Today was another milestone in my journey of transition. For 31 years, I've
been privileged to serve alongside a group of men who have provided incredible wisdom and leadership in every imaginable circumstance.
Years ago, Pastor Jack Hayford introduced me to the term "Servant's Council"
which is what he had named his group of Elders who provided insight, perspective
and covering in matters related to all of the 'business and administration' of the
local Church.
We adopted that name here at North Way (slightly modifying it to Elders' Council recently) and have met at least monthly for 31 years. (not including scores of 'special meetings' along the way). The weight of stewarding the resources of a growing Church family is no small matter. It takes humility, wisdom, and a great measure of faith to trust God to provide without becoming
presumptive on the one hand, or fearful on the other.
It has been my responsibility to serve with men who have given countless hours to this task; often at considerable personal sacrifice, and never with an
air of 'superiority' over other Elders. Prayer has been an undergirding conviction;
but as much as anything, it's been a humble transparency wedded to a willingness to defer to others when unity was the goal.
I can honestly say that of the hundreds (or thousands) of decisions we have made over three decades, we have never once acted without the deep affirmation and peace that 'unity' brings. (often coming with prolonged debate and dialogue).
Today was my last (official) meeting with the Elders' Council. That same spirit
still rules in the meetings and the new leadership is committed to building upon that foundation that was laid by nine men who simply wanted to be 'fully devoted followers of Jesus' 31 years ago. Now, 4000 adults locally and multiple 10,000's internationally still rely on the strength of this 'hidden leadership'.
As is often the case, some of most dramatic, faith-filled and life changing decisions were made outside of the public view. It's the way of the Kingdom and had been one of the great privileges of my life to lead this band of brothers.
Jay
Saturday, May 19, 2012
Tuesday, May 15, 2012
Churches Everywhere...
For the past day or so I have spent a lot of time thinking about churches that cover the landscape of our nation.
Most of them, as you may know, have less than 150 members and those with 300 or more are in the top 5% of active protestant churches!
The issue that seems to currently beset most healthy churches is maintaining the balance between "discipling and caring for the people in the congregation" and the "mission to reach those outside the church family." These two things should be in harmony with each other, but are often in competition. Part of the issue is that most of the folks that want to be more knowledgeable about the Bible or more Christlike in their character through discipleship, don't have enough time to do that and to volunteer their time, talent or treasure in order to help reach others.
I know that's a gross oversimplification of the problem, but it is something that almost every pastor I talk to struggles to reconcile all the time.
Pastors are, by nature, sensitive to not laying demands upon their already "stressed out" people. On the other hand, they feel the clear call of The Great Commission that was not just for the first century but applies to those of us who walk with the Lord in these days, as well.
It may be your responsibility to figure out where God wants you to give something of your time or your giftedness or perhaps your money to help advance the Kingdom. My experience is that as you do that with faith, you will grow in your journey of faith in the Lord and become more like Christ in your character!
Blessing,
Pastor Jay
Most of them, as you may know, have less than 150 members and those with 300 or more are in the top 5% of active protestant churches!
The issue that seems to currently beset most healthy churches is maintaining the balance between "discipling and caring for the people in the congregation" and the "mission to reach those outside the church family." These two things should be in harmony with each other, but are often in competition. Part of the issue is that most of the folks that want to be more knowledgeable about the Bible or more Christlike in their character through discipleship, don't have enough time to do that and to volunteer their time, talent or treasure in order to help reach others.
I know that's a gross oversimplification of the problem, but it is something that almost every pastor I talk to struggles to reconcile all the time.
Pastors are, by nature, sensitive to not laying demands upon their already "stressed out" people. On the other hand, they feel the clear call of The Great Commission that was not just for the first century but applies to those of us who walk with the Lord in these days, as well.
It may be your responsibility to figure out where God wants you to give something of your time or your giftedness or perhaps your money to help advance the Kingdom. My experience is that as you do that with faith, you will grow in your journey of faith in the Lord and become more like Christ in your character!
Blessing,
Pastor Jay
Tuesday, May 8, 2012
Comeback!
I read with interest that Pittsburgh is the #3 city on MSN "Comeback Cities" list.
http://money.msn.com/investing/americas-comeback-cities
Those of us who live here are not surprised. Sure, we all know our limitations
and frustrations with systemic problems in the architecture of government and
education; but it's the people that make this city 'great'!
I've had numerous conversations lately with folks that are 'new' to the area
because of job opportunities or education (mentioned in the article); and they
are universally impressed with just how 'real' and 'friendly' Pittsburgh people are.
You have to lived elsewhere to fully appreciate this. I had some time in a small town in Virginia; two years outside of D.C. and 3 1/2 years in Pasadena, CA;
along with extended visits in Arizona. All of these areas have their strengths, but
none have our balance or our character.
Of course, the article doesn't mention the spiritual fabric of the 'Burgh as it's more of an 'economic' look than a cultural one. Even there, however, I see
ever present signs of spiritual hunger and health; not in big numbers as much
as solid commitment. It's in this one area that I'd love to be on the forefront
of a real comeback; or better, a whole new paradigm of city-wide spiritual
renewal.
So, even if you tempted to see what isn't so good about our city; just remember
it's already "America's Most Livable" AND it's coming back! The next five years
should be very interesting!
Jay
http://money.msn.com/investing/americas-comeback-cities
Those of us who live here are not surprised. Sure, we all know our limitations
and frustrations with systemic problems in the architecture of government and
education; but it's the people that make this city 'great'!
I've had numerous conversations lately with folks that are 'new' to the area
because of job opportunities or education (mentioned in the article); and they
are universally impressed with just how 'real' and 'friendly' Pittsburgh people are.
You have to lived elsewhere to fully appreciate this. I had some time in a small town in Virginia; two years outside of D.C. and 3 1/2 years in Pasadena, CA;
along with extended visits in Arizona. All of these areas have their strengths, but
none have our balance or our character.
Of course, the article doesn't mention the spiritual fabric of the 'Burgh as it's more of an 'economic' look than a cultural one. Even there, however, I see
ever present signs of spiritual hunger and health; not in big numbers as much
as solid commitment. It's in this one area that I'd love to be on the forefront
of a real comeback; or better, a whole new paradigm of city-wide spiritual
renewal.
So, even if you tempted to see what isn't so good about our city; just remember
it's already "America's Most Livable" AND it's coming back! The next five years
should be very interesting!
Jay
Monday, April 30, 2012
How does 'healing' happen?
It's been a while since my last post because I've been taking some time to 'listen'
to what I'm supposed to be learning right now.
Six weeks ago, my 'chronic' (hate that word) back pain was pulling me down and
limiting some of my best hours of the day.
Coincidentally, my Home Group was in the middle of studying a book "The Essentials of Healing" by Bill Johnson and Randy Clark. (Both of these men were
greatly influenced by the ministry of John Wimber who was an acquaintance of mine over 20 years ago).
The group determined that rather than 'just read' another book and put it on the shelf; they needed to pray for someone who was dealing with a physical issue and put 'our faith to the test'. I was nominated, voted on and approved before I
could even object!
The group prayed that night, but as usual, nothing dramatic happened. However,
the key principle in the teaching of Wimber and in this book; is that most healing
is progressive, NOT instantaneous. You have to continue to pray and believe!
For my part, the Lord nudged me to set aside any pain medications I was taking
to manage my problem and to 'trust Him' while the group prayed.
This may seem like 'no big deal'; but when you are living with every day pain,
trust me, it is.
Here's the latest. As of this Wednesday, it will be six full weeks of 'life without
meds' and best of all; the back pain is greatly reduced; and often not even
on my mind!
My group is encouraged; but I am rejoicing! I know I have more 'healing to go';
that the process is still at work, but there is absolutely no doubt that the Lord
is working in a tangible way!
I will update you in a couple of weeks. However, if you need a touch from God
for physical healing, find some folks who will believe with you; maybe read some
parts of the book I mentioned, hold on to Scripture when you have setbacks,
and you, too, may find that 'Jesus is the same, yesterday, today and forever!
Pastor Jay
to what I'm supposed to be learning right now.
Six weeks ago, my 'chronic' (hate that word) back pain was pulling me down and
limiting some of my best hours of the day.
Coincidentally, my Home Group was in the middle of studying a book "The Essentials of Healing" by Bill Johnson and Randy Clark. (Both of these men were
greatly influenced by the ministry of John Wimber who was an acquaintance of mine over 20 years ago).
The group determined that rather than 'just read' another book and put it on the shelf; they needed to pray for someone who was dealing with a physical issue and put 'our faith to the test'. I was nominated, voted on and approved before I
could even object!
The group prayed that night, but as usual, nothing dramatic happened. However,
the key principle in the teaching of Wimber and in this book; is that most healing
is progressive, NOT instantaneous. You have to continue to pray and believe!
For my part, the Lord nudged me to set aside any pain medications I was taking
to manage my problem and to 'trust Him' while the group prayed.
This may seem like 'no big deal'; but when you are living with every day pain,
trust me, it is.
Here's the latest. As of this Wednesday, it will be six full weeks of 'life without
meds' and best of all; the back pain is greatly reduced; and often not even
on my mind!
My group is encouraged; but I am rejoicing! I know I have more 'healing to go';
that the process is still at work, but there is absolutely no doubt that the Lord
is working in a tangible way!
I will update you in a couple of weeks. However, if you need a touch from God
for physical healing, find some folks who will believe with you; maybe read some
parts of the book I mentioned, hold on to Scripture when you have setbacks,
and you, too, may find that 'Jesus is the same, yesterday, today and forever!
Pastor Jay
Saturday, April 21, 2012
How did this happen?
Forty years ago, I thought any one who was 65 was OLD. Not necessarily
grumpy or inactive... just old.
I suppose that may still be the lens through which younger people view
older people; but now that I'm here, it's much different than I ever imagined.
Life is full and rich; energy is seems to be nearly the same as 20 years ago,
and every day still presents opportunities to make a difference in this life.
There's no doubt that the 'physical body' is less forgiving and more fraught with
potential 'inconveniences'; but many other blessings more than compensate
for these potential limitations. I never dreamed that I would so enjoy a
45 minute ride a bicycle; pushing myself to near exhaustion, but the rewards
are too numerous to list. (I can still wear a sport coat that was a lovely gift
30 years ago!)
People are now somehow more "interesting" than before. We value one another
because of our plethora of experiences. We know that nothing in life is more
valuable than other people; and we tend to make time to appreciate and
enjoy them. It's also fascinating that some of the people that touched my life
35-40 years ago are still the most important ones to me.. even though we
may not see each other as often as we would like.
Spiritually, there isn't room to do justice to this phase. We know heaven is
much closer than ever before; but we still want to 'live' in the fullness of
the grace of each day on this earth. Jesus is still 'all that matters'; but
giving Him the time (that you now have) is somehow more of a discipline
than when you were really 'busy'. I suppose it's because you have no ulterior
motive for seeking Him other than just your 'heart to heart' relationship.
I don't want to finish without saying 'thank you' to the many of you who help
to fill my life with your love, acceptance and forgiveness. Carol and my family
have a wonderful part of that; but many of you add the rich colors and
textures to life. God has seen fit to bless me with good health for the most
part, and that surely enables all of the above to happen more naturally.
So, bring on the Seniors jokes. (Carol leads that ministry at North Way, so
I will at least 'get in'). But don't look for me to slow down any time soon; to
put my bike away or trade in my outrageously fast car. I still play my music
on the 'loud' side and when it comes to my faith, family, future.. it's all about
the passion!
Jay
grumpy or inactive... just old.
I suppose that may still be the lens through which younger people view
older people; but now that I'm here, it's much different than I ever imagined.
Life is full and rich; energy is seems to be nearly the same as 20 years ago,
and every day still presents opportunities to make a difference in this life.
There's no doubt that the 'physical body' is less forgiving and more fraught with
potential 'inconveniences'; but many other blessings more than compensate
for these potential limitations. I never dreamed that I would so enjoy a
45 minute ride a bicycle; pushing myself to near exhaustion, but the rewards
are too numerous to list. (I can still wear a sport coat that was a lovely gift
30 years ago!)
People are now somehow more "interesting" than before. We value one another
because of our plethora of experiences. We know that nothing in life is more
valuable than other people; and we tend to make time to appreciate and
enjoy them. It's also fascinating that some of the people that touched my life
35-40 years ago are still the most important ones to me.. even though we
may not see each other as often as we would like.
Spiritually, there isn't room to do justice to this phase. We know heaven is
much closer than ever before; but we still want to 'live' in the fullness of
the grace of each day on this earth. Jesus is still 'all that matters'; but
giving Him the time (that you now have) is somehow more of a discipline
than when you were really 'busy'. I suppose it's because you have no ulterior
motive for seeking Him other than just your 'heart to heart' relationship.
I don't want to finish without saying 'thank you' to the many of you who help
to fill my life with your love, acceptance and forgiveness. Carol and my family
have a wonderful part of that; but many of you add the rich colors and
textures to life. God has seen fit to bless me with good health for the most
part, and that surely enables all of the above to happen more naturally.
So, bring on the Seniors jokes. (Carol leads that ministry at North Way, so
I will at least 'get in'). But don't look for me to slow down any time soon; to
put my bike away or trade in my outrageously fast car. I still play my music
on the 'loud' side and when it comes to my faith, family, future.. it's all about
the passion!
Jay
Tuesday, April 17, 2012
The conflict for the local church!
One of the things that seems to be pervasive in all the circles in which I am privileged to travel is that healthy local churches are always in some level of conflict. More often than not, that conflict does not come from outside critics and government intervention, but rather internal dynamics and broken relationships.
I’ve observed this over the course of my ministry in so many ways that I know it must be grieving to God but even more, it seems to leave an indelible hurt on the people who experience it. Just recently, I was talking with a couple who had gone through a “split” in their local congregation and several years later had finally found another church where they felt like they could fit in.
However, in the intervening 5 years since the initial breakup they literally wandered around without a home church.
This is very common and happens particularly at times of transition and succession. It seems that when leadership changes people become somewhat insecure or perhaps fearful
about what may be taking place in the next season of the church’s life. It is then that they choose to turn on one another rather than to turn to the Lord in humbled prayer for a healthy time of
change.
Please pray for continued blessing in the transition here at North Way and also in the ministry that I feel increasingly called to address in some way through the partnership of good friends and the amazing support from my North Way family.
Let’s be honest, our church is our “other family.” It brings the enemy great pleasure when
people hurt each other and it brings God great glory when we grow in times of
change!
Blessings,
Pastor Jay
“16 Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. 17 For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for
us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. 18 So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.” 2 Cor. 4:16-18
I’ve observed this over the course of my ministry in so many ways that I know it must be grieving to God but even more, it seems to leave an indelible hurt on the people who experience it. Just recently, I was talking with a couple who had gone through a “split” in their local congregation and several years later had finally found another church where they felt like they could fit in.
However, in the intervening 5 years since the initial breakup they literally wandered around without a home church.
This is very common and happens particularly at times of transition and succession. It seems that when leadership changes people become somewhat insecure or perhaps fearful
about what may be taking place in the next season of the church’s life. It is then that they choose to turn on one another rather than to turn to the Lord in humbled prayer for a healthy time of
change.
Please pray for continued blessing in the transition here at North Way and also in the ministry that I feel increasingly called to address in some way through the partnership of good friends and the amazing support from my North Way family.
Let’s be honest, our church is our “other family.” It brings the enemy great pleasure when
people hurt each other and it brings God great glory when we grow in times of
change!
Blessings,
Pastor Jay
“16 Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. 17 For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for
us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. 18 So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.” 2 Cor. 4:16-18
Monday, April 9, 2012
Win/Win
It was with deep rejoicing that I shared in several of North Way's eleven Easter
Celebrations this week-end.
'Letting go' is so often the only way to discover what God has for us in the next
seasons of our spiritual journey. (I talked about this the week-end before on Palm
Sunday). To see our new leaders rising to provide passionate ministry of the Word
and worship is truly rewarding.
On the one hand, I see these men and women becoming what the Lord wants them to be and on the other, it is making room in my life for my what He has planned in the coming years.
No, it's not 'easy'; but it really is the way that we see modeled in Scripture (from Moses to Joshua, Paul to Timothy) and throughout Church history.
As scores gave their lives to Christ this week, I was humbled to know my part has changed.... but my place is secure.
May you know the same in your various areas of calling...
Blessings!
Jay
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