Monday morning, December 28th, our oldest son Larry underwent an extensive surgery which succesfully removed cancerous lymphnodes from his body. Larry has experienced extreme pain the first few days after surgery, but the grace of God is very evident in his life. His wife Ashley has been a picture of love and grace as she has  ministered to him. (more…)

A little over six months ago, our family had the privilege of visiting the little town of Bethlehem, about six miles southeast of Jerusalem. I still recall the day vividly. We drove through the terraced hills, past a security checkpoint, and entered the city. Looking past the political tensions of the present day, I allowed my mind to consider the rich history of this City of David. As we walked through caves there in Bethlehem, we considered what it might have been like that first Christmas morning.

As our family has approached this Christmas day, we have looked forward to the joy of the Christmas celebration. At the same time, our hearts have also been filled with the emotions and challenges that trials can bring our way. (more…)

Each December our Christian school performs a Christmas play. This year’s presentation is at 7:00 tonight—”We Worship Him.” Parents, grandparents, and family friends come to watch the children’s production. From before the play begins until the last child in costume exits the stage, one can feel the enjoyment of the audience.

But the play really begins long before the audience arrives. Months before the performance, teachers have begun the work of preparing for the play—writing the script, selecting the cast, practicing with the choir, constructing the costumes, and preparing the props.

With far greater precision than the most elaborate school production, God meticulously and precisely prepared and set the stage for the birth of Christ. From eternity past this event was planned. Prophets foretold it; Old Testament saints watched for it; and God’s people longed for it. (more…)

Ten years ago, I taught a Spiritual Leadership Lesson on “Developing an Annual Plan.” This lesson details how to wisely steward your time and ministry resources by long-range planning for your church. It also includes ideas for sharing this plan with your staff and church family and implementing it into weekly goals.

My new grandson, Camden, has reminded me just how much a baby changes things. This one little person has the incredible ability to change the schedule, plans, and budget of every adult in our family. And he doesn’t even realize the stir he has created!

Every mother can attest to the changes a baby brings, but when that baby is the Son of God, He changes everything! This evening and Sunday evening our church choir, orchestra, and drama team will present the musical “A Baby Changes Everything.” Watch it via livestream at http://www.lancasterbaptist.org/live.asp—6:00 pacific time. Please pray for the many visitors who are coming from our community to see this presentation on the birth of Christ. Pray they will respond to the Gospel and allow the Lord Jesus to change everything in their lives—especially their eternity!