin describes a lesson he learned from the original founder of World Vision, Bob Pierce.

Bob wanted to take Franklin around the world to impoverished places to allow him to see poverty and human need for himself. Bob wanted Franklin to experience this human condition first hand – to be able to see and smell and experience “what breaks God’s heart”. During a 2-month trip to Africa and India, Bob introduced Franklin to a concept called the “God Room”.

As Bob explained to Franklin one day, “God Room is when you see a need and it’s bigger than your human abilities to meet it. But you accept the challenge. You trust God to bring in the finances and the materials to meet that need.”

He went on to say, “You get together with your staff, your prayer partners and supporters, and you pray. But after all is said and done, you can only raise a portion of the resources required.”

“Then you begin to watch God work. Before you know it, the need is met. At the same time, you understand you didn’t do it. God did it. You allowed Him room to work.”

Franklin states that this God Room concept was one of the most valuable things Bob Pierce taught him in his early life. He has relied on this concept time and time again and has seen God fill “rooms” many times running Samaritan’s Purse ministries.

I believe we at PC have a “God Room” of financial need that only the Lord can fill. We can do our part by being diligent in our weekly prayer for the students we are assigned to pray for, attending the upcoming prayer and worship meetings on behalf of PC or committing to fast and pray once a week for this need. In the end, it will be God’s provision and His alone that can supply our need. This empty “room” is an awesome opportunity for us as a corporate body of believers – staff, teachers, parents and students – to pray and wait expectantly to see how God will fill our God Room here at PC.

“The earnest prayer of a righteous person has great power and produces wonderful results.” James 5:16b

“Wait patiently for the Lord. Be brave and courageous. Yes, wait patiently for the Lord.” Psalm 27:14

Message from Bruce Consier, Athletic Director

This past summer one of the greatest coaches passed away just short of his 100th birthdate. John Wooden was the great basketball coach from UCLA. What made John Wooden great was not basketball but what he taught the young men under his care.

One of his favorite sayings was," Dare to be a Daniel/Dare to stand alone/Dare to have a purpose firm/Dare to make it known."

His father taught him to live by Godly standards and he did that his whole life. Upon John's graduation from grade school he was handed a note card with the following 7 creeds that his father wanted him to live by.

1. Be True to Yourself.
2. Help Others
3. Make Each Day Your Masterpiece
4. Drink Deeply from Good books, Including the Good Book
5. Make friendship a Fine Art
6. Build a Shelter against a Rainy Day
7. Pray for Guidance, Count and Give Thanks for Your Blessings Each Day

If we could live a life according the 7 Creeds listed above, we would impact the world.

Thursday, September 23, 2010

Message from Renee Trapp, Business Manager

“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Philippians 4:13

This verse has been my motto during my time at Phoenix Christian. There have been many days along the way when I faced my overflowing “In Basket,” 50+ e-mails, several voice-mails, deadlines, meetings, etc. and just wanted to throw up my hands and give up. At times I think it would have been easier to walk away—and just say “I can’t give anymore.” “I can’t do it all.” “I’m tired,” etc.

It was then that I would glance at the inspirational rock plaque on my desk. My son, Tanner, brought this plaque back from a church camp gift shop. That rock clearly states: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”

Wow! What a revelation. I don’t have to do the work alone. Christ would give me the strength for the tasks ahead of me. Christ would give me clarity of thought, the knowledge to prioritize the daunting tasks, and energy to do the work.

When I was reminded of God’s promise, I would take the time to pray to God for help. When I admitted that I could not do it alone, Christ was there right alongside of me to assist me in my job.

My prayer for you is that you would look to Christ for your strength to help you through the day. Whether you are teaching in the classroom, fixing a computer problem, preparing a meal in the cafeteria, mowing the lawn, answering the phones, addressing the needs of a parent, or driving a bus load of students, Christ can be there to help you, too. Please call upon Him in prayer.

May God bless you richly today as you serve Him at Phoenix Christian.

Wednesday, September 22, 2010

Message from Keith de Laet, High School Teacher

I was reading in 1 Kings the other day, and I came across something I found to be interesting. We all know that the Bible tends to look favorably upon King David, even though he was guilty of some very serious indiscretions. I think that this is because he usually made a decent effort to walk in God’s ways, and owned up to take responsibility when he didn’t. This particularly hit me when I came across this passage regarding David on his death bed.

1 Kings 2:1-4 1When David’s time to die drew near, he commanded Solomon his son, saying, 2"I am about to go the way of all the earth. Be strong, and show yourself a man, 3and keep the charge of the LORD your God, walking in his ways and keeping his statutes, his commandments, his rules, and his testimonies, as it is written in the Law of Moses, that you may prosper in all that you do and wherever you turn, 4that the LORD may establish his word that he spoke concerning me, saying, 'If your sons pay close attention to their way, to walk before me in faithfulness with all their heart and with all their soul, you shall not lack a man on the throne of Israel.'

David’s last act as a man of faith was to pass on God’s expectations to Solomon. David did not always live correctly but he knew the importance of walking in God’s ways, modeled it the best he could, and was intentional about explaining it to Solomon. It further seems to me that Solomon understood the lesson his father taught him. As we see:

1 Kings 3:5-14 At Gibeon the LORD appeared to Solomon in a dream by night, and God said, "Ask what I shall give you." 6And Solomon said, "You have shown great and steadfast love to your servant David my father, because he walked before you in faithfulness, in righteousness, and in uprightness of heart toward you. And you have kept for him this great and steadfast love and have given him a son to sit on his throne this day. 7And now, O LORD my God, you have made your servant king in place of David my father, although I am but a little child. I do not know how to go out or come in. 8And your servant is in the midst of your people whom you have chosen, a great people, too many to be numbered or counted for multitude. 9Give your servant therefore an understanding mind to govern your people, that I may discern between good and evil, for who is able to govern this your great people?" 10It pleased the Lord that Solomon had asked this

Solomon says that David “walked before you in faithfulness, in righteousness, and in uprightness of heart toward you”. I believe this observation comes from knowing and living out God’s expectations for our lives, because it is clear that David had many public and private failures. In spite of this, at the end of David’s life when Solomon was ready to take his place in the line of Kings, his remembered his father’s desire for Godly living, rather than the obvious short comings.

So I think this means, for me at least, that I need to realize the importance of living out God’s ways as best as I understand them, before my family, colleagues, and students. This will allow me to trust that when the time here is done, the students will remember the best, not focus on the failures, and prayerfully take their place as leaders in God’s world.

Message from Donn Start, Principal West Valley Campus

Romans 8:28 And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him…”

It was a Sunday evening in 1979 as I traveled alone the 3 ½ hours back from visiting my family in Grand Haven Michigan. Always looking for a shorter route, or a scenic road, I decided to travel across the great state of Michigan on a lonely country highway that runs through the middle of nowhere.

While traveling through “nowhere,” I noticed my headlights dimming seconds before the “snapping” sound came from under the hood of my ’68 Ford Falcon. I steered to the apron of the two-lane road, stopped, and inspected under the hood. No mystery here—my generator belt had worn right through. No lights and no power to the motor. Now what I thought. “I am in a real bind, help me Lord,” I prayed.

After 15 minutes of total quiet I spotted the headlights of an old beat up pickup truck coming from the opposite direction. The driver stopped his truck, got out, and immediately saw the trouble. “Tough luck” the older gentleman whistled through his missing bottom teeth, “the nearest auto parts store is 12 miles away and they sure aren’t open on a Sunday night.” Not the news that this bewildered 23 year old wanted to hear.

After standing in silence for several long minutes, the older gentleman introduced himself by telling me that folks around these parts call him “Montana.” With a whistle, he assured me that he was going to somehow solve my problem tonight. “Hop in,” he gestured. “We’re going to an old junk yard that a buddy owns.” Long story short, Montana solved my problem that night by finding a generator belt still attached to a rusted old Ford sitting in his friend’s junkyard of cars. With a few twists of a wrench the rubber belt was off from the junked car and minutes later securely attached to my car. “It’s a miracle for me that you were driving this way,” I told him as I started my car up.

“Funny you should say that,” he said. “I was returning from work when I saw you stranded. Usually I work Sunday nights cleaning the gas station diner. But the owner told me that she didn’t need me to work this evening, instead her son would do the cleaning in the morning. Then ole Montana looked at me and smiled. “I guess that this is the real job the Lord had in mind for me tonight.”

Several of my non-Christian friends laugh at my story and have tried to convince me “Montana to the rescue” was simply a coincidence. However, I am convinced that this event was an example of God winking at someone that He loves dearly – me!

Do you or your students have a story of a “coincidence” where God has lovingly winked at you in a special-coincidental way? If you do, I’d love to hear about it.

Tuesday, September 21, 2010

Message from Elizabeth De Arcos, High School Teacher

“Save me, I’m lost/Oh lord, I’ve been waiting for you/ I’ll pay any cost/Save me from being confused/Show me what I’m looking for/Show me what I’m looking for/Oh lord”

Carolina Liar, “Show Me What I’m Looking For”

Everywhere I turn lately, I am bombarded with the idea of truth. It’s been a theme in everything I am reading for grad school; I keep hearing it in music, or I hear our students trying to make sense of the world through the eyes of the Jersey Shore cast or Lady Gaga. Everyone is looking for something, and even though we try to give that something different names, what it boils down to is we are all searching for truth.

Truth is a tricky concept. We live in a society where we are constantly asked to evaluate truth. Everyone has his or her own idea of truth, and society as a whole accepts a “find truth for yourself” policy. It’s an appealing idea. Who wouldn’t want to make up truths for themselves? Our sin nature craves it. If we make up our own truths, we can justify anything. And the world wants us to do so. But the world doesn’t tell us of the consequences. Consider what Anderson has to say:

“In the beginning when the world was young there were a great many thoughts but no such thing as a truth. Man made the truths himself and each truth was a composite of a great many vague thoughts. All about in the world were the truths and they were all beautiful…There was the truth of virginity and the truth of passion, the truth of wealth and of poverty, of thrift and of profligacy, of carelessness and abandon. Hundreds and hundreds were the truths and they were all beautiful. And then the people came along. Each as he appeared snatched up one of the truths and some who were quite strong snatched up a dozen of them. It was the truths that made the people grotesques…the moment one of the people took one of the truths to himself, called it his truth, and tried to live his life by it, he became a grotesque and the truth he embraced became a falsehood.”

Sherwood Anderson, Winesburg, Ohio

Now, this comes from fiction, so let’s not focus on the part that says man made truths. The intriguing idea that I took away from this passage was how man made truth grotesque because he took it for himself. He made it his own. He twisted it to fit his purpose or justify his cause. Winesburg, Ohio is a collection of short stories about different citizens in one town and essentially focuses on their struggles to find truth. Some find it through God, while others flounder and ultimately fail because they choose to live by nothing but the truth they create for themselves. And though this is not considered Christian literature, and I can find no information on Anderson’s salvation, he illustrates a good point: when we look for truth in any other place than in Christ, we fail.

Message from Phil Adams, Principal JH/SH & Central Elementary

“Create in me a clean heart, O God, Renew a right spirit within me”
Psalm 51:10

As we know, David said these words after the terrible sin with Bathsheba. Oh that this would have been his heart’s prayer the day before that happened. In our position as people of influence, God is as ready now, with us, to create a clean heart, and renew a right spirit as He was with David. So much of what we are about here at Phoenix Christian depends on clear thinking, a clean heart, and the right attitude. Better that we should enter the circumstance with a heart that is pure before God, ready, willing, and able to do His will, than that we should ask God to do damage control after the fact.

“We want the right values, those that make us a healthy community in achieving our goals is our means of becoming better people and a better organization. So these values must move us toward the right goals. Guide our selection of these values. If we blunder here, nothing else will work right.”

From Leadership Prayers, by Richard Kriegbaum

Monday, September 20, 2010

Message from Margaret Crotts, First Grade Teacher

From THE MESSAGE:

Do you see what this means -- all these pioneers who blazed the way, all these veterans cheering us on?
It means we better get on with it. Strip down, start running and never quit! No extra spiritual fat, no parasitic sins.

Keep your eyes on Jesus, who both began and finished this race we’re in. Study how he did it. Because He
never lost sight of where he was headed - that exhilarating finish in and with God ---He could put up with anything along the way: cross, shame, whatever. And now He’s there, in the place of honor, right along side God.

Hebrews 12: 1-2

My neighborhood is new, but only to me. Many of the houses have been there since 1974 or so. I’m still learning new patterns and routes to take when I walk my little dog, Jake. Jake is a rescue dog; part Chihuahua and part something else, but we don’t know what the something else is. He’s always ready when I grab the leash and so happy to be out and about.

As I walk my neighborhood with Jake, most of the time I’m looking down, being careful not to step on little Jake and not to trip over a tree
root or something else that has over grown the walk ways.

Last week as we were walking I noticed something I had never seen before. Crossing a driveway I noticed an imprint in the concrete near the curb: Fred Brown, Contractor, it said. A few yards away further up the street I saw it again - another sidewalk poured by Fred. And then on down the street, I noticed that F.O. Schuller poured quite a few sidewalks and driveways, himself. And they signed their name to their work. In CONCRETE! There’s even a name signed in concrete on the corner of the Light and Life Church. Once upon a time, ordinary workers signed their ordinary work. I’m fairly certain that they did not do so until it was up to standard. And I don’t know that anyone does that much anymore.

A year so ago, Nate the fireman came to our school to do a presentation about Fire Safety Week. Nate fondly told our children that Ms. Flores had been his second grade teacher. And several times I’ve heard Mary Hendricks say “I had that child when he was in 2nd grade”.

TALK ABOUT SIGNING YOUR WORK!!

Every day we get to “sign our work”. We are privileged to make lasting, concrete impressions on the students we teach. We get to leave a legacy. Our entire school will “sign our work” when the class of 2011 graduates in May.

Some years ago Jon Mohr wrote a song in memory of his father-in-law who died after a long battle with cancer. Some time later Steve Green recorded that song. You might recognize the words:

We’re pilgrims on the journey of the narrow road.
And those who’ve gone before us line the way.
Cheering on the faithful, encouraging the weary
Their lives a stirring testament to God’s sustaining grace.

Surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses,
Let us run the race not only for the prize.
But as those who’ve gone before us
Let us leave to those behind us
The heritage of faithfulness passed on through godly lives.

May all who come behind us find us faithful.
May the fire of our devotion light their way.
May the footprints that we leave,
Lead them to believe
And the lives we live inspire them to obey.
Oh may all who come behind us find us faithful.

Let’s encourage one another to not merely be up to the standard, but in true PC Cougar style, far exceed what is required. After all, we were handed a grand legacy. Be proud to “sign your work” today!

Message from Jim Koan, Superintendent

10And we pray this in order that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and may please him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God, 11being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience, and joyfully 12giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints in the kingdom of light. 13For he has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves, 14in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins. Colossians 1:10-13

“My friend, you know how this all ends
and you know where you're going,
you just don't know how you get there
so just say a prayer.


And hold on, cause there's good who love God,
life is not a snapshot, it might take a little time,
but you'll see the bigger picture.


Would dare you, would you dare, to believe,
that you still have a reason to sing,
'cause the pain you've been feeling,
can't compare to the joy that's coming.”


Click here to hear "Before the Morning".

These lyrics from Josh Wilson’s Before the Morning so well capture a truth God has been impressing on me: life is not a snapshot. The sum total of who God is (how much He loves me, how ‘in-control’ He really is, etc) and the sum total of who I am is not defined by a moment in time, a snapshot of today’s events and circumstances.

While I may stumble and fall on occasion, and suffer the pain of consequences as a result of those choices, my ‘near-sighted’ faith or my rebellion does not change my standing before God. I am His child, washed by Christ’s blood, and perfect in His eyes.

And the best part is the realization that this is not all there is for those of us who believe. This life here is not “as good as it gets.” God promised us an eternity of peace and joy in His presence – and a mansion to boot. Now that is as good as it gets!

No, today’s snapshot of our earthly existence is not the ‘Big Picture’…God’s got that covered and He promises us a joy unspeakable.

Rejoice in that day and leap for joy!
For indeed your reward is great in heaven. Luke 6:23 (NKJV)

Friday, September 17, 2010

Message from Marc Cram, High School Teacher

This past summer has been very eye opening and interesting for me. Throughout the summer I really started to get into the dating scene and meeting some new people. I signed up for eHarmony to meet people and see if God would open any doors. Through this experience I learned so much about God and really grew closer to Him. My whole intent of dating is to meet someone with the purpose of finding a woman to marry. Through this summer I went on a few dates and my heart was really opened to hear from God and really trust in Him to provide for me. I started the summer pursuing what I wanted, but after a couple of dates that didn’t go anywhere I found myself praying more and really seeking God for guidance on the person that I am supposed to be with. I really had to start trusting that God will provide the right person for me and trust in Him when I meet someone and it doesn’t work out.
How many times do we trust in God? Trust in Him and not have a backup plan? We always have plan. In our world we have trained ourselves to have a plan, and then a backup plan.

As it says in Proverbs 3:5-6
"Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight."

This has been the verse of the summer for me. I have really had to trust that God has a plan and a path for me and nothing that I can do will be better than what he has planned. I have met many gals over the summer and with each one I know that I am trusting in God more and more to provide for me. I want what He has planned for me and the woman that He has in store for me. Is it hard to trust in God and wait on Him to move? Heck yeah it is!! There are so many times where I find myself screaming at God wondering when He will provide, but I know the answer every time, be patient, wait and trust.
What is happening in your life that you need to trust in God to guide you or provide for you? Do you have a backup plan already in place, or are you waiting on the Lord to show you the path He wants you to take?

Remember to trust in the Lord with EVERYTHING and He will make sure your provided for. Will it be hard? Yes, but once He provides, it is so much better than you could ever imagine!

Message from Joe Frost Director of Technology & Operations

James-4:6-8 ...God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble. Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.
Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you...

**********

We long for home; to be in our God's presence in Heaven for eternity. Jesus left to prepare a place for us and soon, very soon we get to follow Him, to hang out with Him. We get to put this all behind us, gather with the believers, and just praise & worship our Lord forever and ever amen.

But wait, the lesson here is not about retirement. We don't have to wait for the clock to run out. Don't wait for another time or season to experience a relationship with God. Draw near to God today...now, don't wait another second, be intentional about living life God's way and send the devil packing.

Our relationship with God begins by acknowledging our need for Him and continues as we recognize that need new each morning with each breath we take. Today, here and now, we can live in the newness of life, humility; dependence on God; in victory over the devil.

Oh, and by the way, we still get to go home someday soon, very soon...

Thursday, September 16, 2010

Message from Nancy Cook, Bookkeeper

"If my people who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land ." 2 Chronicles 7:14

We don't have to look very hard to see how far our country has drifted from God's Word. Simply read, watch, or listen to the news. It is easy to despair and feel helpless when we see our country's declining moral values, disregard for the sanctity of life, and attacks on marriage and family.

Ezekiel had reason to despair when he could not find even one person to intercede with God on behalf of the people.

"I looked for a man among them who would build up the wall and stand before me in the gap on behalf of the land so I would not have to destroy it, but I found none." Ezekiel 22:30

However, in 2 Chronicles, God did not say that all people must be perfect to receive his blessing. As Christians, we must stand in the gap for our nation by praying and following the way of the Lord.

On a smaller scale, I think of standing in the gap for our Phoenix Christian community. Some of our students are hearing the Gospel and learning about Jesus for the first time. Others are struggling to understand what they believe - perhaps coming from unbelief or false religions. We have families where one or both parents do not know the Lord.

As Christian teachers, administrators, and staff, we can stand in the gap for these students and families as we pray with our prayer partner each week. We can humble ourselves and repent for the sins of our Phoenix Christian school community. As one who is called by His name, pray on behalf of an unrepentant nation and community. Ask God to change hearts and draw us, as individuals and as a community, close to Him.

Lord, you have called us to yourself and have set us apart. O Lord, be merciful as we humble ourselves before you. I ask forgiveness for my own sins, the sins of the Phoenix Christian community, and the sins of our nation. Heal us and turn our hearts to you. Lead us and teach us to follow you and walk in your ways. Pour out your abundant blessings on the Phoenix Christian community. We ask this in faith and in Jesus' name. Amen.

Message from Darren Johnson, Development Director

“And some (seeds) fell among thorns; and the thorns sprang up with it, and choked it. But others fell on good ground, sprang up, and yielded a crop a hundredfold. When He had said these things He cried, ‘He who has ears to hear, let him hear!’” Luke 8:7-8

There was a time when I really wanted to live my life for Christ, but felt powerless to do it. I tried to read the Bible, but every time I read it, it was dry, it wouldn’t resonate with me. One day, out of desperation, I prayed that God would make the scriptures come alive to me. He led me to this parable about the sower. He showed to me, in a very powerful way, that my life was so consumed with the cares, riches, and pleasures of this world that it was choking the effect of His Word in my life. He revealed to me that I had to cast my cares upon Him and get rid of the things that were choking my spiritual life. When I did this, God opened up the Bible to me in a totally new and powerful way. My devotional life became an exciting time where God would speak to me in a very personal way. My life began to produce fruit that was pleasing to Him.

Perhaps you find yourself in the same place that I was: desiring to live your life for Christ but with no power to do so. I want to encourage you not to give up. Cast your cares upon Him for He cares for you. Get rid of the things in your life that hold you back from experiencing all that God wants for you. Make time to read the Bible daily and you will begin to see incredible fruit, a hundredfold, coming forth from your life. It will be exciting!

Wednesday, September 15, 2010

Message from Donn Start, Principal West Valley Campus

It's an old joke, maybe you’ve head it. "What did the Indians say when Columbus landed?" Answer: "There goes the neighborhood!" Humorous to us perhaps, but from the Native American’s perspective, that's exactly what happened.

While previously employed with a northern Michigan school, that consisted of 20% Odawa Indians, I learned a great deal about the Native American culture. I quickly found out that Columbus Day is not a day of celebration within the Indian community. Odawa tribal elder, Simon Otto, often spoke about how Columbus and the European settlers brought unwanted diseases, polluted the lands, and corrupted the desired way of living for Native Americans everywhere.

While addressing his tribal members, Elder Otto used a word picture to capture the attention of his people. He talked about two canoes. He said that there were two canoes on this river that divided the world of their people from the world of the European settlers. One canoe represented the ways of the Indian people, the other canoe the ways of the white people. As Elder Otto would say, you could not have a foot in each canoe. You had to choose your canoe.

I believe that Jesus had a lot in common with the Native people of North America. He was a tribal man; His country had been taken over by others; He loved nature; He told stories; He was poor and He died a violent death. Now, while He didn't talk about those two canoes, He said something about following Him that sounded very much like it. In Matthew 6:24, Jesus stated, "No man can serve two masters." Or have his feet in two different canoes. You can't claim Jesus as your Lord, the decider of what you do, and then have someone or something else be your deciding factor. Like a man trying to straddle two canoes, you'll be pulled apart.

In spite of the impossibility of living for two masters, many of us who belong to Jesus may appear to be trying to do just that! We may say that Jesus is Lord, but when it comes to a choice between what Jesus wants and issues involving money, how often does the money win? Or when choosing between what friends may want and what Jesus wants, how often do the friends win? Although we may even say that Jesus is "number one," how often do we ignore Jesus’ teaching by ignoring those in need?

It can certainly be a struggle for many of us Christ followers to consistently serve only one master and to live without our feet in two canoes. The canoes will continue to drift in opposite directions, and so will we. God has some straight talk for us in Joshua 24:15, "Choose...this day whom you will serve." "Choose!"

I often tell my elementary students that they need to choose between how Jesus wants them to live and how Satan wants them to live. I encourage the children to choose the One who loves them the most. To choose Jesus!

Your comments are always appreciated.

Tuesday, September 14, 2010

Message from Jim Callahan, High School Teacher

Acts 17:32-34 ESV Now when they heard of the resurrection of the dead, some mocked. But others said, “We will hear you again about this.” So Paul went out from their midst. But some men joined him and believed, among whom also were Dionysius the Areopagite and a woman named Damaris and others with them. Acts

These verses are the end of the record of the Apostles Paul’s witness on Mars Hill in ancient Athens. Paul was invited to address the Areopagus so that they might know more about this “new teaching” that proclaimed Jesus and the resurrection. The conclusion of Paul’s address was that all men everywhere ought to repent because the day of righteous judgment is coming. The proof of this is the resurrection of Jesus. What was the result of Paul’s address? The immediate result was that some believed .The exact number that immediately responded in faith is not known from the text. However, it appears that the great majority did not. Furthermore, we do not know form the text what the long term result were. If only a few believed, then did this discourage Paul? No it did not. Paul performed his duty well and was not anxious about the results of his witness which in reality were out of his control.

One application of this passage for teachers is that we must, by God’s grace, seek to be faithful to God’s truth in the classroom regardless of the immediate results. This is not a new point for most of us. However, this is a point that we need to be reminded of from time to time. It is very encouraging to see immediate positive result form our classroom efforts. This does not always happen. In fact, sometimes this is the exception rather than the rule. A number of years ago a former college student of mine told me that something I said in class years earlier was used by God to bring about his conversion. My friends we have every reason to be encouraged. The presentation of God’s word will accomplish its ordained purpose. We may live to see it or we may not. Our observation of results or lack there of does not have great importance. What ultimately matters is that God’s glory will be displayed in, by and unto His creatures by the proclamation of His holy truth.

Message from Phil Adams, Principal JH/SH & Central Elementary

“If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.”
-- James 1:5, English Standard Version

What an amazing promise. All I have to do is ask. Can it really be that simple? I am no theologian, but for me, the “if” is more like “since”. Never a day goes by but what I feel as dumb as a bag of hammers. This is probably the prayer I whisper to God more than any other. And yet I think God is most pleased when we have come to the end of ourselves and “Cast all our cares upon Him”. Why does it take so long for us to come to the end of ourselves? Wouldn’t it be simpler all around if we just started there? Each of us has our own tale to tell for that question.

“Whatever you teach me is all I have for others, God…. Too often I am a fool, tricked so easily by my own personality, deceived by my ignorance, blinded by my proud determination to win, and misled by my logic. Sometimes my spirit is asleep or busy elsewhere or just encrusted with all my own exquisite rationalizing. I need your wisdom.

“If I were brilliant, if I had the knowledge and strengths that I admire in so many other people, if I were a spiritual giant, I would simply ask you to help me do my best. But my best is not good enough, and I cannot see clearly enough. I am your child, and I want to learn, but unless your Spirit teaches me, I have little to offer. I need your wisdom.

From Leadership Prayers, by Richard Kriegbaum

Monday, September 13, 2010

Message from Yvonne Calderon, WV 5th Grade Teacher

Jonah 4: 5-6

5 Jonah went out and sat down at a place east of the city. There he made himself a shelter, sat in its shade and waited to see what would happen to the city. 6 Then the LORD God provided a vine and made it grow up over Jonah to give shade for his head to ease his discomfort, and Jonah was very happy about the vine.

My preacher was preaching about Jonah last week. When I came across this verse it was like a bolt of lightening hit me. Our nation is focused on happiness. We sing songs about happiness. “Don’t Worry Be Happy” can now ring in your ears, you are welcome wonderful co-workers. Jonah was happy about the vine over his head. Really? The vine? Six-hundred thousand people repented of their ways. That is what he should be rejoicing in! He wanted justice. He was not happy about what was happening for the Kingdom. Instead, he was happy over the most selfish thing: his own comfort, what made him feel good.

How many times are we unhappy about the wrong thing? Is our focus correct? Should we be happy when “we really showed him/her”? When we feel justice has been served. Or, should we be happy when we show Christ to our fellow man? Should we be happy when “they get what is coming to them” like Jonah thought should have happened. Or, should we be happy that we showed compassion to a hurting soul.

Lord, I ask you that for today, we can set aside our own goals, our own thoughts our own comfort. Lord, I ask that you allow us to keep our focus on what we are here to do. We are here to win souls for you, Oh Lord. Please, let our words to each other drip with honey so that we may be an example for the students, that they may see Christ through us.

Message from Jim Koan, Superintendent

Psalm 103:1-2 “Bless the Lord, O my soul; and all that is within me, bless His holy name! Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits.”

The hustle and bustle of our days can often create ‘life noise’ that drowns out our recollection of God’s work in our lives. Sometimes it is not the day-to-day routine that overwhelms our peace in Christ, it is the ‘giants’ we are facing which distract us and cause us to turn our eyes from Him: ‘giants’ such as financial issues, health issues, family relations issues, to name just a few.

We were created to work and to raise a family, therefore the hustle and bustle of life is not wrong or inherently evil. We were entrusted, by God’s grace, to wrestle with major challenges, so that our faithful living in these trails can give glory to God. So the issue is not ‘the issues’…the issue is our focus: is it on us and our surroundings or is it on the Lord? The psalmist made it clear what our response should be in these situations.

This morning I want to encourage each of us to “forget not His benefits.” Reflecting on God and all He has done will bring perspective to our challenges and priority to our activities.

I’ll get us started and then you fill in the blanks…
• Salvation, so rich and free,
• Immediate audience with the God of the universe and the only one able to deal with each and every trial in our lives,
• Brothers and sisters in Christ who love us and are our family,
• A purpose far beyond the temporary accomplishments of wealth or power or prestige,
• Eternal life and mansions in glory,
• Our Abba, Father…


Bless the Lord, O my soul; and all that is within me BLESS HIS HOLY NAME!

Friday, September 10, 2010

Message from Bruce Consier, Athletic Director

All those who exalt themselves will be humbled and all who humble themselves will be exalted.
Matt 23:12

The coaches at PC were trained in the Champions of Character program of NAIA for this year.
The program is based on five core values:
Respect
Integrity
Responsibility
Sportsmanship
Servant Leadership

The last core value - Servant Leadership - is the main focus as we start the year. One of the best examples of being a servant leader is when a player takes the step from independence to interdependence and accepts a role on the team. Choosing to play a game where there are multiple roles necessary for team success is a test of character, commitment and leadership.

The same goes for us in life and our work at PC. Although some roles appear to have more importance than others, in reality it is the combination of roles(skills) that allows an organization to reach its ultimate potential.

God has called each of us to be at Phoenix Christian this year. As we all work together, PC will achieve great things this year for God.

Message from Lisa Blake, Counselor

Wait for Me, yea, wait; I will come and heal you (Matt. 8:7)

Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid (John 14:27)

Trust in Me and have confidence in My mercy (Ps. 91:2)

George MacDonald writes this really moving series of books called The Parish Papers. He paints this beautiful scene of this parish pastor and his young family. One morning, he takes his daughter, Connie, out for a ride on their favorite horses. While they’re riding, she begins to talk with her father about having no idea what God’s will could be for her life. She desperately wants to know what to do but feels like God must be keeping it from her. As they continue on this dialogue she has an almost fatal accident and completely loses all movement in her legs. She now faces en entirely different life, a life completely dependent on others and Christ. In a conversation soon after the accident, her father asked her if she remembered their talk on that dreadful morning; she wanted something to “do.” He said, “God gave you something to do.” She answered, “Lying in bed, doing nothing!” And he responded, “Yes. Just lying in bed doing His will!”

And although I’m sure that was much easier said than done…really isn’t that what Christ wants of each one of us? To rest in Him, to wait on Him, to trust in Him…regardless of the tribulations we encounter. Regardless of who forsakes us, betrays us, or dishonors us. In spite of debilitating sickness, the loss of a loved one or economic distress, Thomas Kempis writes, “Think not yourself wholly left, although for a time I have sent some tribulation, or even have withdrawn desired comfort; for this is the passage of the Kingdom of Heaven.” The Kingdom of Heaven is ready now but we cannot pass through UNLESS we choose to wait, rest, lie down and do His will.

Later in The Parish Papers, Connie reflects on her life…”you wouldn’t have me back with my old foolishness would you? Believe me, life is ten times more precious than it was before. I feel and enjoy and love so much more! I often thank God for what befell me.”

Thursday, September 9, 2010

Message from Jeff Blake, High School Teacher

Matthew 3:13-17, Matthew 4
13 Then Jesus came from Galilee to the Jordan to John, to be baptized by him. 14 John would have prevented him, saying, "I need to be baptized by you, and do you come to me?" 15 But Jesus answered him, "Let it be so now, for thus it is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness." Then he consented. 16 And when Jesus was baptized, immediately he went up from the water, and behold, the heavens were opened to him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and coming to rest on him; 17 and behold, a voice from heaven said, "This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased."

Allow your eyes and thoughts to rest upon one word.

Beloved

Christ, the One we are called to emulate, allowed himself to be defined as the beloved. In a divine embrace of this defining relationship with his father, he later resists the temptations to be defined by secular definitions of importance, impressiveness, and might as illustrated in Matthew 4.

What strikes me most is Christ’s discipline of solitude which I so often fear and avoid. In solitude I come face to face with my sin, immaturity, and pain. But when I linger a bit longer and begin to sense the Divine’s embrace, I hear the word “beloved”. In these moments I realize I am miss defined. In these moments I begin to unshackle from the temptations to be important, impressive, and mighty.

In these moments my soul finds freedom. I am beloved.

Message from Renee Trapp, Business Manager

FAITH

“Oh, what I would do to have
The kind of faith it takes to climb out of this boat I’m in
Onto the crashing waves

To step out of my comfort zone
To the realm of the unknown where Jesus is
And He’s holding out his hand.”

These lyrics from the Casting Crowns’ song, “Voice of Truth,” are very appropriate for today’s thoughts. God is challenging us on a daily basis to “get out of the boat” and out of our “comfort zone” and do his work. All these actions require faith.

In Mark 4:35, Jesus said to his disciples, “Let us go across to the other side.” Then in verse 37, “And a great windstorm arose, and the waves were breaking into the boat, so that the boat was already filling.” The disciples were very afraid and woke Jesus. In verse 39-40, Jesus “awoke and rebuked the wind and said to the sea, ‘Peace! Be still!’ And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm. He said to them, ‘Why are you so afraid? Have you still no faith?’’

At times it may feel like we do not have enough faith to do God’s work. We feel the waves of doubt and frustrations overcoming us at each turn we make. But God promises He will be there to help us. God’s word tells us that we are not alone and we do not have to face the “realm of the unknown” alone. Jesus will be with us everyday and every step of the way—“holding out his hand.”

Dear Heavenly Father, Grant us a strong faith today to do the work you have set before us. Help us to step out in faith, out of our comfort zone and to focus our eyes on Jesus, who will be there holding out His hand to help us. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Wednesday, September 8, 2010

Message from Donn Start, Principal West Valley Campus

Jeremiah 29:11 “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”

A year and a half ago my mother passed away. Nine months ago my wife was diagnosed with cancer. One month ago my son got married to his college sweetheart. Wow, that’s a lot of family changes for a fella who doesn’t always embrace change! I don’t know about you, but significant changes in family will cause me to sit and reflect on the past, the present, and the future. I must admit that it is not always easy for me to let go of the wonderful memories of our family together; the way that we use to be.

Although there is much I don’t understand, I think I have grown to deeply appreciate the fact that no matter how life changes that God is always with us. I also remind myself that if I hold on to yesterday’s blessings too tight, I will miss the blessings of today.

In seemingly good times and in bad, I find Jeremiah 29:11-12 to be both a comforting and exciting promise. No matter how life changes, isn’t it just wonderful knowing that the creator of the universe has “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you.”

May we be joyful today and tomorrow, knowing that this promise is indeed God’s truth for each one of us. Do you think that your students realize the exciting promise that Jeremiah 29:11 has for them?

Tuesday, September 7, 2010

Message from Elizabeth Billings, Central Preschool

Passage Ephesians 6:5-8 (MSG)

Servants, respectfully obey your earthly masters but always with an eye to obeying the real master, Christ. Don’t just do what you have to do to get by, but work heartily, as Christ’s servants doing what God wants you to do. And work with a smile on your face, always keeping in mind that no matter who happens to be giving orders, you’re really serving God. Good work will get you good pay from the Master, regardless of whether you are slave or free.

Labor Day is a traditional holiday to take rest from work. Yes, many of us enjoy the day off because it means a 3 day weekend, hurray! We can relax, go camping or whatever we enjoy doing besides working.

For me, I still work, you know at home. But whatever I’m doing whether at school, home or wherever, I want to please God.

I thank him everyday for how He watches over me.

I also know how hard it is sometimes to work with a smile on your face, for we all face some kind of challenge each day. But if we remember this is where God has placed us then we should give Him thanks and do the best we can.

I have been here 24 years and believe me I’ve had days asking myself what am I doing here! But when I have a “down” day at work there is always a child or co-worker that brings a smile to my face.

Let us all be encouragers and lift each other up as we work for our God.

Message from Phil Adams, Principal JH/SH & Central Elementary

O LORD, you have searched me and known me! You know when I sit down and when I rise up; you discern my thoughts from afar.
You search out my path and my lying down
and are acquainted with all my ways.
Even before a word is on my tongue,
behold, O LORD, you know it altogether.
Search me, O God, and know my heart!
Try me and know my thoughts!
And see if there be any grievous way in me,
and lead me in the way everlasting!

Psalm 139:1-4, 23-24 English Standard Version

“Help us to agree on what is true about who we are and where we are, God, so that we may agree on where to go and the best way to get there. Though we will not all look at our reality in the same way, help us to see the same reality and agree on its meaning for us, whether or not we like what we see. Otherwise, God, we will waste precious time and energy arguing from different assumptions…

“On my own it is not at all clear to me what is true, God. Often when I have felt the most certain, I have been deceived. So much in this world is merely a façade, not what it seems, and things change so fast that reality shifts like a moonlit shadow in the wind…

“I know that the truth tends to win in the long run, but I need to see it early enough to act wisely. Help us to understand our situation accurately so that we do not waste this opportunity for greatness. We want the truth because only the truth can free us to achieve our mission…

“Show us what is real, God. We have to know the truth.”

-- From Leadership Prayers, by Richard Kriegbaum

I am amazed that God knows every nook and cranny of my life and still loves me as He does. We are completely transparent before God whether we like it or not. David’s plea to be searched and known by God was not for God’s information but for his own. One of the key ways we learn to grow as believers is to first acknowledge that God has the right and the power to know us and to expose us for who and what we are, then to actively request it so God can have a free hand in building in us His character.

Friday, September 3, 2010

Message from Sonya Berges, JH/SH Teacher

“I cry out to God Most High, to God who fulfills his purpose for me.” –Psalms 57:2

“O LORD, God of my salvation; I cry out day and night before you. Let my prayer come before you; incline your ear to my cry! For my soul is full of troubles…” –Psalms 88:1-3

I recently read an article that posed the question, “Do you cry out to God?”

My first response was sure, I tell him about my day, I talk with him about His direction for me, I chat with him all the time. As I continued reading the author gave an example of his frightened child the night before. The child had a bad dream and woke scared, alone in a dark room. When they cried out to their father, it was a blood-curdling scream desperate for help.

I’ve faced some frightening situations in life but when I’m honest, I didn’t really cry out to God. I talked, I asked, I may have even whined a bit, but I didn’t really ‘cry out’. God’s ok with our emotions – he gave them to us. Why do we try to hide them from him? I think it’s alright to cry, yell, or plead when the circumstance of life are overwhelming. I’m not very good at it yet, but I’m working on it.

Message from Joe Frost Director of Technology & Operations

James 3:17 But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial and sincere.

**********

We long to know what to do when our way is not clear. So many choices must be decided, not just between good & evil, but frequently between now & later, good & better, you pick...

Our decisions are based on experience, whether it's our own or those closest to us that we trust and that's fine, but we as Christians have another source to develop, to lean on, to listen to.

As Christians, in our life long walk with our God, Creator, Father, Dad, Savior, Friend we grow closer in our relationship to Him as we spend time daily with Him.

And just as we talk with our friends about those things close to our hearts and minds we can talk with our Lord...and pray.

We can base our decisions, our very lives on the wisdom that comes from above, His Word...and pray.

We're called to live a life so unique that the world will be drawn to Him through how we choose to live our lives for Him.

Living daily in dependence on wisdom that comes from above is just one of those choices.

Thursday, September 2, 2010

Message from Darren Johnson, Development Director

“For which cause we faint not; but though our outward man perish, yet the inward man is renewed day by day.
For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory;
While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal.”
II Corinthians 4:16-18

A couple of years ago I had hip surgery. It was becoming really obvious to me that the outward man was perishing. The doctors told me that my recovery period would be painful and would last around 8 weeks. Suffering has a way of expanding time. During my recovery period I wondered if those eight weeks would ever end. It seemed like the pain I had before surgery was much more tolerable than the pain I had during this recovery. There were times that I would get so mad for having the surgery. I thought that I would never recover. Well nine weeks after surgery I finally did recover. The pain that I experienced for years was gone. It was wonderful!

Our life is just a vapor compared with eternity. The afflictions that we go through are truly “just for a moment”; they are temporary. Through these afflictions, as we put our faith and trust in God, He develops within us a depth of character that cannot be developed any other way. It is easy for us to become so focused on our material surroundings that we lose sight of the eternal. God has an eternity planned for us. He desires that we look at the eternal and place our value in the eternal things. "Looking unto Jesus," keeping our eyes on Him, "the author and the finisher of our faith" (Hebrews 12:2).

Have a great day in the Lord!

Wednesday, September 1, 2010

Message from Donn Start, Principal West Valley Campus

It's probably the most powerful office in the world - the Oval Office of the President of the United States. You see, the one who occupies that room is empowered to make world-changing decisions. Those who assist the President with information and advice are considered by many to be some of the most privileged and powerful people in the land.

Power has to do with who has regular access to the place where things are decided. As followers of Jesus Christ, we have day or night access to the Throne Room of Almighty God. In fact, Scripture invites us to "approach the throne of God with confidence" (Hebrews 4:16). The Bible tells us that "we have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus" (Hebrews 10:19).

At any given moment in our lives, we may face some things that are beyond our ability to figure out, or to fix, or to change. It can be something medical, or financial, or emotional, or a challenge that you can’t meet. Who will decide the outcome of your concern? Will that medical condition decide it, or the economy, or the people who seem against you? No! For as children of God, it will be decided in the Throne Room of the One who rules a hundred billion galaxies and who is your Heavenly Father! Which means that our primary method of getting anything done must be big-time praying!

The Bible is filled with examples of the decisive difference that desperate and dependent prayer makes. In Isaiah 37, King Hezekiah is facing an ultimatum to surrender to the powerful Assyrian army that has rolled across the Middle East, crushing every kingdom in its path. The Bible tells us that: "King Hezekiah prayed to the Lord: 'O Lord Almighty... You alone are God over all the kingdoms of the earth'." And he went on to plead with God for deliverance. And the angel of the Lord came and slew 185,000 Assyrians that night.

That divine throne room where the outcome of Hezekiah's battle was decided is the same place that our battles will be decided. It is truly an amazing thing that we have 24/7 access to the place where matters are decided and access to the King of the Universe who decides it.

Let’s go there often, go there in awe, go there clean, and go there expecting something so big, only God could do it!

Blessings to each of you on a wonderful Christ-filled day.

I welcome your thoughts and comments.

Message from Roxanne Anderson, Bookkeeper

Oh, magnify the Lord with me and let us exalt his name together! Psalm 34:3

What I want most is that my life would bring glory to God. This verse reminds me that to live in communion with the Lord also means to live in community with other believers. Of course, living this life together is not easy. If we choose to focus on one another, we can dwell on each other's flaws and destroy the very community He wants us to be. If we focus on our gracious, merciful Lord, this grace and mercy is bound to overflow into our daily life together.

Oh, magnify the Lord with me and let us exalt his name together! Psalm 34:3